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  • The Confidence Effect: How a Red Lip Can Change Your Day

    The Confidence Effect: How a Red Lip Can Change Your Day

    Let’s be real: confidence is that elusive thing we’re all chasing. Some days we wake up ready to conquer the world; other days, we’re hiding under the covers with yesterday’s regrets. But here’s a Gen X truth bomb—sometimes, confidence isn’t about deep introspection or hours of affirmations. Sometimes, it’s as simple as swiping on a bold, unapologetic red lip.

    Yes, red lipstick. That iconic symbol of rebellion, glamour, and unapologetic confidence. A good red lipstick doesn’t just sit on your face—it transforms your mood, your vibe, and how the world sees you. Want to know why? Let’s dig into the psychology, the history, and the power of this little tube of magic.

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  • How to Apply for Jobs That Say They Require a Degree—Even If You Don’t Have One

    How to Apply for Jobs That Say They Require a Degree—Even If You Don’t Have One

    Let’s get real about something that’s been bugging me lately: the absurd obsession with degrees in today’s job market. You know what I’m talking about—those job postings requiring a master’s degree for work that anyone with solid experience could knock out of the park. As a generation that built the digital world while learning on the fly, we know better than anyone that real-world chops trump fancy paper credentials any day of the week.

    What’s Behind the Degree Obsession?

    Job postings listing a degree as a requirement often use it as shorthand for qualities like discipline, critical thinking, and the ability to complete a long-term commitment. But here’s the truth: employers care most about results. Many are open to experience-based applicants, especially if you frame your expertise as a direct answer to their needs. The trick is knowing how to tailor your application and address the elephant in the room—no degree—without letting it define you.

    The Great Degree Myth: Time for a Reality Check

    Remember when we were told a college degree was the golden ticket to success? Yeah, about that… While our younger colleagues are drowning in student debt, many of us built careers through sheer grit, determination, and that classic Gen X ability to figure stuff out on our own. We were the original digital adapters, transforming from typewriters to Twitter without missing a beat.

    Strategies for Getting Past Degree Requirements

    Here’s how to make sure your experience speaks louder than any job posting’s degree requirement:

    1. Tailor Your Résumé to Downplay Education

    Your résumé needs to frame your experience as the ultimate qualification.

    • Lead with a Professional Summary: Highlight your expertise and achievements upfront: Example:

    “IT Project Manager with 25+ years of experience delivering large-scale projects, streamlining operations, and leading cross-functional teams. Reduced project delivery times by 20% and saved $1M annually through process improvements.”

    • Downplay Education: Move the education section to the bottom, and don’t overexplain. Simply list relevant coursework, certifications, or training. If you have certifications, like a PMP or ITIL, emphasize those over formal degrees.

    2. Address the Degree Requirement in the Cover Letter

    Use your cover letter to preemptively tackle the degree question with confidence:

    “While I don’t have a formal degree, my extensive hands-on experience has equipped me with the practical skills, leadership abilities, and strategic thinking needed to excel in this role. For example, I’ve led projects that saved $500K annually, which demonstrates my ability to deliver real-world results.”

    This approach turns a perceived weakness into an opportunity to highlight your results.

    3. Work the ATS (Applicant Tracking System)

    Many applications are filtered through ATS software that scans for keywords. Beat the system by:

    • Including the words “degree” or “bachelor’s” in a non-deceptive way:

    “Professional certifications and experience equivalent to a bachelor’s degree.”

    • Mirroring the job description’s phrasing to increase your chances of getting flagged as a match.

    4. Build a Killer Portfolio

    If your résumé is your story, your portfolio is the proof. Show, don’t just tell:

    • Create a LinkedIn profile that highlights projects, certifications, and testimonials.
    • Develop a personal website that showcases successful projects with before/after metrics.
    • Collect client testimonials, team feedback, and measurable results into a “brag file” to share during interviews.

    5. Network Your Way Past Gatekeepers

    Referrals often bypass degree requirements entirely. Activate your network:

    • Use LinkedIn to connect with recruiters, hiring managers, and industry professionals.
    • Attend meetups, webinars, and professional events to build relationships.
    • Ask for introductions from mutual connections—referrals can skip the line.

    6. Showcase Results in Interviews

    If you’re asked about not having a degree, don’t apologize. Pivot to your expertise:

    • Focus on Accomplishments:

    “Instead of pursuing a degree, I built [specific accomplishment]. Here’s how that hands-on experience taught me skills that apply directly to this role…”

    • Bring Data: Highlight quantifiable outcomes:

    “In my last role, I reduced downtime by 30%, saving the company $500K annually.”

    7. Research Companies That Value Experience

    Not every company is stuck on degrees. Focus on those with flexible requirements:

    • Major companies like Google, Apple, and IBM no longer require degrees for many positions.
    • Startups, nonprofits, and tech-driven organizations often prioritize skills over credentials.

    Why Experience Outshines Degrees

    Here’s what hiring managers need to hear:

    • Degrees teach theory, but experience delivers results.
    • Problem-solving skills, adaptability, and leadership aren’t found in textbooks.
    • Gen X professionals are battle-tested—we’ve survived industry upheavals, economic downturns, and technological revolutions.

    Final Thoughts: Own Your Path

    Listen, we’re the generation that watched the rules of work change in real time. We adapted, we survived, we thrived. Your experience isn’t just “as good as” a degree—in many ways, it’s better. It’s real, it’s tested, and it’s proven.

    When you apply for a job that says it requires a degree, remember:

    • You’re more than qualified.
    • You bring results, not just credentials.
    • You’ve already proven you can learn, adapt, and lead.

    Don’t let a line on a job posting stand between you and the career you’ve earned. Apply with confidence, showcase your expertise, and redefine what it means to be the best person for the job.

    What’s Your Experience vs. Education Story?

    Share your story below, and let’s prove together that degrees are overrated when it comes to real-world success.

  • Stop Telling Me to Smile: Fighting Back Against Everyday Sexism

    Stop Telling Me to Smile: Fighting Back Against Everyday Sexism

    Every woman knows the phrase. It comes from strangers on the street, coworkers in the office, or even acquaintances who think they’re being “friendly.”

    “Smile!”

    I was once walking out of a grocery store with my husband when an old man sitting on a bench said “You’d be pretty if you smiled.” I hadn’t even had a chance to process what was said before my husband spat back “She’s pretty all the time.” It’s a seemingly small word with outsized implications—a reminder of the subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways women are expected to perform emotional labor, prioritize others’ comfort, and conform to societal expectations of femininity.

    But let’s be clear: telling someone to smile is not a compliment. It’s a microaggression that reinforces gender inequality and entitlement. And it’s time we fought back against everyday sexism like this, one unapologetic refusal at a time.

    The Problem With “Smile”

    At first glance, being told to smile might seem harmless, even well-meaning. So why does it feel so infuriating?

    Because it’s not just about the smile—it’s about control.

    1. Policing Emotions

    When someone tells you to smile, they’re making an assumption about how you should feel or appear. It’s a subtle way of saying, “Your neutral or serious expression doesn’t meet my expectations. Change it.”

    This strips women of the autonomy to own their emotions, suggesting that we exist to look cheerful and pleasant, regardless of how we actually feel.

    2. Entitlement to Women’s Time and Energy

    The demand for a smile implies that women should prioritize making others feel good, even at their own expense. It’s a small but telling example of how society often expects women to perform emotional labor without consent.

    3. Reinforcing Gender Roles

    The “smile” comment plays into outdated ideas of femininity: women should be soft, nurturing, and approachable at all times. It’s a reminder that we’re still fighting against stereotypes that equate worthiness with compliance.

    The Broader Issue of Everyday Sexism

    The demand to smile is just one example of the everyday sexism women face. These small, often normalized behaviors—microaggressions—add up over time, creating an environment where gender inequality persists.

    Examples of Everyday Sexism

    • Interruptions: Being talked over in meetings or conversations.
    • Unsolicited Advice: Especially on topics women are already knowledgeable about.
    • Appearance Policing: Comments about clothing, hair, or makeup choices.
    • Assumptions: Assuming women are less competent in leadership roles or STEM fields.

    Everyday sexism may not always be overt, but its cumulative impact is significant, contributing to feelings of frustration, disempowerment, and even burnout.

    Why Fighting Back Matters

    Pushing back against everyday sexism isn’t just about making a point—it’s about reclaiming our autonomy, self-worth, and voice.

    When we challenge these behaviors, we:

    • Set Boundaries: Teach others that our time, energy, and emotions are not up for debate.
    • Inspire Change: Encourage others to question their own biases and behaviors.
    • Empower Ourselves: Remind ourselves that we have the right to exist without explanation or justification.

    How to Respond to “Smile” and Other Microaggressions

    If you’re tired of being told to smile, here are some ways to respond—whether you want to educate, push back, or simply end the interaction:

    1. The Direct Approach

    • “No, thank you.”
    • “I’ll smile when I feel like it.”
    • “Why do you think you have the right to tell me how to feel?”

    2. The Educator Approach

    • “When you tell women to smile, it can come across as controlling. Please think about how that might feel.”
    • “Do you tell men to smile too?”

    3. The Deflective Approach

    • “Why do you ask?”
    • “I’m just enjoying my neutral face today.”

    4. The Silent Approach

    Sometimes the best response is no response at all. A raised eyebrow or a blank stare can be just as effective as words.

    Changing the Narrative

    While individual responses are powerful, the fight against everyday sexism is also about shifting cultural norms and expectations.

    What We Can Do

    • Call It Out: Speak up when you witness microaggressions, whether they’re directed at you or someone else.
    • Raise Awareness: Share your experiences and encourage conversations about everyday sexism.
    • Support Women: Amplify women’s voices, celebrate their achievements, and stand in solidarity when they face discrimination.
    • Challenge Bias: Question stereotypes and assumptions, both in others and within ourselves.

    The goal isn’t just to stop being told to smile—it’s to create a world where women are seen and valued for who they are, not how they look or behave.

    The Power of Defiance

    There’s power in refusing to smile when you don’t feel like it. It’s a small but significant act of defiance, a way to reclaim your autonomy in a society that often tries to take it away.

    By saying “no” to the smile command, you’re saying “yes” to your authentic self—and that’s something worth celebrating.

    Your Turn

    Have you been told to smile, or experienced other forms of everyday sexism? How did you respond? Share your story in the comments, and let’s keep this conversation going.

    Stay bold,
    Jennifer

  • Living for Yourself: Why It’s Never Too Late to Prioritize You

    Living for Yourself: Why It’s Never Too Late to Prioritize You

    The alarm buzzes. The day begins. You shuffle through the routines of work, family obligations, and the relentless grind of life. Somewhere along the way, you’ve likely put yourself on the back burner, prioritizing everyone else’s needs above your own. Sound familiar? It’s a story as old as time, especially for women who have been conditioned to play the caretaker, peacekeeper, and problem solver. But here’s the truth: it’s never too late to start living for yourself.

    Maybe you’re in your 40s or 50s, wondering if you missed the boat on chasing that dream or reclaiming your own happiness. Or perhaps you’ve bought into the myth that prioritizing yourself is selfish. Let’s set the record straight: living for yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential. If you’re not at your best, how can you possibly give your best to others? Here’s how and why you can—and should—start prioritizing yourself, no matter where you are in life.

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  • No More Excuses: How to Own Your Choices Without Apology

    No More Excuses: How to Own Your Choices Without Apology

    Life is a series of choices—big and small—that shape who we are and where we go. Yet, for many of us, the fear of judgment or the pressure to conform can lead us to second-guess our decisions or feel the need to explain them away. The result? A life filled with excuses, apologies, and compromises that chip away at our authenticity.

    It’s time to stop.

    Owning your choices without apology is a liberating act of self-respect and empowerment. It’s about standing tall in your decisions, understanding your values, and letting go of the need for external validation. This isn’t just about confidence; it’s about reclaiming your life.

    Here’s how you can stop making excuses, embrace your choices, and live unapologetically.

    1. Understanding Why We Make Excuses

    Excuses often come from fear—fear of failure, rejection, or being judged. They’re a way to protect ourselves from discomfort by deflecting responsibility or softening the impact of our choices.

    But making excuses keeps us stuck. It sends a message to ourselves (and others) that we’re unsure, uncommitted, or not in control of our lives.

    Ask Yourself:

    • What am I afraid of?
    • Who am I trying to please with this excuse?
    • Is this excuse helping or holding me back?

    Recognizing the root of your excuses is the first step toward breaking free from them.

    2. The Power of Owning Your Choices

    Owning your choices doesn’t mean being inflexible or ignoring feedback. It means accepting responsibility for your decisions and standing by them with clarity and confidence.

    When you own your choices, you:

    • Show others that you trust yourself.
    • Build a stronger sense of self-worth.
    • Free yourself from the emotional baggage of regret or doubt.

    This doesn’t just benefit you; it inspires those around you to step into their power, too.

    3. Stop Saying “I’m Sorry” for Things You’re Not Sorry For

    Women, in particular, are socialized to over-apologize. We say “I’m sorry” for everything—from declining an invitation to expressing an opinion.

    While apologies are valuable when we’ve hurt someone or made a mistake, unnecessary apologies diminish our confidence and reinforce a sense of guilt.

    Practice This Instead:

    • Replace “I’m sorry” with “Thank you” when appropriate. For example:
    • Instead of “Sorry I’m late,” say, “Thank you for waiting.”
    • Instead of “I’m sorry for asking,” say, “Thank you for your time.”
    • Take a pause before apologizing. Ask yourself: Am I actually at fault?

    4. Set Boundaries That Reflect Your Values

    Owning your choices often requires setting boundaries. Boundaries are about protecting your energy, time, and values—not about pushing others away.

    When you set boundaries, you:

    • Show respect for yourself and others.
    • Reduce resentment and burnout.
    • Create space for what truly matters to you.

    How to Set Boundaries Without Apology:

    • Be clear and direct. (“I’m unable to take on extra work this week.”)
    • Use “I” statements. (“I need time to recharge this weekend.”)
    • Stick to your decision without overexplaining.

    5. Embrace the “No” Without Guilt

    “No” is a complete sentence, but many of us struggle to say it without feeling guilty. We worry about letting others down or appearing selfish.

    The truth is, saying “no” is one of the most empowering ways to own your choices. It creates space for you to focus on what aligns with your priorities and values.

    How to Say “No” Confidently:

    • Be polite but firm. (“Thanks for thinking of me, but I can’t commit to that.”)
    • Avoid overexplaining. (“No, I’m unable to attend.” Full stop.)
    • Remember your “why.” Saying “no” to something that doesn’t serve you means saying “yes” to something that does.

    6. Let Go of the Need for Approval

    One of the biggest barriers to owning your choices is the desire for external validation. We want others to understand, agree with, or approve of our decisions.

    But seeking approval often leads to compromising our values or making choices that aren’t authentic to us.

    How to Let Go of Approval-Seeking:

    • Accept that not everyone will agree with your choices—and that’s okay.
    • Focus on your values and goals rather than others’ opinions.
    • Surround yourself with people who respect and support your decisions.

    7. Practice Self-Compassion

    Owning your choices doesn’t mean you’ll never make mistakes. You will. But mistakes are opportunities to learn and grow, not reasons to beat yourself up.

    Self-compassion helps you navigate life’s challenges with grace and resilience.

    How to Cultivate Self-Compassion:

    • Treat yourself as you would a close friend.
    • Replace self-criticism with constructive reflection.
    • Celebrate your progress, no matter how small.

    8. Reframe Failure as Feedback

    Fear of failure often drives excuses and hesitation. But failure is not the opposite of success—it’s part of the journey.

    When you reframe failure as feedback, you remove its power to define you. Instead, it becomes a tool for growth.

    Ask Yourself After a Failure:

    • What worked, and what didn’t?
    • What can I do differently next time?
    • How has this experience made me stronger?

    9. Find Strength in Your Story

    Your life is uniquely yours, shaped by your experiences, choices, and challenges. Owning your story—without apology—is one of the most empowering things you can do.

    When you stop making excuses for your choices and start embracing your path, you’ll find freedom and confidence like never before.

    10. Create a Personal Mantra for Ownership

    A mantra is a powerful tool for reinforcing your mindset and intentions. Create one that reflects your commitment to owning your choices.

    Examples:

    • “I trust myself and my decisions.”
    • “My life, my rules.”
    • “I owe no one an explanation for being true to myself.”

    Repeat your mantra daily to remind yourself of your strength and purpose.

    No More Excuses: Start Today

    Living unapologetically doesn’t mean being inflexible or dismissive of others—it means being true to yourself. It’s about making choices aligned with your values, embracing the consequences, and moving forward with confidence.

    You have the power to stop making excuses, own your choices, and live life on your terms. The question is: Will you take it?

    Your Turn

    What’s one choice you’ve been hesitant to own? Share it in the comments and let’s support each other in living unapologetically.

    Stay bold,
    Jennifer

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  • How Growing Up Gen X Taught Us Resilience

    How Growing Up Gen X Taught Us Resilience

    Resilience. It’s not just a trendy concept for Gen X; it’s our unofficial superpower. Born between the Baby Boomers and Millennials, we were the bridge generation that grew up without safety nets or spotlights, navigating a rapidly changing world on our own terms.

    From latchkey afternoons to navigating analog childhoods and witnessing the dawn of the digital age, Gen X was built to endure. Here’s how growing up during our unique era taught us resilience—and why those lessons still resonate today.

    1. The Latchkey Kid Experience: Learning Independence Early

    For many of us, the “latchkey kid” life was a rite of passage. With both parents working or single parents doing their best, we were handed a house key and a crash course in self-sufficiency. Alone with an after-school snack and a TV, we learned how to entertain ourselves, navigate challenges, and solve problems—all without adult supervision.

    It wasn’t just about survival; it was about figuring out who we were in the quiet spaces. From learning how to make a decent grilled cheese to handling emergencies like a power outage, we honed practical life skills early on. That sense of independence shaped our confidence and taught us how to trust our abilities.

    2. Surviving the Analog Era: Resourcefulness Was Mandatory

    Growing up without Google, GPS, or smartphones made us masters of resourcefulness. Need to write a school report? You’d trek to the library and flip through encyclopedias. Lost in a new area? You’d unfold a map and hope for the best.

    Our downtime wasn’t filled with endless entertainment on demand. We had to be creative with what we had: building forts, recording mix tapes, or inventing games out of boredom. This resourcefulness wasn’t just a childhood quirk—it became a lifelong skill, making us adept at handling challenges and finding solutions.

    3. Adapting to Rapid Technological Change

    Gen X is the only generation that grew up in an analog world and seamlessly transitioned into the digital one. From rotary phones to smartphones, floppy disks to cloud storage, and video rental stores to streaming platforms, we witnessed the world change at a breathtaking pace.

    This constant evolution didn’t just teach us how to adapt—it made adaptation second nature. We weren’t intimidated by change; we embraced it because we had no choice. As adults, this ability to pivot has helped us stay relevant in careers, relationships, and technology.

    4. The DIY Generation: Solving Problems With Our Own Two Hands

    If something broke, you didn’t throw it away or call someone—you fixed it. Whether it was rewinding a cassette tape with a pencil, tinkering with the VCR to stop the blinking 12:00, or sewing patches onto ripped jeans, Gen X cultivated a do-it-yourself ethos.

    This wasn’t just about saving money; it was about figuring things out and taking pride in our resourcefulness. That problem-solving mindset has carried over into adulthood, helping us tackle everything from home repairs to unexpected life challenges.

    5. Navigating the “Weird” Parenting Gap

    Gen X was raised in a parenting paradox. On one hand, we had unprecedented freedom; on the other, there were strict rules about respect and responsibility. This mix taught us how to balance independence with accountability—a skill that’s served us well in relationships, careers, and raising families of our own.

    We weren’t coddled, but we were loved in our parents’ unique, hands-off way. This upbringing gave us grit, but it also taught us how to care for ourselves emotionally when others weren’t always there to do it for us.

    6. Balancing Cynicism With Hope

    We came of age in a world grappling with economic downturns, political scandals, and environmental crises. As kids, we learned to be skeptical of authority and systems that didn’t always have our best interests at heart.

    But while we carried a healthy dose of cynicism, we also cultivated hope. We learned how to find joy in small victories, how to laugh even when things felt heavy, and how to hold on to the belief that better days were possible. This balance has kept us grounded and forward-thinking as adults.

    7. Using Humor as a Coping Mechanism

    Gen X mastered the art of dark, sarcastic humor as a survival tool. Whether it was quoting The Breakfast Club, rolling our eyes at the absurdity of life, or finding catharsis in grunge lyrics, we turned to humor to cope with the chaos around us.

    Laughter wasn’t just entertainment; it was resilience in action. It helped us process hard times, connect with others, and keep moving forward.

    8. Learning to Thrive in the Shadows

    Unlike the Boomers, who were front and center during societal revolutions, or Millennials, who’ve been spotlighted for their tech-savvy and activism, Gen X was often overlooked. And honestly? We didn’t mind.

    Flying under the radar taught us how to be self-reliant, work hard without constant validation, and quietly lead from the background. This unassuming strength has made us resilient leaders, partners, and innovators in adulthood.

    9. Resilience Through Connection

    Although we were fiercely independent, we also knew the value of connection. Gen X grew up in a world of handwritten letters, shared landlines, and in-person friendships. We learned how to nurture relationships without the convenience of technology, making those bonds deeply meaningful.

    As adults, this focus on authentic connection helps us build strong communities and support networks, another hallmark of resilience.

    Why These Lessons Matter Today

    Resilience isn’t just about bouncing back from adversity; it’s about growing stronger because of it. For Gen X, the challenges we faced growing up prepared us to tackle life with grit, humor, and hope.

    Whether it’s adapting to a rapidly changing world, navigating relationships, or finding joy in the small things, our generation has shown time and again that resilience isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you build.

    Your Turn

    What’s a moment from your Gen X childhood that shaped your resilience? Share it in the comments—I’d love to hear your stories!

    Remember: Resilience isn’t just about surviving; it’s about thriving in spite of the challenges. And no one does that better than Gen X.

    Stay strong,
    Jennifer

  • Starting a Business After 40: Lessons From Women Who Did It

    Starting a Business After 40: Lessons From Women Who Did It

    Starting a business at any age is a bold move, but there’s something uniquely empowering about doing it after 40. For women, especially those balancing careers, families, and life’s curveballs, entrepreneurship in midlife often stems from a deep sense of purpose and a wealth of experience.

    The good news? Many women have successfully launched businesses later in life, proving it’s never too late to follow your dreams. Here’s a look at their stories and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.

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  • Stop Apologizing: How to Ditch the Habit of Over-Explaining

    Stop Apologizing: How to Ditch the Habit of Over-Explaining

    Let me ask you something: when was the last time you apologized for something that didn’t actually require an apology? Maybe it was for asking a question, needing clarification, or taking up space. Worse yet, did you feel the need to explain yourself after apologizing? It’s okay; we’ve all been there. But let me tell you—it’s time to stop.

    Why Do We Over-Apologize and Over-Explain?

    As Gen X women, many of us grew up in an era where we were taught to be polite, accommodating, and non-confrontational. We internalized the idea that our worth was tied to how “nice” or “agreeable” we were. While politeness has its place, constantly apologizing and over-explaining diminishes your power, undermines your confidence, and frankly, wastes everyone’s time.

    When you over-apologize, you’re not just acknowledging a mistake (which is healthy in moderation). You’re signaling to others—and yourself—that your needs, opinions, or existence is a burden. Over time, this habit chips away at your self-worth.

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  • Letting Go of the Past: A New Year’s Guide to Releasing What No Longer Serves You

    Letting Go of the Past: A New Year’s Guide to Releasing What No Longer Serves You

    As the New Year approaches, it’s natural to look ahead with hope and anticipation. But before stepping into a fresh chapter, it’s equally important to release what no longer serves you. The past—whether it’s old habits, lingering guilt, or toxic relationships—can act as emotional clutter, holding you back from fully embracing what’s next.

    Letting go is an act of courage and self-respect. It’s a declaration that you deserve to live freely, unburdened by regrets, fears, or outdated beliefs. Here’s your guide to shedding the weight of the past and stepping boldly into the New Year.

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  • 5 Morning Habits to Start Your Day on Your Terms — Even If You Only Have One Hour

    5 Morning Habits to Start Your Day on Your Terms — Even If You Only Have One Hour

    We’ve all heard about how a perfect morning routine can set the tone for the entire day, but what if you’re working with a very limited window? It’s easy to feel like morning self-care is a luxury reserved for people with endless free time. But having only an hour in the morning doesn’t mean you have to give up on a day that feels purposeful, energized, and under your control. With a bit of intentional planning and a streamlined approach, you can incorporate meaningful habits that help you start strong and stay steady—no matter how packed your schedule is.

    The secret isn’t about doing more; it’s about choosing the right habits, making them efficient, and focusing on what matters most to you. In that single hour, you can create a mini-routine that leaves you centered, supported, and more in charge of your day. Here are five powerful habits, each one pared down to fit inside a tight 60-minute window.

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