

De-Stress & De-Clutter: How To Get Your Work Life Together
Whenever many of us think about spring cleaning, we're likely to address everything but our work lives. But just as it's important to change out those winter coats for spring jackets or organize all those hoarded thrift finds that have multiplied in your spare room's closet (or is that just me?), it's a good idea to clear out the stress, clutter, and disorganization in your work life.
Here are a few things I've done over the years to get on the right track and really bring in a new season of winning, empowered and refreshed:
1. Do a digital detox.
And no, this isn't about fasting from scrolling Instagram for a month. This is all about bulk-deleting those 300 sent e-mails that you no longer need to keep track of. It's about going into your Google inbox and getting rid of all 21,000 of those social media notifications. It's unsubscribing to newsletters that you rarely read (or don't need to be reading during work hours). It's emptying out your digital trash and feeling okay with the fact that you'll never see that old proof-that-I-finished-my-part-of-that-project e-mail you kept from a year ago.
It's about finally printing out the dozens of photos you took on that trip to Mexico two years ago. Delete numbers, photos, and apps from your phone and computers that you no longer use (or want to use). Organize those random files on your desktop into folders and only keep things that are current or super-important to the job that you do.
Since I'm the ultimate e-mail and digital file hoarder, I often do this process in small chunks---a few tasks at a time, over weeks---so that I don't overwhelm myself. Also, if there are files that you just can't part with (especially the large ones taking up space in your inbox or on your computer's hard drive), put them in a Dropbox, Google Drive, or other online file-storage option, invest in an external hard drive, or get a USB stick. Be sure to name files accordingly and utilize organizational tools like folders and bookmarks.
2. Set up automated tasks.
For example, I've found that using email templates is very useful for quickly inputting responses or copy that I repetitively have to type to do the work I do. If I need to send an invoice, I have a template for it, and I can schedule them to go out at the appropriate time. Even for corporate gifting, holiday greetings, correspondences with new writers, client onboarding, scheduling appointments, submitting reports, or other managerial things, I've found ways to automate certain tasks so that I have more time on my hands to focus on the creative aspects of my job.
If you can automate (or schedule) anything, set those up as ahead of time as possible using platforms like Calendly, Asana, or Hubspot. You can even automate your social posts, and it's not the formulaic, restrictive process it used to be.
Anything that you do every day, month, quarter, or year that is a routine that hardly ever changes much should be automated, as it will literally make your workday that much easier.
3. Upgrade your office space with small touches of joy.
For me, this means adding comfort, color, and great memories. I find that when the space I'm working in reflects vibes that make me feel happy, I'm more likely to be productive. Also, since I'm quite tall and work in front of a computer for 80% of my day, I have to be comfortable, so my desk, chair, and other amenities have to accommodate me.
I always keep photos of my family and accomplishments around wherever I'm working (even if it's just my computer's screensaver), something that's in a bright, vivid hue on my desk (like a candle, mug, or picture frame) and an ergonomic desk setup.
If I have to throw out, return, or donate a chair or desk simply because it's no longer comfortable or practical for me, I unapologetically do, no matter when or where I bought it.
I'm also a minimalist when it comes to my office space, as I don't like a lot of books, knickknacks, and other items lingering around that don't have a purpose. Figure out what office vibe and style allows you to work at your best in your office, and if something doesn't align with that, make the necessary adjustments.
4. Do an assessment of your professional life, passions, and goals.
You can liken this to how many who help people get a handle on their closets often start by asking them to assess what clothing they already have in them. Well, in this case, you'd need to just check in with yourself in terms of your current work-life outlook, the things you like about it, what you'd like to achieve in the season that you're in, and what you don't like about any of it. This is helpful because oftentimes, at the core of work-related clutter (both mentally and physically) is a lack of insight into where you are professionally and where you'd like to be. Many of the moves I make in my career start with that---down to the smallest work-related tasks and how I approach completing them.
You don't have to have all the answers, but it's a good idea to at least sit and write a few things down. Write down the processes that stress you out the most and possible solutions. Take some time to find out what type of optimal environment you work best in and how you contribute to the culture of that environment (if at all). What do you love about the everyday things you do at work? What do you dislike? Are there ways of communicating, project management, systems management, or technology processes that could make things easier or more challenging?
There are also online assessments to help you figure out more about how you can maximize your potential at work.
5. Get some help.
Decluttering and purging anything can be quite exhausting and mentally draining, so getting help in the areas where you need it is key.
For the digital detox, for example, I had to seek out someone who knows more about how to streamline things in a way that made sense to me, especially since I handle a lot of documents, emails, and image files that I don't like to get rid of.
Talk with an IT colleague, that one smart, always-organized friend, or even a coach to get the assistance you need for spring-cleaning aspects of your work life that you find challenging to address on your own. By taking things one step at a time and moving forward with a positive goal of shifting the energy in your favor, you'll find solutions that work for you.
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Virgos are a sign of the mind. So, when you are looking at the love life and compatibility of a Virgo, you must start there. A Virgo’s heart is in their head, and they try to make decisions in love that are practical, well-thought-out, and that make sense to them. They love just as deeply as any other sign, but they also know that keeping their head on their shoulders will keep them out of trouble.
A Virgo wants a partner who is going to make life less stressful for them, and that only adds positively to their life. They will not commit to just anyone, and Virgo intellectualizes everything.
Yes, everything, including their relationships. They are known for their high standards, but this energy is matched by the dedication, loyalty, and thoughtfulness they bring into their relationships. There is a lot of thought that goes into who Virgo forms relationships with, and if you have caught the eye of a Virgo, you should feel special because that is no small feat.
Virgo Compatibility and Best Matches for Love
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Virgo’s compatibility is unique because, at the end of the day, Virgo is a mutable sign, and they are always shifting and changing themselves. They value certain traditions in relationships, but they are also more progressive in how they go about things and who they attract. Virgos are looking for a partner who is intelligent, inspiring, and stable. They are the type of people to easily get the ick, so if you are interested in a Virgo, make sure you have it together before approaching them.
Virgo doesn’t have a hard time saying no, and they may have a lot of “no’s” before they find their person.
Once Virgo is in love and finds their person, however, it’s like a light has been sparked in them. A Virgo in a relationship brings out a whole different side of this earth sign, and when they feel safe enough to relax and just love, be and give, they are at their best.
Virgos are always there for their loved ones, they are smart, sexy, and they make great partners to have.
VIRGO + ARIES
Virgo and Aries are attracted to each other almost immediately. There is a fun, childlike wonder they both have when they are together, and they have a lot of insight to bring to the relationship. However, these two are often challenging each other as well. Aries wants to break down Virgo’s walls but may do so in a way that turns Virgo off. Virgo wants to keep up with Aries' energy levels and free-spirit nature, but Aries may find Virgo too wishy-washy to commit to.
Virgo and Aries see each other in very different ways than most others see them, and it’s hard to tell if they are absolutely in love with each other or if they secretly despise each other. If they can learn to work together rather than divide, then this relationship can bring a lot of abundance to each other’s lives.
VIRGO + TAURUS
Virgo and Taurus are a sweet couple. They are very enamored with each other, and they form a dedicated, loyal, and loving relationship. Virgo doesn’t have to try hard to win the affection of Taurus. The Virgo senses that they are accepted and loved by Taurus just as they are, and this is beautiful for Virgo. Taurus feels Virgo is strong, hilarious, and loving. Taurus admires Virgo's loyalty and the effort they put into their life and their relationships and wants to form a bond here.
The great thing about earth/earth sign relationships is that they get to know each other better than most, and they feel safe in each other’s presence. Their energy in the bedroom is magnetic, and they are often dancing in sync with each other. However, if a betrayal happens or trust is lost, this will be the detriment of the relationship in the long term.
VIRGO + GEMINI
This is a curious, exciting, and intense relationship. Gemini inspires Virgo but can also deeply trigger this earth sign through impulsiveness and irrationality. Gemini and Virgo are both ruled by Mercury, the planet of the mind. There is open communication in this relationship which is the couple’s strong point, but for Virgo, a lot of this tends to lead to overthinking. Gemini doesn’t make sense to Virgo, and Virgo doesn’t like when they can’t make sense of something.
Gemini doesn’t sense this from Virgo and just wants to have a conversation with the mind of someone who is so intriguing and unusual to them. Their openness mentally and in the bedroom are what fuels this relationship, but there may not be enough compatibility and stability here in the long run. The relationship between Virgo and Gemini is often better as a friendship or business relationship at the end of the day.
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VIRGO + CANCER
Virgo and Cancer form a loving and sweet relationship. Cancer is instantly intrigued by Virgo and finds them endearing. Virgo can sense Cancer’s attraction toward them right away and want to learn more about this mysterious water sign. Virgo is interested in Cancer’s emotional world and learns a lot from Cancer about their own emotions. Although Cancer’s heart may feel too overpowering for Virgo’s rational mind and Virgo too analytical for Cancer’s openness, this usually isn’t a dealbreaker for them.
This is a relationship that is in it for the long term, and it often just works. What they both provide or want to provide in the relationship fits with one another, and this is a relationship that continues to get better with time. They are both best friends and lovers, and if they live together, their home would be clean, safe, and comfortable.
VIRGO + LEO
This is a passionate, rejuvenating relationship. Virgo and Leo are royalty, and when they come together, they exude this type of regalness and empowerment. They are both highly self-aware individuals, and where Leo expands energy, Virgo creates it. Virgo loves to be needed and valued, and Leo wants to be admired and adored. Virgo feels purposeful in this relationship as their attention to detail, dedication, and genuine acts of service are all acknowledged by Leo.
Leo feels like they are truly being seen in this relationship, as they feel Virgo’s keen eye and attentive love.
The only downfall of this connection is that Leo needs to lead, and Virgo doesn’t choose between leading or following but absolutely doesn’t prefer the latter. Virgo isn’t as submissive as Leo may assume at first, and perspectives and egos can clash here. If these two are looking for a power couple in life, however, this could definitely be it.
VIRGO + VIRGO
Virgo and Virgo are an odd yet beautiful couple. Virgos are one of the only signs who respect their own sign but aren’t necessarily attracted to the energy as well. No two Virgos are exactly alike, and although Virgos will see the similarities between each other, they will also feel like their own weaknesses are being highlighted in the process, and this is an uncomfortable mirror of a relationship.
Virgos love to make sense of things, yet are very hard to make sense of. In a relationship where both signs are mutable, it can be hard to stabilize the energy and grasp what is going on or commit. They will have funny banter and intellectual conversations and will tend to each other’s needs but may feel like something is missing between the connection at the end of the day.
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VIRGO + LIBRA
Virgo and Libra don’t seem fitting at first until you dive a little deeper. Virgo and Libra uniquely understand each other. Libra highlights Virgo’s beauty and wants them to recognize more of their inner confidence and self-assurance. Virgo helps Libra think rationally and make decisions that benefit rather than create more drama. The problem, however, is that they may start to feel that they are stepping on each other’s toes.
Neither sign is too confrontational, and this relationship can be filled with a lot of beating around the bush and passive-aggressiveness. When they’re sweet together, they’re sweet. When things aren’t going well, they may go too low and hurt one another. This relationship has a lot of potential, but work will need to be done to make sure things don’t end in heartbreak here.
VIRGO + SCORPIO
Virgo and Scorpio are a match made in heaven, most of the time. No relationship is perfect, but it comes pretty close for both of them. They are both very intuitive, loving, and perceptive individuals, and they bring a lot of the same energy into the relationship. They have a genuine connection they don’t have to fake or work too hard to obtain, and these two love to spend time together and be in each other’s company.
Virgo and Scorpio are a lot alike, but they have enough differences to keep things exciting and help each other learn and grow as well.
The love between the two is felt right away, and you often see Virgo and Scorpio pairings in close family and friend relationships, as well as long-term romantic couples. There is a safeness felt in this relationship, and if they are both in a healthy, evolved stage in life, this relationship is like magic for both of them.
VIRGO + SAGITTARIUS
This couple isn’t one you see often, and when you do see it, you can tell how out-of-the-ordinary, yet so fitting, this relationship is. Think Beyoncé and Jay-Z; this is a great example of a Virgo and Sagittarius relationship. It works because Sagittarius opens up a new world to Virgo and brings out their fun side. They help Virgo not take things too seriously, and this is a couple who knows how to have fun together.
Sagittarius is inspired by Virgo as well. Being a philosophical sign, they admire Virgo’s intellect and belief systems, seeing Virgo as someone who at times, is a little uptight but also respects their stature and the way they handle themselves. This isn’t an easy, compatible relationship, but if they are willing to work together and learn about each other, it can work out.
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VIRGO + CAPRICORN
Virgo and Capricorn are soulmates. This is a relationship where they naturally get each other, and they flow in sync with one another. There is a special bond between a Virgo and a Capricorn, and this bond usually lasts long term. Neither sign gives too much energy into things they don’t think are going anywhere, and with each other, they give a lot. There is something to say about earth, and earth sign relationships, however, things can get stale or stagnant after a while.
The comfort they feel between each other is unforgettable, however, their similarities may be their downfall unless they aren’t actively growing as individuals and in the relationship as well. All this relationship needs is some extra spice, fun times, and more emotional openness with each other, and it has all the chances of making it down the aisle if that is what they are both looking for.
VIRGO + AQUARIUS
Virgo and Aquarius have a mental connection more than anything. They get where each other is coming from, and with the high intellect they both have, this relationship is full of conversation, laughter, and friendship. Aquarius values a mental connection the most in their relationships, which is why they are often very intrigued with Virgos.
Virgo, however, tends to need more than Aquarius is willing to give emotionally.
Virgo needs alone time and handles emotions more rationally, as does an Aquarius, but Virgo is more sensitive to matters of the heart and does need more reassurance here. This pairing may be better off as friends unless they can bridge the gap between each other that is deeply felt.
VIRGO + PISCES
Virgo and Pisces have a unique relationship full of magic, dreams, and also some tough lessons. They are sister signs, meaning these two are on the exact opposite sides of the zodiac wheel, and they have a special kind of relationship. They are basically everything the other is not. They go together like yin and yang, but they can also deeply trigger each other as well due to the opposition. The positives of this relationship are that they are both givers and they are intuitive of each other's needs.
Virgo and Pisces are both very selfless and compassionate in their relationships, and they give each other this type of understanding and attentiveness in love. There is something genuine about the connection between this pair that makes you believe in the impossible.
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