There's no coincidence that Gemini season is one of the busiest, social times of the year. The month starts off with a New Moon in Gemini on the 3rd, making this the perfect time to set intentions for new ways to share your truth.
Mercury, the planet of communication, moves into sentimental Cancer on the 4th, bringing a softness to our interactions this month. On the 8th, Venus moves into Gemini, amping up the flirtatious energy. During this transit, it's common to attract more eccentric, carefree connections that bring out your inner wild child. On the 17th, the Full Moon in Sagittarius encourages you to not only be optimistic about your goals but to also take bold action (think of the Knight of Wands in the Tarot).
It's one thing to hope for a better tomorrow but what actions are you taking in the now to align yourself with where (and who) you'd like to be?
Neptune goes retrograde on the 21st for the next several months making this an ideal time to take your spiritual development even further. When Neptune is direct, we tend to take a more idealistic approach to life but when the planet of illusion goes retrograde, our perspective becomes that much more clear. The Sun moves into Cancer on the same day, bringing the collective focus to family, home, and our roots (and also getting us ready for Eclipse season next month). On the 26th, Mercury moves into fierce Leo, making our conversations even more lively and passionate with a side of drama.
Check out your zodiac sign's monthly horoscope below to see what June has in store for you:
Aries
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
The month begins with a New Moon on the 3rd encouraging you to try something new when it comes to communicating your truth. This is a great time to start a new blog, initiate that YouTube channel, or share your thoughts from a more authentic space. On the 4th, Mercury moves into Cancer, making family matters the topic of discussion, whether you're squashing beef with your loved ones or planning to start your own family with your partner. Venus moves into adventurous Gemini on the 8th, which could bring an opportunity to travel with bae or meet someone different than your usual type. Social media dating is favorable during this transit as well as meeting someone at a seminar or conference.
Enjoying what you love is a good way to attract someone on the same wave as you.
On the 17th, the Full Moon in your sister sign, Sagittarius, gives you a much-needed boost of energy as well as a defining breakthrough moment as it pertains to higher learning, publishing, and your spiritual beliefs. This is an opportune time to reveal that project you've been working on. Full Moons can also result in endings, like parting ways with an old spiritual path, philosophy, or mentor that no longer resonates with you. Neptune goes retro on the 21st, encouraging you to dive deeper into your wealth of spiritual wisdom. Your dreams will be even more enhanced providing you with the guidance you seek. The Sun moves into Cancer on the same day making home and family top priority for the next month. June wraps up with Mercury moving into Leo on the 26th, adding even more passion, romance, and adventure to your world.
Taurus
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
June blossoms open with a New Moon in Gemini on the 3rd, inviting you to set intentions for the material gain you'd like to make over the next lunar cycle. Your gift of gab will be a defining factor in your prosperity this month. On the 4th, Mercury moves into Cancer, which softens your connections with siblings, close friends, and neighbors. Taking a trip home is favorable under this transit. Venus, your ruling planet, moves into quirky Gemini on the 8th, which is attracting some unusual romantic candidates into your life. Keeping an open mind can actually land you in a connection, whether romantic or platonic, that brings out your own unique qualities that can give you more of an edge to help advance you financially. On the 17th, the Full Moon in Sagittarius helps you release any unresolved emotional blockages that hinder you from feeling deeply connected to the people in your life.
You may often feel like no one really knows you. Well, here's your chance to finally be seen, heard, and known for all of your beauty and scars.
On the 21st, Neptune goes retrograde, clearing out any illusions you've held around your social circle. This energy can manifest as someone being outed for some shady business but be grateful for revelations that come during this transit that will show you who your real friends are. During this transit, you'll also receive a wake up call about a long-term dream of yours that needs less wishful thinking and more hard work. The Sun moves into empathic Cancer the same day. Much of your interests and conversations over the next month will be about motherhood and your roots. Exploring your ancestry with your siblings can be a great way to bond at this time. The month closes out with Mercury moving into vivacious Leo on the 26th, enlivening your interactions with family making this a perfect time for a summer vacay with the ones you love.
Gemini
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
Happy birthday, Gemmie! Your season has finally arrived and the month kicks off with a New Moon in your sign. You only get one New Moon a year so make the best of this by setting intentions for what you want to experience during this next year around the Sun. Mercury moves into Cancer on the 4th, bringing your focus to money and the practical matters of life. This is also a good time to nurture a new hobby that could potentially bring in additional revenue. On the 8th, Venus moves into your sign, making you the hottest hottie of the zodiac.
The road ahead is paved with good fortune and an overflow of love. On the 17th, the Full Moon in Sagittarius highlights your closest relationships, whether it be your significant other or business partner. This time can mark a completion within one of your connections or simply the need to readjust your boundaries. On the 21st, Neptune goes retrograde for the next several months, clearing the fog around your career path.
If you've been feeling lost when it comes to your life purpose, this transit can help you connect with the deeper truth of who you are and the work that you can do to make the world a better place.
Any issues with authority figures can be squashed during this transit thanks to a change in perspective that offers a clearer view of the dynamic. The Sun moves into Cancer on the same day, which brings your focus to finances and how you make your money. This is a time to reassess how nurturing your work truly is. The month comes to a close with Mercury, planet of communication, moving into Leo on the 26th, making you super popular amongst your local scene. Writing, blogging, and anything that allows you to verbally express your star power is favored at this time.
Cancer
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
The month begins with a New Moon in Gemini on the 3rd bringing your attention to your subconscious, dreams, and endings. Use the energy to release stagnant mental patterns and emotions that are likely tied to past life karma. It's time to reset before your b-day season so leave the baggage behind. On the 4th, Mercury moves into your sign, making you quite the busy bee. As popular as you are during this transit, you may prefer to retreat in the comfort of your home. Venus, planet of love, moves into Gemini on the 8th urging you to take a more private approach to love, making this the perfect "Netflix and Chill" transit. On the 17th, the Full Moon in Sagittarius puts a spotlight on your daily routines, habits, and health. This is an opportune time to ditch bad habits with a fire ritual. Simply write down what you want to release and burn it under the light of the moon.
Neptune goes retro on the 21st up through November giving you the chance to dive deeper into study to refine your personal philosophies and spiritual development. During this transit, connecting with your Higher Self and spirit squad is easier than usual. The Sun moves into your sign on the same day making you the star of the show. Around this time, it's a good idea to start thinking about what you want to accomplish in the year ahead. If you're into rituals, wait until your New Moon in July as this energy is extremely supportive for you. The month closes out with Mercury, planet of communication, moving into Leo on the 26th. Conversation surrounding your finances are likely during this transit. This is a great time to bring hidden talents to the forefront.
Stop sleeping on yourself and resolve those issues surrounding your self-esteem to help you tap into the momentum of this transit. You have the ability to make a strong impression on those around you if you believe in yourself.
Leo
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
Happy June, lioness! The month begins with a New Moon in Gemini on the 3rd, making you even more popular than you already are amongst your friends. You may even consider collaborating towards a common goal with your social circle. On the 4th, Mercury moves into Cancer, making you more aware of subconscious patterns that inhibit you from experiencing the nurturing that you need. Mommy issues are likely to surface. Using your dreams and past life regression can help you get to the root of the issue. Venus moves into charming Gemini on the 8th and one of your friends wants to take things to the next level with you. Of course, it's up to you if you grant them the privilege of exiting the friend zone. On the 17th, the Full Moon in your sister sign, Sagittarius, lights up your dating life. This is a perfect night to get out there if you're open to love.
Your creativity is heightened at this time as well. If you've been working on a project behind the scenes, this is a great moment to release it to the world.
On the 21st, Neptune goes retrograde in your house of shadows, making the next several months all about understanding the hidden parts of your personality. Any traumatic experiences you've endured can be seen through a more enlightened perspective that helps you release the binds within your psyche. The Sun moves into Cancer the same day, slowing down your momentum to get you ready for your birthday season. Don't get ahead of yourself! Enjoy this time to rest, replenish, and reconnect with yourself on a deeper level. The month closes out with Mercury moving into your sign on the 26th. You've got the gift of gab and you're open to sharing your knowledge with others. Keep in mind that with great power comes great responsibility.
Virgo
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
The month begins with a New Moon in Gemini on the 3rd, bringing your focus to career and achievements.
This is the perfect time to set intentions for what the success you want to achieve in the next moon cycle. Honoring your uniqueness will get you further than blending in with the crowd.
On the 4th, Mercury moves into Cancer and you're all about supporting social causes that hit home for you that tie into your long-term vision for your life. Venus, planet of love and money, moves into Gemini on the 8th which can have you eyeing someone in the workplace (or they can be eyeing you). Proceed with caution when mixing business with pleasure. On the 17th, the Full Moon in Sagittarius brings a resolution to family quarrels. You may also consider ending a lease or moving around this time. On the 21st, Neptune goes retrograde, helping you reassess your relationships with others with more clarity.
Any illusions you've built up around a particular partnership will likely dissolve, helping you see the truth of the situation and not just your projections of what you want it to be. The Sun moves into Cancer on the same day and you're more interested in connecting with those that make you feel emotionally safe. You'll likely be in the mood to play the role of nurturer for friends. This is great energy for volunteering with organizations that serve disenfranchised children and women. The month closes with Mercury, your ruling planet, moving into Leo giving you tons of energy but in a more quiet part of your chart associated with the subconscious. Keep a dream journal around this time to help you understand blockages that keep you from shining your star power.
Libra
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
The month begins with a New Moon in your sister sign on the 3rd which is opening up doors for you in areas of travel and higher learning. Get your passport ready, jet-setter! Mercury, planet of communication, moves into Cancer on the 4th, bringing your focus to career and climbing the social ladder. As motivated as you are, it's important to keep your work-life balance in check. On the 8th, Venus moves into Gemini, making you super magnetic. If you're traveling around this time, love is definitely following you wherever you go.
The Full Moon in Sagittarius on the 17th highlights an important conversation that will transform the way you communicate your truth. If you work with the media or writing, this is the perfect time to share what you've been cooking up behind the scenes.
On the 21st, Neptune goes retrograde and the next several months will be spent transforming your inner world as it's related to your health and well-being. This transit is supportive of kicking any bad habits, especially those that affect you mentally and/or physically. The Sun moves into Cancer on the same day giving you the boost that you need to boss up. You're feeling more goal-oriented at this time, so use the energy to check off some things on your to-do list. The month closes out with Mercury moving into Leo on the 26th, making you the center of attention amongst your friends. You could even be in the works of collaborating with your soul tribe to make your impact in the world.
Scorpio
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
Summer is nearing and the month begins with a chatty New Moon in Gemini on the 3rd. Even the most private sign of the zodiac needs to express itself from time to time. Opt for a session with your therapist (or a trusted friend) instead of that bottle of booze. On the 4th, Mercury moves into your sister sign, Cancer, and you're feeling the wanderlust. A trip to the beach can be soothing for your spirit during this transit. This is also a good time to dive deep into research when it comes to spirituality and philosophy. Connecting with a mentor, or teaching others what you know, is favored at this time. On the 8th, Venus moves into Gemini and you're feeling more open when it comes to sharing some of your well-kept secrets. Talking about your trauma, whether with a professional or loved one, can be extremely transformational.
The Full Moon in Sagittarius on the 17th provides a spiritual catharsis surrounding a longstanding issue about your self-worth.
You may decide to sever ties with an employer if your time, effort, and skills aren't being valued. On the 21st, Neptune goes retrograde, helping you gain clarity to areas of romance and dating. Exploring your attachment style and early childhood can refine you spiritually. The Sun moves into Cancer on the same day and you're open to learning through new experiences, places, and cultures. Traveling abroad is favored but just make sure to plan thoroughly as we gear up towards another Mercury retrograde in July. The month closes out with Mercury, planet of travel and communication, bringing your full attention to career matters. You've got potential to make some major moves during this transit. Believe in yourself and turn on your charm!
Sagittarius
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
There's lots of action taking place with the Sun in your opposite sign this month. June begins with a New Moon in Gemini on the 3rd welcoming fresh beginnings when it comes to relationships. You may be meeting someone very special who could play a significant role in your life, whether romantic or platonic. Mercury moves into Cancer on the 4th and you're diving deep into your psyche, possibly with the assistance of a therapist or a trusted friend. Take a nurturing approach to the skeletons that hide in your closet instead of pretending they don't exist. On the 8th, Venus moves into Gemini and love matters are getting serious. This energy could bring in a serious soulmate and some of you may even be tying the knot during this transit.
On the 17th, the Full Moon in your sign frees you up from the chains that bind you in mind, body, and spirit. You are feeling renewed and energized especially if you've been processing some heavy relationship karma.
On the 21st, Neptune goes retrograde for the next several months. You're encouraged to take this time to explore your roots and unravel any generational patterns that are hindering you from evolving into a better version of yourself. We transition into Cancer season on the same day. You're focused on nurturing your closest connections with little to no interest in anything surface-level. Any fears or unresolved emotions surfacing at this time are best dealt with with a compassionate, gentle approach. Oftentimes, what we refer to as our inner demons are simply pieces of us that have gone forgotten and are waiting to be seen and heard.
Capricorn
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
Happy June, Cappie! The month starts off with a sociable New Moon in Gemini on the 3rd encouraging you to start new habits and routines that support your well-being (particularly your nervous system). Mercury moves into your opposite sign on the 4th which can highlight some important conversations with key players in your life. You may find yourself readjusting your boundaries if you're not receiving the nurturing you desire from one of your close connections. On the 8th, Venus moves into Gemini and a potential workplace romance is possible. Just be cautious when mixing business with pleasure. On the 17th, the Full Moon in Sagittarius illuminates the mental and emotional patterns that have been keeping you stuck from expressing your truth.
This energy can be very revealing and if you have any hidden enemies in your midst, you'll know who they are around this time. Pay close attention to your dreams for insight at this time.
On the 21st, Neptune goes retrograde and you'll be undergoing a deep metamorphosis in relation to your communication (not only with others but primarily with self). This is an opportune time to unpack your own personal narrative that doesn't allow you to see the truth of who you are at a soul level. The Sun moves into Cancer on the same day and your relationships take front and center stage during this transit. As we gear up towards eclipse season in July, you'll likely be weeding out connections that are no longer growing you. On the 26th, Mercury moves into Leo, activating a deep craving for soul-stirring connections that embrace all of what you are—both beauty and scars.
Aquarius
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
The month begins with a flirtatious New Moon in your sister sign, Gemini, bringing in fresh beginnings in your dating life. Whether you're single or already coupled, romance is heating up this month as well as your creativity. Starting a new project is favorable at this time. On the 4th, Mercury moves into Cancer, making you super busy at work. Just make sure you don't burn yourself out especially if you work in a care provider or healing profession. You can't pour from an empty cup! On the 8th, Venus moves into Gemini and your personal magnetism is out of the world. But, hey, you're an Aquarius, so if anyone can draw people in with their unique, quirky ways, it's you.
On the 17th, the Full Moon in Sagittarius lights up your social circle, making this a great night to connect with new and old friends alike. Sometimes this energy can result in severed ties if a connection to a group no longer aligns with your path. Let go with grace and love knowing that your tribe awaits you!
On the 21st, Neptune goes retrograde for the next several months. This is an opportune time to explore your beliefs related to money and material possessions. It's time to transform that lack consciousness into one of abundance. If you haven't been seeing your worth very clearly, this transit can help clear out emotional residue that's tampering with your self-esteem. The Sun moves into Cancer on the same day with your health and well-being taking precedence. Get that annual check up, try a detox, or get back to your fitness routine to keep yourself balanced. The month closes out with Mercury moving into Leo on the 26th, bringing up important conversations with key players in your life. Expect your relationships to be nothing less than entertaining during this transit. Easy on the drama though!
Pisces
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
Welcome to June, Pisces! The month takes off with a New Moon in Gemini on the 3rd, bringing your focus to family and home. You may be moving to a new place at this time or expanding your family. On the 4th, Mercury moves into your sister sign, Cancer, making things steamy in the romance department. The cosmos is brewing with fertility for you, so if you want to have a child, this is a great time to start planning. If you're not interested in kids, connecting with your inner child is equally as important for your creative expression and healing at this time.
Venus, the planet of love and money, moves into Gemini on the 8th. New opportunities that allow you to work from home can come about. When it comes to love, you may be more interested in pillow talk than date nights.
On the 17th, the Full Moon in Sagittarius brings a peak experience related to career. Good news worth celebrating may be revealed around this time. Get ready to take things up a notch with this newfound success and leadership you're coming in to. If you're in a dead-end job, this energy can mark the finale as you venture off towards a better opportunity. Neptune goes retrograde on the 21st, which clears up a lot of shit for you. Whether you've been aimlessly wandering through life or skeptical about a relationship, this transit will help you get to the truth of the matter. The Sun moves into Cancer on the same day and you're feeling charged up. You've spent enough time indoors so get out there and engage with the world again. Many adventures await you if you're open to them.
The month winds down with Mercury moving into Leo on the 26th making you super busy at work. Your hard work will not go unnoticed during this transit so don't be afraid to shine!
Featured image by Laci Jordan for xoNecole
Want more stories like this? Sign up for our newsletter here to receive our latest articles and news straight to your inbox.
- june Horoscope - june 2019 Monthly Horoscope ›
- Leo Monthly Astrology Horoscope June 2019 - YouTube ›
- June Horoscope - June 2019 Monthly Horoscope ›
- Get your Free for June 2019 Horoscope ›
- June 2019 horoscopes for every star sign ›
- June 2019 Monthly Horoscope for all zodiac signs ›
- Monthly Horoscopes 2019-2020 For Each Zodiac Sign ›
- June 2019 monthly horoscope ›
- June 2019 Monthly Horoscope Predictions For All | SunSigns.Org ›
- Your June 2019 Monthly Horoscope ›
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
Keeping that in mind, to me, things like mani/pedis, facials, and body waxes absolutely do not qualify because, although they can be relaxing (well, maybe not the waxes but…), you still need them to look your best — and, from where I sit, I think that is a form of maintenance.
And so, when it comes to my own maintenance routine, if there is one thing that my waxer knows, it’s the fact that she is gonna see me, like clockwork, when it comes to my eyebrows and…down below. And by clockwork, I mean about every three weeks or so (more on why later on). And since that commitment isn’t the cheapest thing in the world, I have definitely done my due diligence by looking up ways that I can make my waxes last for as long as they possibly can.
If you’re also a faithful waxer, you’re on a budget and you’d like to know how to get at least a few more days out of your own wax appointments, here are 10 tips that are actually pretty effective.
10 Tips to Make Your Wax Last Longer
Getty Images
1. The Wax Needs to Be High-Quality
If you’ve never really thought about the kind of wax that your waxer uses, now is as good of a time as any to check out Byrdie’s “The 7 Types of Waxes Used for Hair Removal, Explained by Estheticians” for some insight. Believe you me, I’ve learned the hard way that the type as well as quality of wax can make all of the difference in the world if you want your waxes to last longer. That’s why you shouldn’t feel the least bit uncomfortable with asking your waxer about the ingredients that go into their wax products along with the name of the brand so that you can look up reviews on your own (if you wish).
Another tip? Pay attention to the consistency of the wax as it’s being applied to your body. It should be smooth, creamy, and not super runny; if it is, that means that the wax has overheated and will not perform as well.
2. Use Oil-Free Products (Afterwards)
One pre-wax hack that I will forever sing from every rooftop is to make sure that you apply a thin coat of some type of carrier oil before heading off to your appointment; it makes removing the wax a lot more comfortable (for the record, my oil of choice is plum oil). However, after your appointment, it’s best to use oil-free products on your skin. The logic on this is oil can easily get trapped in your hair follicles and lead to ingrown hairs. And so, if you want your wax to last longer, less oil (on your waxed areas) is best.
Getty Images
3. Moisturize the Area(s)
Okay, so before you go to your wax appointment, your skin needs to be well-hydrated. The main reason why is that, if it’s too dry, the wax may not grab hold of your hairs as well as it should and that could cause the hairs to break off which results in you not having as smooth of a wax as you would like. Now, the reason why you need to keep moisturizing your skin after your wax is because it will help to nourish your skin which reduces post-wax irritation.
Plus, it will keep your waxed spots looking and feeling nice and smooth for a much longer period of time. By the way, a water-based moisturizer is typically best.
4. Exfoliate Twice a Week
Something that I definitely had to learn the hard way is how critically important it is to exfoliate my skin in order to preserve my waxes. The method behind the madness here is that is what helps to prevent ingrown hairs in between your wax appointments; plus, exfoliating can also decrease your chances of having breakouts if that is something that you are prone to (especially when it comes to your bikini area).
If you’re wondering how “deep” you need to go with this tip, honestly, washing that area with some exfoliating gloves will do the trick (sometimes loofahs and body brushes are too harsh).
Unsplash
5. Avoid Shaving in Between Sessions
Something tempting that I have to avoid when it comes to the hair on my body is not using my bomb Billie razor in-between visits. For one thing, if I’m in a rush and I’m not really paying attention, the way that I shave could lead to ingrown hairs. Not only that but since hair needs to be a certain length at the time of a wax appointment (more on that in just a moment), shaving a few days before a session could prove to be a waste of money if there isn’t enough hair for the waxer to grasp in the first place.
6. Try Some Cyperus Essential Oil
Something else that you might want to consider doing is mixing some curcuma aeruginosa oil with a carrier oil like grapeseed, coconut or jojoba and applying it to the parts of your body where you want to see less hair growth. The reason why is because curcuma (a component that is found in turmeric, by the way) has been proven to weaken hair roots and slow down hair growth over time when used consistently.
7. Make Sure You’ve Got Some “Length” Before Your Next Session
Aight, remember how I said a second ago that your hair needs to have some length on it before getting it waxed off? That’s because the wax needs something to actually “grab” to remove. So, how long should your hairs be? Somewhere between 1/8” and 1/4” is ideal. And just how long does that take? Eh, typically about a month to five weeks — although I go about every three weeks, especially since biotin has become a part of my life. Hair is growing faster which is a blessing when it comes to the hair on top of my head and annoying when it comes to the hair that is everywhere else. #ohwell
8. Don't DIY It
Even though I’m gonna forever be that gal who is looking for ways to keep some extra coins in my pocket, if there is one area where I will always make an exception, it’s when it comes to hair removal. Between knowing which wax is best, how to remove the most hair the quickest, and how to do it in the most painless way possible, the experts are gonna trump me every time.
Plus, going the DIY route could actually result in your skin getting irritated and you not losing as many hairs as you’d prefer. Although the cost of a wax appointment really does vary, for perspective, you should be able to get a good Brazilian wax for under 60 bucks (before the tip and please do tip). Is that cheap? No. Is it still worth it to leave things up to the professionals, though? Always.
Getty Images
9. Consider Sugaring
It took the country shutting down for me to even consider the wax removal process known as sugaring, I must say. For me, what happened was, as we started to get out of lockdown, the place where I used to get waxed was still closed and so I decided to try a business that offered sugaring as an option out. Even though I’m back mostly with wax, I still think sugaring is a bomb option because 1) the ingredients are more natural (or should be; inquire about that beforehand); 2) to me, the hair removal process is less uncomfortable, and 3) if you sugar consistently, it will significantly reduce the area where you “sugar” over time.
In fact, there is a certain area where I get waxed that I have my waxer follow that spot up with a bit of sugaring too. My skin always feels softer whenever she does.
10. Stay Consistent
Even though sugaring probably weakens hair quicker, if you get regular waxing appointments, the same thing can happen. That’s one benefit of being consistent. Another is that seeing a professional waxer can help to reduce skin irritation, potential hyperpigmentation and, if you decide that you want to switch up certain spots (check out “Yep. Pubic Hair Has Trends (And Specific Needs) Too.”), they can do it while still keeping your skin in great condition.
____
Now, if you do everything that I said, will it earn you another month’s worth of time? Probably not. Yet when I’ve been faithful and diligent, it has given me about a week more — which can mean all of the difference in the world between paydays, chile. So, why have you got to lose? Give these tips a shot. They are the wax hacks that just might change your (wallet’s) life!
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 katleho Seisa/Getty Images