For years, your life has revolved around someone else’s schedule. School drop-offs, late-night fever checks, college applications, text messages that just say “Mom, where’s my…”—over the years, your identity shifted to that of being needed. One day, the noise stops. The house is quiet. No more “Mom, where’s my…” No more urgent requests. And suddenly, you’re standing in the middle of your own life, hit with the full weight of an empty nest identity crisis, wondering—who the hell am I now?
(more…)Author: Jennifer Jones
The Joy of Being Unfollowable: Embracing Life Beyond Social Media Standards
We live in a world where every moment is captured, curated, and posted for the approval of strangers. For Gen Z, social media is as natural as breathing. It’s where we connect, share, and scroll our lives away. But let’s be real for a second: how often do you feel like social media makes your life better? Not just entertained or distracted, but genuinely fulfilled?
Chances are, not that often. Because here’s the secret no one tells you: the most meaningful, joyful parts of life don’t fit into an Instagram square or a TikTok trend. They’re messy, unscripted, and unapologetically real. And when you stop living for the “likes” and start embracing your authentic self, something incredible happens—you find the joy of being unfollowable.
The Social Media Illusion
Let’s talk about the game we all play. You know the one: carefully staging moments to look candid, tweaking captions to seem effortlessly witty, and chasing that elusive algorithm that rewards perfection. Social media tells us that our value is tied to our followers, our engagement, and how well we can sell the image of a life worth envying.
But here’s the thing: it’s all an illusion. The perfect photos, the viral posts, the influencer lifestyle—it’s not real life. It’s a highlight reel, a manufactured version of reality that leaves out the tears, the doubts, and the late-night existential crises.
And while there’s nothing wrong with sharing your joy or celebrating your wins, the problem comes when we start living for the posts instead of the moments. When we measure our worth by our follower count or let the pressure to perform online dictate how we live offline, we lose sight of what really matters.
What Does It Mean to Be “Unfollowable”?
Being unfollowable doesn’t mean deleting your accounts or abandoning social media altogether. It’s not about rejecting technology or being anti-digital. It’s about freeing yourself from the need to conform to social media standards and embracing a life that feels good to you, regardless of how it looks to others.
It means letting go of the pressure to always be “on” and giving yourself permission to be messy, unfiltered, and real. It means valuing experiences for their own sake, not for how they’ll perform online. And it means finding joy in living a life that doesn’t fit neatly into hashtags or trends.
The Freedom of Living Offline
Imagine this: you’re at a concert, your favorite band is playing, and the energy in the room is electric. Do you reach for your phone to capture it, or do you let yourself be fully present in the moment?
When you live for yourself instead of the screen, you reclaim the magic of moments like these. You start to notice the little things—the way the sunlight filters through your window in the morning, the sound of laughter with friends, the quiet peace of a rainy day. These moments might not make for viral content, but they’re the ones that make life beautiful.
Living offline also means redefining success. Social media tells us that success looks like a blue checkmark, a thriving personal brand, or a perfectly aesthetic feed. But in reality, success is deeply personal. It might mean finding a career you love, building meaningful relationships, or simply feeling at peace with yourself. When you stop chasing the external validation of social media, you can focus on what truly matters to you.
How to Break Free from Social Media Standards
The thought of stepping away from social media pressures can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve grown up with it as a constant presence in your life. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to quit cold turkey or delete your accounts to find freedom. You just need to start shifting your mindset.
First, take a step back and ask yourself why you’re posting. Is it because you genuinely want to share something, or is it because you feel like you have to? Are you looking for connection, or are you chasing validation? There’s no right or wrong answer, but being honest with yourself is the first step toward breaking free.
Next, try practicing mindful scrolling. Instead of getting lost in an endless loop of comparison and envy, focus on engaging with content that inspires you, uplifts you, or teaches you something new. And when you feel the pull of the algorithm telling you to keep scrolling, remind yourself that you’re in control—not the app.
Finally, start creating boundaries around your social media use. Maybe that means putting your phone away during meals, turning off notifications, or setting time limits on your favorite apps. Whatever it looks like for you, the goal is to create space for the things that matter most.
Reclaiming Your Joy
When you step away from the pressure to perform online, you open yourself up to a different kind of joy—the kind that comes from living authentically and fully. You stop worrying about how others see you and start focusing on how you see yourself.
You might find joy in small, quiet moments that never make it to your feed—a solo hike, a heartfelt conversation, or a creative project you do just for fun. You might discover new passions or reconnect with old ones that have nothing to do with likes or views. And you might realize that the relationships and connections you build offline are far richer and more fulfilling than anything social media could ever provide.
The Courage to Be Unfollowable
Choosing to embrace a life beyond social media standards takes courage. It means resisting the constant pull of comparison, ignoring the pressure to conform, and standing firm in your worth as a person—not as a profile.
But here’s the truth: the joy of being unfollowable isn’t about rejecting social media—it’s about reclaiming your power. It’s about living a life that feels good to you, whether or not anyone else sees it.
So go ahead, live boldly, messily, and unapologetically. Be unfollowable. Because the most beautiful moments in life aren’t the ones that go viral—they’re the ones you hold in your heart.
In a world that tells you your value lies in your visibility, choosing to live for yourself is an act of rebellion. It’s a reminder that your worth isn’t defined by your follower count, your likes, or your aesthetic. It’s defined by who you are and how you choose to show up in the world.
Take a breath. Step away from the pressure to post. And rediscover the joy of living a life that’s authentically, unapologetically yours.
The world doesn’t need another perfect feed—it needs you, just as you are.
Stay bold,
Jennifer
Speaking Your Story: How Sharing Personal Narratives Creates Connection and Strength
Hey there, fellow badass. Let’s have a heart-to-heart about something most of us suck at: sharing our stories. I’m not talking about the polished, Instagram-filtered highlight reels or the “here’s my perfect life” version of events. I mean the gritty, real-deal stuff—the parts of your life that make you who you are. Because here’s the thing: speaking your truth and sharing your story isn’t just cathartic—it’s powerful. It’s a way to create connection, build resilience, and inspire strength in yourself and others. And if there’s one thing us Gen Xers know how to do, it’s turning our scars into stories that matter.
Let’s dive into why your story is more important than you might think, and how sharing it can transform your life and the lives of those lucky enough to hear it.
Why Sharing Your Story Matters
1. It Makes You Real (and Relatable)
You know that feeling when someone tells you about a struggle they’ve had, and it’s like they just put into words something you thought only you felt? That’s the magic of storytelling. Sharing your story, especially the messy parts, makes you human and relatable. And let’s face it, in a world where everyone’s pretending to have their act together, being real is a radical act.
When you open up about your challenges, triumphs, and everything in between, you create a bridge. That connection reminds people they’re not alone, and let’s be honest—we could all use that reminder.
2. It Builds Strength (Yes, Even When It’s Scary)
Letting the world see your cracks can feel terrifying. But here’s the secret: vulnerability isn’t weakness; it’s strength. When you share your story, you reclaim it. Instead of being defined by your pain, your experiences, or the tough stuff you’ve been through, you get to take ownership of it. Speaking your story transforms it from something that happened to you into something that shaped you. And that, my friend, is how you turn wounds into wisdom.
3. It Empowers Others
Your story might be the exact thing someone else needs to hear. Maybe you’ve navigated a toxic relationship, lost a job and rebuilt yourself, or found your way back from a mental health struggle. Whatever your story is, sharing it can be a lifeline for someone else. You don’t need to have all the answers—you just need to show that it’s possible to get through the tough stuff and come out the other side.
How to Start Sharing Your Story
So, how do you start this storytelling journey without feeling like you’re spilling your guts on stage with a spotlight blinding you? Baby steps, my friend. Here’s how:
1. Get Clear on Your “Why”
Ask yourself why you want to share your story. Is it to process your feelings, inspire someone else, or build deeper connections? Knowing your “why” gives you a roadmap for what to share and with whom.
2. Start Small
You don’t have to bare your soul to the world all at once. Start by sharing with someone you trust—a close friend, a partner, or even a therapist. This helps you get comfortable with vulnerability in a safe space.
3. Pick Your Medium
Not all stories need to be told in the same way. Maybe you’re a talker and love deep conversations. Or perhaps writing is more your style. Journaling, blogging, podcasting, or even creating art can all be forms of storytelling. Find what feels natural to you.
4. Focus on the Lessons
Your story doesn’t have to have a neat, happy ending to be worth sharing. What matters is what you’ve learned along the way. Focus on the growth, the resilience, and the strength you’ve gained—not just the hard parts.
5. Be Selective with Your Audience
Not everyone deserves your story, and that’s okay. Share with people who will honor your vulnerability, not judge or diminish it. This is about connection, not validation.
The Healing Power of Telling Your Story
1. Processing Emotions
When you tell your story, you process it in a new way. Speaking your truth out loud (or writing it down) forces you to organize your thoughts and confront your feelings. It’s like taking all the junk out of the attic, sorting through it, and deciding what to keep, toss, or treasure.
2. Rewriting the Narrative
Every time you share your story, you get to reframe it. Maybe you used to see yourself as a victim, but now you see yourself as a survivor. Maybe you thought your mistakes defined you, but sharing your story helps you realize they taught you invaluable lessons. By telling your story, you take control of the narrative.
3. Building Self-Compassion
Here’s a wild idea: what if you treated yourself with the same kindness and empathy you’d give to a friend? Sharing your story can help you see yourself through a more compassionate lens. It reminds you that you’ve been through a lot, and you’re still standing. That’s worth celebrating.
Overcoming the Fear of Sharing
Let’s be real: putting yourself out there is scary. Here’s how to get past the fear:
1. Embrace Imperfection
Your story doesn’t need to be perfectly told. It just needs to be honest. Messy, imperfect stories are the ones that resonate the most.
2. Detach from Outcomes
Not everyone will “get” your story, and that’s okay. Sharing isn’t about pleasing everyone—it’s about speaking your truth. Focus on the process, not the reaction.
3. Remind Yourself Why It Matters
When the fear creeps in, go back to your “why.” Whether it’s connection, healing, or empowerment, remember why you’re doing this and let that drive you.
4. Practice Self-Care
Sharing your story can stir up a lot of emotions. Be kind to yourself. Take breaks, seek support, and remember that it’s okay to step back if you need to.
Storytelling in Everyday Life
You don’t need a blog, a book deal, or a TED Talk to share your story. Here are some everyday ways to let your truth shine:
1. In Conversations
Next time someone asks, “How are you?” try giving a real answer instead of “Fine.” Share something meaningful about your day, your thoughts, or your experiences.
2. In Your Community
Maybe you’re part of a book club, a parent group, or a volunteer organization. These are perfect opportunities to share pieces of your story and connect with others.
3. Online (With Boundaries)
Social media can be a great way to share your story, but it’s also a double-edged sword. Be mindful of what you share and who you share it with. Keep it authentic, but protect your boundaries.
4. Through Creativity
Sometimes words aren’t enough. Use art, music, or even humor to tell your story in a way that feels uniquely yours.
The Ripple Effect of Sharing
Here’s the beautiful thing about sharing your story: it creates ripples. When you open up, you give others permission to do the same. Your courage inspires courage. Your vulnerability builds connection. And your strength reminds others of their own.
Think about the stories that have shaped you—the books you’ve read, the conversations that moved you, the songs that felt like they were written just for you. Those stories didn’t just happen. Someone chose to share them. And now it’s your turn.
Your Story Matters
You don’t need to be famous, wealthy, or extraordinary to have a story worth sharing. Your story matters because you matter. The struggles you’ve faced, the lessons you’ve learned, and the person you’ve become are all worth celebrating. And when you share your story, you help others see the beauty in their own.
So, what are you waiting for? Start speaking your story. The world is waiting to hear it.
Your Turn: Start Sharing Today
- Write down one moment in your life that changed you. It doesn’t have to be monumental—just meaningful.
- Think about one lesson you’ve learned from that moment. How has it shaped who you are today?
- Share that story with someone you trust. See what happens.
Because here’s the truth, my friend: your story has the power to connect, heal, and inspire. And the world needs more of that. Keep being unapologetically you, and don’t forget—you’re the hero of your own story. Now go out there and tell it.
Stay bold,
Jennifer
Radical Self-Respect: The Secret to Feeling Unstoppable
Let’s cut to the chase: self-respect isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s the foundation of everything. Without it, you’re stuck in a loop of saying yes when you mean no, apologizing for existing, and shrinking yourself to make others comfortable. Sound familiar? You’re not alone.
Here’s the kicker: radical self-respect isn’t about being liked or even about being understood. It’s about valuing yourself so fiercely that you refuse to settle for less than you deserve. It’s about showing up for yourself the way you show up for everyone else—and then some. And guess what? When you master it, you feel unstoppable.
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Women Need Leaders Who Will Actually Fight for Us
Let’s be honest: too many so-called leaders are spineless when it comes to fighting for women. They’ll post a nice statement on social media when our rights are under attack. They’ll send a fundraising email about how urgent this moment is. But when it’s time to actually show up and fight like hell? Crickets.
Meanwhile, our rights are being ripped away in real time: our reproductive freedom, workplace protections, economic security, even our physical safety. And let’s not forget the billionaire power grabs happening while we’re expected to just sit quietly and “be reasonable.”
Fuck That.
Women don’t need leaders who make polite speeches. We need leaders who will actually fight for us.
What Does Fighting for Women Actually Look Like?
It’s not just words, it’s actions. Here’s what we should be demanding from every so-called leader who claims to have our backs:
💥 They Call Out the Corrupt Billionaire Boys Club
- If your leader is too afraid to name names, they’re too weak to lead.
- Elon Musk is not a public servant, he’s a billionaire actively working to dismantle government programs that support everyday people. If your representative isn’t fighting back against these power grabs, they’re complicit.
- Wealth isn’t wisdom, and money isn’t a mandate. If the people didn’t elect you, you don’t get to rule them.
💥 They Fight for Women’s Bodily Autonomy Without Apology
- No more half-hearted, “I support women, but…” nonsense. We need leaders who will codify abortion rights, stop anti-choice judges, and refuse to negotiate with extremists.
- If a leader won’t say the word ’abortion’ out loud, they don’t belong in office. Period.
💥 They Protect Women’s Economic Power
- Women’s paychecks, retirement, and financial security are under attack from billionaire-backed policies that want to gut Social Security, weaken workplace protections, and keep us financially vulnerable.
- A leader who actually fights for women doesn’t just support policies that sound good on paper — they’re willing to go to war over them.
💥 They Actually Have the Backbone to Stand Up to Fascism
- Let’s be clear: this is not just bad politics, it’s a power grab.
- Authoritarianism always comes for women first. If your leaders aren’t actively fighting against GOP voter suppression, attacks on free speech, and right-wing court takeovers, they are NOT on your side.
- Bipartisanship isn’t worth a damn when one party is openly embracing fascism.
Who’s Actually Fighting for Women?
The good news? There are leaders who get it. Here’s who’s showing up:
- Elizabeth Warren – Because she doesn’t just talk, she shreds billionaires and bad policies on live TV.
- Katie Porter – Because she brings receipts and whiteboards to expose corruption.
- Jamie Raskin – Because he actually understands the legal game and knows how to dismantle authoritarian BS.
- Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez – Because she isn’t afraid to call out corporate greed and government failures in real time.
- These are just a few — who else should be on this list?
The bad news? Too many others are sitting on their hands.
So here’s the deal:
If your representative isn’t actively fighting for you, call them out. If they refuse to show up, replace them. If they prioritize their careers over your rights, make sure their careers end.
Because we don’t have time for weak, performative, self-serving “leaders”.
We need fighters.
We don’t need permission to fight for our rights. And if they won’t do it, we sure as hell will.
Who do YOU think is actually fighting for women right now? Drop their names below.
Calling BS on Hustle Culture: Why Rest Is Revolutionary
Let’s start with a hard truth: Hustle culture is a trap.
You know the drill—wake up at 5 a.m., crush a workout, journal your affirmations, launch a side hustle, dominate your day job, eat “clean,” make a perfect dinner, and somehow still find time to be the world’s best parent, partner, and friend.
It’s exhausting just thinking about it.
Yet, hustle culture sells this insanity as the only path to success. It glorifies the grind and vilifies rest, leaving us caught in a vicious cycle of burnout and self-doubt. But let’s be honest: Who really benefits from all this hustling? Spoiler alert—it’s not us.
A Brief History of the Grind
The worship of busyness isn’t new. The idea of tying your worth to productivity can be traced back to the Industrial Revolution, when factories needed workers who could churn out maximum output with minimal breaks. Enter the 40-hour workweek and the Protestant work ethic: work hard, keep your head down, and your reward will come (spoiler: it didn’t).
Fast forward to the gig economy, where the mantra “do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life” evolved into “monetize everything you love until you hate it.” Social media has only made it worse. Your hobbies? Not good enough unless they’re profitable. Your free time? Why aren’t you building your brand?
Hustle culture has turned us into machines, equating our worth with how much we can achieve, all while making billionaires even richer.
Why Women Feel the Pressure Most
Hustle culture doesn’t just ask women to do it all—it demands it. We’re supposed to be career bosses, perfect mothers, supportive partners, Pinterest-level homemakers, and forever youthful Instagram queens. Oh, and let’s not forget the “self-care” industrial complex that tells us to meditate, hydrate, and manifest our way to success.
It’s an impossible standard, and it’s no coincidence. Capitalism thrives on making us feel inadequate. When we’re convinced we’re not enough, we buy more—products, courses, coaching—anything to close the gap.
For women, especially women of color, the stakes are even higher. The gender pay gap and systemic inequities mean we often have to hustle harder just to get a seat at the table. It’s not a fair game, and the deck is stacked against us.
Rest as an Act of Resistance
Here’s the revolutionary truth: Rest is not laziness. It’s an act of defiance.
Choosing rest in a world that glorifies the grind sends a powerful message: I am not my productivity. My value isn’t tied to how much I can achieve.
This idea isn’t new. Civil rights activist Audre Lorde famously said,
“Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.”
Rest is how we protect ourselves from a system that thrives on exploitation.
Why Rest Matters (Science Edition)
Still not convinced? Let’s talk science. Rest isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential for your health and well-being. Here’s what happens when you prioritize rest:
1. Better Brain Function: Rest improves memory, creativity, and decision-making. Ever noticed how your best ideas come when you’re not actively working? That’s your brain on rest.
2. Stress Reduction: Chronic stress leads to burnout, illness, and fatigue. Rest lowers cortisol levels, helping your body and mind recover.
3. Improved Physical Health: Sleep and downtime are critical for a healthy immune system. Skimp on rest, and you’re more likely to get sick.
4. Emotional Resilience: Rest helps regulate emotions, making you better equipped to handle life’s challenges.
Bottom line? Rest isn’t optional—it’s survival.
How Hustle Culture Tricks You
Hustle culture is sneaky. It doesn’t outright tell you to sacrifice your health and happiness. Instead, it dangles shiny promises in front of you: financial freedom, personal fulfillment, a dream life just one more grind session away.
But here’s the thing: The goalposts keep moving. No matter how much you achieve, it’s never enough. The hustle hamster wheel is designed to keep you running, not winning.
Redefining Success
So, how do we escape this toxic cycle? By redefining what success looks like. Success isn’t about how busy you are or how many side hustles you’re juggling. It’s about living a life that feels good to you—not your boss, not your social media followers, and definitely not the self-help gurus trying to sell you their latest book.
Here are some ways to redefine success on your terms:
1. Focus on Fulfillment: What makes you happy? Not what should make you happy—what actually does? Start there.
2. Set Boundaries: Protect your time and energy fiercely. Say no to things that drain you.
3. Prioritize Relationships: Connection matters more than accomplishments. Spend time with people who make you feel alive.
4. Celebrate Rest: Treat rest as an essential part of your life, not something you earn after burning out.
Practical Tips for Embracing Rest
Ready to take back your time? Here are some actionable ways to incorporate rest into your life:
1. Schedule Downtime: Block off time for rest on your calendar, just like you would for a meeting or appointment.
2. Unplug: Take regular breaks from screens and social media.
3. Practice Saying No: Every time you say yes to something, you’re saying no to something else. Make sure your yeses are worth it.
4. Create Rest Rituals: Find restful activities you enjoy—reading, journaling, taking a walk—and make them part of your routine.
5. Resist the Guilt: Remind yourself that rest isn’t selfish or lazy. It’s necessary.
The Rest Revolution
The world doesn’t need more burnt-out, exhausted people. It needs people who are rested, creative, and ready to make a difference. By rejecting hustle culture and embracing rest, we can create a society that values people over profits, connection over competition, and well-being over busyness.
So here’s your permission slip to rest—not that you needed one. Cancel that extra Zoom meeting. Take a nap. Log off for the weekend. The hustle can wait.
And the next time someone brags about their 80-hour workweek, feel free to call BS. Rest isn’t just radical—it’s revolutionary.
What’s Your Rest Story?
Have you embraced rest in your life? What changes have you noticed? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear how you’re rewriting the rules on hustle culture.
Stay bold,
Jennifer
Mental Health Matters: Breaking Generational Stigmas and Seeking Support
Let’s have a candid conversation about mental health. For too long, it’s been the elephant in the room—especially for Gen Xers and those who came before us. We grew up hearing phrases like “tough it out,” “what happens in this house stays in this house,” and “therapy is for people who can’t handle life.” Sound familiar? Yeah, me too. But here’s the thing: ignoring mental health doesn’t make the struggle go away. It just makes it harder.
It’s time to break those generational stigmas, normalize seeking help, and finally give ourselves permission to prioritize mental wellness. Because let’s face it—carrying all this unspoken baggage is exhausting.
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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
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
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