No Excuses: 17 Free Printable To-Do Lists

Is it just us or does every day seem like a battle against the clock? It’s a proven fact that writing down lists increases productivity and helps you break up seemingly huge and impossible tasks into smaller chunks. Try focusing on the top three most important things you need to get done each day and then fit in other, smaller tasks when those priorities have been checked off. We’ve collected some pretty cool to-do apps for your phone, but if you want a good ol’ paper list, feast your eyes on these pretty FREE printables that definitely provide visual motivation to stop the procrastination.

1. Colorful and Geometric: Who would’ve thought a to-do list would actually make us happy? There are so many pretty colors and check boxes here, we can’t wait to get started. (via Design Love Fest)

2. Humorous Take: A funny change from the motivational to-do lists, maybe the “nope” list will work for all those pessimists out there. (via Christina Williams)

3. Pick Your Sections: Get ready to be personalized — you’re free to fill in the blanks with whatever tasks you’re itching to accomplish. (via Clean Mama)

4. Open to Change: Whether you’re an entrepreneur working from home or a new mom juggling two lives, a daily planner with open boxes for notes is great for that constantly changing schedule. (via LBG Studio)

5. Get Your Priorities Right: Get your “musts” out of the way first. (via Clean Mama)

6. Let’s Be Honest: List off the top three priorities every day — it’s a proven way to be more productive. After that, everything else is just a bonus to be rewarded with cupcakes. (via Homemade Lovely)

Which are your favorite lists? Let us know what lists you’re making by tagging @Brit + Co on Instagram.

Kicking off the new year with a new intention is a great way to set your mind to reaching your life goals. Jan. 1 is a classic marker for changing old habits, refreshing your outlook, going for what you really want, and resetting your health and wellness routines and there's so much good in all of that. But where to start?

This list will help you uncover new year resolution ideas, big and small, that fit into your life goals. Whether you're looking to advance your career, build new relationships or nurture existing ones, act on your values, or simply start healthier habits, this list of 70 new year resolution ideas will spark your creativity and inspire you to get started on something fulfilling.

We dug into our archives for new year resolution ideas for a healthier, happier, more productive you. Sticking to a resolution for 365 days can be tricky though so here's some advice:

  • Create a realistic plan. Focus on key goals that are most important to you. Sure, we might want to do most of the things on this list but what do you really want to accomplish in 2024? Be specific and make a clear plan on how you'll get there.
  • Break up your goal in small steps. If something feels too overwhelming, consider breaking it into smaller tasks that you can more easily accomplish.
  • Stay accountable. Give yourself monthly goals and let friends know what you're trying to do so they can cheer you on and provide support.
  • Track your progress. Use a planner, notebook, or app to track your progress for more motivation.
  • Stay positive. You can achieve anything with a positive mindset. But sometimes life throws us some curveballs. If you slip, move on and keep going. You can do this!
  • Reward yourself. Treat yourself to small rewards at the end of each month once you've accomplished something toward your end goal.
  • Visualize success. Visualizing what you want out of your resolution will help you stay committed and motivated along the way.
Now that you know how to stick your new year resolutions, take a look at our list of 70 new year resolution ideas for inspiration going into 2024. Happy new year to you!

Host Regular Friend Dinners

Photo by fauxels

Commit to making a monthly or bi-monthly dinner date with the friends you love most. Life can get in the way, but these are the memories you'll always value in life. Take turns hosting and turn it into a dinner club. Here are quick and easy dinner ideas to try out throughout the year!

Start Journaling Like Emma Watson

Photo: British Vogue/YouTube

Journaling can help you put things into perspective and get more in touch with your emotions. It can also help you sleep better by putting your thoughts on paper first! In British Vogue's In The Bag, Emma Watson explains how important journaling has become in her life. Here's what Emma has to say about her journaling practice.

Create An Inspiring Vision Board

Photo by cottonbro studio

Vision boards are one of the most effective tools that you can use to build your business, nurture your romantic life, and reach your creative goals. The process can bring clarity to your thinking, focus to your plans, and can leave you with a curated visual + tangible reminder of the life you want to build. Here's how to get started to create your own vision board for 2024.

Eat Breakfast In Bed More Often

Photo by Ngakan eka

We're so quick to look at our phones and jump out of bed and hit our laptops. Rather than make breakfast in bed a once-a-year type of activity, turn it into a common practice. You'll connect better with your partner and yourself. Here are easy breakfast recipes to eat in bed throughout 2024.

Create A Morning Ritual

Photo by Blue Bird

A morning ritual that doesn't involve working the minute you wake up can clear your mind, calm your nervous system, and prepare you mentally and physically for the day. Some morning ritual ideas: a skincare routine, a bike ride, a nature walk, journaling, drinking tea, reading a book, and more. Decide what would help you start your day on the best foot.

Become A Plant Lady

Photo by Blue Bird

Plants can clean the air you breathe, boost your mood, and increase your creativity. Embrace plants in your decor and bring the outdoors in! Make it a resolution to learn more about how to care for them.

Take A Yoga Challenge

Try our at-home yoga challenge or join a new studio, many of which have challenges for new members at a discount. Yoga can help improve digestion, mood, stress levels, and more.

Give Daily Compliments

Photo by Guilherme Almeida

Licensed psychologist Dr. Lauren Hazzouri says you can actually learn more about yourself and create more positivity around you by taking notes about what you see in others. Here are her thoughts on why heartfelt praise is so powerful and five super solid sentiments you can aim to share every day.

Delegate The Things You Don't Want To Do

Photo by Polina Zimmerman

Uncover the things that are taking up your time that you don't want to do and get support. Maybe it's cleaning your apartment or tasks at work that can be automated or maybe it's getting your laundry delivered. Delegate the tasks you don't love so you can focus your time on the things you do love.

Get Organized, One Day At A Time

Photo: Shutterstock

Overwhelmed by the clutter in your home? Dedicate each month to a new decluttering project. Bedroom Closets January, anyone? Donate or sell what you don't use and build an organizing system you can stick to. Here's more pro advice for decluttering your space.

Open Your Mind To New Stories

Want to read more books? Set out a plan to read the books you missed in 2023 and plan for the books you want to read in 2024, depending on your schedule. Maybe it's a book a month that you share with others, near and far?

Train For An Organized Run

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Want to get back on a running schedule? This is a great goal to try if you want to achieve a 5K, 10K, or even a marathon. New to running? Check out our running tips for learning to love it.

Make New Friends

Photo by ELEVATE

Is there a new acquaintance you want to know better? Or feeling like you're missing out on a community? Maybe you've just moved to a new city. Nurture new friendships in 2024 with these friendship tips.

Reconnect With Old Ones

Photo: Brit + Co

Reach out to old friends this year and reconnect in a more meaningful way with these thought-provoking questions to get to know your friends better. Make it a resolution to reach out to one old friend a month!

Plan Regular Dates With Your S.O.

Photo by Ron Lach

Connect with your partner one-on-one with these date night ideas for the whole year.

Flirt With Confidence

Photo by Katerina Holmes

Single? No problem. Try online or IRL dating but before you do learn to flirt with confidence. Practice makes perfect!

Judge Less, Communicate Better 

Learn to communicate better by communicating to understand versus judge. We can all use better communication skills these days with people inside and outside our bubble.

Eat Healthy Most Of The Time

Photo by Akshata Bablad

Try Whole30 this January to uncover any allergies or an intermittent fasting schedule to lighten your load (and sleep better!). Whatever you do, do in moderation (indulging once in a while is OK!) and pick up healthy habits that you can sustain throughout the year.

Find A Job That Appreciates You

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

Feeling burnout or stuck in a job rut? Use your MBTI to find your next career move, and then start finding the job you want!

Become Better Friends With Your Siblings

Photo:Thirdman

Become better friends with your siblings by having a conversation that runs deep, no matter what difficult things you've faced in the past.

Start An Exercise Routine You Love

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Exercise doesn't have to be a chore. Find a sport or activity that gives you the workout you need while also boosting your mood, expanding your friendship circle, and bringing you joy every day.

Eat More Veggies With Better Cooking Skills

Here are 10 sneaky ways to get more veggies in your diet. Remember, they should make up half your plate! Learn how to cook vegetables more flavorfully too! Salads for breakfast, perhaps?

Eat Less Meat For You And The Planet

Beef production accounts for most of the greenhouse gas emissions of the entire food production industry, and leads to deforestation and loss of biodiversity, significant contributors to climate change. Vegetarian diets tend to have fewer calories and less fat too, and vegetarians have a lower risk of heart disease so you'll do good by you and the planet!

Make Drinking Water More Fun

Photo: Yaroslav Shuraev

Stay hydrated with more water in your 2024, whether you flavoring it a la TikTok, shopping the latest water bottles for on-the-go hydrating, or simply cutting back on soda and sugary drinks. All good things!

Do The Work To Get More Sleep

Photo: Anna Nekrashevich

Make an effort to ditch the devices before bedtime, design a bedroom ideal for sleep, and follow these tips to fall asleep faster. Sleep with a partner? Try the Scandinavian sleep method for better co-sleeping.

Improve Your Gut Health

Photo: Ella Olsson

Try an anti-inflammatory diet if you have a hard time getting rid of belly bulge or have health issues related to gut health. You'll feel and look better through 2024 and beyond!

Take Care Of Your Sexual Health

Photo:Bellesa Boutique.

Here's a reminder that you need to take care of your sexual health to ensure a healthy overall wellbeing. Sexual health includes self-esteem, personal attractiveness, competence, as well as freedom from sexual dysfunction, sexually transmitted diseases, and sexual assault/coercion. It goes beyond testing for STIs and fertility and rather encompasses just as many mental components as physical ones.

Quit Smoking

Photo by Maria Orlova

Add as much as a decade to your life and avoid a slew of health problems by quitting your smoking habit, even if it's just socially. Make a point of asking your doctor the best plan for you. We know this is a tough one -- and totally not unique -- but your health matters and this is a big one to reach your fullest potential!

Cook More At Home

Photo by Sarah Chai

You'll save money and eat healthier by reducing your restaurant and takeout budget. You may also find that you enjoy cooking! Check out Brit + Co's Cooking Classes, plus try our delicious recipes!

Learn A New Language

Photo by Leeloo Thefirst

Download Duolingo, Babbel, Rosetta Stone or take a language course in person at a community college or community center. You might even want to find a local person who speaks the language you want to learn and meet for coffee once a week for IRL practice!

Manage Your Time Better

Photo by Vlada Karpovich

Start the new year with a new planner and these time management tips, like time blocking.

Improve Your Public Speaking Skills

Photo by Mikhail Nilov

Get over your fear of public speaking with these public speaking tips. Find ways to practice your new skills at work, at networking events, even weddings!

Volunteer For A Cause You Care About

Photo by Liza Summer

Build connections, improve your resume, even volunteer to travel to do good work for your community and help those in need.

Pay Off Credit Card Debt

Here are 7 ways to get out of debt, including credit card debt, this year.

Learn How To Invest

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Women are still not investing at the rate that men are. Let's close the investing gap for good. Here's our ultimate beginner's guide to investing in the stock market. Try our free Investing 101 course and check out Nicole Lapin's The Money School, where our favorite finance pro shows you how to make your money grow and we mean really grow. You'll learn things like: how to create a budget, how to save for big life goals, how to buy a house and car, how to invest in the stock market and retirement accounts. This is truly the masterclass for all things money!

Launch A Side Hustle Or A Business

We're all about following your passion at Brit + Co and if you've had an idea for starting your own biz now is the time to take that first step. First, get over your fear of failure with these seven tips, then write out your business plan. Need a little motivation? Check out Brit + Co's Selfmade online business course, where you'll meet inspiring entrepreneurs who will help you get to the next level (all while Brit and her "Co" cheer you on!).

Plant A Garden

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

Gardening has mood-boosting benefits and is a great way to clear your head and get creative. Given it may be snowing outside early in the year you can try an indoor herb garden for starters and come spring plan a bed or two outside for your favorite fruits and veggies.

Take A Creative Class

Learning something new about yourself or the world can be as easy as listening to a podcast, which is the whole premise for our Teach Me Something New podcast. Listen in on our chat with experts on meditation, cooking, mental health and more during your next drive or jog. Get creative too with more than 120 Brit + Co creative classes on everything from cake decorating to coding.

Break Out Of Your Comfort Zone

Photo: RDNE Stock

New Year's resolutions don't have to be full of Don'ts. Brit + Co Founder and CEO Brit Morin started her #GiveItAWeek challenges as a way to break out of her comfort zone and try something new every week of the year vs. one "Don't" all year long. Try dance lessons, take an illustrating class, or change up your running routine to make it more FUN. Good news is a new hobby has restorative benefits for your mental health too.

Start Saving For A Rainy Day

Make 2024 the year to get your finances in order, from setting yourself up on a budget-minded money date to knowing the milestones you should hit by 35.

Break Out Of Your Cooking Rut

Bored by the same meals you've been cooking at home since spring 2020? We got you. Whether you want to cut down on sugar with our Whole30 recipes, use your new Instant Pot to make easy weeknight meals, or save money and eat healthy we've got loads of recipes to help you reach your food goals. Not confident in your cooking skills? Pick up some pro cooking tips from our pal Rachael Ray.

Drink Less Booze

Treating yourself to a Dry January might seem like a good idea right about now and it can mean better sleep, a cleaner gut and a host of other health benefits. You'll save money too and probably boost your productivity like Brit + Co'er Lindsey Graham-Jones experienced when she took a Dry July and B+C editor Meredith Holser tried Sober October. Not sure you can swing it? Try these mocktail recipes that are just as tasty sans the hard stuff.

Hack Your Workout Goals

Research by The Myers-Briggs Company shows that our MBTI personality type preferences affect how we like to exercise and who (if anyone) we like to exercise with. Here’s how knowing where you fit on each of the four dimensions of the MBTI assessment can help you reach your workout goals. Here's our workout playlist too!

Lighten Your Social Media Load

You don't have to go cold turkey like quitting Instagram for a month but cutting back on your online use by even 50 percent can have measurable benefits like better sleep, improved mental health, more QT with the ones you love and more time to focus on your goals, hobbies and creative pursuits (vs. scrolling through the pursuits of others!). Here are pro tips for limiting social media this year.

Write Thank You Notes

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Send a little love to the people who make big and small differences in your year with old-school thank you or gratitude notes. You'll pay positive vibes forward and score greater feelings of happiness and (some studies show) lower levels of depression. Here are more health benefits worth giving this resolution a try.

Start A Spa Budget

Finding the time for self-care can be tough as work and life commitments start to pile on, which is why scheduling a regularly sesh is so needed. Put aside money each month for a regular spa day, or if money is tight try a solo hike or walk to recharge, take 10 minutes a day to treat yourself to meditation, online yoga, an article read, a mini massage or an impromptu call to a long-distance friend or family member.

Advance Your Career

Photo: Antoni Shkraba

Commit to taking a training or certification class to build your skills and advance your career.

Network Better

Photo by Mizuno K

Here's advice for how to network when you're not comfortable networking.

Become A Mentor or Mentee

Photo by Christina Morillo

Have a skill or experience you can share? Find a mentorship program near you to connect with people in your industry. Need a mentor to coach you through your career? Check out these mentor tips or try Selfmade, our business and coaching course for new entrepreneurs.

Seek Out New Challenges At Work

Photo by RF._.studio

In a bit of a career rut? Rather than find a new job, look for new opportunities at work to build new skills, broaden your connections, and feel inspired. It may lead to a new role and promotion too!

Log Off More Often

Photo by Alex Gállego

Create better balance in 2024 by logging off and finding time to do things you love, like creating, reading, and socializing IRL.

Learn To Say No

Stop being a people pleaser and instead be a YOU pleaser by establishing better boundaries without feeling guilty.

Become A Minimalist

Photo: Alexi Almond

Learn how to build a minimalist wardrobe that isn't boring and live a minimalist lifestyle with these minimalist tips.

Reduce Digital Clutter

Photo by Vlada Karpovich

This is a good resolution to break into smaller tasks. Make a plan to reduce your digital clutter by clearing work and personal inboxes, reducing your social media follows and accounts, and organizing photos and videos while backing up your digital files.

Don't Procrastinate On Important Things

Photo by Antoni Shkraba

Procrastination can be your creative superpower but it can also keep you from doing the things you want most in life. Here are tip to stop the procrastination that holds you back.

Start A Gratitude Jar

Shutterstock

Every day in 2024 write down the good things that happened that day and put it in a jar. At the end of the year, read all the good things that happened to you! This is a great activity to do with kids.

Relax More

Photo by Rachel Claire

Is your stress response cycle In overdrive? These 7 stress response tips can help.

Start Therapy

Photo by Polina Tankilevitch

Finding the mental healthcare that fits all your needs can be very overwhelming. The internet is filled with self-proclaimed “mental health experts” and more information on mental health than someone ever could read in a lifetime, so here we help you narrow it down to the truly important deets. After all, if you believe that you could benefit from mental health services, you deserve the best information possible.

Reduce Your Plastic Consumption

Photo by Lisa Fotios

Humans produce more than 350 million metric tons of plastic waste per year, and that number is expected to triple by 2060 if we don't make policy changes. To get a head start, here are the coolest ways to reduce your plastic consumption.

Shop Local 

Photo by Amina Filkins

Give your community the boost it needs (and reduce your dependency on Amazon) by shopping local. You'll get out in the neighborhood, meet new people, and feel good knowing your local businesses have your support.

Learn A New Craft

Photo: Cottonbro Studio

Working with your hands is a great mental workout and inspires your creativity. Learn to sew, knit, make pottery or more at a local community center or via online classes.

Create An At-Home Workout

If working out in the middle of winter seems daunting, make an effort to create a little gym space at home. You'll save money on gym memberships and get in the routine of fitness in the comfort of your own home. Check out how IKEA can help with a new workout collection.

Go Off The Beaten Path

Photo by Nina Uhlikova

Travel to some of the happiest cities in the world and find your happy place by taking the path less taken.

Give To A Farm Sanctuary

Photo by Leah Kelley

Farm sanctuaries protect farm animals who have been injured and rescued from factory farms. Share your time by volunteering or adopt a pet!

Visit Our National Parks

Shutterstock

Visit as many of the 63 national parks in the United States. Here are 11 national parks that are out of this world.

Try Community Theatre

Build connections, create community, and be creative by becoming part of a theatre program. Here are 5 things that an acting class taught me that I use every day.

Write A Book

Photo by Mikhail Nilov

Have a book idea in your head but just not sure where to start? Try our tips for writing a book you'd actually want to read.

Give More Hugs

Photo by RDNE Stock

According to science, a 20-second hug helps reduce stress, relieves your blood pressure, and nurtures a healthy heart.

Focus On The Positive

A healthy mindset will help you achieve any goal, any year. Start with these 40 positive affirmations to boost your mood.

Treat Yourself

Photo by Yaroslav Shuraev

You went a month, a year, a lifetime reaching a goal you set out to do, not sure whether or not you will get there. But you did it. Treat yourself to the little things, a candlit bath, a massage, a pedicure, anything that brings you calm and joy and makes life more fulfilling to you.

You got this. Try putting pen to paper to hold yourself accountable and even try manifesting your goals to get what you want this year and beyond.

What is your 2024 resolution? Share with us @BritandCo, and sign up for our weekend scroll for more inspiration!

Lead image: Guilherme Almeida

This article has been updated from a previous post.

Need an outfit for an upcoming wedding? How about a beach-front dinner? Or tropical destination vacation? Well this one clothing item can take you to all those places and more — slip dresses. They're tried and true, timeless and stylish, and functional and fashionable. And hey, Carrie Bradshaw boldly rocked one, very classically coined "the naked dress."

If you've seen the return of the naked dress trend, you're not alone. Even Sex and the City's Kristin Davis posted a cheeky little throwback of herself in a slip dress to "relive trends." And while the current dresses aren't that different from their predecessors, slip dresses really do come in so many different styles. From your typical black satin slip dress to a fun halter, blue slip, here are my favorite options for staying on trend now — and when it inevitably comes back around again. 😉

Shop Slip Dresses Here!

Target Women's Midi Perfect Slip Dress In Black

This simple black, satin slip will be great for so many occasions whether you want to dress it up or down with sandals; options are endless here! Plus it's listed at only $28! Talk about a bargain!

Reformation Aara Silk Dress

This blue silk number is #1 on my vacation wishlist. I think the lace detail is such a great nod to a vintage Chloe dress that Kendall Jenner was seen wearing this past year. Chic and timeless — my favorite combo!

Target Women's Lace Trim Maxi Slip Dress

The dark forest green color in this slip looks very elegant and luxe, but the price is very reasonable. This target slip dress is affordable yet stylish. I think this one would look great styled for a wedding with nude strappy, gladiator heels and a nude clutch.

Abercrombie Slip Asymmetrical Midi Dress

This Abercrombie dress might be one of my favorites on this list because of the stunning yet sexy detail on the lace on the ends. I think it would be styled perfectly for a night out or dinner with black pumps and a red lip!

Target Women's Midi Perfect Slip Dress In Pink

This Target pink slip dress is so versatile but it also has the bonus of having sizes from XS all the way up to XXXXL so it can fit many different body types. The color is also perfect for the summertime!

Reformation Provence Silk Dress

This dress had to be added to our roundup because it is such a popular and trending style at the moment. I've seen so many influencers and fashion girlies wearing it recently and I understand why! It's such a classic go-to style that is also very flattering. I love this one and will absolutely be getting it for myself, too!

Abercrombie Satin Slip Asymmetrical Midi Dress

Abercrombie is THE place to shop for any of your slip or satin dress needs. They have endless styles and so many cute options. I love this one because of the unique color and asymmetric shape of the slip. So cute and will be adding to my wishlist for sure!

Reformation Barrow Silk Dress

The blue color of this dress is so divine! The shape is also very flattering as well. I love Reformation for their silk dresses because they last so long and feel so high quality. I feel like a million bucks every time I wear one!

Abercrombie Scarf Slip Mini Dress

Another Abercrombie find that is too good to pass up. This one is donning a super chic style with the scarf around the neck. It looks like it belongs in a castle somewhere in France. Tres chic!!

J.Crew Petite Plume Women's Silk Cosette Nightdress With Lace

And to end, I thought I'd add this classic LBD with a typical slip style and a bit of lace on top. I love this one because it's an investment into your future wardrobe and will be worn for so many years to come.

Check out our Fashion page for the latest trends and inspo!

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

Lead Image via Reformation

In our series Selfmade U, we’ll tackle the most common questions and pain points that come up for business owners with tips and tricks from Selfmade, a virtual business coaching program, founded by Brit + Co founder Brit Morin and sponsored by Office Depot OfficeMax. We’ll hear from Selfmade members and business coaches on what it takes to run a successful business and make it as an entrepreneur.

Constant juggling of creative tasks, business decisions, and operational responsibilities can lead to stress, burnout, and a hit to your productivity. That’s why a daily mindfulness practice for entrepreneurs can not only be good for your well-being, it can also impact your business growth.

“To recharge and relax, I find solace in simple activities like walking to my office. I also have a weekly meditation session via Zoom with a friend who recently adopted a baby. It helps me find balance and unwind,” says Maria Londono, founder of Disrupt3rs, an app that helps creators learn the language of business in a fun and interactive way. “I also have a weekly ballroom salsa date with my husband, Francisco. These moments make a significant difference”


It’s hard to be fully present when managing and growing your business is always on your mind. But taking the time to clear your thoughts and rest your mind has its advantages to your business. You can train your mind to be more focused, resilient and better equipped to handle the challenges of a small business owner.

“Receiving the Office Depot OfficeMax scholarship to Selfmade has been a game changer for my business,” says Maria. “The most rewarding aspect of the program was feeling supported and connecting with like-minded women entrepreneurs. Having conversations with people who understand my struggles and joys as a builder makes a tremendous difference.”

Here are five ways a mindfulness practice can help you build connection, boost your creativity, and grow your business:

Reduce stress. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, have shown to reduce stress and increase the feeling of relaxation. “I always prioritize my meditation practice,” says Maria. “Finding a balance is an ongoing effort, and though it’s not perfect, it’s definitely worth it.”

Make better decisions. When founders are more mindful, they become more attuned to their thoughts and emotions, helping them recognize when they’re reacting impulsively. Feeling clear-headed, calm, and ready to face the day can help you consider multiple perspectives, take the time to evaluate risks, and make strategic decisions for the long term vs. knee-jerk reactions that can cloud your judgment and affect the long-term success of your business.

Nurture your creativity. Your best ideas come from giving yourself the space to explore new ideas without the pressure to go, go, go all the time. Tap into your creativity by taking a midday walk, doing yoga, or just closing your eyes. “I nurture my creativity by hanging out with my daughter. We read, dance, and play together,” says Maria. Tapping into your innate creativity can lead to innovative solutions, product improvements, and fresh approaches to how you run your business.

Increase focus and productivity. A daily mindfulness practice can train your mind to stay focused on the task at hand rather than getting distracted by everything on your to-do list. This healthy focus time can lead to better productivity too, allowing you to accomplish more in less time and make more efficient use of your resources.

Improve communication and relationships. Being a great communicator is key to running a successful business. You may have employees, partners, or clients you need to communicate with clearly and calmly on a daily basis. “I have a deep appreciation for my co-founder,” says Maria. “We keep each other balanced and don’t mind talking shop during our downtime.”

Maria was one of 10 Selfmade members to enter the Selfmade pitch competition in her cohort. “Pitching our business through Selfmade has taught us the importance of introducing our target client and bringing her to life,” says Maria. “This helps people connect with her pain points and understand the potential solutions we offer.”

As a result, Maria earned an Office Depot OfficeMax gift card to help support her business. “Office Depot has been instrumental in helping us grow our business. From laptops to Post-Its for ideation to printers, we rely on their products and services to meet our needs.”

To learn more about growing your business, sign up for the !

Illustrated by Daniela Jordan-Villaveces

Building a mindfulness practice that works for you can help you feel good and manage your business better. Let Office Depot OfficeMax help you organize & save time with a suite of business services & solutions, like print & copy services. Accomplish more with Office Depot so you can focus on life’s important moments, like seeing your big idea come to life.

May is Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month and what better time than right now to highlight some of our favorite AAPI founders. From artists to creators to designers and beyond, these entrepreneurs are charting their own creative paths and bringing fresh ideas to the world, making it a little brighter, a little more colorful, and a better place for all. Check them out and their brands, and prepare to be inspired!

Giselle Go, Cofounder of DAMDAM

The former editor in chief of Harper's Bazaar Singapore (the youngest to hold the title at just 26) turned skincare entrepreneur is Philippine-born and sought to build a clean skincare brand as an ode to the Japanese culture she loved and respected so deeply. Enter DAMDAM, a brand dedicated to preserving ancient Japanese beauty regimens, such as "osoji" and "mochi had," heritage Japanese beauty ingredients like the Shiso Plant and Komenuka Oil, and a team of partners and vendors that collaborate with the brand by creating hand-crafted atelier and preserve Japanese land through regenerative farming practices. The brand is a 5-star best seller on Sephora and one that's hoping to inspire more people to partake in minimalist routines that place an emphasis on mindfulness.

Yanghee Paik, CEO and co-founder of Rael

“I like to call myself an accidental entrepreneur," says Yanghee Paik, a former Hollywood exec who co-founded Rael feminine care products. "I was looking for new inspiration and ways to make a bigger impact on people’s lives when I met my other co-founders.” Together, they saw an opportunity to bring safe and effective technology of Korean feminine care products to the U.S. market. Rael’s first organic cotton pads launched in 2017 and became #1 best-selling pad on Amazon. All Rael period care products are developed without toxins and are hypoallergenic, soft, and breathable. The packaging is also something you don't mind leaving on your countertop.;)

Dev Heyrana, Fine Artist and Hip Hop Dance Teacher

Heyrana's particular brand of creativity is one-of-a-kind. She manages to be warm, welcoming and woke, with a focus on inclusivity, social justice and motherhood that comes through in every piece of art she creates. Born in The Philippines and immigrated to the U.S. when she was 9 years old, her family comes from the island of Cebu. "I'm a proud Cebuana. My childhood in the Philippines felt like freedom. I had my swimsuit in my backpack for whenever we decided to swim and I biked everywhere." But immigrating wasn't easy as a child. "I witnessed racism towards my family and didn't know how to make sense of it," she told us in our Creative Crushin' series."These events left a mark. I was a quiet kid and observed everything and everyone around me. I think about my grandparents, Lolo Jose and Lola Rita, a lot as I walk through life. When I make decisions. As hard as it feels, you have two choices, do you let it take you down or take it one step at a time forward. I kept going and it really shaped me as to why I am the way I am today."

Trisha Okubo, Founder of Maison Miru

Trisha Okubo (pictured center) started out as a Stanford engineer but always had a passion for fashion, sculpture and architecture. She discovered the magic of making jewelry, intersecting form and function, art and science, order and chaos. "It’s wearable sculpture, a thing of beauty that captures your magic: your experiences and memories of the people you love," she says. "Miru in its native Japanese is evocative of sight. It is a reminder to open your eyes, to see the world in a new way." Maison Miru is launching its limited edition jewelry collection today, in collaboration with Heart of Dinner, a non-profit organization that provides hot meals for the most vulnerable Asian elderly community around Manhattan's Chinatown area, in honor of AAPI Heritage Month. The Heart of Dinner System Kit features three styles curated by Heart of Dinner founders Yin Chang and Moonlynn Tsai (pictured left and right). Made to be waterproof, sweatproof, and life-proof, the kit will include the Classic Heart Nap Earrings, Shooting Star Open Hoops, and Classic Arc Ear Cuff. 20% of the proceeds from the kit will be donated to Heart of Dinner.

Lin Chen, Founder of Pink Moon

A Brit + Co Self Care Award winner, Pink Moon is an online shop where you can find eco self-care, wellness, and lifestyle brands, with more than 30 percent of them being founded by women of color. When launching Pink Moon's in-house collection, Lin made the decision to create it as an open love letter for her Chinese heritage with the launch of a gua sha tool and accompanying face oil. Aromatherapy also plays a big role in Pink Moon's self-care in-house collection with original blends in signature candles, body/hair oils and more. 1% of Pink Moon's revenue goes to a nonprofit of your choice with every purchase.

Fiona Co Chan, Founder of Youthforia

Fiona founded Youthforia from the ground up while living in Hong Kong during the pandemic. An econ major who worked in business development for a software startup, she found that frequent travel to China was hard on her skin. She founded Youthforia, a makeup brand made famous on TikTok, uses plant-based ingredients and functions like skincare you can sleep in!

Rachel and Jiyoon Han, Founders of Bean & Bean Coffee

Not only did this mother daughter duo found Bean & Bean, but they're both certified Q graders (or coffee sommeliers)! The brand first got their start in 2008, after Jiyoon's parents immigrated from South Korea and opened the first ever roastery in Queens, NY. They're focused on ethically-sourced product, supply chain transparency, and Female Equity in Coffee.

Farah Jesani, Founder of One Stripe Chai

A daughter of South Asian immigrants, Farah Jesani started her career in NYC's corporate world. I graduated from the University of Georgia with a business degree and moved to NYC to work in the corporate world. She soon realized that the chai options offered at coffee shops didn't really reflect the bold and flavorful chai she grew up drinking. That's when the seeds for One Stripe Chai were planted...Founded in 2015, One Stripe Chai combines rich, spicy masala chai with black tea for an all natural chai concentrate that even the pickiest chai drinkers will love.

Tina Chow Rudolf, Founder of Strange Bird

Rudolf's fascination with beauty and skincare originates from watching generations of mothers before her. Her grandmother would give her mother facials using egg whites, cucumber, ginger and ginseng — all ingredients from their kitchen. Strange Bird (also her husband's nickname for her) is a plant-based and crystal-charged beauty brand that combines ancient Chinese beauty traditions with high vibrational alchemy to help women create a daily practice that supports their skin goals and their life goals. Products include ingredients such as ginger, ginseng and goji berry in organic blends as well as flower and gem essences such as amethyst, rose quartz and crab apple.

Clara Jung, Founder of Banner Day Interiors

Clara left a career in corporate law to start Banner Day Interiors when she realized that legal research and courtroom appearances didn't satisfy her creative desires. Her creative and comfortable style helps her clients transform ordinary rooms into stylish spaces. Originally from Los Angeles, Clara attended Cal and fell in love with the charm of Berkeley (shortly after graduating, she joined the Peace Corps in Nepal teaching English), where she now lives.

Sravya Adusumilli, founder of Mango People

Chemical engineer turned beauty entrepreneur Sravya Adusumilli was inspired by her South Asian roots when creating the plant-based multi-functional makeup brand beloved by TikTok. She struggled to find a brand that was truly clean and inclusive of all skin-tone shades so she began experimenting and researching Ayurvedic rituals and teachings to utilize powerful plants and pigment-rich fruits, flowers, and herbs to heal the body, mind, and spirit. After five years of intensive research and several iterations later, Mango People was born.

Ming Yi and Ching Yeh Chen, Founders Of Pearl River Mart

This duo founded Pearl River Mart in 1971 as the world's first Chinese American department store. People of all backgrounds can learn about Asian history and culture beyond NYC through their online site. Pearl River Mart has two events to celebrate AAPI heritage, including"Just Between Us," a new exhibition curated by Arlan Huang in partnership with Think!Chinatown at their SoHo location starting 5/4 and Pearl River Mart's Second Annual AAPIHM Sunset Celebration in conjunction with Lunar Hard Seltzer and Gold House will be held at their Chelsea Market location on 5/19.

Jennifer Tsay, Co-Founder & CEO of Shoott

Jennifer Tsay is a SAG-AFTRA actor whose personal experience with "side hustles" led her to launch a company that puts creatives and freelancers first. Shoott seeks to make professional photography more accessible to everyone with "Insta-worthy" 30-minute outdoor photo sessions that are free to book online and allow customers to pay only for photos they love at $15 per photo or less. In spite of the pandemic, demand for bookings grew and the company is now available in 600 locations across 60+ cities nationwide.

Diane Reade, Founder of MO MI

Diane's mother and grandmother raised her with holistic, naturopathic, aromatherapy and encouraged her to seek wellness beauty rituals. Diane says her Asian heritage inspires her creative process when sourcing plant-based ingredients that have been used for centuries. Her personal care brand MO MI is animal- and planet-friendly and incorporates values from Diane's heritage and from time spent living, working and traveling in Europe and Asia.

Eunice and Sabrina Moyle, Founders Hello!Lucky

Eunice and Sabrina are bi-racial Chinese-white sisters who grew up in Asia and Africa. They founded Hello!Lucky in 2003 as a letterpress greeting card studio with a distinctive humor and style inspired by their Asian and Midwestern roots. Since then, Hello!Lucky has grown to become a design and licensing studio with the mission of delivering joy, creativity, and connection through their products, which include greeting cards, best-selling children's books, and home goods. They are committed to supporting the highest good of their customers and promoting self-awareness and social justice. They published Sloth and Smell the Roses, a children's board book on mindfulness and self-compassion and in 2018 published Be the Change: The Future Is In Your Hands, a DIY book for girls and women about using creativity to inspire community and civic action. Sabrina serves as Board President of @mosaicproject, an Oakland-based youth non-profit that provides immersive, experiential learning in building inclusive, equitable, peaceful communities.You can follow along with Eunice and Sabrina @helloluckycards and @helloluckykids.

Joy Cho, Founder and Creative Director of Oh Joy!

LA-based Joy Cho exploded in the world of licensing with home decor, kids, pet, and furniture collections with brands such as Target, Band-Aid, Calpak, Petco, Keds, and more. She has authored six books and consulted for hundreds of creative businesses around the world. For two years in a row, Joy was named one of Time's 30 Most Influential People on the Internet and has the most followed account on Pinterest with over 14 million followers.

Andrea Xu, Co-founder and CEO, Umamicart

Conceived by Andrea Xu to serve as a one-stop-shop for home cooks, Umamicart, an online market, prioritizes Asian American-led businesses, immigrant-led businesses, and the mom-and-pop suppliers and producers behind consumers' favorite heritage brands, as well as the inspiring Asian American founders that are reinterpreting traditional flavors with new and personal products.

Angela Chau Gray + Ervina Wu, Co-Founders of YINA

YINA is a beauty and wellness brand based in California whose mission is to demystify and enliven Chinese Medicine. Co-founded by Dr. Ervina Wu, a licensed in TCM, the brand features products for skincare, wellness and more.

Vicky Tsai, Founder of Tatcha

One of our favorite Teach Me Something New podcast guests, Tsai's personal skincare routine (equal parts skincare + meditation) is as impressive as it is inspiring. Her customers include celebrities like Meghan Markle and Kim Kardashian who are fans of her Japanese skincare products, which are based in ancient Geisha beauty practices. For Vicky, skincare *is* self care, and we all need to take time for ourselves to wash away the day, and start fresh each morning.

Syama Meagher, Co-Founder of Rendall Co.

Syama Meagher originally planned to launch Rendall Co. as a home goods brand featuring aprons but pivoted to premium face masks at the beginning of the pandemic in March 2020. The styles were bestsellers and now the brand finally launched its collection of aprons, which feature durable chambray and denim fabrics and professional quality workmanship. We love our Bistro apron!

Hanna Chiou, Co-Founder of Habbi Habbi

Hanna Chiou grew up in the U.S. speaking her parent's native language Mandarin but not reading it. "It's challenging because Chinese is character-based so most books from Asia are intimidating because there are a sea of characters — and speaking doesn't translate to reading," she told us. Habbi Habbi was her answer to accessibility and ease of learning with a set of language books that kids can tap with the simplicity of a translating wand (our kids love theirs!).

Justine Tiu & Adrian Zhang, Co-Founders of The Woobles

We love this online learning platform for crochet. The brand sells beginner crochet kits that have been designed leveraging UX research and customer feedback to push through initial frustrations of learning a DIY art through remote learning.

Kirstie Wang, Founder of A Jar of Pickles

Kirstie Wang started A Jar of Pickles with $200 as a side hobby business that eventually grew multi-6 figures in revenue while she worked full-time jobs in UX design and marketing. She started it as a hobby Etsy shop in college after teaching herself digital design. She recently took the leap and quit her full-time job to grow A Jar of Pickles, pursuing her passion to share what she's learned by coaching other small business owners. You can enroll in her Selfmade course, Organic Social Media Growth, starting on May 25.

Image via Clar Ngai-Howard/Instagram

Clare Ngai, Founder of BONBONWHIMS

Before Clar Ngai launched BONBONWHIMS, she moved to the U.S. at the age of 19 to study journalism. From there, she's been working in the fashion industry for the past 10 years. Her experience with the digital and influencer aspects of fashion have come in handy because BONBONWHIMS speaks to several generations with its Y2K appeal.

It was during the pandemic that she began creating the bones of BONBONWHIMS to fuel her own passion and raise awareness for BIPOC organizations like Stop AAPI Hate.

Since its creation, BONBONWHIMS has been featured on stars like Megan Thee Stallion and Demi Lovato.

We are also big fans of our Selfmade members, including Christine Tong (above), founder of Christine My Linh, Shannon Huang, founder of The Soul Edit, Justine Pon of The Ponnery, Sruti Bharat of FutureMap, Koyun Fan, co-founder of Sticky Rice Sisters, and Poy T. Granati of Summer Space Studio.

To support the fight against anti-Asian racism, visit Stop AAPI Hate, a national coalition documenting and addressing anti-Asian discrimination.

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

This post has been updated.

I love sappy, sweet-as-candy rom-coms. You know, the ones where two leads spend the entire movie pursuing other people only to realize they were in love with each other the whole time. The movie usually takes place in a big city or a small town (and sometimes both), there's a quirky best friend, and there's always a big declaration of love before the credits roll. And while these straightforward movies are always on my watchlist, I also love the wacky movies that involve hilarious misunderstandings, ridiculous fight scenes, and gravity-defying Dirty Dancing movies (yes, I'm talking about Emma Stone & Ryan Gosling'sCrazy Stupid Love here). Humor always makes a movie even more enjoyable to watch, and A Family Affair is as wacky as they come. The movie reunites Nicole Kidman and Zac Efron, who played opposite each other ten years ago, and this time, Joey King's added into the mix. Here's everything you need to know about the new summer movie.

What is the movie A Family Affair about?

Image via Netflix

Like any good rom com, A Family Affair is all about a surprising romance — just not the kind Zara might be hoping for. When her mother (Nicole Kidman) and her famous actor boss (Zac Efron) fall for each other, their newfound relationship complicates everyone's ideas of sex and identity, and Zara's entire life. And, just like you might expect when your boss and mother hook up, chaotic hilarity ensues.

When does A Family Affair come out?

You can watch A Family Affair on Netflix starting June 28.

Who's in the A Family Affair movie cast?

Image via Netflix

Joey King, Zac Efron, and Nicole Kidman lead this new rom-com, and they're joined by a few of our other favorite actors! A Family Affair also stars Liza Koshy and Kathy Bates.

What does A Family Affair mean?

Image via Netflix

A family affair refers to a situation that's connected to someone's family in one way or another. For me, being an adult has been all about establishing work-life balance, and I'm sure the same is true for Zara. I can't wait to see how this movie's unexpected romance turns everything upside down.

What else did Nicole Kidman and Zac Efron star in?

Image via Netflix

Before they were cast in A Family Affair, Zac Efron and Nicole Kidman played lovers in The Paperboy in 2012. Familiarity and comfort are two super important things in any romantic role, and I can already tell from these first look images that Zac and Nicole not only have awesome chemistry, but they're comfortable enough around each other to just have fun. And that's all we can ask for from a good movie!

What would YOU do if your boss and one of your parents hooked up? Let us know in the comments and on Facebook!

Lead image via Netflix