The year 2017 has been a debatable year, but it has also been an inspiring and empowering one, especially for women. After what seems to be an eternity of hiding our inner boss, we are finally in a place where we no longer have to. Yes, we are bosses, and we are proud of it. We are driven, successful, determined and fearless.
So, today is a kind of homage to all the ladies owning it and forging a path for others. Granted, it’s a small homage, but one nonetheless, as every true lady boss deserves to be surrounded by items that spur her creativity and push her towards greatness. It’s the little things in life that matter, so here are those exact things that should make the life of every professional easier and more inventive.
To create tirelessly
Assuming that your desk essentials include a laptop or a desktop, the first thing you absolutely should not live without are blue-light blocking glasses. The reason these should be a constant presence on your desk (and on your head) is simple – when you spend 8+ hours staring at a computer screen, the strain can result in fatigue as well as headaches. You definitely don’t want these issues holding you back, especially when there is a deadline involved.
A vision board, times 2
Some may consider this a bit corny, but trust us; being surrounded by visual representations of your goals serves as an incredible motivator to keep going. There will be days when you’re not on top of your game and you begin to doubt yourself, and keeping your goals in front of you can help shatter those doubts and make you more inspired.
Now, we did mention two boards, and the second one should feature past accomplishments. Sometimes we tend to forget how far we’ve come, and past successful achievements staring right at you is a great way to remind you where you started and where you are now.
Notebooks for days
There are times when your brain is just swarming with ideas, and those are some of the best times – you know this to be true. This is why you should always be surrounded by a number of different notebooks. First, having simple and practical diaries close by to note down interesting ideas, observations, arrangements – you know, a go-to notebook in which you can scribble haphazardly and not have to worry about orderliness. Then, there are the more chic notebooks and planners that you should keep neat and organized, as these are the ones that will be seen by potential clients and partners during meetings. Always be armed with at least two, but keep plenty in stock as they do tend to fill up fast.
While we’re on the subject of writing, it’s essential you own a huge variety of pens in different colours and use each one for a different type of note. It will help you remain organized and will also enhance your memory, as the brain responds well to an abundance of colours.
Taking care of your health
Inside your drawers, always keep a secret stash of granola bars – you never know where your day will take you, and hunger is not an acceptable hinderer of success, so always keep the drawer (and your purse) loaded and ready to go.
Now, on the very desk, keep a reusable water bottle (in a sleek and chic design). It will remind you to keep hydrated, which is possibly even more important for sharpness and concentration than food. Lack of hydration affects your health and mental abilities, and a bottle present is guaranteed to have you taking regular sips.
Always be prepared
There are days when it’s just you in your office, but you never know when an impromptu meeting is to take place, so follow the motto and always be prepared. A lint brush will always come in handy for those final touches. You want to be seen as professional and presentable, and neatness plays a huge part in how you’re perceived.
Mints should also always be in your desk drawer – nothing makes a good impression like freshness.
The secret weapon
Stress is, unfortunately, a constant companion in the life of a successful woman, and we need all the tools we can get to keep it at the lowest possible level. So, every time you start to feel overwhelmed, open your secret drawer and reach for your favourite essential oil. Everyone has a different preference when it comes to scents, but there are certain ones that are known to be more beneficial than others in the stress-relief department, so take your pick and smell the tension away.
Women Love Tech would like to thank Sophia Smith for this article.