7 Words You Should Immediately Stop Using to Describe Yourself

We all know the words we say to others matter. But sometimes we forget that the words we say to and about ourselves are equally important. We need to be careful about the way we describe who we are. If you wouldn’t assign a word to a friend or other loved one, you probably shouldn’t assign it to yourself, either. Keep scrolling for seven specific words that you should stop using to talk about Y-O-U.

1. Alone: If you’ve just gone through a breakup with a significant other, have experienced a loss in your family, or are just feeling generally down in the dumps, it can be tempting to feel — and even say — that you’re all alone. Remember, though, that if you’re sharing these feelings with a friend or other confidante, you’re far from lonely. If you feel lonely, stop thinking of yourself as alone and reach out for support. “Perhaps it would help to reach out or let people in your life know that you need something versus trying to figure it out alone,” licensed psychologist Sue Sexton says. “You are not alone!”

2. Stupid: Licensed marriage and family therapist Ibinye Osibodu-Onyali tells us that she hears this word all too often. “If you say to yourself that you are stupid, you will trigger a negative feeling about yourself, as well as negative thoughts about yourself,” Osibodu-Onyali says. “Too many negative thoughts can lead to a drop in self-confidence or self-esteem.” Give yourself a little credit. Allow the necessary room to make mistakes so that you can relieve the pressure you put on yourself and be a little more compassionate to yourself.

3. Lazy: “Too many of us call ourselves out when we can’t rise early to exercise, take on one more task at home or at work, or just keep up with someone else,” says Karen Azeez, certified holistic health coach and author of The Kindfulness Solution. “At this point, we should see if we just need more down time, sleep, motivation, or information instead of judging ourselves harshly.” Don’t conflate exhaustion or overwhelm with habitual laziness. You’re only lazy if you choose to be.

4. Just/Only: When asked what you do for a living or even for fun, don’t hedge your answer with the word “just” or “only.” You’re not “just” a student or “only” an assistant or spending your weekend “just” hanging out. Own who you are and what you do. “These qualifiers undermine your power and awesomeness, serve as an apology for something that requires one, and broadcast low self-esteem or fake humility,” says Nikki Bruno, a power coach, speaker, and author.

5. Sorry: Women, in particular, are in the habit of making themselves apologetic way too often. While saying that you’re sorry may seem harmless — maybe even polite — you probably say it more than necessary. Executive coach and Development Corps founder Kate Gigax encourages you to be mindful that you’re not saying sorry for things that aren’t yours to own. Consider replacing “I’m sorry” with “thank you.” For instance, try saying, “Thank you for your patience” instead of “I’m so sorry I’m late!”

6. Sensitive: “By labeling your thoughts and feelings as sensitive, you’re not only judging yourself, but you’re instantly negating your thoughts and feelings,” therapist and life coach Tess Brigham notes. “There’s nothing wrong with having emotions.” Even if you’re convinced that you have more feels than the average human, you don’t owe it to anyone to justify your behavior. Instead, allow yourself to experience those emotions, so you can move past them when you’re ready.

7. Hopeless: No matter how low you’re feeling or how much you feel you need to grow or improve, we ask you to never, ever label yourself this way… and the experts back us up. “Reinforcing that you’re growing and learning is a far more positive, motivating, and effective message than expecting mastery out of the gate and beating yourself up over it,” life and career coach Sally Anne Carroll says.

RELATED:6 Self-Love Barriers Holding You Back from Happiness (and How to Overcome Them)

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Has anyone else felt like their mid-year reset skipped them...or is that just me? Truthfully, my mental health started teetering towards the beginning of the year while my self-care has taken a swan dive into a forgotten abyss.

In an attempt to redirect myself, I've hit pause on rom-coms and thriller books so I can have more time for peaceful introspection. It turns out escapism is fun until you realize how much you've been neglecting yourself.

There are so many titles out there, but these 15 self-care books are the most brilliant ones I've come across!

P.S. Some of these books are in heavy rotation! Keep them handy for the days you're feeling down!

Amazon

Consider This: Reflections for Finding Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab (October 15, 2024)

Therapist and bestselling author Nedra Glover Tawwab captured my attention with her titles Set Boundaries, Find Peace and Drama Free: A Guide to Managing Unhealthy Family Relationships so much that I always have them on my desk. It's one of the reasons I'm so excited to dive into her new book, Consider This: Reflections for Finding Peace, next month!

It's almost as if she has secret intel, with all the precious nuggets she'll share that will help us center ourselves during tough moments. From friendly reminders to loving, but firm nudges, Tawwab provides guidance on everything from boundaries to finding joy during every moment.

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Slowing: Discover Wonder, Beauty, and Creativity Through Slow Living by Rachel Schwartzmann

Author and Slow Stories podcast host Rachel Schwartzmann is here to remind us to slow TF down. Between receiving new information at the speed of light and having busy schedules, it's no wonder we're so stressed! Instead of being controlled by work and business, Schwartzmann wants us to reimagine the way we live and create.

She has poignant essays about the positive effects of slowing down — plus, she introduces readers to other voices who have insight about their own experiences with doing so! There are even "guided practices" to help reignite our introspection and creativity through journaling.

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The Perfectionist's Guide to Losing Control: A Path to Peace and Power by Katherine Morgan Schafler

Perfectionists, we've been summoned with a guide that wants to give us permission to stop trying to control everything. It's so funny — this book landed on my radar after stressing about how I haven't felt in control for a long time. See how life works?

Anyway, psychotherapist Morgan Schafler knows we've been spoon-fed ideology about having balance in our lives, and feels like it's actually not helpful in the long run. She even helps categorize different versions of perfectionism: classic, intense, Parisian, messy, and procrastinator. Yes, that's right. Your procrastinating habit is rooted in perfectionism.

Instead of telling you to get rid of a part of who you are, Schafler breaks down why we respond to things a certain way and teaches how to live life so that our perfectionism doesn't necessarily control every single thing we do.

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The Secret Language of the Body by Jennifer Mann and Karden Rabin

Do you know the role our nervous systems plays in our bodies? It's basically our in-house communication center for messages between our brains and bodies. It's what triggers or flight or fight mode, which comes in handy if we're trying to escape a bristly bear in the woods, but does nothing for us if we're upset someone cut us in line at Starbucks. Little moments like that lead to nervous system dysregulation and can cause a lot of pain.

Mind-body practitioners Jen Mann and Karden Rabin wrote The Secret Language of the Body as way to help us understand what truly goes on in our nervous systems. They dive into topics like somatic therapy, Polyvagal theory, and how our minds and bodies are connected so we can stop living in survival mode.

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The Joy of Saying No by Natalie Lue

You know what's even harder to navigate life with besides perfectionism? It's being a people pleaser and considering everyone else's feelings before you think about your own.

The Joy of Saying No aims to explain how this is often rooted in our childhoods from being known as the good kid to the one who believes overachieving makes them more likable. It's true these roles served a function, but they can also stop us from being who we are as adults. Natalie Lue wants to help us recognize how we continue to operate in people-pleasing mode via six steps so we can reset our connection to others.

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Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle by Emily Nagoski, PhD and Amelia Nagoski, DMA

I'm going to talk about this book forever! It's one of my go-to reads when I'm experiencing so much burnout I can barely think straight. Sisters Emily Nagoski, Phd and Amelia Nagoski, DMA know that burnout isn't a new phenomenon — nor are they claiming it is. What they do know is too many women continue to experience it and are determined to help us change course.

There's lessons about how to move through our natural biological stress cycles, check in with our brains when we're frustrated, and get intimate with our inner critics who live to remind us that we're not doing enough. It's written so beautifully that you'll feel like you're talking to a friend who majored in psychology, but still has the same down-to-earth attitude you first encountered as kids.

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The Sugar Jar: Create Boundaries, Embrace Self-Healing, and Enjoy the Sweet Things in Life by Yasmine Cheyenne

Yasmine Cheyenne's Sugar Jar metaphor is one of the easiest ways for us to realize how depleted we can become if we're not managing our boundaries and healing. From leaving our proverbial jars open, we become subject to energy vampires and moments we don't recognize we need to replenish ourselves until we're on the brink of burnout.

She teaches us how to understand what makes us feel exhausted, how we can press reset, and break up with our own negative habits. Also, she taps into our people-pleasing tendencies so we can find healthier ways to show up for ourselves and others.

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What It Takes to Heal: How Transforming Ourselves Can Change the World by Prentis Hemphill

Prentis Hemphill knows the past few years have left everyone feeling off balance which is why What It Takes to Heal was written. It's a call-to-arms to remind us that our healing isn't optional if we want to move forward in the world.

You'll learn how to pay attention to how our body responds to certain things, including our own habits, and you'll figure out how to stop bearing the weight of emotional burdens. But instead of being in isolation, Hemphill encourages you to embrace being part of a community.

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Sacred Self-Care: Daily Practices for Nurturing Our Whole Selves by Dr. Chanequa Walker-Barnes

Dr. Chanequa Walker-Barnes is offering helpful insights for how to being nurturing ourselves in Sacred Self-Care. As a psychologist, pastor, and activist, she's seen how hard it is for people to maintain a self-care practice that helps them navigate life.

As such, she's developed a seven-week guide filled with practices and activities that hone in on our emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual health. With each passing day, you'll receive journal prompts and scriptures that will help set the tone for the day. It's like a devotional from a psychologist's perspective and that can be great if you rely on both therapy as well as religion to get through your days.

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You Are Only Just Beginning: Lessons for the Journey Ahead by Morgan Harper Nichols

Morgan Harper Nichols hasn't shied away from sharing her story and encouraging words with others on Instagram which is why it makes sense she's written You Are Only Just Beginning: Lessons for the Journey Ahead. She wants to help us embrace adventurous moments while sharing reminders that hard moments are temporary.

Sometimes all we need is a little courage to keep going when things feel bleak.

Amazon

The Book of Moods: How I Turned My Worst Emotions Into My Best Life by Lauren Martin

Have you ever felt burdened by mood swings? If so, I completely understand because I often question my own and so did author Lauren Martin. She hit a wall a few years ago even though it seemed like her life was perfect on the surface. No matter what she did, she couldn't shake feeling inferior of irritable. It wasn't only she crossed paths with another successful stranger who felt the same that Lauren begin to seek to understand her emotions.

The Book of Moods: How I Turned My Worse Emotions Into My Best Life is a recollection of Lauren's journey and how she learned to find peace. She talks about varying triggers everyone has faced and blends her own wisdom with science-backed evidence to help us make informed decisions.

Amazon

Self-Care for Moms by Sara Robinson, MA

Moms are often praised for our ability to be self-sacrificing and resilient in the face of hardship, but I'd be lying if I said it felt like people seem to forget we're human. We do care a lot and have the warm nurturing nature everyone talks about, but we also have our limits lest we fall victim to burnout.

Self-Care for Moms offers over 100 activities designed to remind moms how to pour into ourselves daily. Whether it's a 5-minute phone call or hour lunch with a friend sans kids, it's time for us to reclaim the way we care for ourselves.

Amazon

How We Heal: Uncover Your Power and Set Yourself Free by Alexandra Elle

Alexandra Elle has shared her moving anecdotes with the internet since Tumblr, eventually becoming a bestselling author who continues to remind us to come home to ourselves. In How We Heal, she aims to help us rediscover peace by focusing on healing.

Broken into four parts, you'll find everything from journal prompts to meditations that tackle our innermost emotions. She even shares bits of her personal experiences so you feel less alone.

Amazon

Dare to Feel: The Transformational Path of the Heart by Alexandra Roxo

If you're on the other spectrum of emotions that includes burying them, Dare to Feel encourages you to do the opposite. Although you may feel repulsed by the idea of cracking your heart open, trust that it's metaphorical. This is an invitation to connect with yourself, life, and others past a superficial level. You'll come across poems, meditations, and more that help you fall in love with being in tune with your emotions in this moving book.

Amazon

Girl On Fire: How to Choose Yourself, Burn the Rule Book, and Blaze Your Own Trail in Life and Business by Cara Alwill Leyba

What's self-care without a reminder that you are THAT GIRL? Instead of questioning your worth, Girl on Fire wants you to start remembering who you truly are.

From encouraging you to not see other women as competition to offering tips for how to navigate the vision you have in your heart, you'll learn how not to let life and business get you down.

You'll feel empowered by the end of Girl on Fire and that's the point!

Still feeling stuck? We have more self improvement books to help you navigate the rest of 2024!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Tyra Banks' modeling days aren't over — after 20 years away from the catwalk, she's about to don her angel wings yet again for the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. Not only is Tyra one of THE '90s It Girls, but she had us all "smizing" and practicing our own modeling skills for years with America's Next Top Model.

Thankfully, Tyra's back on the runway after her two decade hiatus, helping to revamp the highly controversial lingerie show alongside some other incredible models. And she's not the only big name helping to revitalize the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show — an iconic diva for the ages is taking the stage, and let's just say you'll want to "turn back time" to watch her performance again and again.

Here are all the exciting details you need to know!

What is the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show?

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Once known as one of the United State's most popular lingerie brands, Victoria's Secret created a fashion show to showcase popular lingerie designs with the help of gorgeous models, reimagined angel wings, and an amazing musical score to boot!

Debuting in 1995, this show highlighted lingerie in a way that was previously unheard of, and it really caught the attention of the fashion industry (via Fashionista). However, it wasn't until 1997 that the well known "Angel" collection for the brand was introduced to the public. According to Fashionista, Tyra Banks was actually the first person to wear the famous 'wings' onstage, starting a lasting legacy.

Why is the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show controversial?

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Victoria's Secret

This will be the first Victoria's Secret fashion show to premiere on TV since 2019, and that's sadly due to controversy that plagued the brand. While they attempted to bring the show back in 2023, people weren't showing as much interest in watching, so the brand made the difficult decision to cancel, according to NBC News. This is probably due to the horrific comments it's parent company's former chief marketing officer, Ed Razek, made in 2018.

He didn't see the need to include transgender models that were usually seen on the runway "because the show is a fantasy," (via NBC News). Razek later tried to clean up his original statement by saying, "We've had transgender models come to the castings ... And like many others, they didn't make it ... But it was never about gender," but the damage was done.

Things continued to go downhill for the brand when its models penned and signed a call-to-action letter to CEO John Mehas. It made a connection to L Brands' CEO Leslie Wexner's friendship with the disgraced and deceased Jeffrey Epstein along with rampant sexual misdeeds in the entire fashion industry (via NBC News). Yikes...

Plus, many people didn't feel like these shows embodied body positivity, only showcasing traditionally thin women on the runway. As of this year, it seems like the brand is committed to change, though.

When did Victoria's Secret announce the 2024 Fashion Show?

Theo Wargo/Getty Images for Victoria's Secret

Victoria's Secret shared a cute reel on Instagram in May about the return of the fashion show. It wrote, "We've read the comments and heard you. The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show is ✨ BACK ✨ and will reflect who we are today, plus everything you know and love—the glamour, runway, wings, musical entertainment, and more! Stay tuned…it only gets more iconic from here. 🪽#VSFashionShow," in the caption. For the most part, fans seemed eager to see the models, lingerie, and energy of the show on their TV screens again.

Who's going to walk during the 2024 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show?

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Victoria's Secret

Besides Tyra Banks, fans will get to see Adriana Lima, Jasmine Tookes, Gigi Hadid, Ashley Gragam, Barbara Palvin, Candic Swanepoel, and Behati Prinsloo strut their stuff on a sleek runway. We can't wait to see who else we'll see!

Who's performing during the Victoria Secret's Fashion Show?

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The iconic Cher will be headlining the Victoria's Secret fashion show which is making us beyond excited for the explosive music we'll hear. Also, singers Tyla and Lisa from Blackpink will be performing!

When does the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show premiere?

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We'll get to watch the fashion show tonight at 7 p.m. ET! This means we've got a little less than four hours to watch the magic unfold!

Where can I watch the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show?

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

The Victoria's Secret fashion show will be available to watch on Amazon Prime! It'll also stream on YouTube, so be sure to check back closer to that time if you don't have a Prime subscription.

Are you excited to watch the Victoria's Secret fashion show? Let us know & follow us on Facebook!

Who's the first person you turn to when you're having a rough day? For some people it's a parent or a partner, while others find solace in their best friends. Friendships can extend your lifespanand boost your confidence, and considering our deepest relationships can change our behavior, surrounding yourself with great people can even make you a better person.

And while friendship with women your own age means you can bond over shared experiences (who else will understand how badly Gen Z wanted to be Justin Bieber's "One Less Lonely Girl" than other members of Gen Z?), a recent viral video from Maddy Sue Hull shows that young people are craving intergenerational relationships, too. And the great thing is, not only are they fun, they're actually healthy!

Angela Roma/Pexels

The video, which currently has 1.3 million likes and 4.5 million views, reveals that Maddy had been desiring more friendships when she met an older woman named Kathy at a gas station. "Now [we] see each other multiple times a week, go on lunch dates, and are best friends," she says in the video caption.

Maddy and Kathy's relationship inspired viewers to think about their own relationships in a new way, and even led to some of Maddy's followers donating money to buy Kathy new furniture! "You showed her that it's never too late to meet someone amazing in your life," one comment says, while another reads, "My sweet grandma passed away last year and some older lady adopted me and it's been so healing."

What are the benefits of multigenerational friendships?

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Friendship Expert and Life Coach Shari Leid reveals that intergenerational friendships can benefit older generations just as much as younger generations. "Seeing the world from different angles—through the experiences and history of the older generation and the fresh ideas and openness of the younger generation—is truly enlightening," she says. "The older generation brings a sense of reassurance that things will work out, while the younger generation embodies the boldness to try something new."

Leid experienced this firsthand during her 50 States Project, where she met with a different woman in each state to find similarities between us all. "The beauty of getting older, I realized, lies in the opportunity to continuously make new friends," she adds.

RDNE Stock project/Pexels

I was overjoyed to learn that not only can friendship influence our experiences, but it can actually benefit our minds and bodies too. "In Blue Zones, where people live longer and healthier lives, the secret often lies in their relationships," Leid says. "The laughter shared with friends, which isn’t always possible in the workplace or other relationships, acts as a vital mental health fix. This happiness reduces stress hormones that can be damaging to our bodies, enhancing our overall well-being."

How to be closer to friends?

Anastasia Shuraeva/Pexels

While it's so easy to get into a routine of work, chores, and bedtime (it is entirely possible for me to go multiple days without seeing another person), that mental health fix is just another reason it's important to prioritize friendships. And Leid says growing roots with the people you love all comes down to two supposedly simple concepts: time and conversation.

"It’s about being there for each other, sharing personal experiences, and being open," she says. Leid recommends seeing each other in person, and making time for phone calls to hear each other's voices. "Friendship thrives on small gestures—checking in, spending time, and being consistent. It doesn’t require grand gestures. The accumulation of small, thoughtful actions strengthens the bond, creating a tapestry of connection and support that enriches our lives."

RDNE Stock project/Pexels

If you're thinking that sounds a lot easier said than done, you're not alone. Dr. Leid shares a few thought-starters for helping deepen relationships. "Go deeper with your conversations by asking about their childhood," she adds. "These shared conversations open up a level of intimacy that goes beyond casual friendships. They deepen relationships, making friends feel more connected and helping you understand each other better."

And the more you understand and care about each other, the deeper your relationship will go. Check out our Questions For Friends andQuestions To Avoid Painful Small Talk for more ideas on where to start!

Lead image via Anastasia Shuraeva/Pexels

Brit + Co has reached out to the creator for comment, and will update the story accordingly.

The holidays are slowly approaching, and thank goodness, because it means all of the yummy fast food holiday menus are on their way. If you can’t get enough of a seasonal drink (perhaps a little peppermint action), listen up: Dunkin’s holiday menu for 2024 just got leaked! Rumors about the Dunkin’holiday menu for 2024 have been swirling around online, and based on the drink and snack predictions for the lineup, it looks extra good.

Plus, one of Dunkin's rumored menu items is filling the void in my heart from a missing drink on the Starbucks rumored holiday menu. Hint: it involves toasted white mocha!

The Dunkin’ holiday menu for 2024 is speculated to drop on November 1, six days before Starbucks’ rumored holiday menu will hit. Scroll on to see everything *reportedly* joining the Dunkin’ menu next month!

When will the Dunkin' holiday menu for 2024 drop?

Meredith Holser

According to some menu leaks and rumors surrounding the Dunkin' holiday menu, a new lineup of drinks and snacks will become available starting November 1, 2024.

Per usual, the famed foodie account, @markie_devo, broke the news about the Dunkin' holiday menu leak first.

Drinks On The Dunkin' Holiday Menu 2024

Dunkin'

NEW! Holiday Cookie Signature Latte

This festive new latte is reportedly made with brown sugar cookie and toasted almond syrups and topped off with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and a scoop of cookie butter crumbles. Sounds like a totally sippable dessert to me!

Dunkin'

NEW! Brown Sugar Cookie Oat Iced Chai Latte

Allegedly only available to order through the Dunkin' app, the Brown Sugar Cookie Oat Iced Chai Latte sounds like it'll combine brown sugar cookie syrup with oat milk and chai to usher in the holiday season. Based on previous menu offerings, you should be able to get this drink iced or hot.

Dunkin'

Peppermint Mocha Latte

The Peppermint Mocha Latte is a classic when it comes to the Dunkin' holiday menu, so I'm not surprised it's reportedly slated to return this year. This bev features peppermint and mocha syrups, espresso, and milk, topped with a hefty serving of whipped cream, mocha drizzle, and hot chocolate powder. Bring it on!

Dunkin'

Toasted White Chocolate Latte

No shade to Starbucks, but their rumored holiday menu for 2024 kind of broke my heart when I saw the Toasted White Mocha from years past wasn't coming back. Luckily, Dunkin' is seemingly filling the void with their Toasted White Chocolate Latte: a sweet, white chocolate-filled sip topped with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and cinnamon sugar topping!

Dunkin'

White Hazelnut Bark Coffee

Reportedly available hot or iced, this coffee is prepped with a Dunkin' toasted white chocolate swirl, hazelnut flavoring, and cream. Any seasonal drink that has nutty notes wins in my book!

Dunkin'

Spiced Cookie Coffee

Another reported "in-app only" drink joining the Dunkin' holiday menu, the Spiced Cookie Coffee will likely also be available to order hot or iced. I expect this bev to taste just like a snickerdoodle cookie!

Dunkin'

Cookie Butter Cold Brew

I am so excited about this cold brew drink allegedly coming back for the holidays at Dunkin'. The Cookie Butter Cold Brew is made with brown sugar cookie syrup and topped with cookie butter cold foam and a scoop of cookie butter crumbles for extra crunch. Stay tuned, because there's apparently a sweet snack joining the menu to match!

Dunkin'

Toasted White Chocolate Coconut Cold Brew

This rumored app-exclusive cold brew will include notes of white chocolate and coconut – I need it now.

Dunkin'

Peppermint Mocha Hot Chocolate

This anticipated app-only sip nixes the expected espresso for a very chocolatey (and peppermint-y!) effect.

Snacks + Food On The Dunkin' Holiday Menu 2024

Dunkin'

NEW! Hash Brown Brisket Scramble

Dunkin' has tested a number of breakfast Scrambles over the years, which is why I'm not totally shook by this rumored food item coming to the holiday menu for 2024. Per menu leaks, this iteration will feature hash browns, scrambled eggs, shredded brisket, smoked cheddar cheese, poblano peppers, caramelized onions, and of course, a rich Texas queso.

Dunkin'

NEW! Almond Croissant

The rumored holiday menu will also allegedly bring the Almond Croissant to Dunkin's breakfast lineup. It'll be a butter croissant filled with chopped almonds!

Dunkin'

Cookie Butter Donut

Yep – I need this in my belly ASAP. The Cookie Butter Donut is packed with a cookie butter filling, slathered with maple-flavored icing, then dipped in a delish speculoos cookie topping (tastes just like Biscoff cookies)! Sweet treat, anyone?

Subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on the official Dunkin' holiday menu once it drops!

With peak summer travel becoming more crowded and expensive, I prefer to get away to some dreamy destination in the off season for a quieter escape. From scenic fall escapes to beachy destinations, November offers something for every off-season traveler. Cultural festivals, early holiday markets, and natural beauty (plus migrating whales!) make it the perfect time to plan an escape. Bonus: many destinations have off-season rates, allowing you to save on your travel budget while enjoying some of the most coveted destinations in the U.S. and around the world. Bon voyage!

Mendocino, CA

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Mendocino is a hidden gem on California’s northern coast that should top every ocean lover's bucket list. This charming village is a blend of charming Victorian architecture, modern eco-friendly boutiques, and breathtaking Pacific views. Take the journey through majestic redwoods to this cozy town in November when you might spot whales spouting off the rugged coast, and when the Mushroom Festival takes place (Nov. 16-17) , as part of the larger Harvest Mendocino. Stay at the centrally located MacCallum House for beautiful accommodations, from rooms in the historic mansion to private cottages, suites, a converted barn, and even a standalone home. Many rooms come with private hot tubs or jetted spa tubs, and stunning ocean views—plus, it's dog-friendly! Don't miss dining at the MacCallum House Restaurant, where farm-to-table dishes like Pan-Seared Scallops or Wild Mushroom Risotto pair perfectly with local Anderson Valley pinot or a refreshing Elderflower Martini. Unwind by the lush gardens or near the fire pit, then head to Catch-a-Canoe & Bicycles, Too (located at Stanford Inn & Resort) for an unforgettable paddle experience on the beautiful scenic Big River Estuary. Whether by canoe, kayak, or SUP, you'll have the chance to spot harbor seals, sea otters, and many bird species. There's wine tasting too! Visit Lula Cellars in Anderson Valley for a taste of world-class California wines and toast a perfect weekend getaway.

Athens, Greece

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With iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and the Parthenon, Athens offers a glimpse into ancient Greece, but it’s also a hip metropolis with bustling markets, lively cafes, and a thriving arts scene. November is cool enough to wander around and still experience clear blue skies. Explore world-class museums, enjoy fresh and delightful Mediterranean cuisine, and wander through charming neighborhoods like the Plaka and Monastiraki. With a unique mix of ancient ruins and modern life, Athens is the perfect destination for history buffs and adventure seekers.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

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Buenos Aires blends the best of my three favorite cities: the Parisian elegance in the Recoleta neighborhood, the bustling energy of NYC in Palermo Soho, and a touch of Roman charm that permeates the rest of the city. November springtime is the best time to explore this beautiful South American city. Food lovers will enjoy amazing Argentine steaks (paired with a glass of malbec, ofc), while those in search of culture can explore museums, theaters, and cool street art. Tango your way through the city’s traditional dance halls, admire the diverse architecture, and walk the colorful streets of La Boca (shown above). Even catch a football match!

Oaxaca, Mexico

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Oaxaca is a stunning place to experience Día de Muertos (Nov. 1-2), where families build ofrendas, or altars, at home and decorate the city in colorful marigolds. The city hosts festivals, costumed parades and candlelit vigils in honor of loved ones lost. Visit markets full of handmade treasures, and explore historic landmarks like the Santo Domingo Church and ancient Zapotec ruins at Monte Albán. The city is also a foodie paradise, offering traditional dishes like mole and tlayudas, a toasted tortilla covered with refried beans, cabbage, avocado, meat, Oaxaca cheese, and salsa. Home to mezcal, Oaxaca has many places to sip tequila's tastier cousin. Tour the Montelobos distillery or sip it poolside at The Hotel Parador de Alcala, an 18th-century mansion in the city's historic center.

The Berkshires

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November in the Berkshires is ideal if you're looking for a slower pace surrounded by New England’s stunning fall foliage (for the best views head up to Mount Greylock, shown above). Located in western Massachusetts and part of the Appalachian Mountains, the Berkshires offers natural beauty plus antique shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and luxury spas. Explore the scenic trails and visit historic sites like Edith Wharton's home, Ventfort Hall Mansion and the Gilded Age Museum, which is just five minutes away from Life House, a charming stay in the town of Lenox (decor lovers will swoon).

Aspen, CO

Soly Moses

You can still catch breathtaking fall views around the Rocky Mountains in early November, even as snow starts to blanket the mountain landscape. Popular trails like Rio Grande and Smuggler are quieter this time of year and make for a peaceful respite before the holiday rush. Known for its world-class ski resorts, Aspen becomes a winter wonderland as the ski (and après-ski) season kicks off in late November. Beyond the slopes, enjoy the town’s luxe hotels, sumptuous dining options like Mawa's Kitchen and Acquolina, and charming boutiques. Aspen also has an impressive arts scene, with galleries and music and film events around the area to enjoy.

Maui, HI

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Visiting Maui in November is the perfect serene escape with fewer crowds and more affordable stays. Wailea’s Restaurant Week (Nov. 5-11) offers gourmet dining at a fraction of the cost, and the Made in Maui Festival on the first of the month provides the perfect opportunity to find unique Hawaiian souvenirs. Catch a sunrise at Haleakalā, pop by Maui's delicious food trucks, or relax under swaying palms. November also marks the start of whale watching season. Catch a glimpse of migrating humpback whales along the peaceful shores.

Lisbon, Portugal

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Lisbon in November offers the best blend of mild weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable prices. Explore the city’s landmarks, like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, and hop the iconic canary-yellow Tram 28 through historic neighborhoods like Alfama and St. George's Castle. November is also an excellent time to enjoy Lisbon’s vibrant café culture and sample traditional pastries like pastéis de nata. Experience local festivals and events, such as St. Martin’s Day on November 11, which celebrates the end of the harvest. Lisbon’s charming cobblestoned streets, tiled hilltop homes, and relaxed pace make it a perfect crowd-free autumn getaway.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

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In November, Chiang Mai transforms into a magical city with its Yi Peng and Loy Krathong festivals. Thousands of floating lanterns light up the sky during Yi Peng, while candle-lit boats, or krathongs, glide down rivers as part of Loy Krathong, both coinciding with the full moon. The city enjoys dry days and highs in the mid-80s, making it perfect for exploring over 300 temples, including Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh. Escape to the peaceful Doi Inthanon National Park, home to Thailand’s highest peak, and after, head over to the bustling Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.

Key West, Florida

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Catch the perfect Key West weather in November with warm temperatures and low humidity. Enjoy outdoor activities like snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, sailing, or strolling around this charming city. Stop by historical sites like Ernest Hemingway’s homeand the iconic Southernmost Point. November also brings fewer tourists and fun events like the Key West Film Festival (November 18-22) and the Annual Stone Crab Eating Contest on November 4. With stunning sunsets, fresh seafood, and a laid-back vibe, Key West in November is the tropical paradise calling your name.

Palm Springs, CA

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The November temperatures in Palm Springs hover around 78 degrees, making it an ideal time to explore the area. Stay at the Saguaro Palm Springs (shown) for a colorful yet affordable option (under $200/night). Hike scenic trails in nearby Joshua Tree National Park or take a short drive to Borrego Springs for amazing stargazing under the clear desert skies. The city’s gorgeous mid-century architecture shines this time of year, as does its lively arts scene. Bring the girls for a spa trip and enjoy gourmet dining for a luxe desert retreat during the more comfortable fall season.

Canary Islands

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The Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago off the coast of northwestern Africa, is a dreamy destination in November. Tenerife, the largest island, offers famous beaches and some of the best stargazing in the world. Explore the colonial architecture of La Laguna and La Orotava, or enjoy fresh seafood in the quiet fishing village of Garachico. The island’s volcanic interior provides stunning landscapes perfect for hiking, while Santa Cruz offers a taste of modern art and architecture. November is also ideal for whale watching, but make sure to seek tours with certifications, like Whale Wise Eco Tours, which use solar-powered boats.

New Zealand

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November in New Zealand kicks off the beginning of spring, making it the perfect time to explore its natural beauty, from the vibrant green hills of Hobbiton to the dramatic fjords of Milford Sound to the big cities like Auckland and Queenstown. Enjoy hiking, cycling, and water sports, and wine tasting. Just a short ferry ride away from Auckland is Waiheke Island, known for its vineyards, beaches, and art galleries. Hike up Mount Eden too, anextinct volcano for stunning views of the city.

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