Author: Jackson Hayes

Because making—and keeping—friends doesn’t stop after your twenties

As kids, friendship is simple. A shared love of dinosaurs or sitting next to someone in math class is enough to spark a bond. In college, friendships often bloom effortlessly in dorms and dining halls. But once adult life kicks in—with careers, families, moves, and responsibilities—friendships can feel harder to find and maintain.

Still, the need for connection never goes away. In fact, studies show that adult friendships are essential for emotional well-being, stress relief, and even longevity. So how do we form meaningful relationships as adults—and keep them thriving?

Here’s a practical and compassionate guide for navigating friendship in adulthood, no matter where you are on the map or in life.

1. Be Proactive: Friendship Doesn’t Just Happen Anymore

In adulthood, opportunities for spontaneous connection shrink. That means you have to take the lead more often than you’d expect.

Start by being open about your desire to connect. Whether it’s joining a local group, starting conversations at work, or reaching out to someone you haven’t seen in a while, remind yourself: most people are open to friendship—they just need someone to go first.

Tip: Think of friendship-building as planting seeds. Some won’t grow, but others might bloom beautifully with time.

2. Pursue Shared Interests

Making friends doesn’t have to be random—go where your interests already are.

• Take a pottery class or join a book club
• Volunteer at a local nonprofit
• Join a running group or hiking club
• Attend meetups or workshops in your area

When you show up in places that reflect your values and passions, it’s easier to find like-minded people—and easier to keep the conversation going.

3. Be a Consistent Initiator

It’s easy to assume that if someone doesn’t reach out, they’re not interested. But in reality, everyone’s juggling something. Schedules clash. Life gets busy. That doesn’t mean people don’t want connection.

Be the one who texts first. Suggest a coffee date, a walk, or a check-in call. You don’t have to carry the friendship alone, but being consistently proactive makes a big difference.

Remember: It’s not about chasing people—it’s about building a rhythm.

4. Make Friendship Fit Your Life

Not every friendship needs to look like weekly brunches or constant texting. Some friendships thrive on voice notes, occasional catch-ups, or seasonal traditions. The key is finding what works for both of you.

• Schedule recurring hangouts if time allows
• Start a two-person book or movie club
• Check in during your commute or lunch break
• Use shared experiences (kids, hobbies, travel) to create meaningful touchpoints

Friendship in adulthood is often about quality, not quantity—or frequency.

5. Let Go of the Pressure for “Perfect”

Not every connection will become a soul-deep friendship. Some people are great for coffee chats, others for hiking, and a few for heartfelt talks at midnight. And that’s okay.

You don’t need one person to be everything. Instead, embrace a “friendship circle” mindset—different people serve different roles, and all are valuable.

6. Be Honest About Your Needs and Boundaries

Friendships thrive on communication. If you feel neglected, overwhelmed, or confused about where you stand, try having a gentle, honest conversation.

Likewise, don’t be afraid to set boundaries. If someone’s behavior is draining or one-sided, you’re allowed to step back or redefine the dynamic.

Healthy adult friendships are rooted in mutual respect, not guilt or obligation.

7. Make Room for Transitions

Life changes—and so do friendships. People move, change jobs, get married, or become parents. Some friendships will grow with you, others may drift.

Letting go of old dynamics is hard, but it can also make room for new connections that reflect who you are now.

Pro tip: Reach out to someone you haven’t seen in a while. Adult life is full of missed connections waiting to be rekindled.

8. Celebrate the Little Moments

Not every friendship milestone has to be big. Send a funny meme, check in after an important event, remember a birthday, or drop off soup when they’re sick.

Tiny gestures go a long way toward keeping bonds alive—and often mean more than a grand gesture ever could.

Final Thought: Friendship is a Practice

Friendship in adulthood isn’t passive—it’s a practice. It takes effort, intention, and vulnerability. But it’s also one of the richest, most rewarding parts of life.

So send the text. Make the plan. Laugh hard, talk deep, and be the kind of friend you’re hoping to find. Whether you’re building new bonds or nurturing old ones, it’s never too late—and always worth it.

A how-to with printable templates and intention-setting prompts

We’ve all had big dreams—goals we write in journals, whisper during late-night chats, or keep tucked away in our thoughts. But what if you could bring those dreams out of hiding and place them in front of you every day? That’s the power of a vision board: a visual, personal map that keeps you connected to what matters most.

But not all vision boards are created equal. Some become forgotten collages. Others quietly gather dust. The key? Clarity, intention, and consistency. When done thoughtfully, a vision board can serve as a powerful reminder of your goals and a motivator when life feels off course.

Here’s how to create a vision board that actually works—with prompts, templates, and tips to help you get started.

Step 1: Get Clear on What You Want

Before you grab scissors and magazines, take time to reflect. A vision board works best when it’s rooted in clarity—not just aesthetics.

Ask yourself:

• What do I truly want to feel this year? (e.g., peaceful, confident, creative)
• What areas of my life need the most attention? (health, relationships, career, finances, joy, self-growth)
• Where do I see myself in six months? One year? Five years?
• What beliefs or habits do I want to reinforce?

Use a journal or digital notes to brainstorm. This step is all about intention—not perfection.

Step 2: Choose Your Format

Vision boards can be physical or digital, depending on your space and style. Both work—choose what suits your routine best.

Physical Vision Boards

• Supplies: cork board or poster board, magazines, scissors, glue, markers, printed images, washi tape
• Pros: tactile, immersive, perfect for display
• Tip: Place it somewhere you’ll see daily (office, closet, bedside)

Digital Vision Boards

• Tools: Canva, Pinterest, Notion, Google Slides
• Pros: easy to update, portable, great for screensavers or phone backgrounds
• Tip: Set as wallpaper or schedule check-ins to keep it visible

Want a head start? Search online for free printable vision board templates with pre-labeled sections (career, health, travel, etc.) to structure your collage.

Step 3: Gather Your Visuals and Words

Now it’s time to bring your vision to life—literally. Use:

• Images: Photos, cut-outs, printed art, or screenshots that represent your goals or feelings
• Words: Quotes, affirmations, mantras, or single words that anchor your intention
• Symbols: Objects or icons that speak to your goals (a compass for direction, a mountain for strength)

Don’t focus on how trendy your board looks. Instead, choose elements that spark emotion or clarity. If you want to feel grounded, maybe a photo of nature resonates. If your dream is to write a book, a vintage typewriter might capture the vibe.

Step 4: Assemble with Intention

As you create your board, do it mindfully. This isn’t a race—it’s a ritual. Light a candle. Play music. Reflect on why each piece is there.

Structure ideas:

• Cluster goals by theme (career, wellness, fun)
• Create a center focus image or word
• Use arrows, lines, or sections to guide your layout

Leave white space if needed. The board should feel open, not cluttered. It should invite you in—not overwhelm you.

Step 5: Engage with Your Board Regularly

The magic of a vision board isn’t in making it—it’s in interacting with it.

Ways to stay engaged:

• Place it where you’ll see it each morning
• Take a photo and use it as your phone background
• Check in monthly to see what’s shifted or manifested
• Say your affirmations aloud while looking at the board
• Journal how the board makes you feel

A vision board isn’t about control—it’s about alignment. It keeps your heart and mind centered when distractions creep in or motivation wanes.

Prompts to Get You Started

If you’re feeling stuck, here are some vision board prompts to unlock your imagination:

• “A version of myself I’m becoming…”
• “One word I want to define my year…”
• “This is what freedom looks like to me…”
• “A goal I once thought was impossible but now believe in…”
• “Here’s what success means on my terms…”

Final Thoughts: Your Life, in Vision

Vision boards aren’t wish lists—they’re reflections of you. They’re part art, part intention, part declaration. And when used with care, they become quiet allies that whisper: keep going, you’re on your path.

So take an afternoon. Gather your supplies. Let your imagination stretch beyond your current circumstances. Your future is already forming—and a vision board is how you start to see it.

A celebration of pre-loved fashion and the growing slow-style movement

Gone are the days when luxury meant brand-new price tags and gleaming designer storefronts. Today’s tastemakers are turning heads not by chasing trends—but by curating closets with character, conscience, and creativity. Welcome to the age of secondhand chic, where pre-loved fashion is not only cool, but often more luxurious than anything off the rack.

Thrifting—once the domain of bargain hunters and vintage enthusiasts—has transformed into a full-blown cultural movement. It’s about sustainability, individuality, and a new kind of status: knowing your clothes have stories as rich as their stitching.

Let’s dive into why secondhand is the new standard for stylish, ethical living—and how slow fashion is shaping the future of what we wear.

A Shift from Fast to Thoughtful

In a world of one-click purchases and ever-rotating trends, fast fashion has made clothing cheap, fast, and disposable. But beneath the surface lies a troubling truth: waste, pollution, and questionable labor practices have turned fast fashion into one of the most unsustainable industries on the planet.

Secondhand shopping flips that model on its head. Instead of contributing to demand for more production, thrifting gives existing garments new life. It’s fashion that feels good—because it does good.

Why Thrifting Is the New Luxury

Luxury used to mean exclusivity. Now, it means intention. Here’s why:

1. Sustainability Is In Style

Choosing secondhand helps reduce textile waste, carbon emissions, and water usage. It’s one of the most impactful choices a conscious consumer can make—and the fashion world is noticing.

Big brands are launching resale programs. Influencers are proudly styling vintage finds. And entire platforms—like Depop, Poshmark, and The RealReal—are booming with curated, quality pieces that have already stood the test of time.

2. Originality Over Mass Production

Ever walk into a party and realize three other people are wearing your shirt? Not likely with a vintage blazer from the ‘80s or a hand-beaded clutch from a local thrift store. Secondhand fashion is full of unique gems no longer in production. It’s a goldmine for anyone looking to stand out with authenticity, not logos.

3. Quality at a Fraction of the Price

Luxury brands often come with price tags that aren’t realistic for many. But secondhand shopping opens doors to high-quality fabrics and timeless craftsmanship—without the luxury markup. Think cashmere, silk, leather, and tailoring, all for a fraction of retail cost.

The Rise of the Slow-Style Movement

Thrifting is part of a bigger wave: the slow-style movement. This philosophy encourages thoughtful buying, creative expression, and clothing that’s made to last.

Slow-style isn’t about ditching fashion—it’s about deepening our relationship with it. It invites us to:

• Buy less, choose better
• Embrace personal style over seasonal fads
• Repair, swap, and upcycle
• Support local and independent sellers
• Value stories over status

It’s a movement led by stylists, creators, and conscious consumers alike—and it’s gaining momentum in closets everywhere.

Where to Find Secondhand Treasures

You don’t have to live in a big city or be a vintage expert to get started. Here are some great places to explore:

• Local Thrift Stores: Think Goodwill, Value Village, or neighborhood-run spots. They’re often full of surprises—and great deals.
• Consignment Boutiques: These stores tend to be more curated, offering brand-name pieces in excellent condition.
• Online Marketplaces: Sites like ThredUp, Vestiaire Collective, and eBay make thrifting accessible from anywhere. Many offer filters by brand, size, or style.
• Clothing Swaps: A fun, zero-cost way to refresh your wardrobe and connect with your community.
• Flea Markets & Vintage Fairs: Perfect for one-of-a-kind finds and supporting small-scale vendors.

Tips for Thrifting Like a Pro

• Go in with an open mind: You may not find what you came for, but you might discover something better.
• Know your fabrics: Natural fibers like cotton, wool, and silk tend to last longer.
• Check condition: Look at seams, zippers, and stains before buying.
• Try things on: Sizes have changed over the years. Trust fit over labels.
• Shop often: Inventory changes quickly. Make it part of your regular routine.

Wearing History with Pride

There’s something undeniably romantic about wearing a dress that’s danced at someone else’s wedding, or a coat that’s seen another city’s snow. Every secondhand item carries stories—and by giving them a new chapter, you become part of a longer, richer narrative.

In a world obsessed with the new, secondhand chic is a bold statement: Style isn’t about how much you spend—it’s about how well you know yourself.

Final Thought: Fashion That Feels Like You

Secondhand fashion is not a compromise. It’s a celebration—of individuality, sustainability, and style with soul.

So next time you feel the urge to refresh your wardrobe, skip the mall. Head to your local thrift shop, scroll a resale app, or raid your grandma’s closet. You might just find your new favorite piece—and help the planet while you’re at it.

Shift the focus from intensity to inner cues and joyful movement

For years, mainstream fitness culture has told us that if we’re not sweating buckets, pushing through pain, or sticking rigidly to a workout schedule, we’re not doing it right. But a new approach is quietly gaining traction—one that’s less about burning calories and more about tuning in.

Welcome to intuitive exercise: the practice of moving your body based on how it feels, not based on a pre-set plan or someone else’s definition of “fitness.” It’s about reconnecting with movement as something you want to do—not something you have to do.

If you’ve ever felt guilt for skipping a workout or pushed through exhaustion just to “stay on track,” this mindset shift might be exactly what your body—and mind—have been asking for.

What Is Intuitive Exercise?

Inspired by the principles of intuitive eating, intuitive exercise emphasizes listening to your body’s needs instead of forcing it into a punishing routine.

That means:

• Moving in ways that feel good, not obligatory
• Exercising for energy, joy, strength, or stress relief—not just weight loss
• Respecting rest days without guilt
• Letting go of all-or-nothing thinking (you don’t need a “full workout” to benefit)

It’s not a rejection of structure—it’s a realignment with what movement can feel like when it’s rooted in compassion and curiosity.

Why This Approach Matters

Burnout, injury, and disordered relationships with exercise often stem from ignoring the body’s signals in pursuit of perfection. When we’re told “no pain, no gain,” we stop asking: Do I even enjoy this?

Intuitive movement changes the goalpost. Instead of measuring success by reps, duration, or calories burned, it values how present, empowered, and energized you feel.

Benefits include:

• Reduced exercise-related anxiety or guilt
• Increased long-term consistency (because you want to keep moving)
• Improved body awareness and self-trust
• Deeper connection between mental and physical well-being

How to Start Practicing Intuitive Exercise

This approach doesn’t mean doing “whatever you feel like” in a vague or unstructured way. It means checking in regularly and allowing flexibility within your habits.

1. Tune Into Your Body—Before You Move

Ask yourself:

• What kind of energy do I have today?
• Do I need something uplifting or something grounding?
• Am I feeling stressed, tired, energized, tense?

These cues can guide your choice of movement. For example:

• Feeling sluggish? Try a walk in nature or gentle yoga.
• Feeling restless or anxious? A dance session or kickboxing might help release it.
• Feeling strong and focused? Go ahead and lift weights or run.

2. Ditch the “All or Nothing” Mentality

You don’t need an hour, the perfect gym outfit, or fancy equipment to move. Ten minutes of stretching, dancing in your kitchen, or walking around the block counts. Your body doesn’t know if you’re in a studio or a living room—it only knows how it feels.

3. Focus on the Why, Not the Burn

Try shifting your motivation. Instead of thinking “I have to work out to stay in shape,” try:

• “I want to feel more energized today”
• “Movement helps clear my mind”
• “This helps me sleep better and feel grounded”

When your motivation is internal and caring, movement becomes an act of support—not punishment.

4. Honor Rest as Part of the Practice

Rest days aren’t lazy days. They’re when your body rebuilds, resets, and recovers. If you’re tired or mentally drained, it’s okay to take a break. Movement will still be there tomorrow.

Rest is productive in its own way.

5. Explore Joyful Movement

Part of the joy of intuitive exercise is discovering new ways to move that don’t feel like chores.

Try:

• Dancing around the house
• Gardening
• Rock climbing
• Rebounding on a mini trampoline
• Roller skating
• Taking a movement-based class just for fun (like hula hooping or tai chi)

Exercise doesn’t need to look like reps and sets. It can look like play.

Real-Life Reflections

Intuitive movement doesn’t mean you’ll never lift weights or train for a race again. It simply means your workouts come from a place of want, not should.

It might mean skipping a high-intensity class because your body is asking for rest—or doing it because you feel strong and energized. It’s the same movement, but the motivation is different.

That difference can transform your relationship with fitness from obligation to empowerment.

Final Thoughts: From Forcing to Flowing

There’s a beautiful kind of freedom in letting your body lead. When you stop forcing it into boxes and start partnering with it, movement becomes less of a burden and more of a conversation. You’re not just chasing results—you’re building trust.

Intuitive exercise invites us to reconnect with what it feels like to move with ease, joy, and respect. And maybe, just maybe, that’s where the real transformation begins.

Tips for setting up a personal sanctuary—no matter the size of your living space

In the fast pace of modern life—where emails arrive faster than we can answer them and phone screens seem glued to our palms—it’s no wonder we long for a space that invites us to slow down and simply breathe.

Enter the Zen corner—a small, intentional sanctuary within your home where peace, mindfulness, and clarity reign. You don’t need a sprawling yoga studio or an entire room to create one. Even the tiniest nook can become a powerful refuge from the noise of the world.

Here’s how to carve out your own Zen corner, no matter your square footage, and turn a piece of your home into a wellspring of calm.

Why a Zen Corner Matters

We often think of relaxation as something we’ll get to later—after the kids are asleep, after work slows down, after one more scroll through our feed. But rest and mental clarity aren’t luxuries—they’re essential.

Having a dedicated space to pause, reflect, and recharge—even for just five minutes a day—can:

• Reduce stress and anxiety
• Improve focus and creativity
• Encourage mindfulness
• Support better sleep
• Strengthen emotional well-being

A Zen corner signals to your brain: this is where we slow down, soften, and let go.

Step 1: Choose Your Space

You don’t need much. A Zen corner can be:

• A window seat with soft light
• A corner of your bedroom or living room
• A small balcony or even a closet nook
• A spare area under the stairs

The only real requirement is that it feels separate from your busier, task-oriented areas. Pick a space you can return to regularly, even for a few moments a day.

Step 2: Clear the Clutter

Before you add anything, remove distractions. Zen spaces are defined by simplicity. That doesn’t mean sterile—but intentional. Keep only what is useful, meaningful, or soothing. If it doesn’t contribute to calm, it doesn’t belong.

A few helpful ideas:

• Remove paperwork, tech devices, or clutter piles
• Store visible cords or electronics out of sight
• Keep surfaces clean and open

Less stuff equals less mental noise.

Step 3: Choose Your Anchors

Zen doesn’t mean minimalist for the sake of it. It means choosing objects that serve a purpose—either functional or emotional. Consider these calming anchors for your corner:

• A meditation cushion or cozy chair: Comfort matters. Choose a seat that invites stillness.
• Soft lighting: A salt lamp, string lights, or candles can soften harsh edges.
• Natural elements: Add a plant, some river stones, or a piece of driftwood to connect with nature.
• A calming scent: Essential oils, incense, or natural soy candles in lavender, sandalwood, or eucalyptus promote relaxation.
• Textures: A soft throw, a handwoven rug, or a natural wood surface can ground the space.
• A sound element: A small water fountain, wind chime, or meditation music playlist adds a layer of serenity.

Choose 3–5 elements that speak to you. A Zen corner is deeply personal.

Step 4: Define Its Purpose

What do you want your Zen space to do for you? It could be:

• A meditation nook
• A reading retreat
• A journaling spot
• A space to practice breathwork or yoga
• A place to pause between tasks

Defining the purpose helps guide how you use the space—and helps you return to it with intention.

You might keep a small basket nearby with essentials: a journal, pen, a favorite book, a deck of affirmation cards, or a soothing tea blend.

Step 5: Keep It Sacred

Once your Zen corner is created, treat it as a non-negotiable part of your day. Even five minutes can make a difference. The point isn’t perfection—it’s presence.

Set gentle boundaries:

• No phones unless used for calming music or guided meditation
• No multitasking (emails, work, etc.)
• No pressure—this is your non-productive zone

Over time, your body and mind will associate this space with safety, quiet, and renewal.

Real-Life Zen Corner Ideas

• Tiny Apartment: A floor cushion beside a bookshelf with a lantern and incense tray
• Busy Family Home: A reclaimed closet space with soundproof curtains and fairy lights
• Studio Loft: A corner with a yoga mat, essential oils, and a large plant for visual privacy
• Backyard Patio: A rocking chair surrounded by herbs and wind chimes

It doesn’t matter how polished or Pinterest-worthy it is. It matters that it feels right to you.

Conclusion: Stillness Is Within Reach

Creating a Zen corner isn’t about aesthetics—it’s about intention. It’s a quiet rebellion against the speed of the world, a declaration that your peace matters, and a gentle reminder to return to yourself again and again.

In a world that constantly asks you to do more, a Zen corner whispers a different message: Just be.

In an era where climate change and environmental awareness are at the forefront of our daily decisions, more people are beginning to take a hard look at their beauty cabinets. The skincare industry, known for its luxurious packaging and trend-driven products, is undergoing a quiet transformation. From packaging to ingredients to manufacturing practices, a more sustainable approach to beauty is not only possible—it’s becoming essential.

So how can you make your skincare routine greener without sacrificing quality, comfort, or results? Here’s a look at how sustainable beauty is reshaping the way we care for our skin, and how you can take simple steps to make your own routine more planet-friendly.

Understanding the Environmental Cost of Skincare

At first glance, a tiny jar of moisturizer doesn’t seem like it could make much of an impact. But multiply that jar by the millions of consumers around the world, and the environmental footprint becomes significant.

The main issues include:

• Single-use plastics: Packaging waste is a massive contributor to landfill overflow and ocean pollution.
• Unsustainable ingredients: Some products contain ingredients like microplastics, palm oil from deforested regions, or synthetic chemicals that harm marine life.
• Carbon emissions: From production and shipping to refrigeration, skincare products can have a surprisingly high carbon cost.
• Water use: Many products are water-based, and water-intensive production processes strain already limited global resources.

Thankfully, a growing number of brands are recognizing these challenges and working toward a more sustainable future.

What Makes a Beauty Product Sustainable?

Not all “natural” or “green” labels are equal. To assess whether a product is genuinely eco-conscious, look for these markers:

• Minimal or zero-waste packaging: Glass, aluminum, paper-based materials, and refillable systems are more sustainable than traditional plastics.
• Ethically sourced ingredients: Look for plant-based ingredients that are organic, fair trade, or sustainably harvested.
• Cruelty-free and vegan: Products not tested on animals and free from animal-derived ingredients are better for ethics and ecosystems alike.
• Biodegradable formulas: These break down more safely in the environment, especially in water systems.
• Low-carbon production: Some brands use renewable energy and carbon offsetting to reduce their environmental footprint.

Certifications like ECOCERT, Leaping Bunny, Certified B Corporation, or Climate Neutral can also help guide your purchases.

Top Sustainable Skincare Brands Leading the Way

While the market is growing rapidly, a few brands have stood out in their commitment to both skin health and planetary wellness.

1. Ethique

This New Zealand-based brand makes solid skincare bars (face cleansers, moisturizers, serums) that come in compostable packaging. No bottles, no water waste.

2. Herbivore Botanicals

Known for its minimalist packaging and clean ingredients, Herbivore offers glass-packaged skincare with cruelty-free, vegan formulas.

3. True Botanicals

With a strong focus on certified organic ingredients and refillable options, this brand also emphasizes nontoxic skincare that performs well.

4. Plaine Products

This brand provides shampoo, conditioner, and skincare products in aluminum bottles that you send back for refills—combining luxury with zero waste.

5. UpCircle Beauty

An innovative brand that repurposes food waste—like coffee grounds and fruit peels—into natural skincare. They’re also plastic-free and carbon-neutral.

Small Changes, Big Impact

Even if you’re not ready to overhaul your entire routine, a few mindful shifts can make a meaningful difference.

1. Use What You Have

Sustainability starts with consuming less. Finish your current products before buying new ones, and resist the temptation to hoard multiple items with similar functions.

2. Choose Multipurpose Products

A balm that works as a moisturizer, lip treatment, and cuticle conditioner reduces clutter and packaging waste.

3. Go Refillable

Look for brands that offer refill pods or take-back programs for packaging. These options are increasing, especially for cleansers and moisturizers.

4. DIY When Possible

Simple, effective skincare treatments like oat masks, aloe vera gel, and honey cleansers can be made at home from natural ingredients.

5. Recycle Correctly

Not all beauty packaging is curbside recyclable. Check the materials and clean containers thoroughly before recycling.

The Future of Beauty is Responsible

Sustainable beauty is not just a passing trend—it’s part of a broader movement toward conscious consumerism. As more brands shift toward environmentally responsible practices and more consumers demand transparency, the beauty industry is beginning to align with values of care, quality, and longevity.

Choosing eco-friendly skincare doesn’t mean compromising results. On the contrary, it often means being more in tune with what your skin actually needs—and what the planet does too. It’s about choosing fewer, better products made with integrity and intention.

Ultimately, beauty should never come at the expense of the world we live in. With just a few changes, your skincare routine can be both radiant and responsible.