[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"$fRdy4Ph-Pr3_YSRANo4UELfNtlCWM9i03GPoJzUPa93A":3,"$fC_ytvKeFxCBXQHcCc4CVZgW8mPVM-oLb591ASVMQipM":37,"$fu55KoT9YglVBLqB-PSystZESn0W37IZgNCKGaz9CLSc":126},{"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":124},[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":94,"author":98,"img":123},112,"Do You Suffer From Imposter Syndrome? Take Our Test and Find Out","2024-06-08T20:19:10.691Z","2026-04-11T04:19:18.937Z","2024-06-08T20:26:48.157Z","\u003Cp>Have you ever achieved something amazing, only to downplay your accomplishment or worry it was just a fluke? Do you compare yourself to others and feel like you come up short, even when you're successful? If these experiences sound familiar, you might be experiencing Imposter Syndrome.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fare-you-suffering-from-impostor-syndrome\">Imposter Syndrome\u003C\u002Fa> is a psychological pattern in which individuals doubt their skills, talents, or accomplishments and have a persistent internalized fear of being exposed as a "fraud." However, it is not an official psychiatric diagnosis. People with imposter syndrome may struggle with other mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression, but an individual couldn’t be diagnosed as having imposter syndrome.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>An interesting observation also is that Imposter syndrome was first reported in \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.paulineroseclance.com\u002Fpdf\u002Fip_high_achieving_women.pdf\">high-achieving women in the 1970\u003C\u002Fa>s. While imposter syndrome is still more prevalent among women, specifically women of color, men are also susceptible to developing this mindset.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It’s not always easy to spot the signs. Research shows that \u003Cstrong>about 25 to 30 percent of high achievers\u003C\u002Fstrong> could suffer from imposter syndrome, while 70 percent of adults may experience impostorism at least once in their lifetime. Thus, it’s more common than we think.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you feel you may be a good candidate for impostor syndrome, take the following test and learn.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This self-assessment is designed to help you explore the feelings of impostorism. Keep in mind that there are no right or wrong answers, so be honest with yourself as you reflect on your recent experiences.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This test will give guidance on better understanding your feelings and then decide the strategies that can work for you to overcome self-doubt and be proud of your achievements!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch1>The Test\u003C\u002Fh1>\n\u003Cp>Below you will find 20 statements, and for each one, you need to select the answer that best describes you. Then, you sum up the points and check the results.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>Rarely (1 point)\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Ch3>Sometimes (2 points)\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Ch3>Often (3 points)\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Ch3>Almost always (4 points)\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Col>\n\u003Cli>I worry that I will be exposed as a fraud or that people will discover I'm not as competent as they think.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003Cli>I feel stressed before presentations or important meetings.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003Cli>I downplay my accomplishments or dismiss the compliments I receive.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003Cli>I have to work much harder than others to achieve the same results.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003Cli>I compare myself to others and often feel like I fall short.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003Cli>I find it difficult to accept praise or recognition for my work.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003Cli>I doubt my intelligence or abilities, even when I have evidence of success.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003Cli>I hesitate to take on new challenges for fear of failing.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003Cli>I struggle to accept positive feedback and often expect negative criticism instead.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003Cli>After completing a successful task, I experience relief rather than satisfaction.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003Cli>I downplay my contributions to team projects.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Fol>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fmedia.workingal.com\u002Fimposter_syndrome_test_244c36bb6d.webp\" alt=\"Woman seating in desk in front of a typewriter\"> \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Col start=\"12\">\n\u003Cli>I attribute my successes to luck rather than my abilities.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003Cli>I downplay my knowledge or expertise, even in areas where I am qualified.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003Cli>I celebrate the achievements of others more readily than my own.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003Cli>I worry about being laid off or fired, even when there seems to be no reason for concern.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003Cli>I avoid taking on leadership roles or public speaking opportunities.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003Cli>I'm afraid to ask questions for fear of appearing incompetent.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003Cli>I'm constantly on the verge of being "found out" as a fake.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003Cli>I have a hard time believing in myself, even when others do.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003Cli>I feel like a fraud in my own career or field.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Fol>\n\u003Ch1>Results\u003C\u002Fh1>\n\u003Ch2>20-30 points:\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>You may experience occasional feelings associated with Imposter Syndrome, but they may not significantly impact your life.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>31-50 points:\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>You frequently experience feelings commonly associated with Imposter Syndrome. It might be beneficial to explore these feelings further and consider seeking strategies to manage them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>51-80 points:\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Imposter Syndrome could affect your self-esteem and potentially hinder your success.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In case you are struggling with \u003Cstrong>impostorism\u003C\u002Fstrong>, focus on your mental health condition and talk to a therapist that will help you understand the reasons of behind imposter syndrome and how to overcome it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now that you know your score, read our \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fhow-to-deal-with-impostor-syndrome\">Strategic Guide on Reframing Impostor Syndrome\u003C\u002Fa>\u003C\u002Fp>\n","impostor-syndrome-test","impostor syndrome, imposter syndrome, impostor syndrome test, imposter test, phychology, test","Have you ever achieved something amazing, only to downplay your accomplishment or worry it was just a fluke? Do you compare yourself to others and feel like you come up short, even when you're successful? If these experiences sound familiar, you might be experiencing Imposter Syndrome.",{"id":50,"name":51,"alternativeText":52,"caption":53,"width":54,"height":55,"formats":56,"hash":88,"ext":58,"mime":61,"size":89,"url":90,"previewUrl":63,"provider":91,"provider_metadata":63,"createdAt":92,"updatedAt":93},296,"impostor synderome test.webp","Woman in yellow tshirt wearing a mask","Impostor syndrome and a test to find it our",1600,900,{"large":57,"small":67,"medium":74,"thumbnail":81},{"ext":58,"url":59,"hash":60,"mime":61,"name":62,"path":63,"size":64,"width":65,"height":66},".webp","https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Flarge_impostor_synderome_test_5fd0c9b82c.webp","large_impostor_synderome_test_5fd0c9b82c","image\u002Fwebp","large_impostor synderome test.webp",null,14.53,1000,563,{"ext":58,"url":68,"hash":69,"mime":61,"name":70,"path":63,"size":71,"width":72,"height":73},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fsmall_impostor_synderome_test_5fd0c9b82c.webp","small_impostor_synderome_test_5fd0c9b82c","small_impostor synderome test.webp",5.91,500,281,{"ext":58,"url":75,"hash":76,"mime":61,"name":77,"path":63,"size":78,"width":79,"height":80},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fmedium_impostor_synderome_test_5fd0c9b82c.webp","medium_impostor_synderome_test_5fd0c9b82c","medium_impostor synderome test.webp",9.83,750,422,{"ext":58,"url":82,"hash":83,"mime":61,"name":84,"path":63,"size":85,"width":86,"height":87},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_impostor_synderome_test_5fd0c9b82c.webp","thumbnail_impostor_synderome_test_5fd0c9b82c","thumbnail_impostor synderome test.webp",2.33,245,138,"impostor_synderome_test_5fd0c9b82c",29.69,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fimpostor_synderome_test_5fd0c9b82c.webp","aws-s3","2024-06-08T20:25:16.682Z","2024-06-08T20:25:16.694Z",{"id":26,"name":27,"slug":28,"createdAt":95,"updatedAt":96,"publishedAt":97},"2020-12-24T19:15:46.057Z","2025-10-01T19:50:39.801Z","2024-06-26T07:27:59.419Z",{"id":18,"name":99,"slug":100,"instagram":63,"facebook":63,"bio":101,"createdAt":102,"updatedAt":103,"publishedAt":104,"linkedIn":63,"avatar":105,"avatarImg":122},"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":106,"name":107,"alternativeText":108,"caption":108,"width":109,"height":109,"formats":110,"hash":117,"ext":58,"mime":61,"size":118,"url":119,"previewUrl":63,"provider":91,"provider_metadata":63,"createdAt":120,"updatedAt":121},248,"1.webp","",250,{"thumbnail":111},{"ext":58,"url":112,"hash":113,"mime":61,"name":114,"path":63,"size":115,"width":116,"height":116},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_1_ead45d4a4f.webp","thumbnail_1_ead45d4a4f","thumbnail_1.webp",4.51,156,"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\u002F1_ead45d4a4f.webp","https:\u002F\u002Fmedia.workingal.com\u002Fimpostor_synderome_test_5fd0c9b82c.webp",{"pagination":125},{"page":6,"pageSize":35,"pageCount":6,"total":6},{"data":127,"meta":446},[128,201,248,316,380],{"id":129,"title":130,"createdAt":131,"updatedAt":132,"publishedAt":133,"content":134,"slug":135,"coffees":26,"seo_title":130,"keywords":136,"seo_desc":137,"featuredImage":138,"category":169,"author":172,"img":200},111,"Is Microfeminism Enough?","2024-06-04T17:08:02.146Z","2024-06-04T17:28:41.084Z","2024-06-04T17:28:41.014Z","Gaining momentum on [TikTok](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.tiktok.com\u002Fdiscover\u002Fmicrofeminism), microfeminism is a movement that promotes small actions with a significant impact. It aims to tackle gender inequality, particularly in the workplace.\n\n# What is Microfeminism?\n\nMicrofeminism is about conscious efforts to alter workplace dynamics and recognize and address the daily **microaggressions** contributing to gender disparities. The trend has amassed millions of views, highlighting its widespread appeal and potential for sparking real change. However, it also serves as a crucial reminder of the often-overlooked assumptions underlying gender inequality.\n\nUnlike earlier feminist movements, which often targeted grand legislative reforms or societal overhauls, microfeminism slams [gender inequality](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fmind-the-gap-the-fight-for-gender-equal-compensation) at a more granular level. It spotlights the often subtle, everyday behaviors and social norms that perpetuate sexism and disadvantage women.\n\nIf we consider that traditional feminist movements focus on dismantling the large, visible tip of the iceberg – discriminatory laws or blatant forms of oppression. Microfeminism, however, goes deeper, addressing the submerged portion of the iceberg – the unconscious biases, gendered expectations, and microaggressions that permeate everyday life.\n\nBy challenging these seemingly insignificant behaviors and social norms, microfeminism aims to dismantle the foundation upon which gender inequality rests. It recognizes that [sexism](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F10-sexist-quotes-every-woman-has-heard-1) isn't just about grand pronouncements or outward hostility; it's incorporated into our daily interactions, language choices, and cultural assumptions.\n\n### This microfeminist approach empowers individuals to become active participants in dismantling sexism.\n\nIt's about **calling out** a sexist joke at a friend's gathering, questioning the expectation that women take on the bulk of childcare duties, or simply refusing to accept backhanded compliments that rely on gender stereotypes.\n\nMicrofeminism believes that these seemingly small acts, multiplied across countless interactions, can create a ripple effect that ultimately leads to a more equitable society.\n\n# A Departure from Traditional Waves of Feminism\n\n![1 (1).webp](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002F1_1_bb029a06f6.webp)\n\nTraditional feminist movements often focused on achieving **large-scale systemic change** through legislative reforms and social activism. Microfeminism, on the other hand, adopts a more personal and decentralized approach. It empowers individuals to challenge gender bias in daily interactions and social circles.\n\nFor example, fighting for equal pay legislation or campaigning to end sexual harassment is mainly associated with traditional [feminism](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fwhy-we-need-feminism), while correcting someone who uses sexist language, calls out assumptions about women's roles at work, or refuses to participate in activities that perpetuate gender stereotypes is an act of microfeminism.\n\n## Dismantling Everyday Sexism\n\nMicrofeminism sheds light on the pervasive nature of **sexism**, exposing subtle biases that might otherwise go unnoticed. This includes calling out sexist jokes, addressing unequal expectations in household chores, and challenging the notion that women are primarily responsible for domestic duties and emotional labor.\n\n#### Many jokes rely on stereotypes about women being nagging, weak, or overly emotional. Microfeminism highlights the underlying prejudice in these jokes and encourages people to consider their impact.\n\nHousehold chores often fall disproportionately on women. Microfeminism encourages open communication about expectations and a fairer division of labor. This can involve having conversations about shared responsibility for cleaning, cooking, and childcare.\n\nTraditionally, women have been expected to handle the emotional well-being of the family (emotional labor). Microfeminism challenges this by encouraging men to be equally involved in emotional support and communication.\n\n## Challenging Gendered Language and Microaggressions\n\nMicrofeminists actively challenge the use of [gendered language](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fhow-language-is-affected-by-our-gender) that reinforces stereotypes or diminishes women's capabilities. They also address microaggressions, subtle instances of prejudice or discrimination that can have a cumulative negative impact. This might involve calling out comments that demean women's intelligence, appearance, or career choices.\n\nMicrofeminists call out language that reinforces **stereotypes**. This could include things like referring to women as \"girls\" even when they're adults (diminishing their authority), using gendered terms for jobs (\"policeman\" instead of \"police officer\"), or phrases that imply women are overly emotional (\"hysterical\"). They advocate for using inclusive language that reflects the capabilities of all genders.\n\nThese are the every day, often unintentional, comments or behaviors that subtly communicate negative messages about women.\n\n#### Microfeminists identify and address these microaggressions.\n\nMicroaggressions can be like:\n\n- A man explaining something technical to a woman in a condescending way, assuming she doesn't understand.\n- Telling a woman she \"smiles more\" when she offers a strong opinion in a meeting.\n- Asking a woman when she plans to have children, implying her career is less important.\n\n## Reclaiming the Female Narrative\n\n![2.webp](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002F2_8690b340b6.webp)\n\nMicrofeminism encourages women to reclaim control of the narrative surrounding their gender identity. This involves **challenging societal expectations** about how women should look, behave, and express themselves. It empowers women to embrace their individuality and defy stereotypical portrayals.\n\n# Is Microfeminism More Effective than Feminism?\n\nThere's debate on how effective microfeminism is for achieving large-scale change. Some argue it's an excellent way to empower individuals and chip away at ingrained biases. However, others wonder if it fully addresses systemic issues.\n\n#### However, microfeminism and feminism aren't necessarily competing approaches but rather complementary.\n\nFeminism tackles broader systemic issues like equal pay, reproductive rights, and political representation. Microfeminism focuses on the everyday, subtle ways sexism manifests.\n\nFeminism often employs larger-scale strategies like protests, lobbying, and legislative changes, while microfeminism uses individual actions and conversations to challenge sexist norms.\n\n### Microfeminism's strength lies in its accessibility. \nAnyone can challenge sexist jokes or advocate for fairer chores. This can be especially helpful in raising awareness and creating a more conscious public.\n\nFeminism's strength is its ability to enact large-scale change. Laws promoting equal pay and policies supporting working families wouldn't exist without feminist movements.\n\nUltimately, both approaches work together. Microfeminism can raise awareness and build support for broader feminist goals. Conversely, feminist victories can create a more receptive environment for microfeminist efforts.\n\nOverall, microfeminism is a way to keep the fight for gender equality alive in everyday interactions, and so far, we love it!","is-microfeminism-enough","microfeminism, TikTok viral, feminism, TikTok trends, sexism, feminism and microfeminism, gender equality, gender gaps, gender inequality","Is microfeminism, a viral TikTok trend, the solution to the everyday sexism? Is it enough to lead us to a bit more equal society? What we know so far about microfeminism is laid down in this article. Read and find out how to incorporate microfeminism in your life, if you haven't already.",{"id":139,"name":140,"alternativeText":141,"caption":142,"width":54,"height":55,"formats":143,"hash":164,"ext":58,"mime":61,"size":165,"url":166,"previewUrl":63,"provider":91,"provider_metadata":63,"createdAt":167,"updatedAt":168},293,"microfeminism.webp","microfeminism women girl power","Is microfeminism enough?",{"large":144,"small":149,"medium":154,"thumbnail":159},{"ext":58,"url":145,"hash":146,"mime":61,"name":147,"path":63,"size":148,"width":65,"height":66},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Flarge_Blog_1600x900_8_de12709157.webp","large_Blog_1600x900_8_de12709157","large_Blog-1600x900-_8_.webp",15.98,{"ext":58,"url":150,"hash":151,"mime":61,"name":152,"path":63,"size":153,"width":72,"height":73},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fsmall_Blog_1600x900_8_de12709157.webp","small_Blog_1600x900_8_de12709157","small_Blog-1600x900-_8_.webp",6.58,{"ext":58,"url":155,"hash":156,"mime":61,"name":157,"path":63,"size":158,"width":79,"height":80},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fmedium_Blog_1600x900_8_de12709157.webp","medium_Blog_1600x900_8_de12709157","medium_Blog-1600x900-_8_.webp",10.67,{"ext":58,"url":160,"hash":161,"mime":61,"name":162,"path":63,"size":163,"width":86,"height":87},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_Blog_1600x900_8_de12709157.webp","thumbnail_Blog_1600x900_8_de12709157","thumbnail_Blog-1600x900-_8_.webp",2.68,"Blog_1600x900_8_de12709157",31.78,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002FBlog_1600x900_8_de12709157.webp","2024-06-04T17:20:13.861Z","2024-06-04T17:20:57.895Z",{"id":22,"name":23,"slug":24,"createdAt":170,"updatedAt":171,"publishedAt":97},"2020-12-24T19:16:11.810Z","2025-10-01T19:49:12.086Z",{"id":6,"name":173,"slug":174,"instagram":175,"facebook":176,"bio":177,"createdAt":178,"updatedAt":179,"publishedAt":180,"linkedIn":181,"avatar":182},"Dimitra","dimitra","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.instagram.com\u002Fdimdimi\u002F","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.facebook.com\u002Fdimitra.lioliou.9","She worked in corporate, then embraced the freelancer dream and built two businesses. In the meantime, she learned five foreign languages, picked up a Master's in Digital Marketing, and somehow ended up deep in the world of AI Risk Strategy — because understanding people was always the strategy anyway.\nNow she spends her time between Greece and the US, meeting with clients, writing about whatever life brings, and helping businesses figure out what AI gets wrong before it costs them.\nJust a suggestion: don't ask her about languages. She will never stop talking.","2020-12-24T18:56:38.909Z","2026-02-19T19:46:02.745Z","2020-12-24T18:56:43.888Z","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.linkedin.com\u002Fin\u002Fdimitra-lioliou\u002F",{"id":183,"name":184,"alternativeText":185,"caption":186,"width":109,"height":109,"formats":187,"hash":196,"ext":189,"mime":192,"size":197,"url":198,"previewUrl":63,"provider":91,"provider_metadata":63,"createdAt":199,"updatedAt":199},1244,"Dimitra Lioliou.png","dimitra lioliou profile pic","dimitra lioliou the working gal",{"thumbnail":188},{"ext":189,"url":190,"hash":191,"mime":192,"name":193,"path":63,"size":194,"width":116,"height":116,"sizeInBytes":195},".png","https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_Dimitra_Lioliou_4c495e8044.png","thumbnail_Dimitra_Lioliou_4c495e8044","image\u002Fpng","thumbnail_Dimitra Lioliou.png",47.83,47833,"Dimitra_Lioliou_4c495e8044",34.56,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002FDimitra_Lioliou_4c495e8044.png","2025-04-09T22:06:21.464Z","https:\u002F\u002Fmedia.workingal.com\u002FBlog_1600x900_8_de12709157.webp",{"id":202,"title":203,"createdAt":204,"updatedAt":205,"publishedAt":206,"content":207,"slug":208,"coffees":14,"seo_title":203,"keywords":209,"seo_desc":210,"featuredImage":211,"category":240,"author":243,"img":247},110,"5 Things About Work I Wish I Knew In My 20s","2024-04-29T19:03:08.190Z","2024-06-03T19:25:50.142Z","2024-04-29T19:21:01.071Z","\nWhen I was younger, I read that “youth is wasted on the young,” I couldn’t understand the meaning of this sentence and why someone could think this way (it’s George Bernand Shaw, by the way).\n\nThat said, now I understand that sometimes youth is wasted on the younger ages. This doesn’t mean that we are somewhat flawed in our 20s, but it certainly means that it’s the age at which we do not appreciate the opportunities that this age offers. \n\nNow that I am in my mid-30s, I realize how many opportunities I lost because I either overestimated or underestimated situations and people and how I could have done some things differently, whether professionally or personally. \n\nAmong all the things I kept doing wrong in my 20s, I would pick out the following 5 things I wish I had known some years ago. It would save me a lot of time, effort, and stress.\n\n# Work-life Balance Matters\n\nIn our 20s, we are full of energy, and sometimes, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and prioritize work above everything else. The moment we finish our studies, we start building a career; we strive to get a promotion or land our **dream job** without paying much attention to anything else -aka friends, family, us. The busier we keep ourselves, the more successful we feel and the more productive we think we are.\n\n![12.webp](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002F12_88eee548f5.webp)\n\nHowever, if we keep doing this for a long time without realizing the importance of balancing our work with our personal lives, we will probably end up with burnout syndrome and be socially excluded as well. Sure, our 20s are the most productive years for professional development, but we shouldn’t neglect what happens after we leave work. Our family, friends, and loved ones will be happy to support us in landing our dream job, but if we keep avoiding them and prioritizing work over them, they will eventually let us go, which means our *relationship with them is going to be harmed*. Also, [balancing work and life](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fhow-to-maintain-your-work-life-balance-this-season-1) doesn’t only mean going out for drinks; it means taking time to take care of our **mental and physical health**, which are the actual “weapons” for long-term success and happiness.\n\nSo, no matter if you are hustling all day, make sure that you take some time for fun activities that recharge you and make you feel better.\n\n# Networking Saves (Professional) Lives\n\nIt’s awesome when you love what you do or when you are good at what you do. But it’s even better to have people who know that —and I don’t mean only your social media followers. \n\nIf you want your career to grow, the most important step is to **start building professional relationships** and expanding your network early on. Networking can offer numerous opportunities to get to know people from your industry and others, which could help you grow even more in the future.\n\n[Networking](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fdo-it-like-emily-in-paris-5-professional-skills-to-boost-your-career) is not only going to industry events. It expands beyond that. It could involve meeting new people from any industry and building rapport with them. You never know who you will need in the future, and -most importantly- you never know who will need you. I cannot count how many times I got a job or a contract from people I randomly met without any purpose at that time and they came from **completely different industries**.\n\nSo begin your networking journey soon enough and take any opportunity you have to connect with others. Invest time in keeping your contacts alive and see how this can open up new opportunities and help you advance your career.\n\n# We Are Just A Dot In The Universe \n\nAka: Lighten up a tad!\n\nSometimes, when we are young, we tend to take ourselves too seriously only because we want to be the most mature person in the room. Well, this can stop you from having real fun in your life and make you pretend you are someone you are not. **Maturity is not defined by age**, but it definitely means not being uptight, acting like the most serious person, and not smiling in case someone thinks… really, what?\n\nTaking ourselves too seriously takes away the spontaneity and authenticity that make our lives truly fulfilling and keeps us from making **deeper connections** with others. Allowing yourself to be open and vulnerable is the step to having truthful relationships and genuine connections.\n\nAlso, keeping our sense of humor, especially in challenging situations, can be a powerful coping mechanism, helping us navigate the inevitable difficulties and setbacks we might face.\nInstead of succumbing to stress and anxiety, we can deal with obstacles, keeping our sense of humor and our positive attitude, always being aware that **laughter** can brighten every situation and make us feel better and more optimistic.\n\n\n# Risks Are Part Of The Game\n\nThat means you should not be afraid to take risks: In your 20s, you have relatively fewer responsibilities and obligations, making it an ideal time to **take calculated risks** in your career, whatever that means: maybe starting your own business, switching industries, or pursuing a passion project, a risky move like this can lead to personal and professional growth, even if those risks don't always pan out as desired.\n\nRisk-taking is about accepting the uncertainty of every aspect of our lives and pursuing new opportunities. By taking risks, you learn and connect with others, you achieve more effective communication, and you can influence those around you. In our fast-paced world, learning about **new concepts and ideas** is essential for staying relevant and succeeding in our goals. So, whether you like it or not, this decade is the time to practice taking risks and accept what the future holds for you!\n\n# Failures Are Not Inevitable\nRemember when we were kids, our parents used to help us deal with any situation and prevent us from failing? That is normal, and every parent wants their kid to succeed all the time, but in real (adult) life, this is not always feasible. Indeed, we often fear the specter of **failure** looming on the horizon in whatever we do, and we try to prevent the failure and guard ourselves from doing so. We tread cautiously, meticulously charting our course to avoid the pitfalls that could derail our ambitions. However, while doing this, we overlook a fundamental truth: [failures](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F5-steps-to-manage-your-mistakes-at-work) are not inevitable; they are part of our journey to success.\n\n![13.webp](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002F13_af5be0b97c.webp)\n\nDespite the common belief that failure is a sign of a lack of skills or ability, **failure** is actually a stepping stone to growth and resilience. Every time we fail, we learn valuable lessons that we can use for our future ventures. If we don’t fail, we don’t learn; and that’s life!\n\n#### If you are in your 20s now, take a look above and think whether you are doing those things or not. \n\nThese are the years to start building your ideal life so that in the future all the above are just going to be a part of your routine and a successful life!\n","work-in-20s","twenties, 20s, motivation, advice, risks, decade, professional advice, personal advice,","The older we get the wiser we become. Our 20s is the decade to learn the lessons. However, there is always experience from those who had already been there. For this reason, here are some piece of advice that can help you if you are in your 20s from a woman in her 30s. Enjoy!",{"id":212,"name":213,"alternativeText":108,"caption":108,"width":54,"height":55,"formats":214,"hash":235,"ext":58,"mime":61,"size":236,"url":237,"previewUrl":63,"provider":91,"provider_metadata":63,"createdAt":238,"updatedAt":239},292,"Blog 1600x900 (7).webp",{"large":215,"small":220,"medium":225,"thumbnail":230},{"ext":58,"url":216,"hash":217,"mime":61,"name":218,"path":63,"size":219,"width":65,"height":66},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Flarge_Blog_1600x900_7_942323b00e.webp","large_Blog_1600x900_7_942323b00e","large_Blog 1600x900 (7).webp",39.19,{"ext":58,"url":221,"hash":222,"mime":61,"name":223,"path":63,"size":224,"width":72,"height":73},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fsmall_Blog_1600x900_7_942323b00e.webp","small_Blog_1600x900_7_942323b00e","small_Blog 1600x900 (7).webp",17.22,{"ext":58,"url":226,"hash":227,"mime":61,"name":228,"path":63,"size":229,"width":79,"height":80},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fmedium_Blog_1600x900_7_942323b00e.webp","medium_Blog_1600x900_7_942323b00e","medium_Blog 1600x900 (7).webp",27.54,{"ext":58,"url":231,"hash":232,"mime":61,"name":233,"path":63,"size":234,"width":86,"height":87},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_Blog_1600x900_7_942323b00e.webp","thumbnail_Blog_1600x900_7_942323b00e","thumbnail_Blog 1600x900 (7).webp",6.75,"Blog_1600x900_7_942323b00e",67.9,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002FBlog_1600x900_7_942323b00e.webp","2024-04-29T19:17:36.853Z","2024-04-29T19:17:36.867Z",{"id":6,"name":7,"slug":8,"createdAt":241,"updatedAt":242,"publishedAt":97},"2020-12-24T19:15:38.145Z","2020-12-24T19:15:38.158Z",{"id":6,"name":173,"slug":174,"instagram":175,"facebook":176,"bio":177,"createdAt":178,"updatedAt":179,"publishedAt":180,"linkedIn":181,"avatar":244},{"id":183,"name":184,"alternativeText":185,"caption":186,"width":109,"height":109,"formats":245,"hash":196,"ext":189,"mime":192,"size":197,"url":198,"previewUrl":63,"provider":91,"provider_metadata":63,"createdAt":199,"updatedAt":199},{"thumbnail":246},{"ext":189,"url":190,"hash":191,"mime":192,"name":193,"path":63,"size":194,"width":116,"height":116,"sizeInBytes":195},"https:\u002F\u002Fmedia.workingal.com\u002FBlog_1600x900_7_942323b00e.webp",{"id":249,"title":250,"createdAt":251,"updatedAt":252,"publishedAt":253,"content":254,"slug":255,"coffees":14,"seo_title":250,"keywords":256,"seo_desc":257,"featuredImage":258,"category":287,"author":290,"img":315},109,"The 7 Everyday Habits Quietly Destroying Your Gut (And Why Your Microbiome Is Furious About It)","2024-04-21T18:13:36.099Z","2025-12-23T02:30:04.561Z","2024-04-21T18:19:04.244Z","Right now, as you read this, you're hosting a party. Not metaphorically—literally. Inside your digestive system, trillions of bacteria are living, eating, communicating, and directly influencing whether you feel energized or exhausted, happy or anxious, bloated or comfortable.\n\nWelcome to your [microbiome](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fmicrobiome-what-does-your-gut-tell-you): the complex ecosystem of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that call your gut home. Think of it as a rainforest inside you—when it's thriving and diverse, everything works beautifully. When it's damaged and imbalanced, things start breaking down in ways that affect far more than just digestion.\n\nHere's what most people don't realize: your gut isn't just a tube that processes food. It's producing neurotransmitters that [affect your mood](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F16-ways-to-boost-your-mood-instantly). It's training your immune system. It's manufacturing vitamins your body needs. It's sending constant signals to your brain through what scientists call the gut-brain axis.\n\nWhich means when you damage your gut health, you're not just signing up for occasional bloating or irregular bathroom trips. You're potentially affecting your mental health, immune function, energy levels, skin condition, and ability to [handle stress](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fhow-to-reduce-stress-naturally).\n\nThe frustrating part? Many of us are unknowingly sabotaging our gut microbiome with daily habits that seem completely innocent. You're not doing anything obviously terrible—you're just living modern life. But your gut bacteria? They're struggling.\n\nLet's talk about what's actually happening inside your digestive system and what you can do about it.\n\n## Your Gut Is an Ecosystem, Not a Machine\n\nYour gut microbiome contains somewhere between 300-1,000 different bacterial species, with each person's composition being as unique as a fingerprint. These bacteria aren't passive passengers—they're active participants in your health.\n\nThe \"good\" bacteria (probiotics) help digest food, produce vitamins like B12 and K, create anti-inflammatory compounds, train your immune cells to distinguish between threats and harmless substances, manufacture neurotransmitters including [serotonin](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fserotonin-diet) (yes, most of your serotonin is made in your gut, not your brain), and maintain the integrity of your intestinal lining so it doesn't become \"leaky.\"\n\nWhen your microbiome is diverse and balanced, these beneficial bacteria keep potentially harmful bacteria in check. It's like a well-functioning ecosystem where everything has its place and no single species dominates.\n\nWhen your microbiome becomes imbalanced—a condition called dysbiosis—the whole system starts breaking down. Harmful bacteria multiply. Beneficial species die off. The protective lining of your intestine weakens. Inflammation increases. Communication with your brain gets disrupted. And this is where those seemingly innocent daily habits come in.\n\n## Habit 1: Eating the Same Foods on Repeat\n\nYour gut bacteria are picky eaters. Not in the sense that they refuse to eat certain things, but that different bacterial species thrive on different nutrients.\n\nWhen you eat the same rotation of foods every week—chicken, rice, and broccoli for dinner; the same breakfast every morning; the same snacks on repeat—you're essentially feeding only certain bacterial species while starving others.\n\n[Research](https:\u002F\u002Fzoe.com\u002Flearn\u002F30-plants-per-week) shows that people who eat 30+ different plant foods per week have significantly more diverse gut microbiomes than those who eat fewer than 10\\. This diversity matters because different bacteria produce different beneficial compounds. A diverse microbiome is like having a complete toolkit versus just a hammer.\n\nWhat's happening inside you: Imagine your gut bacteria as a neighborhood. When you eat the same foods constantly, it's like only one restaurant delivers to the area. Some bacteria thrive, others slowly die off from lack of their preferred nutrients. The neighborhood becomes less diverse, less resilient, and more vulnerable to disruption.\n\n**What to do differently:** This doesn't mean overhauling your entire diet. It means small additions. Add berries to your [usual breakfast](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fbusy-mornings-20-healthy-breakfast-ideas-if-you-don-t-have-time). Throw different vegetables into your dinner rotation. Try one new food per week. Use different herbs and spices (they count as plant foods). \n\n## Habit 2: Skipping Fermented Foods Entirely\n\nFermented foods are having a wellness moment, but they're not trendy—they're ancient. Humans have been fermenting foods for thousands of years, and your gut bacteria have evolved to benefit from them.\n\nFoods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, kombucha, miso, and tempeh contain live beneficial bacteria that can temporarily colonize your gut and support your existing microbiome. More importantly, fermentation creates compounds that feed your resident bacteria and reduce inflammation.\n\nWhat's happening inside you: Your gut bacteria can't manufacture themselves. They come from your environment—the foods you eat, the people you live with, the places you spend time. When you consume fermented foods, you're introducing reinforcements. Even if these bacteria don't permanently settle in your gut, their presence while passing through provides benefits.\n\n**What to do differently:** A few forkfuls of sauerkraut with dinner. A small glass of kefir with breakfast. A serving of kimchi on your rice bowl. You don't need to eat fermented foods at every meal—even a few servings per week makes a difference. Find what you actually enjoy eating (forcing down kombucha you hate doesn't help).\n\n## Habit 3: Neglecting Prebiotic Fiber (The Food Your Bacteria Actually Want)\n\nHere's something most people miss: probiotics (beneficial bacteria) get all the attention, but [prebiotics](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fare-prebiotics-the-solution-to-weight-loss) (the food those bacteria eat) are equally important.\n\nPrebiotic fiber is found in foods like onions, garlic, leeks, asparagus, bananas (especially slightly green ones), oats, apples, flaxseeds, and Jerusalem artichokes. These fibers resist digestion in your small intestine and make it to your colon intact, where your bacteria ferment them.\n\nWhen bacteria ferment prebiotic fiber, they produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate, which is the preferred fuel for your colon cells. Butyrate reduces inflammation, strengthens your gut lining, and has been linked to reduced risk of colon cancer and inflammatory bowel diseases.\n\nWhat's happening inside you: Without adequate prebiotic fiber, your beneficial bacteria are essentially starving. They can't produce the protective compounds your gut lining needs. Some bacteria start feeding on the mucus layer of your intestine instead (not ideal). The ecosystem becomes weaker and more susceptible to imbalance.\n\n**What to do differently:** You don't need exotic supplements. Just eat more plants—especially the ones listed above. Cook with onions and garlic regularly. Add oats to your breakfast routine. Eat the whole apple instead of just drinking juice. [Snack](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fthese-are-the-snacks-that-won-t-ruin-your-diet) on nuts. The fiber you're eating is literally feeding the bacteria that keep you healthy.\n\n## Habit 4: Living in Perpetual High-Stress Mode\n\nThis is where the gut-brain axis becomes really important. Your brain and gut are in constant two-way communication through the vagus nerve, immune system messengers, and the metabolites your gut bacteria produce.\n\nWhen you're stressed, your body activates the fight-or-flight response. Blood flow gets redirected away from digestion toward your muscles. Your gut motility changes (which is why some people get diarrhea when anxious and others get constipated). The composition of your gut bacteria actually shifts under chronic stress.\n\n![blog 900x550 (6).webp](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fblog_900x550_6_9815e9b96f.webp)\n\n[Research](https:\u002F\u002Fpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\u002Farticles\u002FPMC8163610\u002F) shows that stressed mice develop less diverse microbiomes. Their gut bacteria produce different metabolites. Their intestinal permeability increases, allowing bacteria and food particles to leak into the bloodstream and trigger inflammation.\n\nWhat's happening inside you: Chronic stress is like repeatedly evacuating the neighborhood where your gut bacteria live. The environment becomes hostile. Beneficial bacteria die off. Potentially harmful bacteria that tolerate stress better start taking over. The protective mucus layer thins. Communication between your gut and brain becomes distorted.\n\nThe cruel irony: stress damages your gut, which then produces fewer mood-regulating neurotransmitters, which makes you more susceptible to stress and anxiety. It's a vicious cycle.\n\n**What to do differently:** You can't eliminate stress, but you can change how you respond to it. Deep breathing actually activates your vagus nerve and improves gut-brain communication. Regular movement helps. [Adequate sleep](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fsleep-hygiene) (more on that next) is crucial. Even small stress-management practices—five minutes of meditation, a short walk, deliberately slowing down meals instead of eating while working—help protect your microbiome.\n\n## Habit 5: Chronic Sleep Deprivation\n\nYour gut bacteria have their own circadian rhythm. They follow a 24-hour cycle just like you do, with certain bacteria being more active at different times of day.\n\nWhen you consistently shortchange sleep—[staying up too late](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Frevenge-bedtime-procrastination), irregular sleep schedules, poor sleep quality—you disrupt your gut bacteria's rhythm. Studies show that even one night of sleep deprivation can alter the composition of your gut microbiome.\n\nPeople with irregular sleep schedules have less diverse microbiomes and higher levels of inflammation markers. Shift workers, who have permanently disrupted circadian rhythms, show distinct changes in their gut bacteria composition and higher rates of metabolic disorders.\n\nWhat's happening inside you: Your gut bacteria are trying to sync with your body's natural rhythms—when you eat, when you sleep, when you're active. Chronic sleep disruption is like constantly changing time zones. The bacteria become confused. Their population ratios shift. They produce different metabolites at the wrong times. The whole ecosystem becomes dysregulated.\n\n**What to do differently:** Prioritize consistent sleep timing over any other sleep hack. Going to bed and waking up at roughly the same time—even on weekends—helps your gut bacteria maintain their rhythm. If you can't get seven hours, focus on quality over quantity: dark room, cool temperature, no screens before bed. Your microbiome will thank you.\n\n## Habit 6: Sitting Still All Day\n\nYour gut bacteria don't just respond to what you eat—they respond to how you move.\n\nRegular physical activity increases microbial diversity. It encourages the growth of bacteria that produce butyrate. It improves gut motility, helping food move through your system at the right pace (not too fast, not too slow). It reduces inflammation throughout your body, including in your gut.\n\nThe mechanism isn't fully understood, but research shows that athletes have more diverse microbiomes than sedentary people, even when controlling for diet. Movement seems to create an environment where beneficial bacteria thrive.\n\nWhat's happening inside you: When you're sedentary, your gut motility slows. Food and waste move sluggishly through your intestines, which can allow harmful bacteria to overgrow in areas they shouldn't colonize. Blood flow to your digestive organs decreases. The environment becomes less hospitable to the bacteria that need oxygen and nutrients from good circulation.\n\n**What to do differently:** You don't need to become an athlete. Walking counts. Taking stairs counts. Standing and moving around your home counts. Gardening, dancing, playing with kids, cleaning vigorously—all of it helps. Even moderate activity several times per week is enough to see changes in microbiome composition. Your gut bacteria don't care if you're training for a marathon; they just want you to move regularly.\n\n## Habit 7: The Antibiotic Approach to Everything (When You Don't Actually Need It)\n\nAntibiotics save lives. When you have a bacterial infection, they're essential medicine. But they're also nuclear weapons against your microbiome.\n\nBroad-spectrum antibiotics don't distinguish between harmful bacteria causing your infection and beneficial bacteria keeping your gut healthy. They wipe out both. A single course of antibiotics can reduce your microbial diversity by 25-50%, and while much of it recovers, some bacterial species may never return.\n\nWhat's happening inside you: Imagine a forest fire that clears everything—not just the invasive species but also the native plants, the beneficial fungi, the whole ecosystem. After the fire, what grows back isn't necessarily the same as what was there before. Sometimes, opportunistic species that weren't problems before start dominating the landscape.\n\nThis is why some people develop digestive issues, yeast infections, or Clostridium difficile infections after antibiotics—the normal bacteria that kept these problems in check are gone.\n\n**What to do differently:** Take antibiotics when you actually need them for bacterial infections. Don't demand them for viral infections (they won't help and will harm your gut). If you do need antibiotics, support your microbiome recovery by eating fermented foods, increasing prebiotic fiber, and potentially using a probiotic supplement during and after treatment. Your gut will eventually recover, but you can help the process along.\n\n## The Cumulative Effect (Why This All Matters)\n\nHere's the thing about gut health: it's not usually one dramatic habit that destroys your microbiome. It's the cumulative effect of multiple small habits over time.\n\nEating low diversity? Your microbiome becomes less resilient. Add chronic stress? It weakens further. Throw in poor sleep? The disruption compounds. Remain sedentary? The environment becomes less hospitable. Skip fermented and prebiotic foods? Your bacteria lack the resources to recover.\n\nEach habit alone might not be catastrophic. But together, they create an environment where your beneficial bacteria struggle to survive while potentially harmful bacteria flourish.\n\nThe good news: the opposite is also true. Small improvements in multiple areas compound into significant microbiome recovery. You don't need perfection—you need consistency in the right direction.\n\n## What Supporting Your Gut Actually Looks Like\n\nThis isn't about becoming a health perfectionist or overhauling your entire life. It's about small, sustainable shifts that create a better environment for your gut bacteria:\n\n- Increase food variety gradually. Add one new plant food per week to your rotation. Use different herbs and spices. Try one new vegetable per month.\n- Include fermented foods regularly. Find one or two you actually enjoy and eat them a few times per week.\n- Prioritize prebiotic fiber. Cook with onions and garlic. Eat oats for breakfast occasionally. Keep apples and bananas on hand for snacks.\n- Manage stress where you can. You can't eliminate stress, but you can build in small practices that help you process it better.\n- Protect your sleep. Consistent timing matters more than perfect duration. Your gut bacteria need rhythm.\n- Move your body regularly. Walking counts. Any movement is better than none.\n- Use antibiotics judiciously. Take them when you need them, but don't demand them for viral infections.\n\nYour gut microbiome is resilient. It wants to thrive. Your job isn't to micromanage it—it's to create conditions where it can do what it evolved to do.\n\nYou're not trying to achieve some perfect state of gut health. You're trying to support the trillions of organisms that, in turn, support your immune system, mood, energy, and overall wellbeing.\n\nThat ecosystem inside you? It's working hard to keep you healthy. Maybe it's time to return the favor.\n\n\n\n\n","habits-that-harm-your-gut","gut health habits, improve gut health, gut microbiome, gut bacteria, digestive health, healthy gut habits, gut-brain connection, microbiome diversity","Your gut bacteria are having a rough time. Discover the surprising daily habits harming your microbiome—and what's actually happening inside your digestive system.\n",{"id":259,"name":260,"alternativeText":108,"caption":108,"width":54,"height":55,"formats":261,"hash":282,"ext":58,"mime":61,"size":283,"url":284,"previewUrl":63,"provider":91,"provider_metadata":63,"createdAt":285,"updatedAt":286},289,"Blog 1600x900 (6).webp",{"large":262,"small":267,"medium":272,"thumbnail":277},{"ext":58,"url":263,"hash":264,"mime":61,"name":265,"path":63,"size":266,"width":65,"height":66},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Flarge_Blog_1600x900_6_2db50987d5.webp","large_Blog_1600x900_6_2db50987d5","large_Blog 1600x900 (6).webp",21,{"ext":58,"url":268,"hash":269,"mime":61,"name":270,"path":63,"size":271,"width":72,"height":73},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fsmall_Blog_1600x900_6_2db50987d5.webp","small_Blog_1600x900_6_2db50987d5","small_Blog 1600x900 (6).webp",9.16,{"ext":58,"url":273,"hash":274,"mime":61,"name":275,"path":63,"size":276,"width":79,"height":80},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fmedium_Blog_1600x900_6_2db50987d5.webp","medium_Blog_1600x900_6_2db50987d5","medium_Blog 1600x900 (6).webp",14.81,{"ext":58,"url":278,"hash":279,"mime":61,"name":280,"path":63,"size":281,"width":86,"height":87},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_Blog_1600x900_6_2db50987d5.webp","thumbnail_Blog_1600x900_6_2db50987d5","thumbnail_Blog 1600x900 (6).webp",3.76,"Blog_1600x900_6_2db50987d5",39.02,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002FBlog_1600x900_6_2db50987d5.webp","2024-04-21T18:18:35.558Z","2024-04-21T18:18:35.571Z",{"id":14,"name":15,"slug":16,"createdAt":288,"updatedAt":289,"publishedAt":97},"2020-12-24T19:16:00.904Z","2025-02-19T20:04:41.159Z",{"id":10,"name":291,"slug":292,"instagram":293,"facebook":63,"bio":294,"createdAt":295,"updatedAt":296,"publishedAt":297,"linkedIn":298,"avatar":299},"Evelina","evelina","https:\u002F\u002Finstagram.com\u002Fevelina_vl?utm_source=qr&igshid=NGExMmI2YTkyZg%3D%3D","The cool kid of the office! Everyone wants to be friends with Evelina since she is a combination of sweetness, coolness, and calmness. She is very dedicated to her profession, and she is always willing to help, from giving a nutrition tip to... participating in a TikTok video! She is also a patient listener and a very talented editor!\n","2023-08-11T12:29:50.319Z","2023-08-11T12:33:13.815Z","2023-08-11T12:29:57.690Z","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.linkedin.com\u002Fin\u002Fevgenia-eleni-vlachogianni-a78246234",{"id":300,"name":301,"alternativeText":108,"caption":108,"width":109,"height":109,"formats":302,"hash":310,"ext":304,"mime":307,"size":311,"url":312,"previewUrl":63,"provider":91,"provider_metadata":63,"createdAt":313,"updatedAt":314},174,"evelina-working-gal.jpg",{"thumbnail":303},{"ext":304,"url":305,"hash":306,"mime":307,"name":308,"path":63,"size":309,"width":116,"height":116},".jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_evelina_working_gal_ca402d27d4.jpg","thumbnail_evelina_working_gal_ca402d27d4","image\u002Fjpeg","thumbnail_evelina-working-gal.jpg",3.84,"evelina_working_gal_ca402d27d4",8.43,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fevelina_working_gal_ca402d27d4.jpg","2023-08-11T12:25:54.964Z","2023-08-11T12:25:54.973Z","https:\u002F\u002Fmedia.workingal.com\u002FBlog_1600x900_6_2db50987d5.webp",{"id":317,"title":318,"createdAt":319,"updatedAt":320,"publishedAt":321,"content":322,"slug":323,"coffees":26,"seo_title":318,"keywords":324,"seo_desc":325,"featuredImage":326,"category":355,"author":356,"img":379},108,"The Habits of Successful Women (That No One Talks About)","2024-04-21T17:39:10.221Z","2025-12-20T23:44:23.663Z","2024-04-21T17:56:21.812Z","Everyone loves a good success story. The entrepreneur who built a company from her kitchen table. The executive who shattered the glass ceiling. The creative who turned her side project into a six-figure business.\n\nWe read about these women, marvel at their achievements, and wonder what they know that we don't. What are they doing differently? What secret habits do they have that the rest of us are missing?\n\nHere's the interesting thing: successful women don't actually have secret habits. They just have different priorities, [different boundaries](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fhow-to-set-and-preserve-boundaries), and different relationships with things like fear, [failure](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fthe-art-of-failure-how-to-turn-mistakes-into-actual-success), and what \"success\" even means in the first place.\n\nAfter observing patterns across entrepreneurs, executives, creatives, and professionals who've built the careers and lives they want, here's what actually sets them apart. Not the [Instagram-worthy morning routines](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Finfluencer-morning-routine) or the productivity hacks that sound impressive but nobody actually maintains. The real stuff. The habits that matter.\n\n## They Treat Goals Like Projects, Not Wishes\n\nThere's a difference between wanting something and building a roadmap to get it.\n\nMost people set goals the way they make [New Year's resolutions](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fnew-years-resolutions-have-you-made-yours): vague, aspirational, emotionally charged in the moment but disconnected from reality. \"I want to get promoted.\" \"I want to start a business.\" \"I want to be healthier.\"\n\nSuccessful women approach goals like project managers approach deliverables. They reverse-engineer the outcome.\n\nIf the goal is to get promoted to senior manager by the end of the year, they ask: What does someone in that role actually do? What skills do they demonstrate? What relationships have they built? What projects have they led? Then they work backward from that endpoint, identifying the specific milestones that need to happen between now and then.\n\nThis looks less like \"I want a promotion\" and more like:\n\nQ1: Take on [leadership](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fmiranda-priestly-management-style) of the cross-functional project Sarah mentioned. Volunteer to present at the all-hands meeting. Schedule coffee with the VP to understand her priorities.\n\nQ2: Deliver that project ahead of schedule. Document the results. Request feedback from three people whose opinions my manager values.\n\nQ3: Apply the feedback. Identify and solve a problem before being asked. Start mentoring junior team members.\n\nQ4: Make the case for promotion with concrete evidence of senior-level work.\n\nThe goal becomes a series of actions, not a hope floating somewhere in the future.\n\nHere's the other thing: successful women share their goals strategically. Not with everyone—oversharing dilutes focus and invites unhelpful opinions. But with specific people who can support, advise, or hold them accountable.\n\nThey tell their manager what they're working toward so there's no confusion about ambition. They tell their mentor so there's someone asking \"How's that project going?\" in three months. They tell their partner or close friend, so someone notices when they're avoiding the uncomfortable work that goals require.\n\nThe goal stops being theoretical and becomes real because other people know about it.\n\n## They're Obsessed with Learning, Not Credentials\n\nWalk into a successful woman's home, and you'll likely find books. Lots of them. Some read, some half-read with dog-eared pages marking ideas worth returning to. You'll find podcast apps with dozens of saved episodes. [Notes apps and tools](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fbest-ai-productivity-tools) full of observations from conferences, conversations, and random Tuesday afternoon realizations.\n\n![blog 900x550 (4).webp](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fblog_900x550_4_142360d257.webp)\n\nBut here's what you won't necessarily find: a wall of framed degrees and certificates.\n\nSuccessful women understand the difference between collecting credentials and [actually learning](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fwhat-is-the-best-investment-you-can-make). Credentials signal competence to others. Learning builds actual competence. Both matter, but they're not the same thing.\n\nThe woman who gets promoted repeatedly isn't necessarily the one with the most impressive educational pedigree. She's the one who learns something new from every project, every mistake, every [difficult colleague](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F5-toxic-phrases-used-by-colleagues-with-a-huge-ego). She's the one who asks questions that everyone else is too proud or too scared to ask. She's the one who reads the post-mortem analysis of projects that failed and thinks \"That's useful\" instead of \"Thank god that wasn't me.\"\n\nThis shows up in small ways:\n\nWhen a project doesn't go as planned, she doesn't just move on—she sits with the discomfort long enough to extract the lesson. What would she do differently? What did she miss? What does she know now that she didn't know then?\n\nWhen someone [gives her feedback that stings](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fcriticism-at-the-workplace-can-you-handle-it), she doesn't immediately defend herself. She gets curious. Even if the delivery was terrible, even if the person giving it has their own issues, is there a kernel of truth worth examining?\n\nWhen she doesn't know how to do something, she doesn't pretend or deflect. She says, \"I haven't done that before, but here's how I'd approach learning it,\" and then actually does the work to learn it.\n\nLearning becomes a reflex, not an event. It's not something she does when she [signs up for a course](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F5-free-coursera-courses-to-boost-your-career). It's something she does constantly, in the gaps between everything else.\n\n## They Make Peace with Fear (But Do the Thing Anyway)\n\nHere's what doesn't happen: successful women wake up one day and suddenly stop being afraid of failure, rejection, [judgment](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fstop-being-judgy), or looking stupid.\n\nHere's what does happen: they stop waiting for the fear to go away before they act.\n\nThe woman who pitched her idea to senior leadership was terrified. The woman who asked for the promotion was anxious for three days before the conversation. The woman who quit her corporate job to start her business had moments of sheer panic at 2 AM wondering if she'd made a catastrophic mistake.\n\nThe difference isn't that [successful women don't feel fear](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fwhy-change-can-feel-so-daunting). It's that they've stopped treating fear as a sign that they shouldn't do the thing. They've reframed it as confirmation that the thing matters.\n\nIf a conversation doesn't scare you at all, it's probably not important enough to move your career forward. If a decision doesn't make you at least a little nervous, it's probably not ambitious enough. Fear is data, not a verdict.\n\nSo they develop a different relationship with discomfort. They notice it, acknowledge it, and then ask: \"What's the worst that actually happens if this goes badly?\"\n\nUsually, the honest answer is not catastrophic. It's embarrassing, maybe. Disappointing. Uncomfortable. But not actually life-ruining.\n\nThe presentation might bomb. She'll survive.\n\nThe project might fail. She'll learn from it.\n\nThe promotion request might get denied. She'll ask what skills she needs to develop and try again in six months.\n\nOnce fear stops being the monster under the bed and becomes just one factor in the decision-making process, everything changes. The fear doesn't disappear, but it stops being the decision-maker.\n\n## They're Ruthless About Who Gets Access to Their Energy\n\nSuccessful women have something that everyone wants: their time, their attention, their endorsement, their help.\n\nEarly in their careers, many try to say yes to everything. Mentoring anyone who asks. Attending every [networking event](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F7-minute-rule-networking). Responding to every email. Helping every colleague with every project. Saying yes feels generous, collaborative, like being a good team player.\n\nThen they burn out and realize: not all requests deserve yes. Some relationships drain more than they give. Some people take advantage of kindness. Some opportunities are disguised distractions.\n\nSo they get selective. Strategically, unapologetically selective.\n\nThey invest deeply in relationships that are reciprocal—where energy flows both ways, where both people show up, where the connection actually enriches both lives. They let surface-level networking contacts fade rather than maintaining them out of obligation.\n\nThey say no to requests that don't align with their goals, even when the person asking seems disappointed. They stop attending events just because they \"should.\" They unsubscribe from group chats that feel like work. They stop responding to people who only reach out when they need something.\n\nThis isn't coldness. It's boundaries. And boundaries are the only way to protect the energy required for the work that actually matters.\n\nThe same ruthlessness applies to their inner circle. Successful women don't just collect supporters—they curate them. They surround themselves with people who:\n\n![blog 900x550 (5).webp](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fblog_900x550_5_b1d92e6e02.webp)\n\n* [Challenge them](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Freal-stories-my-biggest-challenge-at-work) when they're settling for less than they're capable of  \n* Celebrate wins without making it weird or competitive  \n* Tell the truth even when it's uncomfortable  \n* Show up during the unglamorous middle parts of big projects, not just the launch party\n\nThey don't [keep friendships alive](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F10-red-flags-that-your-friendship-is-over) out of history if those friendships no longer serve anyone. They don't stay in professional relationships that feel transactional. They don't give their limited energy to people who don't reciprocate respect.\n\nIt sounds harsh when written out like this. In practice, it just looks like someone who knows what matters and doesn't apologize for protecting it.\n\n## They Practice Gratitude Without Making It a Performance\n\n[Gratitude gets a lot of airtime in success circles](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fgratitude-trend), often in ways that feel forced or performative. Daily gratitude journals. Gratitude meditation apps. Posts about being \"\\#blessed.\"\n\nSuccessful women practice gratitude, but not like that.\n\nIt's less about listing three things they're thankful for before bed and more about a fundamental shift in how they see their lives. They've trained themselves to notice what's working instead of only seeing what's broken.\n\nThis doesn't mean [toxic positivity](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Ftoxic-positivity-when-positive-thinking-becomes-too-much) or pretending problems don't exist. A terrible meeting is still terrible. A disappointing outcome is still disappointing. But they've developed the muscle of also noticing: the colleague who covered for them when they were sick. The client who sent an unsolicited compliment. The partner who brought coffee without being asked.\n\nThey notice these things in the moment, not just during a designated gratitude practice. And noticing changes the experience of the day itself.\n\nThe practical effect of this: they don't catastrophize as easily. When something goes wrong, they don't spiral into \"everything is terrible, and nothing works.\" They hold the disappointment alongside the awareness that other things are simultaneously going well. Both can be true.\n\nThis also shows up in how they talk about their careers. Ask someone without this habit how work is going, and you'll often get a list of frustrations. Ask a successful woman the same question, and she'll probably mention a challenge, but she'll also mention something that's working. A project she's excited about. A team member who exceeded expectations. Progress on something difficult.\n\nIt's not spin. It's perspective. And perspective is the difference between seeing your career as a series of problems to survive and seeing it as a body of work you're building.\n\n## They Redefine \"Balance\" to Mean Integration, Not Separation\n\nThe work-life balance advice most women receive is essentially: do everything, just better. Work full-time. Be present for your family. Exercise. [Cook healthy meals](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F10-one-pot-dinners-you-need-for-your-busy-weekdays). Maintain friendships. Pursue hobbies. [Keep your home organized](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fmessy-home-psychology). Oh, and don't forget self-care\\!\n\nSuccessful women reject this framework entirely. They don't try to achieve perfect balance across all domains every single day. They know that's a recipe for constant failure.\n\nInstead, they think in seasons and cycles. Some months, work demands more, and other areas of life get maintenance-level attention. Some periods require intense focus on family. Some seasons are for personal projects. None of this is failure—it's just being strategic about where energy goes and when.\n\nThey also blur the lines between \"work\" and \"life\" in intentional ways. Not by letting work invade every moment, but by structuring their lives so the boundaries serve them.\n\nMaybe they take their laptop to their kid's soccer practice and answer emails during halftime because that means they can leave work at 4 PM to be there. Maybe they schedule walking meetings because the movement helps them think, and they'd exercise anyway. Maybe they involve their partner in career decisions because that relationship is integral to both domains.\n\nThe key: they design their own version of integration based on what actually works for their life, not what looks balanced from the outside.\n\nThey're also unapologetic about what they don't do. They don't try to excel at everything. They identify what matters most right now and let other things be mediocre or outsourced or eliminated entirely.\n\nHome-cooked meals every night? Maybe not. Meal delivery exists.\n\nResponding to every email within an hour? Nope. That's what out-of-office replies and work hours are for.\n\nAttending every social event they're invited to? Hard no. Protecting their energy is more important than appearing sociable.\n\nPerfect house? Not unless having a perfect house genuinely brings joy, in which case it's worth the time.\n\nThey make deliberate choices about what gets their best effort and what gets their \"good enough,\" and they don't feel guilty about the distinction.\n\n## The Habit Behind the Habits: They Define Success for Themselves\n\nHere's the uncomfortable truth about all of this: none of these habits matter if you're pursuing someone else's definition of success.\n\nSuccessful women—genuinely successful ones, not just professionally credentialed or financially comfortable but deeply unfulfilled ones—have done the hard work of figuring out what success actually means to them.\n\nNot what it means to their parents. Not what it looks like on Instagram. Not what their industry says it should be. What it means to them specifically, based on their values, their personality, their non-negotiables, their version of a life well-lived.\n\nFor some women, success is [senior leadership](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fthe-most-effective-leadership-books-you-will-ever-read) and the influence that comes with it. For others, it's building a business that funds the life they want. For others, it's mastering a craft. For others, it's flexibility and autonomy, even if it means less money or prestige.\n\nNone of these is more legitimate than the others. The only illegitimate version of success is the one you're pursuing because you think you're supposed to, not because it actually aligns with how you want to spend your one finite life.\n\nSuccessful women have interrogated this deeply. They've asked themselves the uncomfortable questions: What do I actually want, separate from what would impress other people? What would I do if no one would ever know about it? What does my ideal average Tuesday look like five years from now?\n\nAnd then—this is the crucial part—they've structured their habits, their careers, and their lives around that vision, even when it disappoints people who expected something different.\n\nThat's the real habit. Everything else flows from that.\n\n## What This Actually Looks Like in Practice\n\nThese habits don't announce themselves. A successful woman doesn't walk around proclaiming \"I'm now practicing gratitude\" or \"I'm embracing fear.\"\n\nIn practice, it just looks like:\n\nSomeone who knows what she's working toward and takes consistent action toward it, even when progress is slow and unglamorous.\n\nSomeone who spends her commute listening to industry [podcasts](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.youtube.com\u002F@theworkingal) instead of scrolling social media because learning compounds over time.\n\nSomeone who has the difficult conversation, even though her hands shake while doing it.\n\nSomeone who says \"I can't take that on right now\" without offering three paragraphs of justification.\n\nSomeone who texts her friend \"I'm proud of you\" when the friend achieves something, not because it's a gratitude practice but because she genuinely is.\n\nSomeone whose calendar blocks include time for focused work, family dinners, and absolutely nothing, because rest is work too.\n\nSomeone who reviews her goals quarterly and adjusts them based on what she's learned, not what she originally thought would happen.\n\nIt looks unremarkable from the outside. That's the point. Sustainable habits aren't dramatic. They're just repeated choices that compound over years into a career and life that actually work.\n\n## Where to Start If You're Not There Yet\n\nIf you're reading this and feeling like you're not doing any of these things, here's the good news: you don't have to do all of them at once. Successful women didn't wake up one day with all these habits fully formed. They built them incrementally.\n\nStart with one. Just one.\n\nMaybe it's treating your next goal like a project with actual milestones instead of a wish. Maybe it's identifying one person whose access to your energy needs to be restricted. Maybe it's asking yourself what you'd be doing if you weren't trying to impress anyone.\n\nPick the one that resonates most or makes you most uncomfortable (those are often the same thing). Work on that until it starts feeling natural. Then add another.\n\nThe timeline doesn't matter. Whether it takes six months or three years to develop these habits is irrelevant if you're building toward a version of success that's actually yours.\n\nThe women who've built careers and lives they're genuinely proud of didn't rush this process. They just stayed consistent with it longer than most people do.\n\nThat's the real habit no one talks about: staying in the arena long enough for compound effort to work its magic, even when progress feels invisible, even when other people move faster, even when it would be easier to settle for someone else's version of good enough.\n\nYou don't need to be exceptional at these habits. You just need to be consistent with them. The rest takes care of itself.\n\n","habits-of-successful-women","habits of successful women, career success habits, successful women routines, professional women habits, how to be successful, productivity habits, success mindset","Discover the real habits that separate successful women from the rest. Not generic advice—actual practices used by women who've built careers, businesses, and lives they love.",{"id":327,"name":328,"alternativeText":108,"caption":108,"width":54,"height":55,"formats":329,"hash":350,"ext":58,"mime":61,"size":351,"url":352,"previewUrl":63,"provider":91,"provider_metadata":63,"createdAt":353,"updatedAt":354},287,"Blog 1600x900 (5).webp",{"large":330,"small":335,"medium":340,"thumbnail":345},{"ext":58,"url":331,"hash":332,"mime":61,"name":333,"path":63,"size":334,"width":65,"height":66},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Flarge_Blog_1600x900_5_57e8c77438.webp","large_Blog_1600x900_5_57e8c77438","large_Blog 1600x900 (5).webp",30.98,{"ext":58,"url":336,"hash":337,"mime":61,"name":338,"path":63,"size":339,"width":72,"height":73},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fsmall_Blog_1600x900_5_57e8c77438.webp","small_Blog_1600x900_5_57e8c77438","small_Blog 1600x900 (5).webp",12.33,{"ext":58,"url":341,"hash":342,"mime":61,"name":343,"path":63,"size":344,"width":79,"height":80},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fmedium_Blog_1600x900_5_57e8c77438.webp","medium_Blog_1600x900_5_57e8c77438","medium_Blog 1600x900 (5).webp",20.75,{"ext":58,"url":346,"hash":347,"mime":61,"name":348,"path":63,"size":349,"width":86,"height":87},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_Blog_1600x900_5_57e8c77438.webp","thumbnail_Blog_1600x900_5_57e8c77438","thumbnail_Blog 1600x900 (5).webp",4.67,"Blog_1600x900_5_57e8c77438",57.2,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002FBlog_1600x900_5_57e8c77438.webp","2024-04-21T17:45:38.443Z","2024-04-21T17:45:38.456Z",{"id":26,"name":27,"slug":28,"createdAt":95,"updatedAt":96,"publishedAt":97},{"id":357,"name":358,"slug":359,"instagram":63,"facebook":63,"bio":360,"createdAt":361,"updatedAt":362,"publishedAt":363,"linkedIn":63,"avatar":364},15,"Chiara ","chiara","Food, drinks and pop art are her gigs. If it’s trending, visually arresting, or tastes like summer in Italy, she’s already covering it. From late-night gallery openings to the secret menus you need to know about, Chiara captures the lifestyle that most people only double-tap on.","2024-12-28T22:26:21.133Z","2026-04-12T04:00:49.868Z","2024-12-28T22:27:14.626Z",{"id":365,"name":366,"alternativeText":367,"caption":367,"width":109,"height":109,"formats":368,"hash":375,"ext":304,"mime":307,"size":376,"url":377,"previewUrl":63,"provider":91,"provider_metadata":63,"createdAt":378,"updatedAt":378},794,"Chiara.jpg","chiara the working gal",{"thumbnail":369},{"ext":304,"url":370,"hash":371,"mime":307,"name":372,"path":63,"size":373,"width":116,"height":116,"sizeInBytes":374},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_Chiara_53656a0cf9.jpg","thumbnail_Chiara_53656a0cf9","thumbnail_Chiara.jpg",8.38,8379,"Chiara_53656a0cf9",17.95,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002FChiara_53656a0cf9.jpg","2024-12-28T22:25:34.900Z","https:\u002F\u002Fmedia.workingal.com\u002FBlog_1600x900_5_57e8c77438.webp",{"id":381,"title":382,"createdAt":383,"updatedAt":384,"publishedAt":385,"content":386,"slug":387,"coffees":26,"seo_title":388,"keywords":389,"seo_desc":390,"featuredImage":391,"category":420,"author":421,"img":445},107,"How To Balance Healthy Eating And Work","2024-04-20T18:46:59.016Z","2025-12-20T23:18:51.245Z","2024-04-20T19:08:57.898Z","We have often talked about how important it is to balance working and keeping healthy habits.\nHowever, saying something from taking action and making it happen is slightly different. \nThe problem with keeping a balanced diet while at work is mainly to support it because we all know how easy it is just to grab something with your latte and stick to it until you get home in the evening. \n\nAlthough many people think that diet and work are incompatible, the reality is very different. Can you maintain a balanced diet and healthy eating habits while working?\n\nThe answer is yes, you totally can!\n\nWhether you are trying to maintain your diet or thinking about improving your [eating habits](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fstress-and-eating-habits) and don't know how to support them during working hours, keep reading. Also, if you are right about that period when you work excessive hours and the only thing you wish for when you get back home is a big burger, keep reading as well. \n\nSo, if you are ready to start clean and improve your work-eat relationship, follow these tips that are backed by expert nutritionists and, most importantly, there are not difficult to implement, no matter how busy your life is.\n\n### 1. Organization: 50% of Success!\nThe key word in order to succeed is organization and planning. It is the first and most important step when we want to modify or maintain our eating habits, change our lifestyle, or achieve a big change in general. Proper organization will help you overcome any obstacle or difficulty that comes up along the way on a daily basis, such as having ready, cooked food when you get home or always having healthy and nutritious snacks to take with you to work.\n\n###2. Eat Breakfast Every Day!\nYes, sometimes even waking up can be a challenge, but eating a balanced [breakfast](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fbusy-mornings-20-healthy-breakfast-ideas-if-you-don-t-have-time) will help you control hunger pangs throughout the day but will also help you stay [focused and productive at work](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fbest-ai-productivity-tools). In addition, it will help you to control hunger throughout the day and at following meals. Make sure to include a source of protein (milk, yoghurt, cheese, egg), a source of carbs (wholemeal bread, oats) and a source of healthy fats (nuts, avocado, vegetables) to help you avoid [intense cravings](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fyes-you-can-deal-with-sugar-craving) or excessive hunger until the next meal.\n\n### 3. Choose Healthy Snacks!\nSnacking is great and is the biggest jeopardy of your diet. To avoid staying hungry until your main meal, take easy to make and [healthy snacks](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fthese-are-the-snacks-that-won-t-ruin-your-diet) from home that don't require too much preparation such as fruit, cereal bars, nuts, whole grain breadsticks, and yogurt. They'll give you the energy you need, you'll feel satiated and you won't be too hungry when it's time for your main course.\n\n![blog-900x550-_3_.webp](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fblog_900x550_3_af55ad5f96.webp)\n\n### 4. Take your Tupperware With you!\nMake sure you prepare your lunch Tupperware the night before, and make sure it contains a salad! If you're not a fan of cooking bulk, you can quickly and easily prepare a veggie omelet, sandwich, or tortilla with eggs in the morning and take it with you. The salad is what you shouldn't forget as apart from the vitamins it provides, you will also get a substantial amount of fiber that will make you feel full much faster and as a result you will also consume less food and not get hungry again!\n\n### 5. Embrace Your Inner Chef!\nFind a day or two during the week when you're more relaxed and cook the rest of the week's meals. [Meal prep](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F5-1-mouthwatering-greek-recipes-to-incorporate-in-your-meal-prep) is the best way to achieve the optimum level of organization and really change your diet. If you cook more food, you can divide portions into Tupperware and put them in the freezer! That way, at any time, you'll have homemade food ready to go, which you can take to work with you - you'll avoid junk\u002Fout-of-town food - and when you get home, you'll have it ready and won't be tempted to order in!\n\n### 6. Don’t Forget Your Water!\nProper hydration is essential for the body's proper functioning. [Water](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fwater-is-a-beauty-elixir), in addition to hydration, will help you feel that \"bloat,\" resulting in feeling more full. In addition, when you don't consume adequate amounts of fluids, you may feel hungry when you are actually thirsty! So don't forget to drink water, tea, and herbal drinks every day to meet the recommended daily fluid intake (8-10 glasses, according to the WHO Recommendations). On the plus side, you can choose a fancy water bottle that can motivate you into drinking more!\n\n### 7.  Take a Lunch Break Away From Screens!\nIt's very important to take the time needed at lunch, eat mindfully, and enjoy every bite of it. Our brain takes about 20 minutes to signal satiety to the rest of the body and make you feel full. So, if you eat quickly and unconsciously in front of your laptop or mobile screen, you probably don't chew your food well, you can't understand how much and what you are eating, and as a result, while you may be full, you eat more. Grab your Tupperware, get away from your desk, sit comfortably in a nice spot, and consciously enjoy your meal.\n","how-to-balance-healthy-eating-and-work","How To Balance Healthy Eating And Work?","diet, balanced diet, work and diet, working and eating, lunch break","Thinking that working all day cannot be combined with balanced eating and maintaining a healthy diet? Stop right now and read our tips for maintaining your diet even if you work all day!",{"id":392,"name":393,"alternativeText":108,"caption":108,"width":54,"height":55,"formats":394,"hash":415,"ext":58,"mime":61,"size":416,"url":417,"previewUrl":63,"provider":91,"provider_metadata":63,"createdAt":418,"updatedAt":419},284,"Blog 1600x900 (4).webp",{"large":395,"small":400,"medium":405,"thumbnail":410},{"ext":58,"url":396,"hash":397,"mime":61,"name":398,"path":63,"size":399,"width":65,"height":66},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Flarge_Blog_1600x900_4_38f13c6f1f.webp","large_Blog_1600x900_4_38f13c6f1f","large_Blog 1600x900 (4).webp",65.36,{"ext":58,"url":401,"hash":402,"mime":61,"name":403,"path":63,"size":404,"width":72,"height":73},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fsmall_Blog_1600x900_4_38f13c6f1f.webp","small_Blog_1600x900_4_38f13c6f1f","small_Blog 1600x900 (4).webp",25.66,{"ext":58,"url":406,"hash":407,"mime":61,"name":408,"path":63,"size":409,"width":79,"height":80},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fmedium_Blog_1600x900_4_38f13c6f1f.webp","medium_Blog_1600x900_4_38f13c6f1f","medium_Blog 1600x900 (4).webp",44.23,{"ext":58,"url":411,"hash":412,"mime":61,"name":413,"path":63,"size":414,"width":86,"height":87},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_Blog_1600x900_4_38f13c6f1f.webp","thumbnail_Blog_1600x900_4_38f13c6f1f","thumbnail_Blog 1600x900 (4).webp",8.92,"Blog_1600x900_4_38f13c6f1f",117.92,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002FBlog_1600x900_4_38f13c6f1f.webp","2024-04-20T18:59:20.376Z","2024-04-20T18:59:20.392Z",{"id":14,"name":15,"slug":16,"createdAt":288,"updatedAt":289,"publishedAt":97},{"id":26,"name":422,"slug":423,"instagram":424,"facebook":425,"bio":426,"createdAt":427,"updatedAt":428,"publishedAt":429,"linkedIn":430,"avatar":431},"Tonia","tonia","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.instagram.com\u002Fliolioutonia\u002F","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.facebook.com\u002Ftonia.lioliou","If you could find one person combining physical strength and mental ability it would have her name. Tonia is also a teacher, but she has serious experience in all kinds of jobs. She can do whatever you ask her. She is also a big fan of remote work -and she is not afraid to admit it. This is why she loves writing about it.","2020-12-24T18:57:03.277Z","2022-03-04T12:40:41.173Z","2020-12-24T18:57:04.381Z","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.linkedin.com\u002Fin\u002Ftonia-lioliou-078949202\u002F",{"id":26,"name":432,"alternativeText":433,"caption":433,"width":109,"height":109,"formats":434,"hash":440,"ext":189,"mime":192,"size":441,"url":442,"previewUrl":63,"provider":91,"provider_metadata":63,"createdAt":443,"updatedAt":444},"the working gal author.png","the working gal author",{"thumbnail":435},{"ext":189,"url":436,"hash":437,"mime":192,"name":438,"path":63,"size":439,"width":116,"height":116},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_tonia_614def26ea.png","thumbnail_tonia_614def26ea","thumbnail_tonia.png",52.63,"tonia_614def26ea",111.31,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Ftonia_614def26ea.png","2020-12-24T18:57:01.136Z","2025-02-22T08:34:14.859Z","https:\u002F\u002Fmedia.workingal.com\u002FBlog_1600x900_4_38f13c6f1f.webp",{"pagination":447},{"start":448,"limit":449,"total":450},0,5,103]