Weekender #148

📝 Job Searching: The 29 essential skills to put on your resume.

🧽 Cleaning: Seven things you can clean with an old toothbrush.

💖 Sex: How 10 couples handle desire discrepancy.

👯‍♀️ Friendships: When you know you’ve outgrown them.

🐾 Pets: ‘If I had just done this one thing my dog wouldn’t have died.’

Imposter syndrome isn’t just about doubting your capabilities; sometimes, it stems from deeper systemic biases that make you feel like an outsider. According to a compelling piece in Harvard Business Review, many women experience this not as an illusion, but as a reflection of real exclusionary practices.

Here’s how to navigate those moments when you feel like an imposter:

1. Write Out the Facts

This technique is about separating fears from reality. Draw a line down the middle of a page: list your imposter fears on one side and all the factual evidence against those fears on the other. This could be reminders of past successes, positive feedback from peers, or any qualifications you hold. It’s a way to visually affirm your achievements and challenge the internal narrative that undermines them.

2. Embrace the BRA Technique

Nope, this has nothing to do with lingerie but everything to do with grounding yourself in moments of doubt. The BRA technique stands for:

• Breathe: Take deep, controlled breaths to center your mind.
• Relax: Drop your shoulders, unclench your jaw, and let go of bodily tension.
• Allow: Let thoughts and fears pass without engaging with them, making room for more rational thinking.

3. Look for evidence of others

Find strength in the paths carved out by others. Whether it’s industry leaders like Oprah, astronaut Kellie Geradi, or pioneers like Ruth Bader Ginsberg—or even peers within your network who have overcome similar challenges—their journeys can inspire you to push through your doubts. Sometimes, seeing is believing, and in this case, knowing someone else has achieved great things can motivate you to do the same. The saying, “if she can do it, I can too” goes a long way.

4. Therapy

While it might sound repetitive, therapy is a robust tool for personal development. It can help unpack the roots of your imposter feelings—be it past traumas, societal conditioning, or professional setbacks. By working with a therapist, you can develop strategies to build self-confidence and redefine your professional identity. Strengthening those spots helps us evolve and progress so we can fully accept the good that we receive, create, and achieve.

5. Acquire More Knowledge

Knowledge is power, and power can be the antidote to insecurity. Dive deeper into your field or broaden your expertise to reinforce your sense of competence. Whether it’s taking new courses, attending workshops, or simply keeping up with industry news, every bit of knowledge helps cement your confidence in your professional role.

6. Practice Your Craft

Consistency breeds confidence. The more you engage in your work, the better you become, and the stronger your self-assurance grows. Embrace both successes and failures as part of your growth process. Remember, every expert was once a beginner, and every master failed more times than the novice has even tried.

If you’re in charge of employee or client gifting, check out Stadium 🤗.

With their wide array of customizable products, they make it easy to create a lasting impression.

You can even launch your own swag store to make warehousing, gift selection, and fulfillment a breeze.

💬 What others are saying about Stadium:

• “I like the fact that a recipient can receive a gift of credits to put toward items that tickle their own fancy. It takes the guesswork out of gift-giving and everyone wins! It is also very user-friendly.” — Erica S.
• “I like that this is a one stop shop. The ease of being able to pick from so many different items not just food related is a great touch.” — Hollie W.
• “The ease of setting up a shop where a variety of ~200 associates could pick their own gift – that is delivered with the same settings/messages was SO helpful and exactly what we were looking for. Their customer service team was very helpful and responsive with any questions.” — Liz M.

Check out Stadium’s swag here.

Transition your wardrobe with lightweight jackets, versatile scarves, ankle boots, and layering pieces for the changing seasons.

• Jean Jacket: A classic Jean jacket is essential for layering over summer dresses or pairing with high-waisted pants as the weather cools down.
• Hi-low Cardigan: This Hi-low cardigan is perfect for those in-between days, offering warmth and style with its flowing design.
• Ankle Boots: Step into fall with these ankle boots that are versatile enough to wear with jeans, skirts, or dresses.
• Chunky Heel: Elevate your look with these chunky heels that add a stylish and comfortable edge to any outfit.
• Floral Scarf: This floral scarf is the perfect accessory to add a pop of color and warmth as you transition from summer to fall.
• Patterned Kimono Cardigan: Layer this patterned kimono cardigan over your summer outfits for an effortlessly stylish fall look.
• Corduroy Jacket: Stay warm and stylish with this corduroy jacket that’s perfect for layering over casual or dressy outfits.
• Bomber Zip Up Jacket: This bomber zip up jacket offers a trendy and functional option for cooler days and nights.
• Cozy Waffle Knit Jacket: Embrace comfort and warmth with this cozy waffle knit jacket that is perfect for layering over your favorite fall outfits.

The Umbrella Academy is a darkly whimsical series that follows a dysfunctional family of adopted superhero siblings who reunite to solve the mystery of their father’s death and prevent an impending apocalypse.

With its stylish visuals, compelling storylines, and a killer soundtrack, “The Umbrella Academy” keeps viewers on the edge of their seats while exploring themes of trauma, identity, and destiny.

For fans of: Stranger Things, Doom Patrol, Misfits.

Watch it with: That one friend who lives for superhero stories with a twist, and offbeat humor.

Pair it with: A classic cocktail and some moody lighting to match the show’s vintage vibe.

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Carl is just a hard-working, average Joe dog. Nothing fancy. He loves his family, loves his walks, and loves his orange squeaky ball. That’s all he needs. Maybe a squirrel to chase here and there. Just a big-hearted boy who just wants to be included in all the things his family does.

💌 Show us pics of your pets—fill out this form for your fur baby to be featured.

🚨 Job Ops: Visit our job board here.