[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"$fRdy4Ph-Pr3_YSRANo4UELfNtlCWM9i03GPoJzUPa93A":3,"$fsl95bisWajv0ABYyO0OYj5wgP--Bv89gv3GYHjsC2yY":37,"$fpVLgqrpNyLIksbsCI-iIFa3nLjoGJjtQys9KwHX6BPw":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":14,"seo_title":41,"keywords":47,"seo_desc":48,"featuredImage":49,"category":96,"author":100,"img":129},286,"This is When You Should Wake Up Every Day if You Want To Be Happier","2025-02-18T23:40:53.038Z","2025-02-18T23:47:21.713Z","2025-02-18T23:47:21.710Z","\u003Ch3>\u003Cem>Who would say that our happiness can be hidden in our alarm clock?\u003C\u002Fem>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Chr>\n\u003Cp>The search for happiness is a universal pursuit, and science suggests that our daily routine, especially the wake-up time, plays a decisive role in our \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Fcategories\u002Fwellness-and-nutrition\">overall well-being\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>While a fulfilling life is a mix of different factors, the simple act of waking up at the \u003Cem>“right”\u003C\u002Fem> time could change the data for those seeking greater joy and longevity.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>Synchronizing with the rhythm of nature for increased wellbeing\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fthinkstewartville.com\u002F2025\u002F02\u002F12\u002Fheres-the-time-you-should-get-up-every-morning-to-be-happier-in-life-according-to-science\u002F#:~:text=Research%20published%20in%20Chronobiology%20International,production%2C%20and%20potentially%20extend%20lifespan.\">Research published\u003C\u002Fa> in Chronobiology International highlights the benefits of aligning our sleep patterns with the natural solar cycle. This practice, deeply rooted in chronobiology, has been shown to improve sleep quality, boost \u003Cstrong>endorphin\u003C\u002Fstrong> production, and potentially extend lifespan.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This practice, which has deep roots in chronobiology, has been shown to improve \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F5-reasons-why-good-sleep-is-important-for-your-physical-and-mental-health\">sleep quality\u003C\u002Fa>, enhance endorphin production, and potentially prolong \u003Cstrong>life expectancy\u003C\u002Fstrong>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The study's findings are coordinated with the lifestyle of some cultures known for \u003Cstrong>longevity\u003C\u002Fstrong>, such as the Japanese. In Japan, people often adjust their waking up time every season to match the hours of the day. During the winter months, waking up at 7 am is usual, while during the summer months, they wake up earlier, between 5 and 6 am. This flexibility allows them to maximize exposure to natural light, which is vital to regulating our \u003Cstrong>circadian rhythm\u003C\u002Fstrong> and preserving a youthful appearance and vitality. This way, we can prepare ourselves for a day full of energy and positivity.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>Utilizing the morning for personal development\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fmedia.workingal.com\u002Fwake_up_early_in_the_morning_ed4219552e.jpg\" alt=\"wake up early in the morning\">\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Those who wake up early often have extra time to engage in activities that promote \u003Cstrong>well-being\u003C\u002Fstrong> and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fhabits-of-successful-women\">success\u003C\u002Fa>. Many people who consistently reach their goals attribute their success to their morning habits.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In Japan, it is common for people to include mild and mindful practices in their morning routine. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F5-yoga-poses-for-immediate-stress-relief\">Yoga, meditation\u003C\u002Fa>, and reading are popular options that help cultivate a sense of stillness and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F7-ways-to-improve-concentration-in-everything-you-do\">concentration\u003C\u002Fa> before they start their busy and demanding day. These activities promote mental clarity, contribute to emotional balance, and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fhow-to-reduce-stress-naturally\">reduce stress\u003C\u002Fa>. By waking up earlier, we create a sense of calmness before the bustle of everyday life begins.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch1>The power of segmented sleep and rest strategy\u003C\u002Fh1>\n\u003Cp>Interestingly, the concept of stable eight-hour sleep is relatively modern. Historical evidence and current practices in some cultures suggest that segmental sleep patterns can be beneficial. In her book \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.fnac.com\u002Fa20672910\u002FCaroline-Rome-Le-sommeil-retrouve-tout-se-joue-sur-24-heures\">“Le Sommeil Retrouvé,” sleep expert Caroline Rome\u003C\u002Fa> analyses the Japanese approach to fractional sleep. The book emphasizes that good sleep starts with a mindful \u003Cstrong>24-hour approach\u003C\u002Fstrong>, not just the hours before bed. Rome offers a holistic method combining sophrology techniques with lifestyle advice.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This method includes sleeping from around 9 am to midnight, waking up for a period of relaxation or meditation, and then going back to sleep from 2 am to 5 am. Despite the total sleep time of about six hours, practitioners report feeling refreshed and maintaining steady energy levels throughout the day.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>The idea of rest strategy extends beyond night sleep.\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>The Japanese practice of \u003Cem>“Inemuri,”\u003C\u002Fem> or “sleep while we are present,” involves short periods of sleep during the day.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Unlike some Western cultures, where sleep can be considered sluggish, in Japan, it is often considered a sign of labor —proof that someone has worked to exhaustion. For instance, some progressive-minded companies in Japan have even made \u003Cstrong>sleep compulsory\u003C\u002Fstrong>, recognizing its potential to boost \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fstrategic-productivity-how-to-work-smart-not-hard\">workers’ productivity\u003C\u002Fa> and well-being.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fwake_up_early_in_the_morning_5ae0ebe9fa.jpg\" alt=\"wake up early in the morning\">\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This approach is in line with research that shows that short periods of sleep can boost \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F7-ways-to-improve-concentration-in-everything-you-do\">cognitive function\u003C\u002Fa> and creativity, making it a valuable tool for those who wish to develop the habits of highly successful individuals.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>Adjust the awakening routine for happiness and success\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Although the ideal wake-up time may vary depending on individual conditions and geographic location, the principle of alignment with the natural light cycles remains constant. For those who want to optimize their mornings for greater happiness and success, gradual adjustment to early waking hours can be beneficial.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Start by setting your alarm \u003Cstrong>15 minutes earlier\u003C\u002Fstrong> than usual, and use this time for a positive morning ritual. As you get used to this new routine, you may see yourself waking up naturally earlier and feeling more active and energized.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>The quality of sleep is just as crucial as the wake-up time\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Establishing a soothing bedtime routine and creating a sleep-friendly environment can significantly improve the quality of rest. Limiting screen time before bedtime, keeping the bedroom dark and in average temperature and avoiding heavy meals late at night are strategies that can \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F5-tips-to-sleep-better\">improve sleep effectiveness\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>By prioritizing both the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fproductivity-diaries-i-started-to-wake-up-at-6-am-and-good-things-have-happened\">wake-up time\u003C\u002Fa> and the quality of our sleep, we create the conditions for days full of greater productivity, creativity, and overall satisfaction from life. We can unlock a happier, fuller life by making conscious choices about when and how to start our day.\u003C\u002Fp>\n","this-is-when-you-should-wake-up-every-day-if-you-want-to-be-happier","waking up at 5 am for a week, wake up very early, waking up at 2am, tips on getting up early, waking up early and happiness","Want to wake up happier?  This article reveals the optimal wake-up time for boosting mood and well-being, backed by research and expert insights. Discover the secret to a more joyful morning.",{"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},1051,"wake up early in the morning.jpg","wake up early in the morning",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_wake_up_early_in_the_morning_11b498801a.jpg","large_wake_up_early_in_the_morning_11b498801a","image\u002Fjpeg","large_wake up early in the morning.jpg",null,56.82,1000,563,56815,{"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_wake_up_early_in_the_morning_11b498801a.jpg","small_wake_up_early_in_the_morning_11b498801a","small_wake up early in the morning.jpg",19.54,500,281,19536,{"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_wake_up_early_in_the_morning_11b498801a.jpg","medium_wake_up_early_in_the_morning_11b498801a","medium_wake up early in the morning.jpg",35.86,750,422,35864,{"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_wake_up_early_in_the_morning_11b498801a.jpg","thumbnail_wake_up_early_in_the_morning_11b498801a","thumbnail_wake up early in the morning.jpg",6.45,245,138,6446,"wake_up_early_in_the_morning_11b498801a",81.08,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fwake_up_early_in_the_morning_11b498801a.jpg","aws-s3","2025-02-18T23:46:10.890Z",{"id":14,"name":15,"slug":16,"createdAt":97,"updatedAt":98,"publishedAt":99},"2020-12-24T19:16:00.904Z","2025-02-19T20:04:41.159Z","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\u002Fwake_up_early_in_the_morning_11b498801a.jpg",{"pagination":131},{"page":6,"pageSize":35,"pageCount":6,"total":6},{"data":133,"meta":479},[134,201,275,344,411],{"id":135,"title":136,"createdAt":137,"updatedAt":138,"publishedAt":139,"content":140,"slug":141,"coffees":26,"seo_title":136,"keywords":142,"seo_desc":143,"featuredImage":144,"category":177,"author":178,"img":200},285,"9 Ways To Walk a Bit More Every Day","2025-02-18T22:56:44.654Z","2025-11-29T20:23:34.350Z","2025-02-18T23:06:46.669Z","We've all said at some point in our busy life, \"Who has time to exercise when you're...\" just fill in the blank: a working parent, a shift worker, a person who works two jobs, who takes care of their parents, kids and a few pets, someone who doesn't have time to watch a show for many different reasons.\n\nMost of us have tried everything. And we probably come to a common conclusion: you have to find time in your day to fit at least half an hour of exercise in.\n\nAnd here comes a tip: Try adding a few extra activities throughout the day and week to keep your body moving. Just a few extra minutes of movement is all it takes, for starters.\n\n### Here are 9 ways to get more exercise during the day.\n\n![how to walk more](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fhow_to_walk_more_551372ada1.jpg)\n\n## 1. Take the stairs\nYeah, I know, could it BE more cliché advice? (channeling my inner Chandler right now). Taking the stairs is probably one of the top 3 recommendations regarding physical activity and I’m pretty sure you've heard it a thousand times. However, using the stairs instead of the elevator improves your **heart rate**, can assist you in practicing balance, and builds lower limb strength. And really, how much time would you save in the elevator? 2-3? Your body will thank you within a month. Don’t forget to stretch your feet on the last step! \n\n## 2. Suggest a walk meeting\nIf you work from home and have scheduled calls, go for a walk while taking a couple of those. This means, though, that you don’t need your **laptop for the call**; if not, put your headphones on, set up the noise cancellation (unless you live in a quiet area), and enjoy your meeting. This is almost a genius way to incorporate some minutes of walking into your daily routine without stressing that you won’t have time to do the job; on the plus, it also serves as a **great way** if you need a change of scenery. Do the same at the office; invite your colleagues to meet while walking. A walk will strengthen team bonding and perhaps inspire you all to get creative. \n\n## 3. Walk to errands\nWhile it’s always time efficient and easy to do an Instacart and get over with it, why not try and walk to the grocery store or grab your medicine? Grab a cart, go around the aisles, research the products, and choose vegetables. _And who knows?_ Apart from walking, you may discover new products for a new recipe. Also, try to do quick errands without taking your car. \n\n## 4. Park a little further away\n\n![how to walk more](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fhow_to_walk_more_c306632756.jpg)\n\nIf you use your car and you are not willing to give up on it, then park a little further away, no matter where you are. The bliss of **parking right outside your destination** is huge but doesn’t favor our physical activity goals. So next time you are out, and if you're in a safe and well-lit area, consider parking a little further away from your destination. You will accumulate some walking minutes.\n\n## 5. Exercise or stretching while watching TV\n\nWell, when we are big fans of _“Netflix and chill”_, and this goes far beyond it, but if it makes us healthier, it’s worth it. While watching TV, walk on the treadmill, stretch, grab your dumbells to strengthen your arms, or do **Pilates** during the episode. You don’t need to sweat; even a few reps of some exercises will make a difference in your strength, posture, and flexibility.\n\n## 6. Dance\nDancing is a great aerobic workout that can improve your heart health, lower blood pressure, and increase lung capacity. Not to mention what it does to your **mental health**. It is also a great way to burn calories and improve your balance and rhythm. Put on headphones, pick your favorite playlist, and start exploring your **inner dancer**. You can also do it while cleaning or cooking to make it even more fun. Plus, you can do it as a game or competition with your family or friends.\n\n## 7. Organize a games night\nSwap cards or board games for games that require more energy. Hide and seek, treasure hunt, Twister, freeze dance, VR, musical chairs, jump rope, and even mime. While UNO and Monopoly are at the **top of our list**, sometimes we need to shake this body!\n\n![how to walk more](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fhow_to_walk_more_a68e1afafb.jpg)\n\n## 8. Go for walking drinks\nIf you feel like socializing but are bored going for drinks again, why not get your drink and walk? Walking drinks combine **socializing with a gentle stroll**, making it a more active and engaging way to catch up with friends or family. Remember that the concept is not about getting intoxicated while walking. It's about [enjoying a beverage](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F15-fall-beverages-to-warm-your-soul) (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) while taking a leisurely walk, usually in a pleasant setting. \n\n## 9. Have more sex\nSex is a physical activity that involves movement, increased heart rate, and muscle engagement, all of which contribute to burning calories. According to research, sex burns about _3.1 calories per minute for women and about 4.2 calories for men_. So, while it's not the same as a vigorous run, you can (definitely) sweat during sex and benefit in all sorts of ways.","9-ways-to-walk-a-bit-more-every-day","how to walk more, tips to walk more, how to make more steps, more walking, better walking","If you have a pedometer or fitness tracker, you probably know that experts recommend walking up to 10,000 steps a day. Read how to make that happen and learn tips on how to walk more every day.",{"id":145,"name":146,"alternativeText":147,"caption":147,"width":53,"height":54,"formats":148,"hash":173,"ext":57,"mime":60,"size":174,"url":175,"previewUrl":62,"provider":94,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":176,"updatedAt":176},1046,"how to walk more.jpg","how to walk more",{"large":149,"small":155,"medium":161,"thumbnail":167},{"ext":57,"url":150,"hash":151,"mime":60,"name":152,"path":62,"size":153,"width":64,"height":65,"sizeInBytes":154},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Flarge_how_to_walk_more_1b9a3644c2.jpg","large_how_to_walk_more_1b9a3644c2","large_how to walk more.jpg",210.01,210007,{"ext":57,"url":156,"hash":157,"mime":60,"name":158,"path":62,"size":159,"width":72,"height":73,"sizeInBytes":160},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fsmall_how_to_walk_more_1b9a3644c2.jpg","small_how_to_walk_more_1b9a3644c2","small_how to walk more.jpg",50.06,50064,{"ext":57,"url":162,"hash":163,"mime":60,"name":164,"path":62,"size":165,"width":80,"height":81,"sizeInBytes":166},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fmedium_how_to_walk_more_1b9a3644c2.jpg","medium_how_to_walk_more_1b9a3644c2","medium_how to walk more.jpg",116.49,116494,{"ext":57,"url":168,"hash":169,"mime":60,"name":170,"path":62,"size":171,"width":88,"height":89,"sizeInBytes":172},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_how_to_walk_more_1b9a3644c2.jpg","thumbnail_how_to_walk_more_1b9a3644c2","thumbnail_how to walk more.jpg",11.84,11840,"how_to_walk_more_1b9a3644c2",363.73,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fhow_to_walk_more_1b9a3644c2.jpg","2025-02-18T22:57:34.720Z",{"id":14,"name":15,"slug":16,"createdAt":97,"updatedAt":98,"publishedAt":99},{"id":26,"name":179,"slug":180,"instagram":181,"facebook":182,"bio":183,"createdAt":184,"updatedAt":185,"publishedAt":186,"linkedIn":187,"avatar":188},"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":111,"alternativeText":112,"caption":112,"width":113,"height":113,"formats":189,"hash":195,"ext":116,"mime":119,"size":196,"url":197,"previewUrl":62,"provider":94,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":198,"updatedAt":199},{"thumbnail":190},{"ext":116,"url":191,"hash":192,"mime":119,"name":193,"path":62,"size":194,"width":122,"height":122},"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\u002Fhow_to_walk_more_1b9a3644c2.jpg",{"id":202,"title":203,"createdAt":204,"updatedAt":205,"publishedAt":206,"content":207,"slug":208,"coffees":26,"seo_title":203,"keywords":209,"seo_desc":210,"featuredImage":211,"category":245,"author":248,"img":274},284,"Is No Buy Challenge The Solution to Saving Money? ","2025-02-18T21:44:40.603Z","2025-02-18T21:51:21.944Z","2025-02-18T21:51:21.941Z","While it sounds like a joke to talk about saving money, considering what is happening out there, TikTok seems again to find a solution with its new microtrend which apparently is expanding and gets new fans day by day.\n\nOkay, let’s admit that we won’t base our money —and life—decisions on random TikTok trends. However, maybe the no-buy challenge can serve as a springboard for making more informed decisions regarding our personal finances—specifically when it comes to **saving money**. We all know that saving money is important; the news says that, financial gurus say that, our mothers say that; everyone with basic knowledge knows that life is unpredictable, but our money management shouldn’t be. Saving money is for your finances what flossing or eating your vegetables is for your health—nothing fun but something you _must_ do for your wellbeing. \n\n![no buy challenge 2025](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fno_buy_challenge_2025_55ca6765cb.jpg)\n\nFirst things first, what exactly is a no-buy challenge? In its purest form, it's a period of time where you consciously restrict your spending to _only essential items_. Think groceries, rent, utilities –the stuff you absolutely need to survive. Everything else, from that cute new sweater to your daily latte, is **off-limits**. The duration can vary from a week to a month, or even a whole year (talk about commitment!). Some people go hardcore, cutting out everything beyond the bare necessities. Others opt for a _\"low-buy\"_ approach, where they set limits on certain categories, like entertainment or dining out. The beauty of the no-buy challenge is that _you get to define the rules_.\n\nNow, why would anyone willingly subject themselves to this kind of financial austerity? Well, the most obvious reason is to save money. By cutting out [impulse purchases](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fhow-to-identify-your-bad-spending-habits) and [unnecessary expenses](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fyou-re-not-richer-you-re-just-spending-more), you can free up a surprising amount of cash. If you consider that your daily $5 latte adds up to $150 a month, you can save up to $1800 a year! Suddenly, that [dream vacation](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F7-reasons-why-you-should-visit-athens) or down payment on a house seems a little more attainable.\n\nBeyond the immediate financial benefits, a no-buy challenge can also be a powerful tool for **self-reflection**. It forces you to confront your spending habits and identify areas where you're overspending. Do you really need a new pair of jeans every month? Are those subscription boxes actually bringing you joy, or are they just cluttering your house? By taking a break from shopping, you can gain a clearer sense of your relationship with money and develop healthier [spending habits](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Ffinancial-self-sabotage-why-you-fail-to-manage-your-finances) in the long run.\n\nAnother unexpected perk of the no-buy challenge is the **mental clarity** it can bring. In our consumer-driven society, we're constantly bombarded with messages telling us to buy more, buy now, buy the latest and greatest. This consistent pressure can be overwhelming and even lead to high levels of anxiety. Taking a step back from the shopping frenzy can be incredibly **liberating**. It allows you to focus on the meaningful things in life, whether it's your relationships, your hobbies, or your [personal growth](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F5-free-coursera-courses-to-boost-your-career).\n\nOkay, so far, so good. But is the no-buy challenge all sunshine and rainbows? Of course not. Like anything worth doing, it comes with its own set of challenges (pun intended!). The biggest hurdle is **temptation**. Our world is meticulously designed to make us want to buy things—capitalism at its best. From the nonstop targeted ads on social media to the enticement of window shopping, it can be tough to resist the urge to give in. Especially in the early days of a no-buy challenge, you might find yourself experiencing serious FOMO or extended deprivation, like a kid who can see the toy but can’t touch it. Yikes!\n\n![no buy challenge 2025](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fno_buy_challenge_2025_bfcb0314d8.jpg)\n\nAnd, since we live in an organized (allegedly) society, we should consider the social aspect of a no-buy challenge. Many of our social activities revolve around spending money, whether it's going out to dinner, catching a movie, or celebrating a birthday. Participating in a no-buy challenge might mean having to _decline invitations_ or suggest alternative, less expensive activities. This can be awkward at times, and you might even feel like you're missing out on fun experiences.\n\nSo, is the no-buy challenge right for you? The answer, like most things in life, is: _it depends_. If you're serious about saving money and you're willing to put in the effort, it can be a fantastic way to achieve your [financial goals](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fhow-to-set-smart-financial-goals). However, it's not a magic elixir. It requires discipline, commitment, and a willingness to change your habits.\n\nNo matter how decisive you are, keep in mind that the no-buy challenge _is just a tool_.  It's not a solution to all your financial problems, but it can be a valuable step in the right direction. So, are you ready to give it a try?\n\nIf yes, the following tips may help you:\n\n1\\. **Minimize takeaway and start cooking.** There are countless easy recipes with simple ingredients you can make [within 10 minutes](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F10-one-pot-dinners-you-need-for-your-busy-weekdays). Also, wave goodbye to your morning latte and make your own coffee at home. Treat yourself with your latte during the weekend or on special occasions (no, showing up at work doesn’t count as a special occasion!).\n\n2\\. **Shop smart.** When you don’t have time, you usually don’t pay attention to special offers or discounts, and you end up spending lots of money on things that you could find cheaper. Private brands in grocery stores are pretty much the same as the popular ones but cost much less. Do you really want to spend all those bucks on toilet paper? Don’t think so. At the end of the month, you will definitely see some improvement in your bank account.\n\n3\\. **Stop being a fashion victim.** Fashion trends change pretty much every month. The sweater you buy today will probably be out of fashion in 6 weeks. And then what? Being fashionable doesn’t mean you need to renew your closet every month. Take some of your valuable time and rearrange your closet. What do you wear and what don’t you wear? While doing this, you will definitely find pieces that were hidden, and you have forgotten about them. Use them as if you just bought them. Nobody will tell the difference, and you will cover your —emotional, mainly—need for new clothes.","is-no-buy-challenge-the-solution-to-saving-money","no buy challenge, no buy 2025, no buy challenger 2025, no buy challenge tiktok","A no-buy (or low-buy) period helps you to gain awareness of how the market manipulates, self-control over your own spending, and helpful habits of living more intentionally. Read the article and learn how to achieve the no-buy challenge for 2025.",{"id":212,"name":213,"alternativeText":214,"caption":214,"width":53,"height":54,"formats":215,"hash":240,"ext":57,"mime":60,"size":241,"url":242,"previewUrl":62,"provider":94,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":243,"updatedAt":244},1042,"no buy challenge 2025.jpg","no buy challenge 2025",{"large":216,"small":222,"medium":228,"thumbnail":234},{"ext":57,"url":217,"hash":218,"mime":60,"name":219,"path":62,"size":220,"width":64,"height":65,"sizeInBytes":221},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Flarge_no_buy_challenge_2025_42f640e4c2.jpg","large_no_buy_challenge_2025_42f640e4c2","large_no buy challenge 2025.jpg",112.86,112857,{"ext":57,"url":223,"hash":224,"mime":60,"name":225,"path":62,"size":226,"width":72,"height":73,"sizeInBytes":227},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fsmall_no_buy_challenge_2025_42f640e4c2.jpg","small_no_buy_challenge_2025_42f640e4c2","small_no buy challenge 2025.jpg",31.59,31594,{"ext":57,"url":229,"hash":230,"mime":60,"name":231,"path":62,"size":232,"width":80,"height":81,"sizeInBytes":233},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fmedium_no_buy_challenge_2025_42f640e4c2.jpg","medium_no_buy_challenge_2025_42f640e4c2","medium_no buy challenge 2025.jpg",67.2,67198,{"ext":57,"url":235,"hash":236,"mime":60,"name":237,"path":62,"size":238,"width":88,"height":89,"sizeInBytes":239},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_no_buy_challenge_2025_42f640e4c2.jpg","thumbnail_no_buy_challenge_2025_42f640e4c2","thumbnail_no buy challenge 2025.jpg",8.89,8893,"no_buy_challenge_2025_42f640e4c2",156.72,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fno_buy_challenge_2025_42f640e4c2.jpg","2025-02-18T21:50:17.242Z","2025-02-18T21:50:26.217Z",{"id":6,"name":7,"slug":8,"createdAt":246,"updatedAt":247,"publishedAt":99},"2020-12-24T19:15:38.145Z","2020-12-24T19:15:38.158Z",{"id":6,"name":249,"slug":250,"instagram":251,"facebook":252,"bio":253,"createdAt":254,"updatedAt":255,"publishedAt":256,"linkedIn":257,"avatar":258},"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":259,"name":260,"alternativeText":261,"caption":262,"width":113,"height":113,"formats":263,"hash":270,"ext":116,"mime":119,"size":271,"url":272,"previewUrl":62,"provider":94,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":273,"updatedAt":273},1244,"Dimitra Lioliou.png","dimitra lioliou profile pic","dimitra lioliou the working gal",{"thumbnail":264},{"ext":116,"url":265,"hash":266,"mime":119,"name":267,"path":62,"size":268,"width":122,"height":122,"sizeInBytes":269},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_Dimitra_Lioliou_4c495e8044.png","thumbnail_Dimitra_Lioliou_4c495e8044","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\u002Fno_buy_challenge_2025_42f640e4c2.jpg",{"id":276,"title":277,"createdAt":278,"updatedAt":279,"publishedAt":280,"content":281,"slug":282,"coffees":14,"seo_title":277,"keywords":283,"seo_desc":284,"featuredImage":285,"category":318,"author":319,"img":343},283,"10 Reasons That Block Your Career Progress","2025-02-17T23:15:13.016Z","2025-02-17T23:15:36.118Z","2025-02-17T23:15:36.115Z","### _According to Forbes, as many as 93% of American employees feel trapped in unfulfilling careers_\n\n***\nIf you feel stuck in your career, take a big breath because you’re not alone. Many professionals experience plateaus in their career progression. While there can be a multitude of contributing factors, certain roadblocks tend to appear time and again and stop us from going where we want to go —with our careers.\n\n## Lack of Clarity and Direction\n\nLack of clarity can seriously block your career progress. Not having even the slightest direction is like setting off on a road trip without a destination. You might wander around, see some interesting sights, meet with different people, and have fun, but ultimately, you’ll likely end up lost and frustrated. The same applies to your career. You're likely to drift aimlessly if you haven't [defined your career goals](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fcareer-progress-2025-what-are-the-skills-you-need-to-develop) –where you want to be in _five, ten, or even twenty_ years. This lack of direction can lead to taking jobs that don't align with your long-term aspirations; therefore, you run the risk of slowing your progress and feeling unfulfilled.\n\n**Solution:** Take a blank piece of paper and identify your passions, skills, and values. Then, do a thorough research on different career paths that align with these aspects of yourself. Set [SMART goals](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fhow-to-set-smart-financial-goals) (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) to provide a clear roadmap for your career journey. SMART goals can help you take action and hold you accountable for your choices, making it easier to follow them.\n\n## Complacency and Comfort Zones\n\n![reasons that block your career progress](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Freasons_that_block_your_career_progress_9db711f7c0.jpg)\n\nNo successful professional has ever stayed in their comfort zone. Because comfort zones are like cozy traps; they feel safe and familiar, but they stifle growth. Being in your comfort zone could mean staying in a role where you’re comfortable and unchallenged. This might seem appealing in the short term, but it can significantly impede your **long-term career prospects**. It may sound very cliche, but the truth is that growth happens outside of your comfort zone. When you're [not learning new skills](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F5-free-coursera-courses-to-boost-your-career), taking on new responsibilities, or pushing yourself beyond your current capabilities, you become stagnant and _less competitive_ in the job market.\n\n**Solution:** Even if you are very educated and experienced in what you are doing, there is always room to be better. Identify areas where you can stretch yourself; for instance, if you are a graphic designer but do not have significant experience in website design, why not take a couple of courses on this topic? Also, you can volunteer for challenging projects at work, seek out opportunities for professional development, or consider taking on a new role that pushes you beyond your current skill set. There will be some discomfort in the beginning but learning and growth will provide you with more comfort in the long term.\n\n## Ineffective Communication Skills\n\nCommunication is the cornerstone of success in any profession. Whether presenting your ideas to a client, negotiating a salary, or simply [collaborating with colleagues](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F4-hacks-for-effective-communication-in-the-workplace), your ability to communicate effectively can make or break your career. Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings, missed opportunities, and damaged relationships, all of which can hinder your progress. Many exceptional professionals have been fired because of poor communication skills, and many talents have been undiscovered because they didn’t pay attention to communicating their accomplishments and achievements. So, for whatever reason, it’s essential to improve your communication strategy.\n\n**Solution:** Invest in improving your communication skills. Consider joining a public speaking group, taking a writing workshop, or simply _practicing your communication skills_ in everyday interactions. Pay attention to both your verbal and non-verbal communication, and seek feedback from trusted colleagues, friends, or mentors.\n\n## Networking Neglect\n\n![reasons that block your career progress](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Freasons_that_block_your_career_progress_b243ab34fc.jpg)\n\nSometimes, we mistake networking for attending conferences and events and collecting business cards. However, networking is not about **meeting people** at industry-related events. It’s instead building relationships with people in your industry that exceed the business card exchange. Networking is a helpful career practice that can open doors to new opportunities, provide valuable insights, and offer support and guidance throughout your career. Neglecting your network can leave you feeling isolated and limit your access to potential career advancements. _Your network is your net worth._\n\n**Solution:** No matter how busy you are, try to engage in networking actively. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with people on LinkedIn. Focus on building meaningful relationships by offering value and support to others. Networking is a two-way street.\n\n## Resistance to Feedback\n\nOne of the most severe career blockers is resistance to feedback. Feedback, even when it's critical, should be considered as a gift. Feedback can provide you with insights into your strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to **identify areas for improvement** and accelerate your growth. Resisting feedback, whether due to defensiveness or simply not being open to hearing it, can prevent you from learning and growing, ultimately hindering your career progress. Honestly,e it is not easy to hear from others about our weaknesses, but it’s an integral part of growing.\n\n**Solution:** This needs time and **patience**. If you are serious about your career progress, you should cultivate a growth mindset and be open to receiving feedback. Actively seek feedback from your manager, colleagues, and even clients. Listen carefully, ask clarifying questions, and use the feedback to develop an improvement plan.\n\n## Lack of Initiative and Proactiveness\n\nWaiting for opportunities to come to you is a passive approach to career management. It’s like waiting in your house waiting for the recruiter to knock at your door. However, nowadays the job market is pretty competitive, so it's more than essential to be **proactive** and take initiative. Initiative doesn’t mean starting to knock on doors; it could be undertaking new projects, not rejecting new challenges, volunteering for projects even if they don’t exactly match your skillset, and demonstrating a willingness to go the extra mile. Lack of initiative can make you appear unmotivated and disengaged, hindering your chances of advancement.\n\n**Solution:** Always look for opportunities to improve processes, **suggest new ideas**, or take on additional responsibilities. Don’t be afraid to talk in meetings and demonstrate your proactive nature by anticipating needs and taking action before being asked. Aka, don’t wait to get the order; act as if you had already gotten it.\n\n## Inability to Adapt to Change\n\nWhat is certain from the very beginning of humanity is that the _only constant is change_. The modern workplace is constantly evolving, and professionals who are unable to adapt to these changes risk becoming **obsolete**. Change can involve new technologies, changing market trends, or organizational restructuring. And your ability to adapt and learn new skills is critical for career success.\n\n**Solution:** Be open to learning new things. Stay up-to-date on industry trends, seek out opportunities for professional development, and be willing to _step outside of your comfort zone,_ as we mentioned before. Flexibility and adaptability are key to navigating the relentless changes of the modern workplace.\n\n## Underestimating the Importance of Mentorship\n\n![reasons that block your career progress](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Freasons_that_block_your_career_progress_4cc7dcff71.jpg)\n\nMentors can be a game changer in your career development. A mentor can offer you guidance, support, and valuable insights based on their own experiences. A good mentor can help you deal with career challenges, identify opportunities, and accelerate your career improvement and advancement. Having a mentor is important because it can prevent you from making mistakes or miscalculating your next steps.\n\n**Solution:** Seek out mentors who have experience in your field and who align with your career goals. Be proactive in your mentorship relationships, ask questions, and be open to receiving advice. A strong mentor-mentee relationship can be a powerful catalyst for your career growth and help you take your career to the next level.\n\n## Focusing Solely on Technical Skills\n\nWhile technical skills are undoubtedly necessary, they're not the only factor that determines career success. [Soft skills](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fdo-it-like-emily-in-paris-5-professional-skills-to-boost-your-career), such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership, are equally crucial, especially as you move into more senior roles. Focusing solely on **technical skills** while neglecting the development of soft skills can limit your career potential.\n\n**Solution:** Identify the soft skills that are most relevant to your career goals and actively work on developing them. Seek opportunities to practice these skills in your current role, volunteer for projects that require them, or consider taking workshops or courses to improve them.\n\n## Negative Attitude and Mindset\n\nSometimes, even if you do everything right, you may be a victim of your negative attitude and frustration because you haven’t achieved the goals you’ve set. What you should know is that a negative attitude can be a self-fulfilling prophecy. If you believe _you're not capable of achieving your goals_, you're less likely to put in the effort required to succeed. A negative mindset can also affect your interactions with colleagues and create a [toxic work environment](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fhow-to-recover-from-a-toxic-workplace), impeding your career progress.\n\n**Solution:** Work on building a positive attitude and mindset. Focus on your strengths, celebrate your successes and achievements, and learn from your failures—we all fail. Surround yourself with positive people, and [always be grateful](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fthe-power-of-being-grateful). A positive attitude can be contagious and can significantly impact your career trajectory.","10-reasons-that-block-your-career-progress","career blocks list, what blocks my career, reasons that block career progress, career goals, ","Struggling to achieve your career goals? This article outlines 10 common challenges professionals face, along with practical tips and solutions to help you overcome obstacles and reach your full potential.",{"id":286,"name":287,"alternativeText":288,"caption":288,"width":53,"height":54,"formats":289,"hash":314,"ext":57,"mime":60,"size":315,"url":316,"previewUrl":62,"provider":94,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":317,"updatedAt":317},1037,"reasons that block your career progress.jpg","reasons that block your career progress",{"large":290,"small":296,"medium":302,"thumbnail":308},{"ext":57,"url":291,"hash":292,"mime":60,"name":293,"path":62,"size":294,"width":64,"height":65,"sizeInBytes":295},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Flarge_reasons_that_block_your_career_progress_8c0b9f79b9.jpg","large_reasons_that_block_your_career_progress_8c0b9f79b9","large_reasons that block your career progress.jpg",53.84,53835,{"ext":57,"url":297,"hash":298,"mime":60,"name":299,"path":62,"size":300,"width":72,"height":73,"sizeInBytes":301},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fsmall_reasons_that_block_your_career_progress_8c0b9f79b9.jpg","small_reasons_that_block_your_career_progress_8c0b9f79b9","small_reasons that block your career progress.jpg",19.15,19146,{"ext":57,"url":303,"hash":304,"mime":60,"name":305,"path":62,"size":306,"width":80,"height":81,"sizeInBytes":307},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fmedium_reasons_that_block_your_career_progress_8c0b9f79b9.jpg","medium_reasons_that_block_your_career_progress_8c0b9f79b9","medium_reasons that block your career progress.jpg",34.87,34874,{"ext":57,"url":309,"hash":310,"mime":60,"name":311,"path":62,"size":312,"width":88,"height":89,"sizeInBytes":313},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_reasons_that_block_your_career_progress_8c0b9f79b9.jpg","thumbnail_reasons_that_block_your_career_progress_8c0b9f79b9","thumbnail_reasons that block your career progress.jpg",6.86,6864,"reasons_that_block_your_career_progress_8c0b9f79b9",79.86,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Freasons_that_block_your_career_progress_8c0b9f79b9.jpg","2025-02-17T23:07:59.711Z",{"id":6,"name":7,"slug":8,"createdAt":246,"updatedAt":247,"publishedAt":99},{"id":18,"name":320,"slug":321,"instagram":62,"facebook":62,"bio":322,"createdAt":323,"updatedAt":324,"publishedAt":325,"linkedIn":62,"avatar":326},"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":327,"name":328,"alternativeText":329,"caption":329,"width":113,"height":113,"formats":330,"hash":338,"ext":332,"mime":335,"size":339,"url":340,"previewUrl":62,"provider":94,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":341,"updatedAt":342},248,"1.webp","",{"thumbnail":331},{"ext":332,"url":333,"hash":334,"mime":335,"name":336,"path":62,"size":337,"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\u002Freasons_that_block_your_career_progress_8c0b9f79b9.jpg",{"id":345,"title":346,"createdAt":347,"updatedAt":348,"publishedAt":349,"content":350,"slug":351,"coffees":26,"seo_title":346,"keywords":352,"seo_desc":353,"featuredImage":354,"category":387,"author":388,"img":410},282,"Skincare: 5 Truths We Wish We Knew Sooner","2025-02-17T00:22:49.560Z","2025-02-17T21:34:12.925Z","2025-02-17T21:34:12.921Z","### Skincare is a process that definitely requires consistency and patience. \n\nIt is a strictly personal and often confusing process. There are thousands of products at our disposal, and every day, we are overwhelmed by a storm of advice and new trends that show up on our TikTok or Instagram feed. However, not everyone is a beauty guru, and not all advice and beauty tips we read, see, and listen to are truthful —or effective. Therefore, to maintain effective and safe skincare we need to understand some essential truths that can help us save time, money, and trouble. This way, we can make the most out of our skincare and have the best results. So, we gathered 5 truths about your skincare that will help you make more informed decisions and make the most out of your products and routine.\n\nIdentifying your skin type\n--------------------------\n\n![5 truths about our skincare routine](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002F5_truths_about_our_skincare_routine_0e8e778b9b.jpg)\n\nBefore buying any skincare product you saw on a social media ad, you need to recognize and identify your skin type. _Do you have oily, dry, mixed, or sensitive skin?_ Making the right choice of skincare products is based on understanding your skin's **needs**, and you shouldn’t try on products that are not suitable for your skin type. You won’t have any results, and this can potentially cause more. If you are not sure, it’s better to consult a dermatologist who can help you identify your skin type and recommend the type of products your skin needs.\n\nSPF is for all year round\n-------------------------\n\nIf you use sunscreen only during summer, you need to rethink. UV radiation can cause permanent damage to the skin and accelerate the aging process. UV radiation can also impact our skin even when the weather is cloudy and overcast —aka during fall and winter. Therefore, daily sun protection is the most critical **step** in your [morning routine](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fthis-is-your-morning-beauty-routine-checklist), as it prevents the formation of wrinkles, pimples, and other damage from sunlight.\n\nExpensive doesn’t mean the best\n-------------------------------\n\nYou don’t have to spend a fortune to have healthy and bright skin. In many cases, high-end products are not necessarily more effective than the most affordable ones. Sometimes, all you need is an over-the-counter [affordable moisturizer](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fthe-best-moisturizers-of-2024-and-2025) that works wonders with your skin. This is because the fundamental importance lies in the needs of your skin and how the **product** responds to them. Proper skin cleansing, hydration, and sun protection are the most basic and effective steps for healthy skin, and they don’t have to be extravagantly expensive in order to be effective.\n\nExcessive care can damage the skin\n----------------------------------\n\n![5 truths about our skincare routine](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002F5_truths_about_our_skincare_routine_d36276445d.jpg)\n\nThe most common trap in skin care is excess. Using more products does not always **guarantee** better results. In fact, excessive cleaning, exfoliating, or anti-aging products can irritate the skin and cause [sensitivity, dryness, or even pimples](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fhow-to-treat-our-face-skin-during-winter-and-cold). Stick to specific products and stay with them for some time without “enhancing” your routine with new ones. Most ingredients need about 2-3 months to show results, and by [mixing a lot of ingredients](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fskincare-routine-do-you-know-how-to-safely-mix-ingredients) may end up damaging your skin.\n\nFeeding and sleep play a key role\n---------------------------------\n\nA balanced nutrition and quality sleep are just as crucial to your skin health as the products you use. Consuming foods rich in antioxidants can enhance the texture and appearance of the skin. Adequate and quality sleep, apart from its [benefits for our physical and mental health](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F5-reasons-why-good-sleep-is-important-for-your-physical-and-mental-health), allows the skin to rejuvenate and restore its natural balance. Aim for 7-8 hours every day and see your skin glowing!","skincare-5-truths-we-wish-we-knew-sooner","truths about skincare routine, what to know about my skincare routine, tips about skincare routine, best advice for skincare","Discover 5 essential skincare truths you need to know! Avoid common mistakes and achieve healthy, glowing skin with these expert tips. Learn what really works and transform your skincare routine today.",{"id":355,"name":356,"alternativeText":357,"caption":357,"width":53,"height":54,"formats":358,"hash":383,"ext":57,"mime":60,"size":384,"url":385,"previewUrl":62,"provider":94,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":386,"updatedAt":386},1035,"5 truths about our skincare routine.jpg","5 truths about our skincare routine",{"large":359,"small":365,"medium":371,"thumbnail":377},{"ext":57,"url":360,"hash":361,"mime":60,"name":362,"path":62,"size":363,"width":64,"height":65,"sizeInBytes":364},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Flarge_5_truths_about_our_skincare_routine_5fb5540416.jpg","large_5_truths_about_our_skincare_routine_5fb5540416","large_5 truths about our skincare routine.jpg",41.01,41009,{"ext":57,"url":366,"hash":367,"mime":60,"name":368,"path":62,"size":369,"width":72,"height":73,"sizeInBytes":370},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fsmall_5_truths_about_our_skincare_routine_5fb5540416.jpg","small_5_truths_about_our_skincare_routine_5fb5540416","small_5 truths about our skincare routine.jpg",14.8,14804,{"ext":57,"url":372,"hash":373,"mime":60,"name":374,"path":62,"size":375,"width":80,"height":81,"sizeInBytes":376},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fmedium_5_truths_about_our_skincare_routine_5fb5540416.jpg","medium_5_truths_about_our_skincare_routine_5fb5540416","medium_5 truths about our skincare routine.jpg",26.67,26673,{"ext":57,"url":378,"hash":379,"mime":60,"name":380,"path":62,"size":381,"width":88,"height":89,"sizeInBytes":382},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_5_truths_about_our_skincare_routine_5fb5540416.jpg","thumbnail_5_truths_about_our_skincare_routine_5fb5540416","thumbnail_5 truths about our skincare routine.jpg",5.4,5400,"5_truths_about_our_skincare_routine_5fb5540416",73.06,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002F5_truths_about_our_skincare_routine_5fb5540416.jpg","2025-02-17T00:28:01.710Z",{"id":14,"name":15,"slug":16,"createdAt":97,"updatedAt":98,"publishedAt":99},{"id":389,"name":390,"slug":391,"instagram":62,"facebook":62,"bio":392,"createdAt":393,"updatedAt":394,"publishedAt":395,"linkedIn":62,"avatar":396},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":397,"name":398,"alternativeText":329,"caption":329,"width":113,"height":113,"formats":399,"hash":405,"ext":332,"mime":335,"size":406,"url":407,"previewUrl":62,"provider":94,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":408,"updatedAt":409},247,"Untitled design.webp",{"thumbnail":400},{"ext":332,"url":401,"hash":402,"mime":335,"name":403,"path":62,"size":404,"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\u002F5_truths_about_our_skincare_routine_5fb5540416.jpg",{"id":73,"title":412,"createdAt":413,"updatedAt":414,"publishedAt":415,"content":416,"slug":417,"coffees":26,"seo_title":412,"keywords":418,"seo_desc":419,"featuredImage":420,"category":453,"author":454,"img":478},"What Should Women Know about Intermittent Fasting?","2025-02-17T00:01:19.148Z","2025-02-17T18:15:50.005Z","2025-02-17T18:15:50.000Z","### Intermittent fasting affects men and women differently\n\nEvery time has its own trends in terms of diets, and intermittent fasting is considered very relevant and _“trendy”_ nowadays. As its name suggests, its main idea lies in limiting food intake to specific intervals during the day. Intermittent fasting is a dietary pattern that focuses on when you eat and not what you eat. \n\nThere are several types of intermittent fasting, but most approaches alternate between periods of eating and non-eating or fasting. Some methods suggest fasting for a set **number of hours**, while others extend fasting to a full day several times a week. However, women and men show different tolerance to intermittent fasting.\n\nWhy is intermittent fasting different for women and men?\n--------------------------------------------------------\n\nIntermittent fasting affects men and women differently. There are potential risks that women should consider regarding reproductive health, bone health, and general well-being.\n\n![intermittent fasting for women](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fintermittent_fasting_for_women_0505452770.jpg)\n\nAlthough you can eat normally during periods when you are not fasting, some forms of intermittent fasting can reduce your calorie intake. Calories provide your body with energy; when there is a shortage of energy, the body will focus on survival over other functions.\n\nResearch with women as participants is **currently limited**, but some studies involving rodents suggest that intermittent fasting can cause changes in estrogen levels and negatively affect reproductive functions such as menstrual regularity, fertility, pregnancy, and lactation. Male rodent hormone levels are also affected, but the disorders do not seem to change their _reproductive functions_ as they change in female rodents. A possible reason for this is that certain aspects of reproduction in women -including pregnancy and breastfeeding- require more **energy** than those in men. Thus, these functions can be negatively affected if the energy intake is too low. However, it is not clear at this time whether women are affected in the same way that female rodents are affected.\n\nWhat are the risks for women?\n-----------------------------\n\nAn increasing volume of research suggests that limiting calorie intake can also reduce **bone density**. However, according to a recent review of studies, intermittent fasting does not appear to affect the density of the minerals in your bones in the same way as low-calorie diets. However, most of these studies are not extensive, so more research is required for safe results.\n\nOther possible side effects of intermittent fasting include:\n\n*   Headaches\n    \n*   Fatigue\n    \n*   Constipation\n    \n*   Overconsumption of food in non-fasting periods\n    \n\nWhen women should avoid intermittent fasting\n\nAlthough intermittent fasting has potential benefits, some women should avoid it unless approved by their physician. If you are thinking of starting intermittent fasting as a diet plane, you should definitely consult your physician or nutritionist if you are included in the following categories:\n\n**Pregnancy or breastfeeding:** Intermittent fasting is generally not recommended for pregnant women as it can affect the development of the baby and cause other adverse side effects\n\n**Diabetes:** Fasting may increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).\n\n**Specific medication:** Some medications should be taken with food, therefore, prolonged fasting could affect scheduled doses.\n\nAlso, if you suffer from an existing medical condition or a history of malnutrition, talk to your physician before starting any diet or diet plan.\n\nAlso, it’s worth pointing out that women may need to follow a different approach to intermittent fasting than men in order to manage potential health risks. \n\n#### Small, gradual changes over several months, rather than drastic changes in a short period of time, could help reduce undesirable side effects.\n\nThere is no method of fasting that is better than any other. As with most diets, intermittent fasting has to do with what suits everyone and their nutritional goals. In general, however, women prefer a more flexible fasting approach than men. In particular:\n\n**Gradually increasing fasting time:** We initially fast for 12 hours and gradually increase the interval to 16 hours. We fast 2 to 3 times a week but for non-consecutive days. Each day of fasting should be equally distant from the previous one (e.g., Monday, Wednesday, Friday)\n\n![intermittent fasting for women](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fintermittent_fasting_for_women_5c05b5b777.jpg)\n\n**Eat-stop-eat (24-hour protocol):** A complete 24-hour fast 1-2 times (maximum for women) per week. It would be advisable to start with 12 and gradually reach up to 16 hours of fasting for smoother and milder adjustments.\n\n**The 5:2 diet (also called the fasting diet):** Instead of not eating at all for a while, we limit calories to 25% of what we usually consume (~500 calories per day). We follow it for 2 non-consecutive days a week. For the rest of the days, we eat as per usual.\n\n**Method of every 2nd day:** Fasting every 2nd day, eating 20-25% of the total calories we typically consume (about 500 calories) on the day of fasting. In the 10 days of 5, we will have consumed about 500 calories.\n\n**The 16\u002F8 method:** We fast for 16 consecutive hours and then eat all our meals within 8 consecutive hours. Women can initially start fasting for 14 hours and gradually increase it to 16 hours.","what-should-women-know-about-intermittent-fasting","intermittent fasting, fasting for weight loss, intermittent fasting for women, intermediate fasting schedule, ","Intermittent fasting can be beneficial, but it's important for women to understand the potential effects.  This article provides a balanced overview of the pros, cons, and expert recommendations.",{"id":421,"name":422,"alternativeText":423,"caption":423,"width":53,"height":54,"formats":424,"hash":449,"ext":57,"mime":60,"size":450,"url":451,"previewUrl":62,"provider":94,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":452,"updatedAt":452},1031,"intermittent fasting for women.jpg","intermittent fasting for women",{"large":425,"small":431,"medium":437,"thumbnail":443},{"ext":57,"url":426,"hash":427,"mime":60,"name":428,"path":62,"size":429,"width":64,"height":65,"sizeInBytes":430},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Flarge_intermittent_fasting_for_women_3678864f25.jpg","large_intermittent_fasting_for_women_3678864f25","large_intermittent fasting for women.jpg",32.07,32065,{"ext":57,"url":432,"hash":433,"mime":60,"name":434,"path":62,"size":435,"width":72,"height":73,"sizeInBytes":436},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fsmall_intermittent_fasting_for_women_3678864f25.jpg","small_intermittent_fasting_for_women_3678864f25","small_intermittent fasting for women.jpg",11.52,11522,{"ext":57,"url":438,"hash":439,"mime":60,"name":440,"path":62,"size":441,"width":80,"height":81,"sizeInBytes":442},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fmedium_intermittent_fasting_for_women_3678864f25.jpg","medium_intermittent_fasting_for_women_3678864f25","medium_intermittent fasting for women.jpg",20.66,20664,{"ext":57,"url":444,"hash":445,"mime":60,"name":446,"path":62,"size":447,"width":88,"height":89,"sizeInBytes":448},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_intermittent_fasting_for_women_3678864f25.jpg","thumbnail_intermittent_fasting_for_women_3678864f25","thumbnail_intermittent fasting for women.jpg",4.33,4325,"intermittent_fasting_for_women_3678864f25",63.63,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fintermittent_fasting_for_women_3678864f25.jpg","2025-02-17T00:04:26.383Z",{"id":14,"name":15,"slug":16,"createdAt":97,"updatedAt":98,"publishedAt":99},{"id":455,"name":456,"slug":457,"instagram":458,"facebook":459,"bio":460,"createdAt":461,"updatedAt":462,"publishedAt":463,"linkedIn":62,"avatar":464},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":465,"name":466,"alternativeText":329,"caption":329,"width":113,"height":113,"formats":467,"hash":473,"ext":116,"mime":119,"size":474,"url":475,"previewUrl":62,"provider":94,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":476,"updatedAt":477},108,"Untitled-7.png",{"thumbnail":468},{"ext":116,"url":469,"hash":470,"mime":119,"name":471,"path":62,"size":472,"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\u002Fintermittent_fasting_for_women_3678864f25.jpg",{"pagination":480},{"start":481,"limit":482,"total":483},0,5,271]