[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"$fRdy4Ph-Pr3_YSRANo4UELfNtlCWM9i03GPoJzUPa93A":3,"$fgkr6SYHwd-mO6OHG-34rH0CYQ_f28lLcTgVm7V67RJw":37,"$fl2hBpXsk11Yif9IyRCRSZBHZ9w0wKh-Jk0Vv10qJB_o":132},{"data":4,"meta":33},[5,9,13,17,21,25,29],{"id":6,"name":7,"slug":8},1,"Career & Finance","career-and-finance",{"id":10,"name":11,"slug":12},11,"After Hours","after-hours",{"id":14,"name":15,"slug":16},3,"Wellness","wellness",{"id":18,"name":19,"slug":20},12,"Style","style",{"id":22,"name":23,"slug":24},4,"Voices","voices",{"id":26,"name":27,"slug":28},2,"Mindset","mindset",{"id":30,"name":31,"slug":32},10,"Nourish","food",{"pagination":34},{"page":6,"pageSize":35,"pageCount":6,"total":36},25,7,{"data":38,"meta":130},[39],{"id":40,"title":41,"createdAt":42,"updatedAt":43,"publishedAt":44,"content":45,"slug":46,"coffees":26,"seo_title":41,"keywords":47,"seo_desc":48,"featuredImage":49,"category":96,"author":100,"img":129},217,"Christmas Gift Exchange: An Ode To Consumerism","2024-12-20T22:21:30.303Z","2024-12-20T22:45:57.592Z","2024-12-20T22:45:57.589Z","\u003Cp>The holiday season has always been related to joy, peace, and togetherness. It exudes a feeling of wholesomeness and anticipation of the new year. Nevertheless, over the last decades, it has increasingly become synonymous with the stress and materialism of gift-giving. Instead of getting ready to meet our loved ones and enjoy delicious meals with them, we \u003Cstrong>tend to anticipate the gifts instead of the people.\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Nevertheless, we cannot argue that the tradition of exchanging gifts can be a fun way to show appreciation and love, but it can also contribute to a sense of obligation, disappointment, and commercialism that detracts from the true meaning of Christmas.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>One of the primary downsides of gift exchange is the immense pressure it places on individuals to spend money on gifts. Months before the holiday season, we are bombarded with advertisements and marketing campaigns encouraging us to buy more and more and more. New last-minute Christmas deals are on the everyday menu, and we are getting into a panic mode when \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fbe-financially-fit-your-101-guide-ebook\">adjusting our budget\u003C\u002Fa> for the Christmas gifts. However, this gift-giving pressure can lead to financial stress and anxiety, especially for those who are struggling to make ends meet.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Another issue with gift exchange is the potential for \u003Cstrong>disappointment\u003C\u002Fstrong>. When people receive gifts that they don't want or need, it can lead to feelings of frustration and resentment. This can be particularly harmful to children, who may feel pressured to express gratitude for gifts they don't enjoy. Instead of appreciating the process of gift-giving and the ritual of exchanging gifts around the Christmas tree, we put ourselves in a position of disappointment instead in a position of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fthe-power-of-being-grateful\">gratitude\u003C\u002Fa> that someone was thoughtful enough to gift us something. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gift exchange has fueled a culture of materialism, where the value of a person is measured by the \u003Cstrong>quantity\u003C\u002Fstrong> and quality of gifts they receive. This consumerist mindset has led to a relentless pursuit of the latest gadgets, the trendiest clothes, and the most \u003Cstrong>expensive\u003C\u002Fstrong> toys. It has turned Christmas into a competition rather than a celebration of love and compassion.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fmedia.workingal.com\u002Fconsumerism_on_christmas_5f01d17e10.jpg\" alt=\"consumerism on christmas\">\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Also, let’s consider the environmental impact of gift exchange. The excessive production and consumption of goods contribute to pollution, deforestation, and climate change. The mass packaging waste generated during the holiday season further aggravates the problem.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As a result of the above, the most significant problem with gift exchange is that it can overshadow the true meaning of Christmas. \u003Cstrong>The holiday season should be a time to focus on family, friends, and community.\u003C\u002Fstrong> However, when we prioritize gift-giving, we can lose sight of what truly matters and we tend to be completely materialistic.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>A More Meaningful Christmas\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>So, how can we make Christmas more meaningful and recall the essence of the holiday season? In order to recapture the spirit of Christmas, we should think of other more positive ways to \u003Cstrong>celebrate\u003C\u002Fstrong> the holiday. For example, we could focus on spending quality time with loved ones, volunteering in our communities, or simply enjoying the season's peace and tranquility. Possibly, by shifting our focus away from material possessions and towards meaningful connections, we can rediscover the true joy of Christmas. This means that instead of focusing on \u003Cstrong>material possessions\u003C\u002Fstrong>, we should prioritize spending quality time with loved ones, volunteering in our communities, and practicing acts of kindness.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gift exchange can be a fun tradition, but it is essential to remember that it is not the only way to celebrate the holiday season. Let’s prioritize more meaningful connections and acts of kindness so we can create a more fulfilling and joyful Christmas for ourselves and others.\u003C\u002Fp>\n","christmas-gift-exchange-an-ode-to-consumerism","gift exchange, christmas spirit, consumerism during christmas holidays","Amidst the endless gift exchanges and parties during Christmas, maybe we have lost the true meaning of the Christmas spirit. Read the article and learn how to get it back. ",{"id":50,"name":51,"alternativeText":52,"caption":52,"width":53,"height":54,"formats":55,"hash":91,"ext":57,"mime":60,"size":92,"url":93,"previewUrl":62,"provider":94,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":95,"updatedAt":95},747,"consumerism on christmas.jpg","consumerism on christmas",1600,900,{"large":56,"small":67,"medium":75,"thumbnail":83},{"ext":57,"url":58,"hash":59,"mime":60,"name":61,"path":62,"size":63,"width":64,"height":65,"sizeInBytes":66},".jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Flarge_consumerism_on_christmas_b1a00d197a.jpg","large_consumerism_on_christmas_b1a00d197a","image\u002Fjpeg","large_consumerism on christmas.jpg",null,97.76,1000,563,97761,{"ext":57,"url":68,"hash":69,"mime":60,"name":70,"path":62,"size":71,"width":72,"height":73,"sizeInBytes":74},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fsmall_consumerism_on_christmas_b1a00d197a.jpg","small_consumerism_on_christmas_b1a00d197a","small_consumerism on christmas.jpg",33.84,500,281,33841,{"ext":57,"url":76,"hash":77,"mime":60,"name":78,"path":62,"size":79,"width":80,"height":81,"sizeInBytes":82},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fmedium_consumerism_on_christmas_b1a00d197a.jpg","medium_consumerism_on_christmas_b1a00d197a","medium_consumerism on christmas.jpg",62.45,750,422,62452,{"ext":57,"url":84,"hash":85,"mime":60,"name":86,"path":62,"size":87,"width":88,"height":89,"sizeInBytes":90},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_consumerism_on_christmas_b1a00d197a.jpg","thumbnail_consumerism_on_christmas_b1a00d197a","thumbnail_consumerism on christmas.jpg",11.34,245,138,11336,"consumerism_on_christmas_b1a00d197a",126,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fconsumerism_on_christmas_b1a00d197a.jpg","aws-s3","2024-12-20T22:44:34.067Z",{"id":22,"name":23,"slug":24,"createdAt":97,"updatedAt":98,"publishedAt":99},"2020-12-24T19:16:11.810Z","2025-10-01T19:49:12.086Z","2024-06-26T07:27:59.419Z",{"id":14,"name":101,"slug":102,"instagram":103,"facebook":104,"bio":105,"createdAt":106,"updatedAt":107,"publishedAt":108,"linkedIn":109,"avatar":110,"avatarImg":128},"Amalia","amalia","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.instagram.com\u002Famalia.ka__\u002F","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.facebook.com\u002Famalia.kakampakou","Amalia is the Teacher. She loves what she does. She is addicted to detail: if it isn’t perfect, it’s not good enough. She loves her job and she loves writing. She wants to learn new things and she is very curious about everything. Her favorite question: Why? She usually answers the questions by herself, though.","2020-12-24T18:58:59.684Z","2020-12-27T14:58:33.474Z","2020-12-24T18:59:01.010Z","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.linkedin.com\u002Fin\u002Famalia-kakampakou-963945202\u002F",{"id":14,"name":111,"alternativeText":112,"caption":112,"width":113,"height":113,"formats":114,"hash":123,"ext":116,"mime":119,"size":124,"url":125,"previewUrl":62,"provider":94,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":126,"updatedAt":127},"the working gal author.png","the working gal author",250,{"thumbnail":115},{"ext":116,"url":117,"hash":118,"mime":119,"name":120,"path":62,"size":121,"width":122,"height":122},".png","https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_amalia_fcd74699a4.png","thumbnail_amalia_fcd74699a4","image\u002Fpng","thumbnail_amalia.png",57.6,156,"amalia_fcd74699a4",118.47,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Famalia_fcd74699a4.png","2020-12-24T18:58:30.657Z","2025-02-22T08:34:20.998Z","https:\u002F\u002Fmedia.workingal.com\u002Famalia_fcd74699a4.png","https:\u002F\u002Fmedia.workingal.com\u002Fconsumerism_on_christmas_b1a00d197a.jpg",{"pagination":131},{"page":6,"pageSize":35,"pageCount":6,"total":6},{"data":133,"meta":444},[134,206,275,345,394],{"id":135,"title":136,"createdAt":137,"updatedAt":138,"publishedAt":139,"content":140,"slug":141,"coffees":22,"seo_title":136,"keywords":142,"seo_desc":143,"featuredImage":144,"category":178,"author":181,"img":205},216,"How to Manage Holiday Depression: 12 Expert-Backed Strategies That Actually Work","2024-12-20T01:38:37.339Z","2025-12-01T18:53:48.850Z","2024-12-20T01:43:57.001Z","The holiday season is marketed as the most wonderful time of the year—a montage of twinkling lights, cozy gatherings, and picture-perfect moments with people you love. But if you've ever felt a wave of sadness wash over you while everyone around you seems impossibly cheerful, you're not imagining things. [Holiday depression is real](https:\u002F\u002Fhealth.clevelandclinic.org\u002Fholiday-depression-and-stress), it's common, and most importantly, it's manageable.\n\n[Research suggests](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apa.org\u002Fnews\u002Fpress\u002Freleases\u002F2023\u002F11\u002Fholiday-season-stress) that approximately 64% of people with mental health conditions report that the holidays make their symptoms worse, while 38% of people experience increased stress during this season regardless of their mental health history. The gap between the idealized version of the holidays and our actual experience can feel enormous—and that dissonance takes a real toll.\n\nWhether you're navigating grief, family tension, financial pressure, or simply the weight of unrealistic expectations, this guide is here to help you protect your mental health and find moments of genuine peace this season.\n\n# What Is Holiday Depression?\n\nHoliday depression is a temporary form of depression that typically emerges during the holiday season—roughly from late November through early January. Unlike clinical depression, which can occur at any time and often requires ongoing treatment, holiday depression is usually tied to specific seasonal triggers and tends to lift once the holidays pass.\n\nAccording to mental health professionals, common triggers include unrealistic expectations fueled by media and [social media](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fdo-social-media-and-influencers-damage-our-body-image), financial strain from gift-giving and travel, painful memories or grief that resurface during family-centered celebrations, strained relationships with relatives, social isolation for those without close family connections, and disrupted routines, including sleep schedules and [eating patterns](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fstress-and-eating-habits).\n\nThe symptoms often mirror those of clinical depression but are generally less severe and shorter in duration. You might experience persistent sadness or a sense of hopelessness, fatigue and low energy despite getting adequate sleep, loss of interest in activities you normally enjoy, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, increased irritability or anxiety, and [difficulty concentrating](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F7-ways-to-improve-concentration-in-everything-you-do) on daily tasks.\n\n# Holiday Blues vs. Clinical Depression: Understanding the Difference\n\nIt's important to distinguish between holiday blues and clinical depression because they require different approaches. The holiday blues involve temporary feelings of sadness or stress linked to specific holiday stressors—they're unpleasant, but you can typically still manage your daily responsibilities, and the feelings improve after the season ends.\n\nClinical depression, on the other hand, is a serious mental health condition that persists regardless of the season. It significantly disrupts daily functioning, can last for weeks or months, and often requires professional treatment, including therapy or medication.\n\nAnother condition to be aware of is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which is tied to reduced sunlight during winter months. According to healthcare providers, SAD affects roughly 1 in 10 people in northern regions, compared to about 1 in 100 in areas with more year-round sunlight. While holiday depression and SAD can overlap, they're distinct conditions—SAD follows a predictable seasonal pattern regardless of holiday timing.\n\n# 12 Expert-Backed Strategies to Manage Holiday Depression\n\n## 1\\. Acknowledge Your Feelings Without Judgment\n\nThe first step toward managing holiday depression is giving yourself permission to feel whatever you're feeling—without guilt. The pressure to be happy simply because it's \"supposed to be\" a joyful time only compounds the problem. Mental health experts emphasize that accepting your emotions without self-criticism is foundational to managing them effectively.\n\nTry this: Instead of fighting your emotions, name them. \"I'm feeling lonely right now\" or \"I'm overwhelmed by expectations\" can help you process feelings rather than suppress them.\n\n## 2\\. Set Realistic Expectations\n\nSocial media and advertising create an illusion of holiday perfection—matching pajamas, flawless dinner spreads, and families that seem to genuinely enjoy every moment together. The reality rarely matches this fantasy, and chasing it sets you up for disappointment.\n\nAsk yourself: What do I actually want from this season? What would feel meaningful to me? Focus on one or two priorities rather than trying to create a Hallmark movie. A smaller, more [intentional](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fintenional-living) celebration often brings more genuine joy than an elaborate production that leaves you exhausted.\n\n## 3\\. Create a Holiday Budget—and Stick to It\n\n![woman on the floor sad](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fholiday_depression_2b9a51ab93.jpg)\n\nFinancial stress is one of the leading contributors to holiday depression. The pressure to [exchange gifts](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fchristmas-gift-exchange-an-ode-to-consumerism), host gatherings, and travel can create debt that haunts you well into the new year. According to financial wellness research, overspending during the holidays frequently leads to depression when bills arrive in January.\n\nConsider alternatives like Secret Santa gift exchanges instead of buying for everyone, handmade or experience-based gifts that carry personal meaning, or honest conversations with family about scaling back expectations. Your financial peace of mind is worth more than any gift.\n\n## 4\\. Set Boundaries (and Honor Them)\n\nYou don't have to attend every party, accept every invitation, or spend time with people who drain your energy. [Setting boundaries](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fhow-to-set-and-preserve-boundaries) isn't selfish—it's essential for protecting your mental health.\n\nMental health professionals emphasize that it's okay to turn down events and invitations that feel triggering, and to say yes only to things that genuinely bring you joy. If certain family members consistently cause stress, limit your exposure. You can leave gatherings early. You can skip events entirely. Your wellbeing matters more than anyone's expectations.\n\n## 5\\. Prioritize Sleep and Routine\n\nThe holiday season tends to disrupt our normal schedules—late nights, irregular meals, and packed calendars become the norm. But maintaining basic routines is crucial for mental health stability.\n\n[Lack of sleep](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F5-reasons-why-good-sleep-is-important-for-your-physical-and-mental-health) causes cloudy thinking and irritability, and significantly hampers your ability to cope with everyday stress. Try to maintain consistent sleep and wake times, even on weekends and holidays. Your mind will thank you.\n\n## 6\\. Get Moving—Especially Outdoors\n\nExercise is one of the most effective natural interventions for depression. Physical activity releases endorphins, reduces stress [hormones](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F6-hormonal-changes-that-affect-you-during-fall), and improves sleep quality. But during the winter months, outdoor exercise offers an additional benefit: exposure to natural sunlight.\n\nResearch has consistently shown that spending time in nature provides stress relief, better concentration, lower inflammation levels, and improved mental energy. Even a [20-minute walk](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F9-ways-to-walk-a-bit-more-every-day) during daylight hours can make a meaningful difference in your mood.\n\n## 7\\. Limit Alcohol Consumption\n\nHoliday parties and family gatherings often revolve around alcohol, making it tempting to use drinking as a coping mechanism. But alcohol is a depressant that can significantly worsen symptoms of anxiety and depression.\n\nIf you're already feeling vulnerable, alcohol can amplify negative emotions and disrupt sleep patterns. Consider bringing your own non-alcoholic beverages to gatherings or practice mindful moderation. If you're in recovery, prioritize your sobriety—it's okay to decline events where alcohol is served.\n\n## 8\\. Stay Connected—Even When You Want to Isolate\n\nDepression tends to make us withdraw from others, but isolation typically worsens symptoms. Maintaining social connections—even small ones—can provide vital support during difficult times.\n\nThis doesn't mean forcing yourself into overwhelming social situations. Consider scheduling regular phone or video calls with trusted friends, sending holiday cards as a low-pressure way to connect, or joining online communities where you can find support without leaving home. Quality matters more than quantity when it comes to holiday social interactions.\n\n## 9\\. Create New Traditions That Serve You\n\nIf old traditions no longer bring joy—or actively trigger painful memories—give yourself permission to create new ones. Traditions are meant to enhance our lives, not imprison us.\n\nMaybe that means volunteering at a local charity instead of attending a family dinner, starting a solo tradition like a [special breakfast](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fbusy-mornings-20-healthy-breakfast-ideas-if-you-don-t-have-time) or [movie night](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fthe-ultimate-christmas-movie-list), or creating small rituals that bring you peace. The holidays can be whatever you decide to make them.\n\n## 10\\. Practice Mindfulness\n\nMindfulness—the practice of staying present without judgment—can be particularly helpful during the emotionally charged holiday season. When you notice yourself spiraling into anxiety about upcoming events or sadness about the past, [mindfulness techniques](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fstress-relief-techniques-for-working-women-during-the-holidays) can help ground you in the present moment.\n\nTry simple breathing exercises, guided meditations through apps, or mindful moments during everyday activities like cooking or decorating. Even a few minutes of intentional presence can interrupt negative thought patterns.\n\n## 11\\. Reduce Social Media Exposure\n\nSocial media during the holidays is essentially a highlight reel of everyone's most curated moments. Consuming this content when you're already struggling can intensify feelings of inadequacy and FOMO.\n\nConsider setting time limits on social media apps or even doing a [complete digital detox](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fdigital-detox), muting accounts that trigger negative comparisons, or taking a complete break during particularly difficult periods. Remember: what you see online is rarely the full picture of anyone's experience.\n\n## 12\\. Know When to Seek Professional Help\n\nWhile many people can manage holiday depression with self-care strategies, some situations require professional support. Mental health professionals recommend watching for these warning signs: feeling depressed and hopeless more days than not, loss of interest in things you used to enjoy, persistent sleep or appetite disturbances, intrusive thoughts that are difficult to manage on your own, and thoughts of self-harm or suicide.\n\n*If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, reaching out to a primary care provider or mental health professional is an important first step. If you're in crisis, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24\u002F7 by phone, chat, or text.*\n\n# Protecting Your Peace This Holiday Season\n\nHoliday depression doesn't mean something is wrong with you—it means you're human, navigating a season that comes with real emotional complexity. The gap between cultural expectations and lived reality is significant, and acknowledging that gap is the first step toward managing it.\n\nStart small. Choose one or two strategies from this guide that resonate with you and implement them consistently. Whether that's setting a firm budget, establishing boundaries with difficult relatives, or simply giving yourself permission to feel however you feel—every small step matters.\n\nThis season, your job isn't to create a perfect holiday. It's to protect your mental health while finding moments of genuine connection and peace. You deserve both.","is-holiday-depression-manageable","holiday depression, managing holiday stress, holiday blues, seasonal depression, holiday anxiety, coping with holiday depression, holiday mental health","Struggling with holiday depression? You're not alone. Discover 12 research-backed strategies to manage seasonal sadness, set healthy boundaries, and protect your mental health this holiday season.",{"id":145,"name":146,"alternativeText":147,"caption":148,"width":53,"height":54,"formats":149,"hash":174,"ext":57,"mime":60,"size":175,"url":176,"previewUrl":62,"provider":94,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":177,"updatedAt":177},745,"holiday depression.jpg","woman with santa hat sad","holiday depression",{"large":150,"small":156,"medium":162,"thumbnail":168},{"ext":57,"url":151,"hash":152,"mime":60,"name":153,"path":62,"size":154,"width":64,"height":65,"sizeInBytes":155},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Flarge_holiday_depression_7bcf500be7.jpg","large_holiday_depression_7bcf500be7","large_holiday depression.jpg",87.81,87814,{"ext":57,"url":157,"hash":158,"mime":60,"name":159,"path":62,"size":160,"width":72,"height":73,"sizeInBytes":161},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fsmall_holiday_depression_7bcf500be7.jpg","small_holiday_depression_7bcf500be7","small_holiday depression.jpg",27.22,27218,{"ext":57,"url":163,"hash":164,"mime":60,"name":165,"path":62,"size":166,"width":80,"height":81,"sizeInBytes":167},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fmedium_holiday_depression_7bcf500be7.jpg","medium_holiday_depression_7bcf500be7","medium_holiday depression.jpg",54.07,54074,{"ext":57,"url":169,"hash":170,"mime":60,"name":171,"path":62,"size":172,"width":88,"height":89,"sizeInBytes":173},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_holiday_depression_7bcf500be7.jpg","thumbnail_holiday_depression_7bcf500be7","thumbnail_holiday depression.jpg",8.41,8412,"holiday_depression_7bcf500be7",120.12,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fholiday_depression_7bcf500be7.jpg","2024-12-20T01:42:28.231Z",{"id":26,"name":27,"slug":28,"createdAt":179,"updatedAt":180,"publishedAt":99},"2020-12-24T19:15:46.057Z","2025-10-01T19:50:39.801Z",{"id":18,"name":182,"slug":183,"instagram":62,"facebook":62,"bio":184,"createdAt":185,"updatedAt":186,"publishedAt":187,"linkedIn":62,"avatar":188},"Mariana","mariana","Mariana is our amazing psychologist. She is generally shy, but she has the answers to all questions. She is calm but can be pretty sarcastic if she wants to! She is working with women who are struggling in their jobs. She also loves knitting. She helps our Working Gal Team with her valuable insights and tips for a balanced work life.","2023-11-12T05:43:27.688Z","2023-11-12T05:47:04.640Z","2023-11-12T05:47:04.619Z",{"id":189,"name":190,"alternativeText":191,"caption":191,"width":113,"height":113,"formats":192,"hash":200,"ext":194,"mime":197,"size":201,"url":202,"previewUrl":62,"provider":94,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":203,"updatedAt":204},248,"1.webp","",{"thumbnail":193},{"ext":194,"url":195,"hash":196,"mime":197,"name":198,"path":62,"size":199,"width":122,"height":122},".webp","https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_1_ead45d4a4f.webp","thumbnail_1_ead45d4a4f","image\u002Fwebp","thumbnail_1.webp",4.51,"1_ead45d4a4f",8.67,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002F1_ead45d4a4f.webp","2023-11-12T05:43:16.157Z","2023-11-12T05:43:16.165Z","https:\u002F\u002Fmedia.workingal.com\u002Fholiday_depression_7bcf500be7.jpg",{"id":207,"title":208,"createdAt":209,"updatedAt":210,"publishedAt":211,"content":212,"slug":213,"coffees":26,"seo_title":208,"keywords":214,"seo_desc":215,"featuredImage":216,"category":249,"author":250,"img":274},215,"Gisèle Pelicot Case: Did She Get the Justice She Deserved?","2024-12-19T21:56:34.531Z","2024-12-19T22:03:57.572Z","2024-12-19T22:03:57.569Z","He drugged his wife for decades and invited other men into their home to rape her. \n-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\nOne of the most known people of 2024 is undoubtably Gisèle Pelicot. Since her horrific story was brought to light, it has inspired millions of people around the world, not only victims of **sexual abuse** but also non-victims, and she hopes her case will change French legislation regarding rape and consent. _\"It's time for the macho, patriarchal society that downplays the importance of rape to change,\"_ Giselle Pellico said in a statement at the trial that began on September 2, 2024, in Mazan. A few weeks ago, she was the shocking cover of [German Vogue](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.the-independent.com\u002Flife-style\u002Fgisele-pelicot-vogue-cover-germany-france-rape-trial-b2653832.html) on the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and we see her on the [BBC list alongside other women](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bbc.com\u002Fmediacentre\u002F2024\u002Fbbc-reveals-100-women-2024) who want this world to change, in every way possible.\n\n**Today, she got the justice she deserved.** Dominique Pelicot, her ex-husband who repeatedly drugged and raped her over the course of almost a decade has been found guilty of all the charges against him. He was found guilty of raping Gisèle Pelicot and sentenced to 20 years in prison, which is the maximum sentence for the charge of aggravated rape. \n\nHowever, it wasn’t only him. He would invite dozens of men he met online to their home to rape her while she was unconscious of the pills that he slipped to her drinks or food. The men were often strangers to her. Today, the court in Mazan found all 51 defendants guilty in the case. Dominique Pelicot was sentenced to 20 years in prison, the maximum sentence. The other defendants received sentences ranging from 3 to 15 years. \n\n_\"Mr Pellico, you are guilty of the aggravated rape of Gisèle Pelicot,\"_ said the president of the Avignon criminal court, Roger Arata. According to reports, Dominique Pelicot will not be eligible for parole until he has served two-thirds of his sentence. At this point, it should be noted that all 51 defendants were charged with serial rape and one of them, Nicolas François, was also charged with **depicting child abuse**. Most of the defendants denied the charges, saying they believed it was a consensual sex game orchestrated by the couple.\n\n![gisele pelicot trial vogue](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fgisele_pelicot_trial_vogue_84c4bfaab8.jpg)\n\nAccording to BBC, the defendants were sentenced to sentences lower than those sought by the prosecutor at the arraignment, while Giselle's children, David and Caroline, were clearly disappointed. On December 16, Dominique Pelico begged his family to accept his _\"apology\"_ and hailed Giselle's _\"courage\"_. _\"I would like to start by saluting the courage of my ex-wife,\"_ he had told the Avignon court. _\"I ask her, as well as the rest of my family, to accept my apology.\"_\n\nDespite the severity of the crimes, nearly all of **Gisèle's rapists received lenient sentences**. Six will be released today, having served their time or received suspended sentences. The longest sentence, excluding Dominique's, was 15 years for Romain Vandevelde, who raped Gisèle six times, while we was aware that he was HIV positive. Jean-Pierre Marechal, who raped his own wife using Dominique's methods, was sentenced in 12 years. Gisèle's daughter, Caroline Darian, was stunned by the leniency of the sentences.\n\nHowever, the sentences were not well received by a vast amount of the public. Anne-Cécile Mailfert, president of Fondation des Femmes, denounced the sentences as a _\"disgrace\"_ and a **systemic failure** to protect victims of sexual violence.\n\nHowever, what we should keep from this horror story is that Gisèle Pelicot, by appearing in public and putting a face to the victim, **wants the shame to change sides**. And she has already done so. She wants to fight for all those women who may never be recognized as victims of rape. Her life was destroyed as her husband of decades drugged her with pills he slipped into her food, then raped her and invited other men to molest her body. He filmed all these horrific moments, keeping a specific file with a date, name or pseudonym and pornographic title on his computer. Gisèle Pelico was raped at least 92 times, but her rage has turned into strength, voice and protection.\n\n\n#### Images source:\n[France 24](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.france24.com\u002Fen\u002Flive-news\u002F20241212-gisele-pelicot-france-rape-survivor-who-became-a-feminist-hero) \n[The Independent](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.independent.co.uk\u002Flife-style\u002Fgisele-pelicot-vogue-cover-germany-france-rape-trial-b2653832.html)","gisele-pelicot-case-did-she-get-the-justice-she-deserved","gisele pelicot, gisele pelicot trial, france rape trial, pelicot sentence, gisele pelicot vogue cover","The mass rape trial in France has come to an end and Gisele Pelicot is a symbol for all those women who are victims of violence. Did she get, however, the justice she deserved?",{"id":217,"name":218,"alternativeText":219,"caption":219,"width":53,"height":54,"formats":220,"hash":245,"ext":57,"mime":60,"size":246,"url":247,"previewUrl":62,"provider":94,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":248,"updatedAt":248},743,"gisele pelicot trial.jpg","gisele pelicot trial",{"large":221,"small":227,"medium":233,"thumbnail":239},{"ext":57,"url":222,"hash":223,"mime":60,"name":224,"path":62,"size":225,"width":64,"height":65,"sizeInBytes":226},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Flarge_gisele_pelicot_trial_297e7ba8c1.jpg","large_gisele_pelicot_trial_297e7ba8c1","large_gisele pelicot trial.jpg",67.52,67521,{"ext":57,"url":228,"hash":229,"mime":60,"name":230,"path":62,"size":231,"width":72,"height":73,"sizeInBytes":232},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fsmall_gisele_pelicot_trial_297e7ba8c1.jpg","small_gisele_pelicot_trial_297e7ba8c1","small_gisele pelicot trial.jpg",24.67,24665,{"ext":57,"url":234,"hash":235,"mime":60,"name":236,"path":62,"size":237,"width":80,"height":81,"sizeInBytes":238},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fmedium_gisele_pelicot_trial_297e7ba8c1.jpg","medium_gisele_pelicot_trial_297e7ba8c1","medium_gisele pelicot trial.jpg",44.22,44216,{"ext":57,"url":240,"hash":241,"mime":60,"name":242,"path":62,"size":243,"width":88,"height":89,"sizeInBytes":244},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_gisele_pelicot_trial_297e7ba8c1.jpg","thumbnail_gisele_pelicot_trial_297e7ba8c1","thumbnail_gisele pelicot trial.jpg",8.73,8726,"gisele_pelicot_trial_297e7ba8c1",93.97,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fgisele_pelicot_trial_297e7ba8c1.jpg","2024-12-19T22:02:41.257Z",{"id":22,"name":23,"slug":24,"createdAt":97,"updatedAt":98,"publishedAt":99},{"id":251,"name":252,"slug":253,"instagram":254,"facebook":255,"bio":256,"createdAt":257,"updatedAt":258,"publishedAt":259,"linkedIn":62,"avatar":260},6,"The Working Gal Team","the-working-gal-team","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.instagram.com\u002Fthe_working_gal\u002F","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.facebook.com\u002Ftheworkinggal","At The Working Gal, we prioritize collective strategic insight. This piece reflects the shared expertise of our editorial board and specialists, delivering a 360° analysis of modern business and executive lifestyle.","2021-02-14T21:17:05.180Z","2026-04-12T03:32:03.659Z","2021-02-14T21:17:25.177Z",{"id":261,"name":262,"alternativeText":191,"caption":191,"width":113,"height":113,"formats":263,"hash":269,"ext":116,"mime":119,"size":270,"url":271,"previewUrl":62,"provider":94,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":272,"updatedAt":273},108,"Untitled-7.png",{"thumbnail":264},{"ext":116,"url":265,"hash":266,"mime":119,"name":267,"path":62,"size":268,"width":122,"height":122},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_Untitled_7_b2bf764bcd.png","thumbnail_Untitled_7_b2bf764bcd","thumbnail_Untitled-7.png",12.8,"Untitled_7_b2bf764bcd",22.3,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002FUntitled_7_b2bf764bcd.png","2021-02-14T21:15:43.138Z","2021-02-14T21:15:43.147Z","https:\u002F\u002Fmedia.workingal.com\u002Fgisele_pelicot_trial_297e7ba8c1.jpg",{"id":276,"title":277,"createdAt":278,"updatedAt":279,"publishedAt":280,"content":281,"slug":282,"coffees":26,"seo_title":277,"keywords":283,"seo_desc":284,"featuredImage":285,"category":319,"author":322,"img":344},214,"Skincare Routine: Do You Know How to Safely Mix Ingredients?","2024-12-19T21:29:16.596Z","2024-12-19T21:34:48.014Z","2024-12-19T21:34:48.010Z","A good skincare is an act of self-care. Your skin needs as much attention and your mind and the pleasure of mixing and matching products to create a personalized routine can be exciting. However, it’s crucial to approach DIY skincare with caution. It might seem harmless to **combine** your favorite products but mixing ingredients can lead to unexpected reactions and an increased risk of harming your skin or simply won’t be effective, hence you won’t see results.\n\nThis happens because certain skincare ingredients can react negatively when combined, leading to skin irritation, inflammation, or more serious issues. Additionally, different formulations **may not blend well**, resulting in product separation or reduced efficacy. Furthermore, mixing multiple active ingredients can overload the skin, making it more **sensitive and prone to irritation**.\n\nSo, if you use multiple formulations on your morning and evening routine, take a look on the labels of the products and check their ingredients to ensure that you combine them properly. Below, there is a list of ingredients that don’t work well together and it’s better for your skin’s sake to not mix them.\n\nRetinol and Vitamin C\n---------------------\n\nBoth retinol and vitamin C are powerful antioxidants, but they can clash due to their pH levels. Vitamin C is most stable in an acidic environment, while retinol works best in a slightly alkaline one. If your skincare products contain either of those ingredients it’s better to use them at different times of day. For example, apply vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night. And never forget your SPF because they tend to turn the skin more photosensitive.\n\n\nNiacinamide and Vitamin C\n-------------------------\n\nNiacinamide can interfere with the stability of vitamin C, reducing its effectiveness. While they are both powerful antioxidants, their interaction can be complex. According to some studies, niacinamide might interfere with vitamin C, reducing its stability. However, many experts believe that this effect is minimal, especially when both ingredients are formulated in stable products. If you are not sure about the products you are using, aim to use the products separately, or consult with a dermatologist to find a product that combines them safely and effectively.\n\nAHAs\u002FBHAs and Vitamin C\n-----------------------\n\nBoth exfoliate the skin aka they can be irritating to the skin, especially when used together. This can lead to dryness, redness, and increased sensitivity. Use them on alternate days or at different times of day, for instance use vitamin C in the morning and incorporate AHAs\u002FBHAs in your evening skincare routine.  \n\n![skincare routine](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fskincare_mix_ingredients_8e2b406e9d.jpg)\n\nRetinol and AHAs\u002FBHAs\n---------------------\n\nRetinol as well as AHAs\u002FBHAs exfoliate the skin, and combining them can lead to excessive dryness and irritation so it’s better to use them on alternate days or at different times of day. \n\nBenzoyl Peroxide and Retinol\n----------------------------\n\nBenzoyl peroxide is a powerful acne-fighting ingredient that works by killing bacteria and reducing inflammation. However, it can be irritating to the skin, especially when combined with other harsh ingredients such as retinol causing the skin to be dry, red and sometimes to peel. It’s better to use them separately, different days and times so that you avoid the unpleasant results.  \n\nIt’s important to establish a solid skincare routine with products that are suitable and effective for your skin. When you are trying a new product remember to always perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying them to your entire face and pay close attention to your skin's response. Immediately discontinue use if you experience any irritation, redness, dryness, or other adverse reactions. \n\nIt’s better to consult a dermatologist that can guide you accordingly and help your skin glow!","skincare-routine-do-you-know-how-to-safely-mix-ingredients","retinol, mix skincare products, which skincare products to combine, beauty products, vitamin c and retinol, retinol and niasinamide","If your skincare routine is not effective or you experience dryness, redness or peeling effect, then you probably don't mix your skincare products well. Check what the beauty editor suggests.",{"id":286,"name":287,"alternativeText":288,"caption":289,"width":53,"height":54,"formats":290,"hash":315,"ext":57,"mime":60,"size":316,"url":317,"previewUrl":62,"provider":94,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":318,"updatedAt":318},741,"skincare routine.jpg","hands holing beauty products","skincare routine",{"large":291,"small":297,"medium":303,"thumbnail":309},{"ext":57,"url":292,"hash":293,"mime":60,"name":294,"path":62,"size":295,"width":64,"height":65,"sizeInBytes":296},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Flarge_skincare_routine_54b5ed8368.jpg","large_skincare_routine_54b5ed8368","large_skincare routine.jpg",26.56,26556,{"ext":57,"url":298,"hash":299,"mime":60,"name":300,"path":62,"size":301,"width":72,"height":73,"sizeInBytes":302},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fsmall_skincare_routine_54b5ed8368.jpg","small_skincare_routine_54b5ed8368","small_skincare routine.jpg",9.68,9680,{"ext":57,"url":304,"hash":305,"mime":60,"name":306,"path":62,"size":307,"width":80,"height":81,"sizeInBytes":308},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fmedium_skincare_routine_54b5ed8368.jpg","medium_skincare_routine_54b5ed8368","medium_skincare routine.jpg",17.25,17253,{"ext":57,"url":310,"hash":311,"mime":60,"name":312,"path":62,"size":313,"width":88,"height":89,"sizeInBytes":314},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_skincare_routine_54b5ed8368.jpg","thumbnail_skincare_routine_54b5ed8368","thumbnail_skincare routine.jpg",3.69,3691,"skincare_routine_54b5ed8368",54.39,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fskincare_routine_54b5ed8368.jpg","2024-12-19T21:32:52.767Z",{"id":14,"name":15,"slug":16,"createdAt":320,"updatedAt":321,"publishedAt":99},"2020-12-24T19:16:00.904Z","2025-02-19T20:04:41.159Z",{"id":323,"name":324,"slug":325,"instagram":62,"facebook":62,"bio":326,"createdAt":327,"updatedAt":328,"publishedAt":329,"linkedIn":62,"avatar":330},13,"Cristina","cristina","Cristina and beauty are one and the same. Cristina is mysterious, extravagant, and when she has free time, she loves shopping for beauty products and trying them on. She knows who should wear what and what is the best moisturizer in the market. Can't say we don't need her!","2023-11-12T05:46:52.824Z","2023-11-12T05:46:59.737Z","2023-11-12T05:46:59.716Z",{"id":331,"name":332,"alternativeText":191,"caption":191,"width":113,"height":113,"formats":333,"hash":339,"ext":194,"mime":197,"size":340,"url":341,"previewUrl":62,"provider":94,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":342,"updatedAt":343},247,"Untitled design.webp",{"thumbnail":334},{"ext":194,"url":335,"hash":336,"mime":197,"name":337,"path":62,"size":338,"width":122,"height":122},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_Untitled_design_f7056d0e58.webp","thumbnail_Untitled_design_f7056d0e58","thumbnail_Untitled design.webp",3.04,"Untitled_design_f7056d0e58",4.9,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002FUntitled_design_f7056d0e58.webp","2023-11-12T05:43:15.989Z","2023-11-12T05:43:15.999Z","https:\u002F\u002Fmedia.workingal.com\u002Fskincare_routine_54b5ed8368.jpg",{"id":346,"title":347,"createdAt":348,"updatedAt":349,"publishedAt":350,"content":351,"slug":352,"coffees":22,"seo_title":347,"keywords":353,"seo_desc":354,"featuredImage":355,"category":388,"author":389,"img":393},213,"Your Monthly To-Do List With Our Favorite Quotes","2024-12-19T05:32:35.851Z","2024-12-21T21:14:02.972Z","2024-12-19T05:34:57.086Z","Start the New Year Fresh with our To-Do List full of motivational quotes!\n\n## 2025 will be a productive and exciting year!\n\n# Get your list [here](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fto_do_list_c2a54df5d7.pdf) and start planning!\n\n","your-monthly-to-do-list-with-our-favorite-quotes","todo list, printable to-do list, to-do lists ideas, print your to-do list","30 sheets of to-do lists with motivational quotes to plan your year as it deserves! Enjoy!\n",{"id":356,"name":357,"alternativeText":358,"caption":358,"width":53,"height":54,"formats":359,"hash":384,"ext":116,"mime":119,"size":385,"url":386,"previewUrl":62,"provider":94,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":387,"updatedAt":387},740,"to do list printable.png","to do list printable",{"large":360,"small":366,"medium":372,"thumbnail":378},{"ext":116,"url":361,"hash":362,"mime":119,"name":363,"path":62,"size":364,"width":64,"height":65,"sizeInBytes":365},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Flarge_to_do_list_printable_3ee04b3126.png","large_to_do_list_printable_3ee04b3126","large_to do list printable.png",869.76,869760,{"ext":116,"url":367,"hash":368,"mime":119,"name":369,"path":62,"size":370,"width":72,"height":73,"sizeInBytes":371},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fsmall_to_do_list_printable_3ee04b3126.png","small_to_do_list_printable_3ee04b3126","small_to do list printable.png",219,218995,{"ext":116,"url":373,"hash":374,"mime":119,"name":375,"path":62,"size":376,"width":80,"height":81,"sizeInBytes":377},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fmedium_to_do_list_printable_3ee04b3126.png","medium_to_do_list_printable_3ee04b3126","medium_to do list printable.png",484.55,484545,{"ext":116,"url":379,"hash":380,"mime":119,"name":381,"path":62,"size":382,"width":88,"height":89,"sizeInBytes":383},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_to_do_list_printable_3ee04b3126.png","thumbnail_to_do_list_printable_3ee04b3126","thumbnail_to do list printable.png",60.59,60592,"to_do_list_printable_3ee04b3126",279.37,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fto_do_list_printable_3ee04b3126.png","2024-12-19T05:34:49.753Z",{"id":26,"name":27,"slug":28,"createdAt":179,"updatedAt":180,"publishedAt":99},{"id":251,"name":252,"slug":253,"instagram":254,"facebook":255,"bio":256,"createdAt":257,"updatedAt":258,"publishedAt":259,"linkedIn":62,"avatar":390},{"id":261,"name":262,"alternativeText":191,"caption":191,"width":113,"height":113,"formats":391,"hash":269,"ext":116,"mime":119,"size":270,"url":271,"previewUrl":62,"provider":94,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":272,"updatedAt":273},{"thumbnail":392},{"ext":116,"url":265,"hash":266,"mime":119,"name":267,"path":62,"size":268,"width":122,"height":122},"https:\u002F\u002Fmedia.workingal.com\u002Fto_do_list_printable_3ee04b3126.png",{"id":395,"title":396,"createdAt":397,"updatedAt":398,"publishedAt":399,"content":400,"slug":401,"coffees":26,"seo_title":396,"keywords":402,"seo_desc":403,"featuredImage":404,"category":438,"author":439,"img":443},212,"Ask The Gals: RSVPs & Money Makers","2024-12-19T04:30:42.438Z","2025-02-19T20:03:51.133Z","2024-12-19T04:40:04.611Z","## _If you have a question about your career, friends, love life, or everything random, [fill up this form](https:\u002F\u002Fforms.gle\u002FovnsXzrcahDPp2z56) and the Gals will answer it as soon as possible!_\n\n\\*\\*\\*\\*\n\n## Host Asks: Guest, please\n\n![guests making a toast](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fask_the_gals_column_056eee1163.jpg)\n\n_“Is there any way I can get my guests to leave? The holiday season is right by the corner and every year I get frustrated since my -lovely by all means- guests are extremely reluctant to leave the house after dinner, celebrations, etc. and I end up tired, almost asleep on the couch waiting patiently for them to realize that it’s late. They need to leave. Like now. Any ideas?_\n\n## The Gal Answers\n\nExcellent question! Well, it depends on your boundaries, your relationship with your guests, and how much you are inclined to be unpleasant. What usually works is to start tidying up and moving around the house. Also, it’s a good idea to start a conversation on your next day’s plans and start by saying “oh, I have exciting plans for tomorrow, getting up veeeery early for \\[insert -imaginary or not-plan\\].\n\nThese methods are proven to be effective and guests with a sense of social awareness usually get the “go away” hint. Others, may not. So, you have two options: either you wait patiently for them to get tired and leave or you tell them that the party is over and it’s time to get some sleep.\n\nIf you are close to your guests, then they will be ok. Worst case scenario, they won’t coming back to the next gathering. But, at least, the party will be over on time!\n\n\\*\\*\\*\\*\n\n## D. Asks: Holiday Stress\n\n![woman holding gifts and screaming](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fask_the_gals_column_d00d20c0f2.jpg)\n\n_“Holiday season is here and I feel so stressed that I don’t know what to do. I have some days off work and I could really use the time to rest but I have so many social obligations and so little time to manage them all. What should I do?”_\n\n## The Gal Answers\n\nThat’s a very common problem that pretty much everyone faces. We were taught to please them all, no matter if our mind (and body) say the opposite. I won’t tell you to not stress, but I will tell you that at the end of the day, nothing bad can happen if you don’t show up to a party or gathering. I tried doing it for a year and then I needed a couple of weeks off work to manage to recover. And that in my twenties. In my late thirties I would suggest Netflix favorites and RSVP to events that really warm your soul. Honestly, everyone is so duped these days that they won’t even notice your absence. All good.\n\n\\*\\*\\*\\*\n\n## Money Maker: I don’t believe women make less money than men\n\n![woman throwing money](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fask_the_gals_column_f3778b8477.jpg)\n\n_“Hello Working Gals! I have a question-statement to make. I think that the belief that women make less money than men is a bit misleading. I believe that both sexes can earn the same amount of money if they have the appropriate skills and that we tend to victimize ourselves in order to have something to complain about.”_\n\n## The Gal Answers\n\nWell, that was not a question but I could really suggest you did some reading on the topic. A simple Google search will show you that _“Although the gender pay gap has narrowed since the signing of the Equal Pay Act of 1963, women earned 82 cents for every dollar a man earns according to 2020 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.”_\n\nSo yes, women do earn less than men. Why? The reasons are multiple and a simple column cannot explain how deep the gap in equal compensation is.\n\nWe have addressed the issue in The Working Gal and I would suggest you read some information [here](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fmind-the-gap-the-fight-for-gender-equal-compensation) and [here](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fwhy-women-are-underrepresented-in-leadership-positions).\n\nHowever, there are many places where you can see women earning more than men but these are not the rule nor magically we managed to bridge the gap of compensations only because some businesses took the lead.\n\nThe road is long and if you are in position where you earn more money from your male counterparts, then congratulations but you are the exception!\n\nDemanding equal compensation schemes and addressing the issue is not victimizing ourselves. It’s trying to put us in a position where we are heard and we get what we deserve.\n\n\\*\\*\\*\\*\n\n## Employee of the month Asks:\n\n![woman scolding a colleague](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fask_the_gals_column_fa46a79b99.jpg)\n\n_“I think my boss doesn’t like me. What should I do?_\n\n## The Gal Answers\n\nNot much but we need more clues to understand where your thought comes from. Has anything specific happened? Did you get a review that didn’t reflect your effort? A reminder that we don’t have to be friends with everyone at work and sometimes we need to just do our job and leave. Give us an update on what is happening.","ask-the-gals-rsv-ps-and-money-makers","ask the gals, Q&A, women problems, working women issues, problems for women, sexism, competitive colleague, ask column","Ask The Gals for whatever problem you have and they will answer it! 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