How Vice President Kamala Harris Is Revitalizing The 2024 Presidential Election
The night is Thursday, and the evening sky crumbles into a harmonious fusion of yellow and crimson. I and many others scurry out of a mansion on the West Side of Chicago, where we watched an intimate candlelight quartet performance, a tribute to Tracy Chapman.
I called a Lyft and smiled to myself as I thought about the wonderful birthday gift I had been given. Though, the thought was short-lived when I noticed the time. It was about to begin soon, and this bubbly feeling--this sense of relaxation--would inevitably dissipate in the presence of my "civic responsibility." My biggest annoyance.
I put on my headphones and climbed into the car that abruptly stopped in front of me. It's June 27. As I take a deep breath, I join the millions of viewers who are displeased, thwarted, and possibly haunted by what November holds and what the next four years could become. We don't want either candidate and after twenty minutes of listening to the first debate of this year's presidential election, I finally feel the sting of its doubled edge. It was a mess. Trump lied the entire time and claimed a yesteryear none of us ever saw. Biden couldn't complete a thought, which confirmed Robert Hur's assessment of him as an "elderly man with a poor memory."
We were--as the kids would say---"cooked."
From there on, every discussion on the election was more dreadful than the last. Every appearance Biden and Trump made was more debilitating than the other. Trump made fun of Biden's age. Biden called Ukraine's president "President Putin" and Trump his VP. Trump was almost assassinated and called it "divine intervention." The Republicans cheered for their "inevitable" win. The Democrats began infighting and called for a redo that many weren't sure they'd ever see. And in the midst of all of this, the American people--myself included--just grew... enervated.
A month had passed, and this indefatigable election barely had an ounce of life left to live, and it continuously asked for more with every news report. At this time, millions of Americans began considering their roles in the upcoming election. Many refused to give it any more energy, which included their vote. They hadn't been listening anyway.
That is, until they did. After years of being starved for another option, a candidate arose from the ashes of her predecessor. And although it wasn't (isn't) pretty, Vice President Kamala Harris' ascent has started looking like the green light at the end of the lake. Instead of enduring weeks of discord and egocentrism, Americans have been urged to come together and cooperate to obtain a shared common goal. Harris arrived on the presidential walkway with her hand held out and many were so broken and bent, it seemed the inevitable option.
Like a call to the chants of former President Barack Obama's 2008 "Yes We Can," Harris has encouraged Americans to find unity in the Divided States of America. This revival has many people displaying a more optimistic outlook towards the 2024 election.
Though the road in the final 100 days won't be easy, Harris has given many people cause for optimism over what the next four years can be. With the chances of her becoming the first female president who is Black and Asian, the country that once began embracing inclusion, diversity, and progression may return.
At an Indianapolis event in late July, Harris spoke to members of the historically Black sorority Zeta Phi Beta, saying, "In this moment, I believe we face a choice between two different visions for our nation: one focused on the past. And I am fighting for the future of our country with your support."
Here's how she plans to do that:
Inspiring the Young Voter
Democratic presidential candidate, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris speaks onstage at her campaign rally at the Georgia State Convocation Center on July 30, 2024, in Atlanta, Georgia.
Julia Beverly/Getty Images
In 2020, the Biden-Harris campaign was known for inspiring young voters and voters of color. So much so, that young voters and Black voters were seen as the biggest contributors to Biden's presidential win. However, in 2024, this reality had quickly become inverted. Despite the fact that most of his policies catered to young voters, Biden found it difficult to connect with them, and this issue only persisted as the months continued to drag on. Instead of inspiring young voters to run to the polls, his campaign was thought to inspire young voters to "remain on the couch."
Nevertheless, since Harris has taken over the campaign, she has seen a spark in young voters that Biden and Trump have struggled to ignite since announcing their reelection bids. Voter registration has increased immensely since Harris entered the race, and according to the NYT/Siena College poll, Harris leads Trump by nearly 20 points among registered voters under 30.
In Harris' virtual address to the Voters of Tomorrow summit, Harris claimed, “In this election, we know young voters will be key, and we know your vote cannot be taken for granted. It must be earned, and that is exactly what we will do."
Using Meme and Gen Z Culture
Speaking of inspiring the young voter, Harris' campaign seems to focus on Generation Z, specifically. After Biden's withdrawal from the campaign, his TikTok account shifted to Harris, and upon announcing her candidacy, the number of followers rose from 440,000 to 2.7 million. As a result, many young voters have started engaging with the campaign in a more positive manner.
Starting with British pop star Charli XCX, Harris blew up on social media when the icon coined "Kamala IS brat," a reference to her music's carefree nature and being your own authentic self. As a result, the campaign embraced the title and created videos that leaned into a more insouciant, awkward, and exuberant Harris, which has bemused media commentators, yet reinvigorated young voters.
@kamalaharris Thought it was about time to join!
Groups like The Sunrise Movement and NextGen America have noted an increase in volunteers eager to assist with community outreach and an increase in community and campaign communications, respectively. Harris spent two weeks as a viral, internet sensation, showing up on multiple timelines and stories with her coconut tree memes and viral video edits set to Chappell Roan's "Femininomenon" or Beyoncé's "Freedom." Her social media accounts -- including her personal account, which gained 4 million followers--have received 70 million engagements, with nearly 55 million views on TikTok.
Not to mention, Harris has received several endorsements from celebrities and icons like Barack and Michelle Obama, Rosie O'Donnell, Shonda Rhimes, Cardi B, Megan Thee Stallion, Barbra Streisand, George Clooney, Jeff Bridges, Janelle Monáe, John Legend, Carol King, Kerry Washington, and more, gaining some of their follower support.
Looking Towards the Future
Since 2016, Donald Trump has gained popularity by calling on the grievances of others, who remember the yesteryears fondly. With his slogan "Make America Great Again," he denied the kinder more inclusive vision of the United States, established by Obama's presidential terms. Instead, he welcomed a more divisive and backward-looking motto that purposefully pushed aside the idea of diversity, civility, and progress.
As a result, the nation has regressed in legislation and inclusive thinking, creating more conflict and division among American citizens as the years continue. Nevertheless, Harris' presidential campaign calls for more unity and inclusion among the American people.
Unlike Trump's regressive slogan, Harris looks towards the future and its endless possibilities, should we work together. Claiming determinedly that "we are not going back," Harris challenges the American people to begin working together for the greater good.
In her more inclusive, unifying, and advancing slogan, "Together, we can win this!" Harris encourages us to see the future in a more positive, collaborative light. In focusing on abortion, the economy, consumer debt, health care, climate, police funding, and immigration, Harris challenges the American people to begin to work together to ensure we thrive as a community.
Representing the People
During her campaign rally in Atlanta, GA, U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock introduced Vice President Harris as a representative of the American and its infamous reputation of being a melting pot. "Her dad is of Jamaican descent; her mother is of South Asian descent; and then she went to the great Howard University," Warnock says. "Worked in California. Worked in the United States Senate. That is the American story, and she brings all of those strands together. She sees us because, in the real sense, she is all of us. So, we have to send her to the White House."
Since declaring her campaign, Harris' identity has compelled many to discuss the intersectionality and complexities of race and ethnicity in politics, which are sometimes disregarded or overlooked."
Look at my own life, where a daughter of a South Asian mother and a Jamaican father concluded her own interfaith wedding with her husband breaking a glass and everyone yelling, ‘Mazel tov,'" Harris said of her life in a March 2017 speech.As a representative of the people, Harris and her campaign believe that she understands the issues of the American people more than an "other"-especially Trump- because she has experienced many different backgrounds and cultures. In contrast, Trump attempts to place Harris in a box, by seeing her mixed race as duplicitous and deceitful. She continues to defy this perspective by seeing it for what it is: a tool of oppression.
Unlike Trump, "Kamala Harris represents -- demographically -- our current reality: mixed-race individuals, multiracial families, multiracial communities, multiracial friendship groups, multiracial workplaces. That is our current reality," said Ji-Yeon Yuh, an author and professor of history at Northwestern University.
Becoming Multidimensional
Vice President Kamala Harris speaks at the American Federation of Teachers' 88th National Convention on July 25, 2024 in Houston, Texas. The American Federation of Teachers was the first labor union to endorse Harris for president since announcing her campaign.
Montinique Monroe/Getty Images
"You think you just feel out of a coconut tree."
Upon hearing this quote, Republican opposition researchers believed this comment could damage the way many viewed Vice President Kamala Harris. However, instead of this quote appearing embarrassing, the comment won over many, making Harris appear likable for the first time in a long while.
In her previous presidential campaign, Harris' biggest weakness was her inability to connect to the American people. Though she had a moment here and there, she faded into the background because many voters were unsure of what she stood for and truly represented. She was hard to categorize.
This time around though, Harris uses this to her advantage. This time around, she is gradually presenting herself as multidimensional and can appeal to everyone. She can be a courtroom prosecutor who has seen "perpetrators of all kinds. Predators who abused women. Fraudsters who ripped off consumers, who broke the rules for their own gain."
Or she could be the 'little girl in California' who was part of the second class to integrate her public schools. And she was bused to school every day." The person who "loves Venn Diagrams."
Or as "Hard Fork" describes her, this quote makes her seem like one's relative. "It reminds you of your aunt who has had too many wine and starts giggling and saying random phrases. It had goofy aunt energy." Whatever she chooses to be, she wants the American people to know that she can't be put into the box that Trump and other Republicans so desperately want her to be.
Record-Breaking Millions
In recent months, the Democratic campaign saw its finances take a significant hit under Biden's leadership. After his terrible, alarming performance in the June debate, Biden's donors canceled fundraising events and withheld donations to show their disappointment in the Democratic nominee. However, since Harris has taken over the campaign, donations have increased substantially, surpassing Trump's record-breaking fundraising since May.
In July, Harris' campaign raised $310 million. Let me say that differently: Since July 21, major Democratic donors and small-dollar donors have pledged $150 million to Democratic presidential super PACs. Zoom fundraising coalition calls from HBCU organizations, Black sororities and fraternities, and groups like Black Women for Harris, Black Men for Harris, Latinas for Harris, and White Dudes for Harris, raised more than $20 million. First-time donors, the majority from Gen Z and millennial generations, contributed up to $200 each. With the help of other affiliated committees, the Harris campaign has totaled their funds to $377 million.
This amount is more than double the amount reported by the Trump Campaign after he saw an increase in donations since his assassination attempt. This record-breaking sum shows just how much the new presidential candidate has sparked the interest of voters, who originally believed the election to be a waste of time.
Using People-Powered Campaigns to Close Margins against Trump
According to the latest polls, Vice President Kamala Harris has now erased the lead Trump once held in the presidential race. Now in a deadlock, Harris has managed to revitalize the Democratic party with the assistance of women, young, and Black votes. In relation to the battleground states, Harris and Trump are tied, in most cases, though this outcome is the more optimistic one, considering Biden had been behind Trump in these states by five points.
Since Harris' announcement for the presidency, the proportion of Democrats claiming they will "definitely vote" has increased to an all-time high. In this number, a large portion of Black voters have said they plan to vote today, than they had in July when Biden was still running.
Harris leads in the women's vote at 54% to 45% and in two of the battleground states, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. Not only this, she has reduced the percentage of people planning to vote for a third party. Shortening the number from 12% to 5% with 4% of these voters choosing the Democratic party since her nomination.
Fight for Freedom
Democratic presidential candidate, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Democratic vice presidential candidate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz appear on stage together during a campaign event at Girard College on August 6, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Harris ended weeks of speculation about who her running mate would be, selecting the 60-year-old midwestern governor over other candidates.
Andrew Harnik/Getty Images
Since the year started, this election has been shaped as the "Fight for Democracy." With 34 convictions, Project 2025's regressive and oppressive ideals, Trump's desire to take Voting Rights, Women's Rights, individual rights, political revenge, and his vow to be a dictator starting on his "first day back in office," it is hard to disagree with the Democratic's existential rhetoric. Trump is a threat to democracy.
He tried to overturn the 2020 election and continues to assert lies that the election was rigged. He has mentioned his desire to change how we vote, marriage laws, and education, and has leaned more into authoritarian tendencies. If given the presidency again, he will permanently change the fabric of the country and negatively affect generations to come.
“Ours is a fight for the future — and it is a fight for freedom,” Vice President Kamala Harris said. “Do we wanna live in a country of freedom, compassion, and rule of law? Or a country of chaos, fear, and hate?” she asked.
In Harris' "Fight for Freedom," she challenges voters to choose the "freedom to not only get by, but get ahead. The freedom to be protected from gun violence, [and the] freedom to make decisions about your own body." She encourages voters to "choose a future where no child lives in poverty, where we can all afford health care, and no one is above the law." In Harris' "Fight for Freedom," she uplifts voters to come together, "fueled by love of country," and "fight for the best of who we are."
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Taysha Robinson is a writer and high school English teacher, based in metro-Atlanta. A self described philomath, you can find her reading books and articles of every genre, attending educational conferences, and hiking wherever the terrain will allow.
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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Ayesha Curry Shares Her Secrets To Effortless & Elegant Holiday Hosting
Be prepared to wow the crowd.
It’s officially the holiday season, which means parties and gatherings galore. Between Friendsgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve celebrations, many of us are preparing to host loved ones in our homes one or two times between now and the end of the year. No matter the occasion or season, hosting for family and friends is a labor of love. But we can also agree that entertaining can be overwhelming, especially for first-time hosts.
As a seasoned host and entertainer, Ayesha Curry knows something about creating a memorable event for loved ones. Whether preparing for an intimate dinner with your immediate family or hosting a larger crowd, your guests will think you are a pro this holiday season with her tips on everything from welcoming guests to setting a beautiful table.
Q: What is your top tip for hosting?
Ayesha Curry:Part of being a great host is spending time with your guests, which means you can’t be stuck in the kitchen. Prep is key! I usually serve wine with the meal, but a cocktail or mocktail is a great way to greet guests. I prep the garnish the night before and batch the drink just before guests arrive. When the party begins, I pull everything out of the fridge and am ready to serve.
Writer Note: If you would like to offer non-alcoholic beverages for your sober or sober-curious guests, I love Saint Viviana Cab. It maintains full-body cabernet and flavor; no one will ever guess it’s alcohol-free. You can easily create a signature mocktail using Bittermilk’s Smoked Honey Whiskey Sour mix.
Q: Do you suggest any prep for serving or cooking?
AC:I lay out all my serving dishes and utensils the night before with little post-it notes saying what goes where. That way, I’m not digging around for anything. For more elaborate menus, I lay out quarter sheet pans and label them with tape according to the dish. I prep and measure everything for each recipe and then load each sheet pan with everything needed to make the dish. I wrap each tray in saran or foil, stack them, and place them in the fridge. Pull out the sheet pan you need when cooking, and everything is ready. It’s something I learned at the restaurant that saves so much time.
Q: What’s one item that should always be on a dinner party menu?
AC: Bread or roll with butter is excellent for holding guests over if the kitchen is delayed.
Q: What’s one non-menu item you should always have on hand?
AC: For a non-menu item, wine!
Q: How do you decide on a theme or menu for a gathering?
AC: It all starts with the occasion and the guest list. If it’s a group that doesn’t know each other very well, I may get more elaborate with the theme to help break the ice. For a group of friends or family who don’t get to see each other very often, I usually keep it simple so the evening can be all about catching up. A great playlist, good wine, and a family-style menu are all you need.
Q: Should attendees be expected to bring a gift?
AC: If I’m hosting, I’m not expecting gifts. The gift is taking time to come over and enjoy a meal with me! But bringing something to enjoy at the gathering, like a bottle of wine, is always appreciated.
Q: What are three affordable gifts that guests can give a host?
AC:A bag of excellent coffee is a beautiful gift for a host. Sweet July’s House Blend Coffee is sourced from all-female co-ops, so it’s a gift I love to give to the women in my life. Whether it’s being served after dinner or just for the host to enjoy on their own, you can’t go wrong with a bag of high-end coffee.
Fresh flowers are great if you have a host who likes total control over the food and beverage menu. Go for something neutral in color that can work with any décor.
The Sweet July Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar set is my go-to host gift. Bottled in Napa, it’s a gift any foodie will appreciate - and use!
Q: What are some creative tablescape or decor ideas that you love?
AC: I like to keep my dinnerware neutral and classic (like this ceramic collection in nutmeg) and infuse color and texture through linens. For centerpieces, I want to use what I have in my yard. If it’s summer, it might be flowers or greenery, but interesting branches can also look architectural in tall, clear vases next to tapered candles in the colder months. There’s no need to spend a ton of money on flowers.
With Ayesha’s tips, you can create a holiday gathering that your family and friends will cherish forever.
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