The month ahead inspires you to boldly take your place in the world by kicking things off with the Full Moon on the 3rd inviting you to transform the narrative of your destiny. Once Mercury enters Leo, you'll have the confidence you need to unwaveringly pursue your vision. On the 7th, Venus gets cozy in Cancer, sweetening up your relationships and home life. Around the middle of the month, Uranus joins the retrograde party, inviting you to embrace your changing value system.
The New Moon on the 18th encourages you to embrace the healing power of creativity and play. Mercury shifts gears on the 20th, helping you streamline your routines so you can stay on track toward those big dreams of yours. When the Sun enters Virgo on the 22nd, the cosmos tests how disciplined you are in balancing self-care with how much you're serving others.
Check out what's in store for your zodiac sign in the month ahead.
Aries
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The beginning of August encourages you to expand your social network which you shouldn't have any problem doing with Leo season amping up your charm factor. The Full Moon on the 3rd is a perfect time to launch that online business, blog, or project you've been working on behind the scenes. You're in the mood to spice things up romantically and creatively when Mercury moves into Leo on the 4th. The planet of love creates a steamy effect when she enters Cancer on the 7th, making the next few weeks the perfect time to call out of work for a staycation. Indulge your senses by cooking your favorite comfort foods, cuddling up with a blanket (or bae), and watching your fave rom-coms from the comfort of your home.
On the 15th, Uranus goes retrograde, making this a good time to check in with yourself. Are you making money doing what you love? These next several months will help you get clear about your personal values and how to align those with opportunities that are truly a match for you. The New Moon on the 18th has you inspired to get back into the dating scene or start that new hobby that recently caught your interest. Towards the end of the month, Mercury and the Sun meet up in Virgo motivating you to whip your butt, and your work routine (or lack thereof), into shape. Hit the gym, try that detox, and organize your environment to help you stay clear-headed and grounded.
Taurus
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The month begins with a Full Moon on the 3rd creating a little friction between you and an authority figure—whether it be your nosey dad, micromanaging boss, or the "institution". You're ready to go your own way and this lunation could give you the push you need to strike out on your own. The next day, Mercury enters Leo and conversations with family or in the home can get a little heated if you don't keep your ego in check. However, this transit can serve as the fire beneath your ass to make some changes in your living environment if you've simply had enough with your current circumstances.
Your ruling planet, Venus, attempts to smooth things out when she enters Cancer. Spending some quality time with your siblings can be just what you need to bring you back down to earth. On the 15th, Uranus goes retrograde in your sign, inviting you to reconnect with your inner wild, child. Embrace what makes you unique (and even a little rebellious). The New Moon on the 18th could suggest a relocation, the beginning of a renovation project, or a new addition to the family. When the Sun meets up with Mercury on the 22nd, the energy becomes more harmonious for you. Indulge in some creativity, play, and romance to bring some balance into your world.
Gemini
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The Full Moon on the 3rd is an exciting time for your big reveal, whether you're launching that novel, a workshop, or that blog. It's time to showcase your expertise and receive the acknowledgment you deserve for your forward-thinking approach to life. On the 4th, Mercury enters Leo which could result in sudden emotional outbursts if you feel like your intelligence or beliefs are being challenged. Choose your battles, wisely. As long as you're confident in your truth, there's no need to convince others to believe it, too. Venus, planet of love, enters Cancer on the 7th and you're receiving tons of support (and possibly some gifts and money) from people who want to nurture you.
Around the middle of the month, Uranus goes retrograde, making your psychic sense all the more sensitive. Divine inspiration, and some million-dollar ideas, are bound to come your way during this transit. Make sure to connect with your spiritual allies for assistance in growing your finances during this transit. On the 18th, the New Moon is a good time to start a new creative project that pushes you to express yourself more authentically. Towards the end of the month, Mercury and the Sun enters Virgo, encouraging you to get your home life in order by decluttering and getting organized. As family comes into greater focus, make sure to practice more compassion in your interaction instead of passing judgment so easily.
Cancer
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The beginning of the month is a little more quiet for you thanks to the Full Moon illuminating your psyche—including the limiting beliefs that inhibit you from embracing the weird qualities that people have criticized about you. This is a powerful time to break free from the chains of "normalcy" to allow yourself to truly blossom. On the 4th, Mercury enters Leo, motivating you to get to the bag in ways that highlight your natural gifts and talents. A few days later, Venus is bringing the blessings––and the affection––when she enters your sign. Bask in the love, babe! You deserve it.
On the 15th, Uranus goes retrograde, inviting you to reconnect with your friends or make some new ones that reflect the changes you've been making in your life. Sometimes we grow together and sometimes we grow apart. Give yourself, and others, grace during these times of transition. The New Moon on the 18th invites you to plant the seeds for a new source of income that will require you to develop confidence in yourself. Consistency is key and maybe a new outfit that will help you feel the part. On the 22nd, the Sun links up with Mercury, making this a good time to get your thoughts organized for that business plan, brand, or website you're working on. It's time to roll up your sleeves and get to work!
Leo
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Happy birthday, goddess! The month kicks off with a Full Moon highlighting your relationships and any contractual agreements. This a great time to renegotiate the terms of any existing partnerships to make sure you both are still on the same page. On the 4th, Mercury enters your sign, making you the talk of the town. You live for a little drama and you may very well find yourself at the center of it during this transit. Venus attempts to soften the energy when she enters Cancer on the 7th, encouraging you to balance out all of that playtime with some rest. The spirit world often communicates to us through our dreams but you can't receive the messages if you're not getting quality sleep.
Around the middle of the month, Taurus goes retrograde which could present some career changes that will gift you with a greater sense of individuality and freedom once the dust settles. On the 18th, the New Moon invites you to blaze a new path that aligns with your truth. Can you say that you're truly proud of yourself or do some of your wins feel empty? As much as you care about making your loved ones proud, it's time to assert more of your authority by living a life that you can be proud of. Towards the end of the month, Mercury and the Sun shift into Virgo, inviting you to build up your self-esteem so you won't be easily swayed by the opinions of others. When it comes to your finances, this is an opportune time to revamp your budget and strategize new ways to gain income.
Virgo
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Your health and wellness are top priority at the onset of the month due to the Full Moon revealing a troublesome area that could use a little improvement. Don't fall down the trap of diagnosing yourself with WebMD before you consult with your doctor. On the 4th, Mercury enters Leo which is sending your dream time into overdrive. This placement could also make you the center of some gossip due to your rising affluence. However, this is a powerful time to release an old narrative that requires you to dim your shine so others aren't intimidated by you. On the 7th, Venus enters Cancer where she'll be sweetening your friendships and providing the space for any healing that's necessary.
Around the middle of the month, Uranus goes retrograde encouraging you to be flexible when it comes to your beliefs. There's a possibility to hold space for multiple truths at once and this transit can help you better embrace how connected everything truly is. If you're in school, you may decide to switch your major or go in a completely new direction with how you choose to share your wisdom with the collective. On the 18th, the New Moon in Leo reminds you that every accomplishment starts with a dream. Plant the seeds for what you'd like to manifest—specifically by the Full Moon in Leo six months from now. On the 20th, Mercury enters your sign shortly followed by the Sun on the 22nd. All eyes are on you, birthday girl! It's time to celebrate your growth over the past year and the new heights you'll be reaching in the year to come.
Libra
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The Full Moon on the 3rd lights up your life with some much-needed romance and creativity. This is a supportive time to reveal your more artistic side. Even if you're no Van Gogh, it's important to flex your creative muscle from time-to-time. Organize a Sip & Paint with bae or your girls to give your inner child a little love. On the 4th, Mercury enters Leo, making you the life of the party. So many moves to make but so little time. You're in the mood to network and connect with your friends. Host a Zoom mixer to get some of your faves together while still practicing social distancing. Your ruling planet, Venus, moves into Cancer on the 7th, helping you attract more support when it comes to your career endeavors. You don't necessarily need someone to provide you with solutions to all of your work problems. Sometimes you just want to enjoy a glass of wine with a friend while venting about your annoying ass boss. Let that be enough, my love.
On the 15th, Uranus goes retrograde which could shake up the power dynamics within a close relationship or someone you share finances with. In matters of intimacy, this is a powerful time to shift your narrative related to experiences that negatively impacted your self-esteem. The New Moon on the 18th encourages you to expand your friendship circle. It's OK to meet new people that you vibe with more organically. Use this energy to also set an intention to boldly (re)commit to a dream of yours that has gone neglected. On the 22nd, the Sun and Mercury meet up in Virgo, inviting you to rest up and reflect on the past year as you prepare for your birthday season. Reassess what needs to be purged from your life so you can step into your new year feeling lighter, happier, and more at peace.
Scorpio
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The month begins with a Full Moon on the 3rd which could stir up some tension on the home-front. You're feeling an intense need to assert your individualism while your family's expectations attempt to overshadow your desires. When Mercury enters Leo on the 4th, you'll have the confidence you need to express yourself without fear of your family's disproval. During this transit, you'll be adjusting your relationship with authority as you come into your own power. On the 7th, Venus gets cozy in Cancer in a part of your chart that has you longing for home which could easily be some far off place that you've always dreamt of traveling to.
Relationships may be a little strained around the Quarter Moon on the 11th. Do you want to be right or do you actually want to compromise? Make sure to hold that standard to others as well to discern whether this matter truly deserves your energy. On the 15th, Uranus goes retrograde, giving you a chance to establish more freedom for yourself within your relationships. Sudden "a-ha" moments about codependent tendencies will come to the light. The New Moon on the 18th invites you to shine more authentically in the work that you do. A few days later, Mercury and the Sun link up in Virgo, encouraging you to take an honest assessment of your social circle to weed out who you don't click with and reprioritize your energy for those that you're more compatible with.
Sagittarius
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August kicks off with a Full Moon on the 3rd, encouraging you to speak life into your dreams! There could be cause for celebrating a recent win that affirms how much it pays off to just be yourself. On the 4th, Mercury enters Leo, enticing your wanderlust that much more. If you're dealing with travel restrictions, you may find a little relief in getting lost in travel blogs or TV shows that give you a little taste of culture and adventure. A few days later, Venus moves into Cancer, inviting you into deeper levels of intimacy within your connections. You deserve softness, Saggie. Let other people take care of you, too.
On the 15th, Uranus goes retrograde which could cause some sudden changes in your daily routines (but you're not one to complain about switching things up). This could be just the shift that you needed to reinvigorate your drive. Your health and wellness also take the front seat during this transit, making this a supportive transit for revolutionizing the way you take care of yourself. The New Moon on the 18th is a great time to start writing that book, organizing that workshop, or looking into options to further your education. On the 18th, Mercury enters Virgo followed by the Sun a few days later, making your career the center of your focus over the next few weeks. It's time to buckle down and handle your responsibilities like a boss. More success and influence is coming towards you. All you have to do is meet it halfway.
Capricorn
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The Full Moon at the beginning of the month helps you break through any financial barriers by providing you with the perfect strategy for increasing your flow of abundance. It's not just about the money you make but HOW you're making the money. With the Moon in Aquarius, it's important to prioritize authentic ways of aligning with wealth. What do you actually enjoy doing that you can make a profit from? On the 4th, Mercury enters Leo which could be triggering some soft spots related to your confidence and ego. Owning up to your insecurities can actually lessen the effects of them. A few days later, Venus moves into Cancer to sweeten up your relationships. Just make sure you're available to receive the love being offered to you.
On the 15th, Uranus goes retrograde, stirring up some changes in your dating life and creative expression. If you're suddenly overcome with the burning desire to hire an acting coach, learn photography, or invest in some new sketchpads and pencils, go for it! Your inner child needs some attention from you. What your parents may have not been able to do for you in the past is something you have the ability to do for yourself now. The New Moon on the 18th is a great time to apply for a loan or to reconsider that offer from that sugar daddy that's been hanging out in your DMs. On the 20th, Mercury enters Virgo and the Sun follows behind on the 22nd, making it a good time to expand your knowledge through going back to school, attending seminars, or reading books to sharpen your expertise.
Aquarius
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The spotlight is on you at the beginning of the month, thanks to the Full Moon in your sign. This lunation could have you feeling on edge especially if you've been repressing some emotions lately. Remember—"The truth shall set you free." Communication may be even more difficult once Mercury enters Leo but try to look at any uncomfortable moments as opportunities to grow. On the 7th, Venus invites you to adjust your routine if you've been feeling overwhelmed. Sometimes less is more. Say "no" to any invitations that don't feel like a complete "yes". Get into some gentle forms of exercise to soothe any anxiety.
Be mindful of squabbles with family, roommates, or a landlord around the Quarter Moon on the 11th. On the 15th, Uranus goes retrograde, bringing some changes to your household dynamic. A sudden relocation may be on the horizon for some while others of you are breaking through the chains of your family's expectations to create a life that you can be happy with. The New Moon on the 18th has you signing your name on the dotted line for your new condo, work contract, or business partnership. When it comes to romance, talks of the next level of commitment may be on the table. On the 20th, Mercury enters Virgo followed by the Sun on the 25th, bringing your attention to intimacy blockages. How are you overthinking your way out of getting close to others?
Pisces
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August kicks off with a Full Moon enlivening your dream world with the clues you need to actualize a long-term vision of yours. You could even receive intuitive insights about who will play a key role in helping your manifest your dreams into reality. On the 4th, Mercury enters Leo, motivating you to get your eating habits and body into shape. Luck is on your side when Venus enters Cancer where she'll be sweetening up your world with an abundance of romance and creative inspiration. You could even be making some extra money from a project you've recently launched.
Around the middle of the month, Uranus goes retrograde, encouraging you to speak your mind. Oftentimes, you're a little too considerate of other people's emotions to the point that you water down your truth. This transit will challenge you to let people know how you really feel and what matters most to you. On the 18th, the New Moon invites you to make some changes in your routine or work environment that cultivate more adventure and creativity in your busy (and boring) schedule. On the 20th, Mercury moves into Virgo with the Sun following behind. Important conversations about your close relationships and business partnerships are on the table. It's time to address what isn't working in the connection or detox it out of your life entirely.
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We have less than 40 days left in 2024, and while I'm not one to rush goals just because it's the end of the year, it can be fun to challenge yourself to think about ways you'll close out this year big.
Whether you're planning to meet a certain financial or fitness goal, or you're simply trying to maintain and build on the progress you made this year, having something to look forward to is always a good look. Setting actual goals, according to research, actually leads to more success than just playing things by ear. So here are a few to get you started, sis:
(Disclaimer: Not everything is for everyone, so do like my Granny always says: "Eat the meat. Spit out the bone." Take on five out of the 40 and focus on that for the remainder of the year, or do them all. Either way, this is just to get you started.)
40 Ways To End The Year Strong and Inspired
Money Moves
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1. Increase your retirement (or other savings/investment) contributions by 1%.
Experts have found that you could be leaving money on the table by not upping your contributions when you can.
2. Cancel two to five subscriptions.
You could be missing hundreds, even thousands, of dollars a year due to sneaky price hikes and "updates."
3. Create a "fun" in a high-yield savings account.
This is especially important if you struggle with the dreaded b-word (budget) and will make next year's efforts a lot less intimidating. Even if it's $10 a month, do it.
4. Put on your big-girl panties, and set up automatic transfers and payments for at least one bill.
It reduces the stress of managing bills, lessens the chance of a missed payment---and the fees that come with that---and there can be cost savings for doing so.
5. Invest in a cleaner or housekeeping service.
Bosses who value their time (and mental health) invest their dollars into areas where the time they'd spend doing those tasks themselves could be better used to focus on other money-making projects. (And yes, rest is part of that.) Get a housekeeper, sis, or drop off that laundry, even if it's once per month.
6. Donate to a charity.
Beyond the tax benefits, it's a win-win for the greater good of communities you care about.
7. Review your insurance policies and negotiate a better rate (or move on) before their end dates.
Experts often agree this is a small but mighty step to take each year, especially since insurance rates are competitive, you could be spending more money than you need to (or not enough) and your insurance rates can affect your mortgage payments.
8. Call your loan provider and refinance.
As interest rates fall, “millions of borrowers may be able to refinance and get more affordable payments. As interest rates eased down to 6.5%, about 2.5 million borrowers could already refinance and save at least 75 basis points (0.75%) on their interest rate,” the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau reports. You can also refinance student and other types of loans.
9. Stop buying individual items and stock up via going bulk.
Research has found that, among 30 common products, buying in bulk could save you 27% compared with buying in lower quantities. Water, paper products, and baby products like diapers, toiletries, and garbage bags are the top items where people see the most cost-effectiveness. (This has been a lifesaver for me—children, large family, or not—especially when it comes to toothpaste, deodorant, toilet paper, and feminine hygiene products, saving stress, time, and money.)
10. Go cash-only for the holidays.
If you set smart goals and stick to limits on things like gifts, going out to eat, or groceries, you'll see the benefits of this. Cash-stuffing is one method recommended, but something as simple as taking a $10 bill out for lunch, disabling that card for an hour, and leaving your card in a safe place at the office can give you that mindset jump start to see how far you can take your money without the need to splurge.
Love And Romance
11. Say "no."
There are clear mental and physical health benefits to saying no including the setting of healthy boundaries, creating time and energy for other self-care activities, and protecting yourself from physically harmful situations (i.e. unprotected sex or abuse). Just say it, clearly and simply, when you need to.
12. Set a fun, free, adults-only date night for once a week or twice a month with your spouse.
If busy, high-profile folk have touted the success of this, even you can make the time for quality time with your partner. And it's even better when it costs nothing. The best connections are made doing something chill, challenging, or outside the usual dinner-and-a-movie date. Play a game that allows you to reconnect, take a walk in your neighborhood to chat and laugh, or try a little erotic chocolate/edible liquid/paint episode a la Mea Culpa.
13. Go out with Mr. or Ms. "Not My Type."
I love my man, but if I were waiting out for my "type" at the time, we wouldn't be celebrating seven (going on eight) years together. Sometimes having strict, unrealistic expectations for a spouse (especially related to things like height, physical features, or career path) is what's keeping you alone and lonely.
Take the pressure off and explore all your options. I'm not telling you to stop popping the balloon on the guy who earns $20,000 less than you if that's a hard no that Jesus himself told you to skip. I'm asking you to explore other options and see what else God might have out there for your love journey.
14. Immediately apologize and pray together.
I've learned that always being "right" isn't always ideal when you truly care about someone and you're in a relationship for the long haul. Defaulting to an apology when necessary, even when things aren't 100% resolved, is a good way to prioritize peace and save your energy for more worthwhile battles. Research has even supported the benefits of apologies in relationships, and how couples married for five or more years do it often.
15. Get a Rose and discover true self-love.
Do I really have to explain this? You've gotta know what satisfies you, and how better to figure that out than to practice self-love in the bed by yourself? You can also try this with a partner, but as a woman who got on this train very much later in my sexual activity journey. I have a lot more learning to do on my own, and even in a satisfying relationship, I like to find out new things about myself, by myself.
Figure out what you're into, watch what you want to watch, and read what you want to read to define pleasure for yourself. There's a freedom and empowering element there especially if you're used to prioritizing pleasing your partner.
16. Be direct and have the "money talk" with bae.
Money issues are one of the leading causes of divorce, so you need to have those conversations before you even think about marrying someone. And true, nobody can predict the future so you won't be able to avoid some challenges altogether, however, talking with your potential spouse about how they view money, their spending habits, and the pain points in terms of their approach to money management can at least give you a glimpse into what's in store if you do walk down the aisle, move in with them, or decide to share a bank account/business/child with them.
17. Invest in the "paid" version of that dating app.
I know plenty of successful, married folk who did this and met "the one" as a result. Let's be honest: The free version is for playing around. I had a lot of fun with my "free" profile back in the day, trust me. Upgrade that photo, profile, and package, and see if the quality of your dating adventures changes when you're serious about finding a true partner. Dating coaches and matchmakers cosign this.
18. Solo travel to meet that long-distance connection.
Sometimes, your perfect match isn't within 100 miles of you, and that's okay. Make it an adventure, enjoy the memories, and book that ticket. I met my man this way and it's been a whirlwind escape ever since. If you're not comfortable traveling solo, travel or (network to plan travel) with a group via Facebook.
Career And Business
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19. Schedule coffee or virtual meetups with smart people from your graduating class, previous employer, or current employer.
I have gotten many freelance opportunities by doing this. It's as simple as connecting and offering value (or simply learning how you can better equip yourself to do so.) It's also a great way to expand your network, spark new friendships, or find out about new job opportunities.
20. Invest in a well-made suit.
I don't care what industry you're in, a suit says "power," and it's not as old-school or out-of-style as you'd think. Plus the whole experience of looking for a new one (or getting one tailored) is fun and affirming. Try these options. I swear, anytime I wear a blazer, I'm treated like a celebrity or boss, especially when traveling. I was once upgraded to first-class wearing a yellow blazer outfit, and the airline professional literally said, "You look like somebody important. Here you go."
21. Volunteer for a worthwhile project or cause that's important to your company.
If you're overworked and underappreciated, skip this one, but if you truly have the time, love what you do, and want to advance, this move is clutch. Volunteering for extra projects got me where I am today in media because I had foresight, and knew that was the only way at the time to leverage relationships, and I was able to challenge myself to learn skills that 20 years later are still bankable. That VP you can't get a meeting with will be at that gala your company is planning, so join that committee, sis.
22. Write down why you deserve a raise and ask for it in your next one-on-one.
Gather those receipts (ie sales increase numbers, KPIs met, deals closed, people acquired via recruitment, the impact of systems updates, or other tangible success metrics) and ask for that raise before the first or second-quarter budgets are being finalized.
23. Instead of quitting, write down your exit plan.
While revenge quitting is set to be a thing next year (and maybe you're among those who will be leading the trend), try the better boss move and quit with a real plan.
24. Start automatically separating that estimated self-employed quarterly tax estimate.
If you have side hustles (or you're collecting 1099 income,) baby, you do not want to neglect those quarter tax payments. Talk to a professional, do your research, and set up automatic transfers to an account specifically for paying these at the appropriate due dates.
25. Sign up for a free one- to 11-week course related to your industry—or the industry you want to be in next year.
Institutions like Harvard University and platforms like Coursera offer free courses that can enhance your skills. You can also invest in certificate courses with accredited colleges as well as tech training.
26. Hit "Easy Apply" for 10 dream jobs listed on LinkedIn.
While you shouldn't solely rely on this when actively job-seeking, using this convenient LinkedIn option is a great way to get into the habit of applying for positions. And if you're already employed, you should still be "dating" other employers if you're looking to make a move in the next six months. Keep your interview skills sharp, practice toughening up for the "nos," and get a bit of an ego boost in the process.
Self-Care And Wellness
27. Pre-schedule three month's worth of massages.
Oftentimes this is cost-effective since some spas offer deals for multiple bookings. Also, it makes an act of self-care deliberate and important, not an option. When you get that reminder call, you'll know it's real.
28. Fire that therapist and try another one.
Cultural competency in mental health support is one major problem that can hinder Black women from even bothering with therapy. And who wants the added stress of spending multiple, paid sessions explaining why something is a microaggression? Cut the cord and move on to try someone else, either via a Black women therapists channel or recommendations from others.
29. Join a small group at church.
Bedside service ain't gonna cut it and neither is going to the usual Sunday service. Join a smaller group and upgrade your efforts to connect, network, and elevate spiritually. Even if virtually, take a step to dig a bit deeper with more targeted Bible study and discussions.
30. Say no, even to loved ones.
This is on here twice, for a reason. Saying no is the simplest, most powerful micro-action you can take today to make 2025 better. No explanations. No guilt. Say no.
31. Choose one "luxury" beauty product for skincare and stick to it.
This was trending big on social, especially for millennials hitting their 40s. There's just something so freeing about not giving in to every trend and sticking to the basics that work, especially when there are quality, healthy ingredients involved. Put those orders on auto-renew.
32. Sign up for a new sport or fitness class just for fun, not for results.
It's great to be on a weight-loss or weight-lifting journey, but try something just for the fun of it. Switch things up with a couple of these fitness activities.
33. Book a staycation.
Leave the passport at home and explore a nearby community or another town in your state. There's so much enrichment in your own backyard right here in the U.S., and you don't even have to break the bank.
34. Pre-schedule your mammograms, Pap smear, and peri-menopause checkups for next year.
Take control of your health by pre-scheduling essential appointments like mammograms, Pap smears, and peri-menopause check-ups for 2025. Prioritizing these screenings early ensures you stay on top of your wellness and make time for self-care in the new year.
35. Cut off support of beauty and wellness professionals whose customer service is below standard.
This is another one that many Black women have been vocal about—from unrealistic pre-appointment requirements, to booking fees, to long waits, to unsavory in-salon experiences. Spot the red flags early, and just stop accommodating foolishness. Support salons or experienced stylists who are kind, have proper systems in place and value your time.
36. Schedule five to 10-minute moments of silence on your calendar.
Again, wellness is not optional, and if it's not on my calendar, it's not official. Sit quietly. Pray. Meditate. Or do nothing. The benefits of silent moments are almost endless.
37. Download a meditation app.
If you've found that meditation is difficult to schedule or to even start, an app can help. Try this, this, or this one, and take that step to embrace something new to enhance your wellness routine. If you're tired of downloading apps, create a playlist for meditation via Amazon Music or Spotify and schedule a reminder to do it once a day or week.
38. Invest in a healthy meal prep or delivery service.
Time is emotionally expensive, so save as much of it as possible. Getting into meal prep to keep to your goals is a great way to save time, stress, and effort. The health benefits of meal prepping have also been proven via research.
39. Create a positive playlist on Spotify, Amazon Music, YouTube, or other streaming platform.
It can be podcasts, music, affirmations, or somatic sounds. It's a game-changer. You can even set an alarm to wake you up to start your day with the positive playlist. Not into creating your own? There are plenty to choose from with a quick search.
40. Set up reminders for Alexa (Siri or other AI) to remind you, "You are loved," and "You are okay."
This simple effort can boost your endorphins and remind you that you're indeed, not alone, and you will be okay, regardless. To set mine up, I simply commanded, "Alexa, remind me everyday 'Jesus loves me,'" and like clockwork she does. She almost scared the ish out of me one day when I'd forgotten the reminder was active, but it was the reminder I needed when anxiety had gotten the best of me that week.
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One thing about Black women: we gone switch that hair up. And it’s the holidays so we are also going to add some razzle-dazzle.
This guide offers a curated collection of holiday hair and beauty inspirations designed to celebrate the diversity and beauty of Black women, emphasizing elegance, versatility, and creative expression. Each style suggestion embraces natural textures, protective elements, and statement-making glamour, ensuring you shine brightly throughout the festivities.
Here's a roundup of holiday hair and glam ideas tailored for Black women, focusing on elegance, versatility, and creativity. Each style embraces natural textures, protective styling, and statement-making glam.
Holiday Hairstyle Ideas:
- Natural Hair: Embrace your natural curls, coils, and kinks with festive updos, twist-outs, braid-outs, or wash-and-go styles adorned with jeweled hair accessories, metallic headbands, or shimmering hair tinsel.
- Protective Styles: Opt for stylish and low-maintenance options like box braids, cornrows, Senegalese twists, faux locs, or crochet braids, incorporating festive elements like colored hair extensions, metallic cuffs, or decorative beads.
- Wigs & Weaves: Experiment with versatile and glamorous wigs and weaves in various textures, lengths, and colors, adding holiday flair with curls, waves, sleek styles, or statement-making hair accessories.
Holiday Glam Makeup Tips:
- Bold Lips: Make a statement with vibrant red, berry, or metallic lipstick shades that complement your skin tone and outfit.a
- Shimmering Eyes: Enhance your eyes with shimmering eyeshadows, metallic eyeliner, or glitter accents for a festive glow.
- Flawless Skin: Achieve a radiant complexion with a flawless foundation, subtle contouring, and a touch of highlighter.
- Statement Lashes: Accentuate your eyes with dramatic false lashes or a generous coat of mascara for added allure.
These suggestions are a starting point for your holiday hair and beauty journey. Feel free to personalize each look, experiment with different techniques, and express your unique style. The most important thing is to have fun and celebrate the magic that is you!
1. Stacked Bantu Knots
Raimonda Kulikauskiene/Getty Images
Hair:
- Bantu knots with loose, defined curls framing the face.
- Add gold or metallic hair cuffs for festive flair.
Glam:
- Glittery gold or copper eyeshadow.
- Bold red lip for a classic holiday vibe.
2. Sleek and Sophisticated
Ryan Destiny
Getty Images
Hair:
- Straight middle part or side part with layered waves and a high-gloss finish.
- Optional: Add crystal hair pins for extra sparkle.
Glam:
- Cat-eye liner paired with nude glossy lips.
- Soft bronzed cheeks for a warm glow.
3. Holiday Halo
Ciara
Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images
Hair:
- A textured halo braid with faux locs or braiding hair for volume.
- Decorate with small ornaments or pearls for a whimsical touch.
Glam:
- Smokey eye with silver shimmer accents.
- Dark berry lipstick for a bold statement.
4. Textured Top Knot
Ari Lennox
Gilbert Carrasquillo/Getty Images
Hair:
- High knot with natural texture or extensions for volume.
- Wrap the base with a velvet ribbon or festive scarf.
Glam:
- Metallic lids in emerald or sapphire shades.
- Subtle highlighter on cheekbones and nose.
5. Hollywood Waves
Jodie Turner-Smith
Amy Sussman/Getty Images
Hair:
- Classic finger waves or soft, voluminous curls for a vintage look.
- Use clip-ins or bundles for added length and fullness.
Glam:
- Winged eyeliner with lashes for drama.
- Crimson lipstick for timeless elegance.
6. Braided Beauty
Rihanna
Samir Hussein/WireImage
Hair:
- Fulani-inspired braids with gold beads or strings.
- Finish with a low bun or leave braids flowing.
Glam:
- Shimmery eyeshadow in gold or bronze.
- Glossy lips with a hint of sparkle.
7. Afro Chic
AJ Odudu
JB Lacroix/WireImage
Hair:
- Fluffed-out afro with metallic accessories.
- Secure with a decorative headband.
Glam:
- Dewy skin with a subtle blush.
- A soft pink lip for contrast.
8. Retro Glam Ponytail
Tia Mowry
Anna Webber/Getty Images
Hair:
- Sleek, high ponytail with flipped ends or added curls.
- Wrap the ponytail base with rhinestones or silk.
Glam:
- Bold eyeliner with graphic shapes.
- Matte lips in a deep plum shade.
9. Goddess Locs
Meagan Good
Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images
Hair:
- Bohemian-inspired locs with curly ends.
- Add holiday sparkle with silver or gold accents.
Glam:
- Bronzed eye makeup with a glossy finish.
- Warm nude lipstick with overlined edges.
Hair:
- Stranded twists styled into an intricate updo or bun.
- Secure with jeweled pins or barrettes.
Glam:
- Rose gold eyeshadow with natural lashes.
- Soft mauve lipstick for a delicate finish.
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Featured image by Getty Images