Less than a month to go...
Congratulations! We've almost gotten through this dumpster fire of a year! Although it was one of the worst and probably most unforgettable years I've lived through so far, I have to say that a lot of growth came out of it. I wanted to share a roundup of what I've learned and dealt with because I even enjoy sharing my dullest moments with you all. Isn't that what my blog is for?
Getting a Grip of My Anxiety
I feel like I might have hit the highest of the highs on my anxiety meter this year, and I'm not alone either. There would be days filled with sitting at home in the company of family and Netflix movie binge nights and other days where I would just hit a wall and want to be in bed all day. Not only that, but even looking at the news and reading the headlines would give me the smallest bit of motivation to find something positive about the day ahead. I found myself worrying, dwelling, and manifesting the wrong negative emotions when all I needed was a reminder of what I already have and the support that surrounds me.
When all things came burning down, I knew that someone had it worse than me. That I could put my energy towards helping others as much as I could—I found that recycling my anxiousness for compassion during these times was the best way out of an emotional rut and I will be forever grateful for that.
Finding a Dose of Sunshine
With all the bad times, come good times. I am a believer that darker days will eventually turn into brighter ones. We've seen the best of people come forward this year and it seemed like a little part of humanity was restored. On a smaller scale, I felt more connected with the people I've had strong bonds with (even from a distance). Whether it be safe outdoor get togethers, camping, bike riding, dog walking, or what have you. I've always felt joy being outside. In the words of one of my favorite co-operative companies, REI, "A life outdoors is a life well lived".
Home for the Holidays...
Being an Advocate for People and Togetherness
On almost graduating from college, I have learned a lot—like more than I could even remember from day one of freshman year. In my communications program, we were told that connections are one of the most important assets for building a career in public relations. I have always considered myself to be somewhat of a people pleaser, but at times, less of an advocate for people. A lot of kids in my major were focused on the hustle, and I would be lying if I didn't say I was too (and still am). With that, I felt like my interactions were less authentic, less human, and sadly just a business transaction with an individual. It's a selfish way of communicating—only listening to respond or to gain something from someone and not as a way to learn from one another. Uplifting peoples' voices and building togetherness is something I want to be an advocate for and continue challenging others to do the same. We need to hear each other because what harmony can we ultimately create without it?
A Better Outlook
In spite of everything, life can turn out to be a real shit show and this year was only the beginning to what could be. However, I reject that mindset. Why anticipate the worst when we could be living the best goddamn life we've dreamed of? A life lesson I've been preaching to others and not myself. When the best of reality gets to me, all I can think of are destructive "what ifs" and "when" something might happen. With the amount of self-help books I've skimmed, wasting all that energy on things that might not even occur is not a healthy way of living. This year taught me that positivity is a better scapegoat than eating Ben and Jerry's at one in the morning because all doom is bound to come. I found a better outlook on the possibility of finding better—becoming better. I'm not a changed person per se, but that doesn't mean I can make changes, have setbacks, and look forward to better ones (changes, of course).
New Motivations
The itching for a new year on the calendar has me setting aside new goals, prioritizing the work that needs to be done on myself, and becoming more inspired to realign with my passions that were put on hold. This holiday season was what we all needed. Cheer, togetherness, and comfort. How ever life becomes uncomfortable and less joyful, is when we need to bond tightly and not take the life we're given for granted. As imperfect as the days can be, I wish that everybody's new years are brought with light and love. X
Staying at home has definitely made me rethink my consumption habits and how much I'm spending on the day to day. With this year being the largest for online shopping, I think it's safe to say that every body is still manifesting the season of giving, whether we can be with family or not. One of the reasons is that shopping has become one of the biggest hobbies for a lot of people. Sadly, there's not much else to do so people are spending their money at big online retailers like Target and Amazon. Not only that, but I think we are so bored sometimes that it's easy for us to just add things to our cart nowadays without being mindful of what we're buying.
What I've gathered is that the holiday season is one of the most wasteful times of the year. In fact, plastic usage has been up 500% in 2020. With Black Friday deals following the 25 days of discounts, I think a lot of people (even me) fall victim to consumption during the holidays, and even unhealthy shopping habits at that. As someone who is passionate about the environment, I have found a few sustainably conscious gift ideas and bits from small businesses that could be the better choice of giving to friends and family this year.
One of the easiest and cost efficient ways to reduce our plastic usage is gifting someone reusable drinkware. Whether it be a nice Swell water bottle or some retro holographic metal straws, these can be great gifts and stocking stuffers for anyone who takes drinking water seriously or who wants to be motivated to drink more water, but with style. I find that the perfect reusable water bottle inspires me throughout the day to reach for it more often than a normal plastic bottle does. If you want to get really fun with it, Flask2Gos are also a great gift for those who might need to take the edge off on the go (responsibly, of course).
Sustainable Beauty...
I always love to support sustainable beauty brands that are not only cruelty free and vegan, but have a brand message that extends beyond surface level authenticity and transparency. Products that I know are always worth putting my dollar to come from smaller businesses that value and are mindful of who uses them. I have always been a huge fan of Glossier products, especially their glistening Lidstar eye shadow in cub and the Boy Brow Pomade which keeps my brows in place all day long.
I recently won a Women's Collective box, which is a one-women shop for all things beauty and lifestyle products made by real women for women. It uplifts women owned businesses which is a mission I will 100% support. Featured in this months box were a few skincare items I loved such as this homemade COCO whipped sugar scrub which has become a new recent favorite. It's always a great gift during the winter time when everyone's skin gets a bit dry and also a nice Sunday self care treat at the end of the day. It includes natural ingredients like coconut sugar, cocoa butter, and avocado oil for moisture. I always love a good face mask and the box came with these Maskeraide matcha detoxifying clay masks which include natural matcha that has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties for acne, kaolin which helps with anti-aging, and peach and lychee for hydration and a boost of vitamins. There are twelve single uses to gift to your friends or gift to yourself—and the paper packaging is the cherry on top!
A Good-to-Earth Accessory...
It's so easy to not think about the little accessories we need and use everyday, but things like stationary, tech accessories, and even commonplace items like jars and paper bags can make a big difference to reducing our carbon footprint. Another product that came with the Women's Collective package was this Always Inspiration Journal from the Ruff House Print Shop, a women owned hand printed letterpress shop. These notebooks use 100% conservation quality mat board that is acid and lignin-free, which can be toxic and non-biodegradable.
A lot of people always ask me about my Pela phone case, a 100% compostable, eco-friendly phone case that is made from plant-based biopolymers, like flax straw fibre, which is a waste byproduct of oilseed harvest. They are NSF tested and BPA free, containing no traces of harmful lead, cadmium, or phthalates. They're also classic and minimal cases for those who like understated tech accessories with a conscious! I've also dropped my phone a million times and it's protected it every drop.
As more companies are becoming mindful of their consumers values, specifically with protecting the environment and supporting small businesses, I think we can begin to shop with better intentions and put our dollar where it is worth supporting. If we can think of more creative and sustainably focused ways of buying gifts this year, it might come full circle and help out those in your community who need it most. I'd love to hear more sustainable gift giving ideas or products that you love, so be sure to leave them in the comments below! If there's one thing you should take away from this, whether it be a new gift idea or not, I believe that we can all be better by making smaller but more impactful decisions for our communities and our planet.
Every year during Christmastime my family adopts a family. But not in the way you think. It would be a small family and a couple of kids who needed extra support over the holidays. I remember going to the toy store with my parents and picking out toys for boys and wondering why we were doing it. As I grew older, this would become a regular holiday tradition and each year we would receive a new family or two to help which always made my family and I so happy. We know it wasn't much that we were doing, but knowing that these kids would receive presents on Christmas was a small gesture and a way to give back during a time when a lot of families, even this year, have struggled the most.
Rather than giving into the materialism that fuels the holiday season, there are many ways and reasons to be selfless this time of year. Focusing on the joys of others and doing the most you can to give might even change a person's life. So instead of providing links to gifts you can give, I have accumulated 12 different ways you can give back, big or small, to others this year. It's in these small gestures of kindness that I feel our world should and can get into the habit of doing all year round.
01. Written Sentiments
This is a classic and inexpensive way to give back. I love sending holiday cards out to friends and family, but there might also be families and individuals who don't receive any word from their loved ones. In this hyper-virtual landscape we have grown accustomed to, I feel like notes and messages have become less genuine. Taking the time to write a thoughtful and personalized note to someone is always a great way to show you care, without the commitment of having to send gifts or a festive emoji-filled text message.
02. Spreading Love to Nursing Homes
Echoing the above sentiment, many seniors will be alone at nursing homes and in long term care during the holidays. Not only that, but have been isolated for months because of the virus and haven't been able to see family. I've done this in the past and have friends that continue to decorate and create cards filled with love and care to those who might not be able to receive anything from family this year. Research your local nursing homes and get in contact with their front desk to ensure it is safe and they are willing to do so.
03. Like a Good Neighbor
While not a tangible thing to give, I think this year is when we need to be more compassionate and work as communities to take care of those that live around and next door to us. Whether that be a simple hello to those in your apartment building, plowing your neighbors drive way, or being less angry on the expressway. Think about who surrounds you, perhaps it's your doorman or even your mailman who might benefit from a little kindness and acknowledgement this month.
04. Mentors, Mentees, and More Friends Please
Since a lot of kids and young people have been socially isolated, many have been without interaction and conversation with other people their age for months. I've been a mentor through DePaul, but there are many other organizations in Chicago that are looking for volunteers to help guide and talk to kids virtually, such as the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization. This group in particular provides a one-on-one mentorship program with over 2,000 kids throughout Chicago. From age 7 to high school seniors, they are always looking for volunteers who are looking for a shared opportunity of learning and growth. Plus, helping kids boost their confidence and success in school, which is always an amazing gift to give!
05. Giving Warmth
A simple and traditional way to give and donate to those in need are finding coat drives, shelters, or churches who are looking for gently used or new coat donations. We've had rough winters in Chicago, and I couldn't imagine not having a coat this time of year. So, maybe it's time to clean out a closet and donate for someone who needs it! One organization, Operation Warm, distributed more than 400,000 coats last year to over one thousand different communities. If you are still unsure where to donate coats, the Salvation Army will always accept them, and you can find your local donation center, here.
06. Meals on Wheels
Meals on Wheels is an organization that provides seniors and individuals with disabilities who are homebound with the proper nutritional programs and meals. Especially during a time of isolation and quarantining, having a warm meal can instantly bring joy to someone who is unable to cook for themselves. It is a socially distanced way to give back and take care of your elders this season! And if you're into cooking, why not make an extra plate for someone in need? Here is a link to Meals on Wheels in the Chicago land area for those who would like to get more involved.
07. Zoom Reunions and Reconnecting
Sometimes it goes a long way to check back in with loved ones who we don't think of very often or don't get to see. This year, I was able to create two family reunions with family who live all over the country. One of the most helpful tools I used to create the events were through Facebook. My family and I have a big Facebook group, so I was able to get people to RSVP by creating an event within the platform. There are many other ways to get people together digitally, but even a mass email to family and friends is an effort to show you care. Sometimes just being with family, even online, can be the greatest gift of all. I would also recommend playing Jack Box Games, which are really unique and fun online games you can play directly from your phone!
08. Adopt a Furry Friend
Who said animals aren't in need this holiday, too? I have a lot of friends who went out and adopted pets during lockdown, but I think more than ever there will be animals in shelters this year. Giving an animal a home not only brings your pet comfort and security, but you also get a new companion who won't judge you for how many Netflix shows you binge! Paws Chicago is currently having a Holiday Adopt-A-Thon with fees waived for adopting adult pets. They also have a great volunteer program for those looking to spend time with furry friends this season!
09. Give the Gift of Life
This time of year, more and more blood banks are in need of blood. I have yet to donate blood and realize just how important it is to spare healthy blood to those in intensive care who might depend on it. I have a close friend who does it every year and it's as simple as signing a paper and sitting in a chair with a cookie. The Red Cross always has blood drives going on throughout the year and to find one near you, click here.
10. Thank Your Mother (Earth)
Give the Earth some love this season and acquire some healthier and more sustainable consumption habits. Maybe it means being more mindful of what you recycle, buying less this season, and giving more thought to how we can take control of our wasteful habits during the holidays. Whether it be reusing gift wrap, reducing the amount of plastic you use to transport your baked goods, or opting to do the dishes instead of using plasticware for Christmas dinner. There are many ways you can waste less, and give more to the planet by being mindful of your consumption.
11. Give a Story to Tell
I've been insanely into reading this year, so much, that I think everybody should have access to the abundance of stories we find at our local libraries that might be closed right now. I know that buying books from Barnes and Noble, such as school books, can be a costly venture. What I have loved seeing throughout my neighborhood are Little Free Libraries. This organization has the largest growing book share movement that spans around the country. If you've ever seen a little cute box resting on someones doorstep with books in it, you can either take a book, leave a book, or trade a book! You can even create a Little Free Library to put in your yard pretty easily. Access to books shouldn't be limited nor should the power of storytelling.
12. Stay Positive, Test Negative
The absolute gift this year is to keep yourself and those around you safe. I will echo it until everybody continues to comply with their local restrictions and continue wearing a mask. Limit your gatherings, don't travel if it isn't necessary, wash your hands, and be smart about who you're around and where you go. We are all in this together still, so don't forget to do your part this winter. The only thing we shouldn't be giving to other people is germs. To find your local testing sites, click here.
I know this was a short list, so feel free to comment more ways of giving in the comment section below! As this year has proved to challenge us all, I challenge you to be more selfless, as I will myself. In a world filled with uncertainty, sadness, and despair, I am finding sparks of hope and light by those around me who are always going above and beyond to do something for others. It can be as simple as a smile or a thank you. I believe that we can be better. I believe in the harmony of humanity and I hope you do too this holiday season. X
Happy December! The time we've all be waiting for has arrived—the holidays. Truly one of the jolliest times of the year couldn't be needed more. With uncertainty and despair lurking, this year has truly been one of the most difficult years for us all. Saying sayonara to 2020, I'm reflecting on the way this year has challenged, changed, and in some ways, reinvented my mindset.
And a happy new year...
While I want to take this year and throw it in the garbage, there were actually a few pure and joyful moments within it, despite all of the darkness. I guess that's what they say about darkness, at least. You can't have darkness without light. I can cherish in the small moments of quarantine games, laughter, snuggly movie nights, endless baking challenges, and reminisce about all of the family Zoom reunions I was able to create. It was in these dark, dark times of sadness and defeat that I found the power to connect, enlighten, and realize that what truly matters is what is here and what is now. So, as a vow for a brighter future and a happy new year, I've set aside some goals for the last month of 2020.
01. Recognize what is here and embrace it. It would be pretty ungrateful and selfish of me not to admit that I have a pretty good life. Sure, I'm not at school, in an apartment, out in the world doing what I may. But, with the circumstances and where I am in life, I couldn't be more fortunate. I say that with the utmost humility, because I'm sure someone reading this might also be taking their situation for granted. Your routine has been tampered with, what you knew is irrelevant, and the future is uncertain and as Miley Cyrus so eloquently sings can't go far but you can always dream. Times will change, but remind yourself of the greatness that already surrounds you while you still have it. Your health. Your family. Your friends. Etc.
02. Brush off what I can't control. Whether I choose to read three books in a month, bake a new recipe, finally get out my camera, or try a new hairstyle, there are things in my life right now that I can control. I can control how I start my day, react to things, make my bed or not, or watch another episode. I am the queen of dwelling and dwelling hard. Past, present, and future. I want to take in the joys of December and leave behind the shadows of months and years past and not worrying about the new year. With that, I need to acknowledge how these thoughts affect me—and my sleep patterns—but also how they affect other people. A day spent dwelling is a day wasted.
03. Feed into my creative curiosities. What I needed the most this year were modes of inspiration in days filled with staying at home and logging onto my computer. I crave creative projects—productive projects—and finally getting my camera out was one of them. Rebranding my blog was another creative project I took on during quarantine, but I always thought my blog had more potential and possibly a better reach if I tried to navigate ways to improve it. I've always written for myself, but maybe I could collab with other bloggers, take up different talking points that have to do with my environmental passions, or start a podcast. Who knows! All I know is that this month brings out the bright ideas and warm thoughts for me to reset and realign with my motivations coming into the new year.
04. Reconnect with old friends. A lot of my good friends will be coming home for winter break soon and it will be so refreshing to have people my age to hang with! It's unfortunate because many of my college and old high school friends live around the country, but my two best friends still live next door to me which has been the saving grace of living through the pandemic. Not only that, but I hope to call more distant friends I miss. There's always an undertone to one-sided relationships, but I really don't mind being the friend that calls or sends holiday cards. I get so much joy out of it knowing I can make someone's day better and that's just the reality I've accepted. We keep the friends who've been with us for the long haul and I don't think there should be reason to disconnect when life gets in the way. *Disclaimer: I am also a believer in moving on from toxic friends who don't reciprocate friendship back, but am talking more so about paused or distant friendships, and I've dealt with those too*
05. Reclaim my purpose and keep moving forward. For whoever might need to also hear this, times are going to change and life will move forward. Hopefully in an upwards direction, but you know, life isn't fair (putting that very lightly). All of this waking up and monotonous e-learning has tested my motivations, challenged what I want to do with my life after being at home for 9 months, resurged a need for independence, and an unruly reliance on my support system. I've had moments of doubt, specifically as my senior year is almost half way through, and it seems like I just got through the hard part right? Well, if there's anything I've learned from Finding Nemo, just keep swimming :)
What are you looking forward to this month?
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