At the top of the month, we find Saturn dipping back into Capricorn to revisit some themes surrounding the structure of our government and our relationship with authority. On the 5th, we've got the final Full Moon Lunar eclipse closing out the Capricorn/Cancer eclipses, making this a good time to reflect on how you've improved your approach to work-life balance. Our beloved Mercury (*rolls eyes*) finally goes direct on the 12th, shortly followed by a rare phenomenon—a double New Moon in Cancer on the 20th (the first one took place on June 21st)—making this a good time to review previously set goals. The Sun enters dazzling Leo on the 22nd, sprinkling a little extra confidence onto us to boldly move our plans forward to claim the success we deserve.
Check out how the cosmos affects your sign this month!
Aries
Laci Jordan for xoNecoleIn the beginning of the month, you'll find Saturn retrograding back into Capricorn, giving you a chance to reevaluate your career moves and redefine what success means to you. The Pluto and Jupiter conjunction encourages you to push past your fears to boldly step into your mission which may be going through some major changes at this time. On the 5th, the Full Moon Lunar Eclipse illuminates your path ahead as your public image is on the rise. Don't be afraid to say goodbye to any endeavors that you've outgrown as you continue to go through your metamorphosis.
Between the 7th and the 9th, Mercury and Mars are squaring off in the sky. Be mindful of butting heads with family members as you figure out what you really want outside of their expectations of you. Speak your piece but try not to be an asshole about it. On the 11th, Chiron begins its retrograde in your sign, bringing unresolved identity issues to the surface. It's time to consider where your true motivations lie that don't revolve around seeking validation from others. Mercury goes direct the next day, making it a good time to push your plans forward in regards to home renovations, relocation, and family planning. On the 22nd, the Sun enters Leo, inviting you to express your creativity in bold new ways.
Taurus
Laci Jordan for xoNecoleThe month opens up with Saturn dipping back into Capricorn, giving the the chance to reassess your faith. The truth can be subjective to our personal experiences so be flexible when it comes to redefining what matters to you most at this time in your life. The Pluto/Jupiter conjunction encourages you to be open-minded as you reconstruct a new perspective of the world around you. The Full Moon Lunar Eclipse on the 5th allows you to release outdated beliefs regarding the social, political, and religious ideas. If you're a writer, this energy is super supportive in helping you get your work published on a larger platform.
On the 11th, Chiron begins its retrograde through Aries which is setting you free from past life experiences that contribute to a fear of rejection for being your true self. It's time to separate yourself from the pack as an individual with your own needs, desires, and goals in mind. Mercury goes direct on the 12th, making it a great time to take a road trip to the nearest beach. On the 20th, the New Moon in Cancer invites you to recommit to your self-care in ways that empower you to express your deeper emotions through written or verbal communication. Your journal is your best friend during this time. The Sun officially enters Leo on the 22nd, bringing your attention to home and family matters. This is a good time to get into some DIY projects and to turn that humble abode into a lavish palace fit for a queen.
Gemini
Laci Jordan for xoNecoleThe month kicks off with Saturn dipping back into Capricorn, giving you the chance to reassess how you've been managing your power. Maybe you've been exerting too much control over situations or allowing others to have too much power over you. If you have any outstanding debts, now is the time to get on a payment plan to work towards your financial freedom. On the 5th, the Full Moon Lunar Eclipse illuminates a traumatic experience you've gone through but trust that when the darkness comes to the light, healing can be found. On the 11th, Chiron goes retrograde, allowing you to tend to old rejection wounds that have resulted in a social anxiety or a fear of making new friends. Your tribe is waiting on you to embrace those quirky qualities that make you the dope ass person that you are.
On the 12th, your ruling planet goes direct, moving money matters forward for you and renewing a sense of confidence in yourself after you've taken the time to nurture self-esteem. Between the 12th and 13th, the Sun and Neptune meet up in the sky, heightening your sense of optimism and magical events unfolding around you. The New Moon on the 20th invites you to set intentions for how you want to go about making money in ways that are fulfilling to your soul. Reconsider any old beliefs that require you to sacrifice your happiness and well-being for the almighty dollar. On the 22nd, the Sun enters Leo, making you a busy-body with your creative projects during the next month. On the 26th, Venus squares off with Neptune for a few days, reminding you to stay realistic about your career goals. Things may not take off overnight but slow motion is better than no motion.
Cancer
Laci Jordan for xoNecoleThe beginning of the month draws your attention to your relationship as Saturn dips back into Capricorn, making it a good time to reassess your boundaries and expectations. The Full Moon Lunar Eclipse on the 5th also highlights this area as well which could have you reconsidering whether a relationship needs to end or go to the next love. Mercury and Mars square off from the 7th-9th, resulting in a bit of friction between you and an authority figure. The pressure is on, baby. Can you stand the heat? On the 11th, Chiron goes retrograde, inviting you to reflect on past experiences in which you gave up your sense of identity to fall in line with what others' vision of success was for you.
Mercury goes direct on the 12th, accelerating your personal interactions with others and sharpening your mind as well. Use this energy to study, write, or teach others about something you're an expert on. Around the same time, the Sun trines Neptune, inspiring you to push beyond your intellectual and spiritual boundaries. You're at one with your Higher Self and the wisdom you gain can be shared on a wider platform through a book, blog, or podcast. On the 20th, you get the gift of a second New Moon in your sign, inviting you to assert yourself more confidently in the world. Come on out of that shell, my love. The Sun officially enters Leo on the 22nd, shifting your attention to using your creative gifts for financial gain. This fiery energy will give you all the confidence you need to boldly tap in.
Leo
Laci Jordan for xoNecoleAt the beginning of the month, your focus is shifting to readjusting your boundaries with work and your physical health. Try to find a better balance that enables you to get to the money and also get in a few workouts on a weekly basis. On the 5th, the Full Moon Lunar Eclipse can reveal the root of any health concerns, leading you to make changes in your diet and routines. Between the 7th and 9th, Mercury and Mars square off, encouraging you to slow down when it comes to your reactions. Someone around you may feel like they know best—particularly when it comes to your spiritual journey. Choose your battles wisely in defending your own beliefs as it may not even be worth your energy.
On the 11th, Chiron goes retrograde, giving you the opportunity to release any fears about walking your own spiritual path—however different it may be from the status quo. Mercury goes direct the next day, making you more confident in the messages you're receiving from the spiritual realm. Your mantra? I am my own guru. The New Moon on the 20th initiates you deeper into your spiritual growth through your connection with your ancestors. It's time to get that altar set up and don't forget your offerings! On the 22nd, your birthday season officially begins, giving you a boost of energy and showering you with all of the attention you deserve.
Virgo
Laci Jordan for xoNecoleJuly begins with Saturn dipping back into Capricorn, inviting you to redefine your relationship with your creativity and inner child. This may also be a time in which you reassert your boundaries in dating so you can actually align with the kind of relationship you desire. When Jupiter and Pluto meet up in the sky, you can transform some of those painful love lessons into wisdom that can be shared through your creative medium of choice. Who knows? You could be sitting on the self-love anthem of the year. On the 11th, Chiron goes retrograde, inviting you to reclaim your sexuality in a way that feels right for you which involves you reassessing various taboos about this very natural aspect of life.
The next day, Mercury goes direct, making you more clear about the friendships you want to nurture more moving into this next season of your life. You'll likely find yourself prioritizing more emotionally nurturing connections at this time. On the 20th, the New Moon has you open to exploring new friendships that align with your mission of offering healing to the collective in some shape or form. As the Sun moves into Leo on the 22nd, you may notice your energy levels wane as you focus more on rest and self-care in preparation for your solar return next month.
Libra
Laci Jordan for xoNecoleOn the 1st of the month, Saturn dips back into Capricorn to continue its retrograde which invites you to reassess your boundaries with your family and home matters. This is a good time to restructure your routine by prioritizing more discipline in your life—especially if you're working from home. You may also need to chat with your roommate to work out any kinks regarding your interactions with one another and household responsibilities. On the 5th, the Full Moon Lunar Eclipse can suggest a relocation on the horizon if you've outgrown the space or people you live with. Mercury and Mars will link up between the 7th and 9th, encouraging you to be mindful of your reactions with bae, a business partner, and your social network. Take a deep breath and count to ten to ensure that you communicate from a more thoughtful space.
Chiron, the wounded healer, goes retrograde on the 11th, helping you sift through identity issues and ways that you enmesh with others—specifically in committed relationships. It's important that you still maintain a sense of autonomy even within your partnerships. On the 12th, Mercury goes direct, helping you get clear about your career trajectory and how you can heal, support, and nurture others in the work that you do. The New Moon on the 20th brings about a new opportunity that allows you to put these skills to the test. On the 22nd, the Sun enters Leo, making you the center of attention, and a valuable source of inspiration, for your friends. When you dream big, you motivate others to do so as well.
Scorpio
Laci Jordan for xoNecoleThe month kicks off with Saturn retrograde moving back into Capricorn which is helping you get more centered in your thought process. When we talk about boundaries, we usually think of asserting them in response to other people but the attention is more so on you during this transit. How do you overstep your own boundaries by engaging in self-talk that is not beneficial for you? The Full Moon Lunar Eclipse on the 5th will expose the more critical side of yourself that needs to be uprooted for you to embrace the power of your imperfections with more grace. On the 11th, Chiron goes retrograde, giving you the chance to heal any harmful ways you've identified with your physical body due to the projections of other people's standards.
Mercury goes direct on the 12th, making this a great time to get your work published, teach a workshop, or mentor someone who looks up to you. Your ancestors are working through you at this time so make sure you're sharing the wisdom you're receiving. When the Sun and Neptune meet up around the 12th and 13th, you're feeling super creative and in your feels, making this a good time to go on a romantic getaway or even plan something Rona-friendly at home. The New Moon on the 22nd may be calling you on a spiritual pilgrimage or cultural exchange that allows you to experience connectedness to your fellow human beings. When the Sun enters Leo on the 22nd, your motivation is to make some career moves that can catapult you into the spotlight.
Sagittarius
Laci Jordan for xoNecoleJuly begins with Saturn retrograde dipping back into Capricorn, making it a good time for you to reassess your money management habits as well as your values. What does a prosperous life look like to you and is it solely based upon your material assets? On the 5th, the Full Moon Lunar Eclipse illuminates some problem areas that you need to rectify which could involve paying off debt or asserting boundaries between you and someone that you share your financial resources with. On the 11th, Chiron goes retrograde, inviting you to address your inner child wounds that make you feel like you need to fit in with the crowd to be accepted. By doing so, you'll experience a breakthrough of creative energy that allows you to boldly express yourself moving forward.
On the 11th, Mercury goes direct, making you curious about exploring the mysteries of life and of others, as well as your desire to go beneath the surface is intensified. The New Moon on the 20th, could mark a transformational time in which you commit to bettering your psychological wellness through therapy or spirituality. On the 22nd, the Sun enters Leo, motivating you to absorb as much wisdom as possible through seminars, books, and even a mentor. You could even find yourself in a teaching position as you use your life experiences to inspire those around you. When Venus and Neptune square off between the 26th and 27th, be realistic when it comes to your expectations about love. You may be in for a reality check as you get more clear about the direction a partnership is headed in.
Capricorn
Laci Jordan for xoNecoleThe beginning of the month centers around you as your ruling planet, Saturn, dips back into your sign in the midst of its retrograde. Re-examine what, and who, really matters to you as you readjust your boundaries with your work, health, and relationships. On the 5th, the Full Moon Lunar Eclipse has you feeling the need to revamp your image or personality. How would you like to present yourself in the world a little differently? Between the 7th and 9th, Mercury and Mars square off which could result in some family drama or tension with a roommate. Pause, take a deep breath, and count to ten before you respond.
On the 11th, Chiron goes retrograde, encouraging you to address emotional wounds that make you feel like the black sheep of the family. Reframe your perspective by considering the leadership role you're meant to fulfill in healing generational trauma and ushering a better way forward. Mercury goes direct on the 12th, helping you smooth out any friction with bae or your business partner. Embrace a softer approach to these connections to help them blossom into deeper levels of intimacy. On the 20th, the New Moon helps you (re)establish a commitment making this a great time to renew your vows, tie the knot, or say "yes" to that amazing business proposition. When the Sun enters Leo on the 22nd, you are irresistible and horny af. Whether you're booed up or single, prioritize sexual pleasure in the month ahead.
Aquarius
Laci Jordan for xoNecoleThe month begins with Saturn retrograde moving back into Capricorn, inviting you to face those skeletons in your closet related to control issues, authority figures, and excessive materialism. The Full Moon Lunar Eclipse on the 5th encourages you to find the balance between your work and your home life making it a good time to prioritize your rest and spiritual practices that keep you grounded. On the 11th, Chiron goes retrograde giving you the chance to heal any anxiety related to being criticized by others for being different in comparison to the status quo.
Mercury, the messenger, goes direct on the 12th, encouraging you to prioritize more nurturing activities in your daily routine that can benefit your physical and mental wellness. On the 20th, the New Moon invites you to explore different ways you can nurture yourself and others through acts of service, your diet, and your exercise routine. This could be a great time to get an emotional support pet if you've been feeling a little lonely. When the Sun enters Leo on the 22nd, you're bossing up with an amazing business partnership and maybe even a generous lover ready to shower you with all of the attention you deserve.
Pisces
Laci Jordan for xoNecoleJuly kicks off with Saturn retrograde transiting back into Capricorn, giving you a chance to redefine your boundaries with friends as well as your efforts made towards some of those longer-term goals of yours. Rome wasn't built overnight. Take the small, consistent steps towards your goals and you're bound to experience success in due time. On the 5th, the Full Moon Lunar Eclipse invites you to expand your social circle by letting go of the dead weight and embracing new connections. You'll also get clear on which relationships actually just need a little more of your time and energy for them to fully flourish.
On the 11th, Chiron goes retrograde, encouraging you to embrace your own values and release any resentment you have towards those who rejected you for asserting your own individuality. By no means are you anyone to just follow along with the crowd so take pride in that regardless of what other people think. Mercury officially goes direct the next day, helping you smooth out things with a romantic interest. This is also a good time to nurture your inner child so you can tap into your creative genius. The New Moon on the 20th invites you to enroll in those dance classes, record that song, or paint that masterpiece. When the Sun enters Leo, you'll be focused on improving your health and your daily routines so they support the momentum you're building up towards accomplishing your dreams.
Featured image by Laci Jordan for xoNecole
RELATED
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
Riska/Getty Images
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
Riska/Getty Images
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.
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Featured image by
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.
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Featured image by Getty Images