As we wrap up the launch year of the OWA Full Circle Mentorship Program , we’re proud to celebrate a year defined by connection, growth, and the power of women supporting women. What began as a vision at the 2023 OWA Unplugged Retreat has transformed into a vibrant mentorship initiative making a measurable impact across the optical industry. An Engaged Community: Over 30% Participation One of the most energizing outcomes from our first year is the tremendous level of member engagement. More than 30% of the entire OWA membership participated in the program —an incredible testament to our community’s desire to learn, support, and grow together. This enthusiasm reflects the strength of the OWA culture and the shared commitment to lifting one another up. Structured Support Across Three Career Stages The Full Circle program was intentionally designed to meet members where they are by focusing on three key career stages : early career, mid-career, and late career . Each stage brings unique insights and challenges, and our programming ensured that members found relevant support regardless of where they stand in their professional journey. This year’s offerings included: Mentor Talks  geared to early, mid, and late-career topics—providing actionable guidance, inspiration, and real-world strategies. Speed Networking events  that helped members make new connections, expand their professional circles, and share diverse perspectives. A One-on-One mentoring program , matching Mentors and Mentees for personalized support tailored to career stage and goals. Building Relationships That Matter The Full Circle Mentorship Program brought together women from across the industry —some new to the field and exploring their paths, others seasoned leaders eager to share their experiences. The gatherings encouraged honest dialogue, strategic career thinking, and supportive connections that often extended well beyond the scheduled sessions. Participants consistently shared how powerful it was to have space for genuine conversations, guidance, and encouragement within a framework built expressly for women in optical. A Fun, Rewarding, and Impactful Year While the program offered structure and strategy, one theme came up repeatedly from participants: it was fun . Events were lively, conversations were energizing, and the sense of community made it easy for members to show up authentically. We learned so much in this first year — what resonated, what to grow, and how to continue offering a program that is both meaningful and enjoyable. A Strong Foundation for Year Two and Beyond This first year marks both a milestone and the starting point for what comes next. With strong engagement, clear demand, and valuable lessons learned, the program is poised to expand and strengthen in Year Two. More opportunities, more connections, and more ways to support women in optical are already in development. Our mission remains steadfast: to foster a thriving, empowered community where women can support, inspire, and elevate one another. Thank You to Everyone Who Took Part A heartfelt thank-you to the dedicated Full Circle Mentorship sub-Committee, whose creativity, leadership, and commitment shaped this successful launch year: Kristen Tischler, Jackie Janiec, Sarah Beth Mayton, Emilia Flamini, Karen Michaelson, and Co-Leads, Linda Laube and Carla D’Angelo. Your passion and collaboration brought this program to life — full circle. Here’s to Year One — impactful, energizing, and community-driven. And here’s to an even brighter Year Two. Written by: Linda Laube

Did your Barbie ice cream shop come complete with detailed receipts? From the earliest days, there was genuine, personal delight in exploring the world of work. Understanding what adults were doing and why was endlessly fascinating. Designing merchandising materials, helping prepare orders and imagining the customers who would receive them created an early sense of pride and curiosity. So did small opportunities to help at home, learning what relatives were responsible for and how they got things done. Work felt human, relational and full of possibility. That intrigue was shaped by family experience. Both of my grandfathers and my father built careers in professional wholesale — each deeply committed to enduring relationships. Customers became trusted partners and, over time, authentic friends. There was satisfaction in doing what it took to earn trust, differentiating through consistency and showing up reliably over time. Watching those relationships take shape reinforced an early understanding that meaningful work is built through care, accountability and camaraderie. When the pandemic arrived and the world pivoted almost overnight, work changed in ways few could have imagined. The familiar rhythms of offices, hallway conversations, and preparing for in-person meetings disappeared. While remote work had existed on the periphery, a true work-from-anywhere reality was not something for which many had planned. Five years later, we recognize that some of the most meaningful outcomes have been the ones least expected. And just as remote work reshaped how and where work happens, the rise of AI is reshaping how work gets done. Conversations at home now include not only meetings and collaboration, but also how tools like AI are supporting thinking, creativity, and efficiency. It has opened the door to discussions about learning how to ask better questions, staying curious and viewing technology not as a replacement for people, but as a partner in doing better work. One of those outcomes has been the opportunity to offer children a clearer window into the world of work. With two teens at home, career exposure has become part of everyday life. They proudly share with friends that there are conversations at the dinner table about what work looks like, why it matters and how much it is genuinely enjoyed. They hear the language of business, observe preparation for meetings and interviews and notice the care that goes into supporting team members and helping to resolve challenges. Seeing through that unique lens has shaped how they think about professional effort, learning mindedness and possibility. Just as importantly, exposure teaches discernment. Seeing work up close helps young people understand not only what excites them, but also what may not be their calling. That awareness is powerful. It creates space to explore interests thoughtfully, rather than defaulting to assumptions, cultural expectations, or titles. Over time, those observations help clarify what brings energy and what is less inspiring, long before formal career decisions are required. Working remotely has also made it possible to approach the complex mission of blending work and life with greater flexibility. It has allowed for presence, adaptability, and intentionality in ways that were harder to access before. Offering a glimpse into work reinforces a modern work ethic that includes accountability and ownership, creativity and collaboration, genuine relationships with colleagues and responsibility that is not tied to a physical building. Work is no longer defined by where it happens, but by how it is approached. This has become a new way of thinking about family business. As children have grown, careers have evolved, roles have expanded and passion for eye care and people leadership has deepened. Work has not been something kept separate, but something shared thoughtfully and appropriately, allowing interest to grow alongside professional development. After working with hundreds of students over more than two decades, one truth remains clear: early exposure matters. Family conversations, internships, lived experience, and the examples set at home play a powerful role in shaping how young people understand the world of work. The rise of flexible and remote work is leaving a lasting impression on how the next generation thinks about careers, contribution and connection. Perhaps the invitation is simple. Offer a glimpse. Share the language, the challenges, and the joy. Invite loved ones into the conversation. In a world where work continues to evolve through flexibility, technology, and AI — those shared moments may matter more than ever. In doing so, we may be shaping career confidence and perspective in ways that extend far beyond what we can see today. Written by Jennifer Trakhtenberg

It’s January, and in the northern hemisphere, that means the days are short, the office lights feel harsh, and that last cup of coffee just isn’t hitting the way it used to. But why do we feel so unfocused this time of year? As optical professionals, we know light! We know its wavelengths, its refractive power, and its profound effect on our circadian rhythm. Typically, when we talk about light and our circadian rhythm, we’re focused on the high energy visible (HEV) blue light emitted by digital devices. We talk about whether we should reduce it and the best methods for doing so, but we also know that when we’re exposed to HEV blue light too late at night, it can suppress melatonin production - the hormone that signals to our bodies that it’s time to sleep. However, do you know what the largest and most important source of blue light is? The sun!   Exposure to the sun’s natural light during the day helps keep our serotonin and melatonin hormones in sync. The rising sun tells our bodies to suppress melatonin production so we can wake up and have a productive day. When the sun sets, the lack of natural light tells our bodies that it’s time to start producing melatonin again to get ready to sleep.   The Blue Light Paradox This time of year, when we seem to arrive and leave work in the dark, we’re exposed to a lot less of the sun’s HEV blue light. This reduction means that sometimes our bodies forget to stop  producing melatonin, leaving some of us with:   low energy increased fatigue difficulty concentrating a pervasive case of "meh”   When these feelings persist beyond just the regular "winter blues”, it can be a sign of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) a form of depression that’s triggered by the reduction in natural daylight hours. Approximately 5% of adults in the United States experience SAD, and women are diagnosed four times more often than men 1. Understanding this light-brain connection is crucial to protecting our personal and professional performance.   Strategies to Boost Your Mood in Darker Months Even if you’re not feeling the effects of SAD, maximizing your daylight exposure can help you maintain peak performance through the winter months.   Schedule a sunlight break Take advantage of those midday moments of bright, outdoor light to expose yourself to natural blue light, which is exponentially more powerful than any indoor source. Even ten minutes of exposure to outdoor light during the brightest time of the day (11 AM to 2 PM) is significantly more effective than being indoors. Step away from the phoropter or the computer, put down your PD stick, and take a walk around the building. Pay attention to your eyewear If you typically wear lenses that reduce HEV blue light, like a blue light reducing anti-reflective treatment, lens material, or photochromic, consider leaving those glasses on your desk during your midday walk. While protection from UV is always important, we want to let the HEV blue light in  to signal wakefulness to your brain (wear clear UV-blocking lenses if you have them - even in the winter!). Artificial light is better than nothing If getting outside isn’t an option or simply isn’t doing the trick, you can maximize your exposure to blue-rich white light by using a certified light box in the morning. 20-30 minutes of exposure first thing will signal your brain to wake up and boost your mood for the day. Seeking professional support If you’re feeling really down and persistently not yourself, it might be time to talk to a professional. Resources like Psychologytoday.com  and your health insurance provider’s website are great for finding providers in your area.   Shining a Light on Self-Care Ultimately, protecting your focus this season is an act of self-care. You spend your days guiding your patients and the industry toward optimal visual health, and it’s time to turn that expert knowledge inward. By recognizing the powerful dual nature of blue light — blocking it at night while actively seeking it during the day - you are using your clinical insight to optimize your mental well-being. Be patient with yourself during these darker months, adjust your light habits, and know that maintaining your own health is the most critical prescription you can fill.   Note:  This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. If you are struggling with persistent symptoms or are in crisis, please consult a physician or mental health professional immediately.   Written by: Kristen Langley Source:  1. https://mhanational.org/conditions/seasonal-affective-disorder-sad/

It's a New Year again. I love a new year… it’s fresh and clean, uncluttered and full of possibilities, like a clean sheet of paper or an empty closet.  As I think and begin to plan for 2026, I am finding myself in a different space than past years. Normally, I would be designing a growth plan for myself, both personally and professionally, with lots of details, dates and goals. And where that is always an important task, this year, concentrating on myself will take a back seat. In 2026, I have determined my emphasis will be on Giving:  giving back, paying forward, pitching in, contributing and/or donating.  Why you ask?  Two reasons. 1. It makes the world a better place and 2. It feels so good. Having been involved in a non profit directorship for the past 3 years, I can tell you that the idea that I can contribute in some way, big or small, that will impact others positively, maybe change a life, or move the needle a little bit, is infectiously delicious . Knowing there is so much need out there and so many opportunities makes this an easy goal. Things like board work, mentoring, tutoring, working with students, offering advice, making recommendations, offering to lend a hand or a kind word, those are in the forefront this year.  That feeling, that knowledge, that soul nourishment is what I am seeking in 2026. So, I don’t know if its my age? the time of the world? or why this year, but that is my 2026 resolution. Give.  Happy New Year to All. - Dibby Bartlett, LDO, ABOC, NCLEC My optical New Year resolution for 2026 is to strengthen the role and visibility of opticians across our industry, classrooms and professional associations. As technology, automation, and online purchasing continue to expand across all industries, it’s important to celebrate the value of opticians as skilled professionals. Opticianry is a unique, hands-on profession where personal interaction truly matters — from understanding how a patient actually uses their glasses and taking into consideration their physical and facial features, to making proper adjustments during dispensing. These details are what turn a prescription and a pair of glasses into a customized product that truly works. So my focus is  to help ensure that our profession remains visible, valued and respected , both now and for the next generation. - Judy Quinones, LDO, ABOC-AC, NCLE In 2026, I'm doubling down on what I made a promise to do many years ago. I will continue my commitment to the eye care profession to lift and guide others up the way that I have been for the last 46 years. I've been blessed with mentors who guided me, colleagues who challenged me, and a career that taught me more than I could have imagined. My resolution is to keep giving that back in unique, forward thinking and meaningful ways to ensure the optical community and those we serve continue to thrive . I would love if you would add this to your resolution list too! - Karen Michaelson, ABOC While I love the idea of New Year’s Resolutions, I hate to see them fizzle out 6 months into the new year. If we make goals quarterly, they seem to be more attainable. My goals for the first quarter of 2025 are quite simple: Support our Opticians/Technicians . This will look different for everyone. Do you need more hands-on training? Can never quite get those pesky nose pads to fit a flat bridge? Do you struggle to understand when to choose a high index lens over standard plastic? Tints — fun but when to use them and why? How do you take custom measurements? Spread the news about upcoming educational events . Local and online — this is a huge tool to supporting our industry and encouraging growth both from within and outside. Listen . I’ve found that so many people are getting burnt out from dealing with the public. Opticians need someone to listen to them, who understands what their day-to-day demand is like. Been there! Still am! How can I help? To summarize…my goal for Q1 is Service . How can I help you today, this week, this year? - Lauren Lessley, LDO I believe that Rx smart eyewear is firmly in the realm of the optician. In 2026, I look forward to helping opticians and practice owners to think bigger about this opportunity. Keep an eye out for a Vision Stage panel discussion I’m hosting on Thursday at Vision Expo talking about smart eyewear. Also, watch for a class later in the year I’ll be writing about bringing smart eyewear to your practice. Because we’ll service it whether we sell it or not, so we might as well embrace the opportunity! Oh! I’m also co-creating deeper content on color, and teaching my first class in French on the subject! 2026 is an exciting year for tech and brain science! - Cira Collins, MPH, ABOM, NCLEC This new year represents hope and transformation for me. My goal is to ignite passion in opticians in a way they may not have experienced before . If you are feeling stuck in your current role, I want you to know that growth is possible through communication, collaboration and education. Do not sit back and let the industry happen to you. Choose instead to be passionate about the impact you can make. Invest in learning, even if licensure is not required in your state. Take continuing education courses to expand your knowledge. Become licensed or pursue your ABO or NCLE certification. Growth fuels confidence, and confidence fuels passion. As experienced professionals, we have the opportunity to inspire the next generation of opticians entering our field. It will take all of us choosing passion to create meaningful change, and I am proud to help lead that movement. - Kelly Rosemann, ABOC What is your 2026 optical resolution? Let us know in the comments below!

It’s a new Year and OWA Talks is kicking 2026 off with a bang! Listen to this episode as hosts Carissa Dunphy and Tatiana Stewart sit down with new OWA President Megan Molony to hear about her vision for the future of the organization. More about guest Megan Molony: As CEO of Europa Eyewear, Megan Molony oversees the full Europa platform, including Europa Eyewear and eyebobs, as well as future acquisitions, while working closely with the board of directors to set and execute the company’s long-term strategic vision. Molony has nearly 30 years of optical industry experience, with a strong track record in merchandising, customer experience, managed care, operations, and innovation. Most recently, she served as chief merchandising and managed vision care officer at National Vision, Inc., and has held key leadership roles at Essilor of America and Luxottica North America, gaining deep expertise across both retail and wholesale environments. Molony also serves as President of the Optical Women’s Association for the 2025-2027 term. Like this episode? Please subscribe and share! iTunes | Spotify | Overcast | iHeartRadio | Amazon

And just like that, we're at the end of the year. From professional development, to events attended, to personal insights — the OWA's year has been summarized in the weekly OWA Connects blog . A special thanks to our contributors throughout the year — OWA committee members , industry experts and sponsors — without you, this incredible content would not be possible. You are improving our community one blog post at a time 💗 These were the most popular articles of 2025: 10. Out With The COLD, In With The NEW: 2025 Eyewear Trends With longer days and warmer weather just around the corner, it's the perfect time to gear up for the season—and nothing says spring like a stylish pair of sunglasses. With festival season in the air and, a chic pair of sunglasses are the essential accessory. Whether dancing the day away at Coachella, exploring local art at a street fair, or relaxing poolside, fashionable eye protection is a must. .. Read More 9. OWA At Vision Expo East 2025 [Photos] The Optical Women's Association kicked off Vision Expo East with our signature Champagne Breakfast. While the venue was different, the atmosphere remained elegant and lively, filled with industry professionals, visionaries, and leaders. It was a truly special morning as we came together to celebrate our esteemed Pleiades, Pyxis, and Emerging Award honorees... Read More 8. Introducing Her Story — A Community of Support for Women in Optical Facing Breast Cancer In the optical industry, we uplift each other, celebrate our successes, and push boundaries together. But what happens when one of us faces a challenge far greater than a career hurdle—when a woman in our industry is diagnosed with breast cancer? No woman should fight cancer alone. That’s why the OWA is proud to introduce "Her Story"— a community-based initiative dedicated to supporting women in optical who are on their cancer journey... Read More 7. The Leadership Leap: Shifting From Peer to Manager A few years ago, I was promoted into a management role overseeing former peers. I’d been in supervisory positions before but never for a team I used to sit on. You can imagine that from a personal perspective I was excited about the change and motivated to do well, but from a team dynamics perspective I was anxious about how to navigate the change in our relationship ... Read More 6. Loving Work, Missing Home: How Moms of Young Children Can Thrive While Traveling Being a working mom means every trip I take is packed with more than just presentations and deadlines—it’s filled with purpose, pride, and the reminder of why I do it all. I love what I do—collaborating with smart, driven people, helping our team win, and feeling the energy that comes from making an impact. My work challenges me, fulfills me, and lets me grow into the kind of woman and mom I want my kids to see ... Read More 5. Board Management: How to Make Your Frame Boards Make You Money Frame board management is one of the most effective ways for ECPs to increase profitability while still delivering exceptional patient care. A frame board isn’t just a display of eyewear; it’s a strategic sales tool. When managed well, it can improve cash flow, reduce overhead costs, boost capture rates, and enhance the patient experience ... Read More 4. How to Host a Frame Show Your Patients Will Actually Want to Attend Let's be honest, eyewear shopping doesn't usually top anyone's list of "most fun things to do on a Thursday." However, you have the power to change that with a killer frame show at your optical practice. Done right, a frame show can be part party, part shopping spree, and a major revenue booster — all in one stylish afternoon ... Read More 3. Through The Leadership of Women I was one of four boys and when my mother spoke, we listened. While we loved our father, it was her day-to-day life lessons, stories and advice we listened closely to and most shaped who we are today ... Read More 2. Impactful Career Moments, From OWA Member Opticians Opticianry, with its intimate nature and many diverse roles, is teaming with uplifting stories that have touched our optical souls. These experiences are what keep us measuring pd’s, solving non-adapts and perfecting our lens design recommendations. So pull up a chair, pour a cup of tea, and allow us to share our experiences that meant the most ... Read More 1. Optician Wanted:  Women Need Apply Opticianry — the mysterious occupation within the eye care industry. Even as I type this, my word processing app refuses to recognize my profession’s name, underlining the mystery word and prompting me to check my spelling. The confusion of the 3 O’s: Optician, Optometrist and Ophthalmologist, has blurred our lines for many years and consequently kept us a mystery to many ... Read More What was your favorite article of 2025? Let us know in the comments!

The results of the October 2025 Leadership Scholarship nominations are in! The  Leadership Scholarship Award  recognizes OWA members who have served the OWA with their dedicated committee work and strong commitment to growing leadership roles for women in the optical industry. These grants are used for professional and personal development of the recipients who were nominated by other OWA members. Many thanks go to our OWA  Individual Contributors , whose donations help make these scholarships possible. Congratulations To The 2025 Recipients: Kristin Calimlim , OWA Events Committee (Lafont) Heather Harrington , OWA Digital Marketing Committee (Opticians Assn. of Colorado) Danielle Martin , OWA International Expansion Committee (Ocuco) Kristy Stone , OWA Membership & Welcome Committee (PECAA) The OWA’s Platinum Sponsors are also eligible to select an exceptional female employee who shows promise, dedication, and drive to also receive a Leadership Scholarship. Additionally, Scholarship Recipients Through Platinum Sponsors: Juliana Cooper , Marketing Manager (Advancing Eyecare) Tiana Shaver , Executive Vision Care Territory Manager (Bausch + Lomb) Suzy Adzhimanukyan , Senior Director of Key Accounts  (De Rigo REM) Jessica Connor , Senior Director, Marketing (EssilorLuxottica) Callie Gable , Senior Director, Supply Chain & Manufacturing (EssilorLuxottica) Jamie Swenson , Sales Rep/Spokane, Washington (Europa) Nicole Pine , Enterprise Support Manager + PMS Specialist  (GPN Technologies) Krystle Skelton , Regional Account Manager-Retail (Hoya) Desirae Jones , Brand Ambassador (Kering/Maui Jim) Mellisa Lopes , Client Relations Manager (Modo Eyewear) Kate O'Brien , VP of Managed Care (National Vision) Elisa Loreggian , Fashion Group Brand Director (Thelios) Lindsey Fostinis , Senior Communications Specialist (VSP Vision) Sarah Beth Mayton , Integrated Sales & Marketing Manager (Zyloware) Valued at up to $2,000 each, these grants will be used to provide professional mentoring opportunities to each recipient. This continues to promote and support the OWA’s founding principles of connecting, inspiring, and leading women in the optical industry. Congratulations, awardees!

You mean to tell me that I spent my entire life navigating social situations, figuring out what to do with my hands when I don’t have pockets, and how to read the room only to now have to read the Zoom Room? Chances are if you’re like me you’ve spent a good amount of time in your “work sweatpants”, navigating the wild terrain of virtual work. But hold onto your coffee mugs, because we’re about to dive into the world of re-learning social norms in this digital realm. Meeting Manners in the Digital Age Remember when you could gauge a meeting’s importance by the number of doughnuts in the conference room? Ah, the good old days. Now, it’s all about mastering the art of Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or whichever video conferencing platform floats your boat. Here are some etiquette gems to keep you from becoming the office “Oopsie Daisy.” The Virtual Handshake: In the pre-pandemic world, we’d extend a hand and say, “Nice to meet you!” Now, it’s all about the digital wave or the awkward ‘hover hand’ where you reach for the screen, just try not to accidentally hit your camera button. The Mute Button Tango: You’re discussing a big idea, and suddenly your dog decides to audition for America’s Got Talent with a surprise serenade. That mute button is your superhero cape, but don’t forget to take it off when you want to speak – or you’ll be the invisible hero! The Unintentional Multitasker: Imagine presenting your big idea, and your coworker is mysteriously petting an invisible cat. It’s a telltale sign they’re not quite paying attention. Avoid being the “invisible cat petter” by giving your undivided attention when it’s your turn to shine. Keyboard Confusion: Ever sent an email to the wrong recipient? Welcome to the club! In our virtual world, emails and messaging apps rule the kingdom. Let’s decipher some keyboard etiquette. Caps Lock Crisis: TYPING IN ALL CAPS can come across as yelling. Unless you’re genuinely excited about those virtual doughnuts, avoid it. Emoji Overload: 😂😍🙌 Emojis are a great way to convey emotions, but don’t turn your message into a modern-day hieroglyphic epic. A smiley or two will suffice! Dress (or Don’t) for Success: Ah, the joy of wearing sweatpants while working from home! But remember, video calls have their limits. Dress to impress – at least from the waist up. You never know when you might need to stand up to fetch that coffee you’ve been craving for the last hour. Time Management Magic In the virtual realm, time is both friend and foe. You can attend meetings from your cozy nest, but it’s easy to lose track of time. Set alarms, make use of calendars, and keep your commitments. If you say you’ll be there, be there! Zoom Out and Be Yourself Lastly, don’t forget that beneath the digital curtain, we’re all just human beings doing our best to adapt to this ever-changing work landscape. Virtual meetings might be a bit odd at times, but they also offer a glimpse into each other’s lives. So, embrace the quirks, laugh off the glitches, and keep learning. We’re all in this virtual boat together, rowing towards a future where social norms have taken on a whole new meaning. Remember, it’s okay to stumble along the way — it’s all part of the adventure! Here’s to the virtual voyagers, redefining work norms one video call at a time. Cheers to a future where virtual high-fives and digital donuts are the new normal. You’ve got this! 🚀✨ Written by  Allie Glick

Working from home has its perks: Pajama pants, lots of quiet time, more time with pets/kids/family, and a certain amount of freedom. While some introverts may love quiet and solitude, extroverts can find it too silent, almost lonely. Pets and kids provide frequent distractions, and that freedom (and maybe the pajama pants) can easily lead to a lack of motivation. But, according to a study by BetterUp.com, employees are 56% MORE creative when working from home . Here are a few tips to make your home office work for and inspire you. 1 . Have a designated workspace It can be a dedicated office, corner of the living room, or just a desk in the corner of a room. It can even be a table at the local Starbucks if that’s your thing. Having a space to work allows separation of work and the rest of life to get your brain into the right mindset. Surround yourself with things that motivate and inspire you – art, photos, fidget toys, whatever works for you. Also, strive to keep your workspace neat so you can focus better. Pro Tip: If you’re feeling stuck, re-arrange/re-decorate your workspace. Something as simple as switching out the pictures around you or re-angling your desk can give a fresh perspective and inspire you to be innovative. 2. Have a schedule, but allow space to deviate when necessary. Routine can be comforting, but too rigid a structure doesn’t spark passion and creativity. So, make your routine inspire you instead of the other way around. Planners and calendars are great for mapping out tasks and meeting deadlines; however, ensure you have enough flexibility built in to move or shift if an idea ignites that you want to run with. 3. Make a mood board. This could be a virtual, Pinterest-style board, a folder on your computer with things that inspire you, or an actual board on the wall with pictures or images that make you happy. For big projects, it could even be a mood board for each project. I keep a list of quotes, phrases, and words that get me thinking and make me want to start writing. When I’m stuck, I pick one and start my project around it. Visual artists may wish to design layouts, colors, or store images. Add anything that excites you; you don’t need to know why. 4. Use sounds One of the best things about working from home is you control the music. Soft, soothing music can help. Youtube and Spotify have mood-inspired playlists. Several apps like Calm, Headspace, and others offer music to relax, focus, and recharge. You can even create a playlist with some songs that get you thinking. Not into music? Try a podcast ( OWA Talks is a great one to start with)! 5. Get out and get moving Sometimes a change of environment can make a big difference. If you’re able, go outside for a bit. Notice new things, flowers, trees, and people, or let your mind wander. Fresh air and exercise can lift that mental block, and sometimes a change of scenery is just what you need. Can’t get out? Move to a different room, bring a laptop to your local coffee shop, try working there, or even just on your backyard/balcony/porch. Even light exercise can help! I have a friend who keeps paper by her treadmill and swears she gets her best ideas running. Another says a quick yoga session helps the focus. Yet another has a “mini dance party” to get motivated. Experiment with what works for you! 6. Phone a friend This is an incredible lifeline for more extroverted types. Call or Zoom a co-worker and ask for advice or a collab. Sometimes a new perspective can help you see a better solution. Just talking with someone can help you feel less isolated and more inspired. 7. Let go of the need for perfection If you’re a perfectionist like me, sometimes the inability to make your work “perfect” or “creative” can hinder you from starting. It’s called the first draft for a reason. Put something, anything, on the paper. Don’t worry about spelling, grammar, wording, and creativity; you can add that later. It’s easier to clean up a messy draft than to start from a blank page. Let your words flow, finish, take a break if you need to, then go back, and edit/redo whatever is necessary. I hope these tips help you. The key here is to allow yourself a little space and grace. Find what works for you, and don’t beat yourself up too much over mental blocks. Everyone has them. If all else fails, work on something easy and use the confidence from accomplishing that small task to energize your brain for more significant projects. Written by: Nicole Joli

Nearly four years ago, I left my office with nothing more than my work-issued laptop and the notion I’d return to my cube in a few weeks. On the elevator down to the lobby, I thought if anyone was built for quarantine it was me. Cozy clothes? Yes! More time with my dog? Even better. As an introvert and homebody, I’m in my element working from home and have had that benefit with other companies. For my current employer, this once temporary perk is now a permanent part of the company culture. As the months and years passed, restrictions lifted, and the world has gone back to “normal”. I’ve battled the challenge of distinguishing from myself the employee and myself the individual. My waistband is still flexible, and my commute time is less than 30 seconds. But was I really built for remote work? A Soft Line in the Sand I’m fortunate to have encouragement from colleagues, managers, and leadership who emphasize the importance of our work-life balance. While I don’t rack up mileage on my car or spend an hour getting ready in the morning, I do still focus on being efficient with my time. Because I can take my work anywhere—the couch, Starbucks, a beach—I discovered it was difficult to disengage and differentiate myself from being on the clock to on my own time. The work-life boundaries, for me, are not always crystal clear nor consistent based on projects, appointments, meetings, workload, etc. So, while it’s uncomfortable at times, I think of work time and personal time as a blend of my day. Making Work Work for Me I’ve embraced more of the gray areas of remote work and figured out tricks to help me navigate each day. Though it’s not a foolproof system, it’s prevented me from regularly stretching myself too thin while enabling me to complete projects and meet deadlines. How? Block your calendar. I noticed my work schedule was occupied by meetings almost all day, every day. It was overwhelming to feel like I wasn’t in charge of my own time. To fix that, I started to block off chunks of “desk time” on my calendar so I knew I had dedicated focus time. I also know that I’m best later in the day or in the evening, so if I’m motivated, I’ll put in a few hours when I know the virtual office is quiet. Don’t forget to eat. This might seem obvious—but when you’re in back-to-back meetings from morning through afternoon and you don’t live with a personal chef, even drinking water can seem like a chore. Though I nurse my coffee until lunchtime, I’ve made a conscious effort to eat before noon, even if that means I’m a few minutes late to my next meeting or I don’t appear on camera. The best part? My coworkers are supportive, and I don’t get hangry. Download communication apps. Again, this may seem obvious, but access to email and chat on my phone allows me peace of mind if I step away from my desk. Though, proceed with caution and don’t let the urge to respond or scroll consume you. When I’m on vacation, I remove the apps from my phone’s home screen and disable all notifications. Teach people how to treat you. This was an invaluable piece of advice I received from a former coworker. Part of my job at the time was managing volunteers who would email, call, and text me at all hours. Once I made the mistake of responding to an email at midnight—I set the precedent that I was always available at midnight. I apply this same concept working from home. Of course, emergencies happen, but this has been effective. Say no when possible. This takes practice. I understand it can be difficult, especially for those who are natural caregivers and people-pleasers. Saying no can also be tricky in service-based roles where a project is requested, and deadlines are often tight. To protect my own bandwidth (and my colleagues’), I’ve found it helpful to under-promise and over-deliver. That might look like clearly defining a due date that works for all parties, padding the project timeline, or offering an alternative if it’s just not possible. This tactic has helped me build trusting relationships with my teammates and sharpens my interpersonal skills. The Silver Lining The pivot from working in an office full-time to working from home gave me more than a drawer full of sweats. During the pandemic, I went more than two years without seeing my younger sister, my only sibling with whom I’m close. Remote work allowed me to make the 2,700-mile trek to visit her, and it’s given me the opportunity to visit my 91-year-old grandmother in Arizona several times—including another trip coming up in a few weeks. Working from home allows me to get a haircut without facing existential guilt or run a quick errand while taking a work call. Some of my favorite coworkers are women who live in different time zones, and we may never get to meet in-person. Do I manage a work-life balance perfectly? Absolutely not. But rather than focusing on perfection in this newish professional era, I’m learning how to create a balance that serves me. Plus, I go to work every day with my best friend, Gus. Written by Shawn Kramer

I have always loved the social side of in-office work. As an ESFJ (for the Myers-Briggs fans), I gain energy from being around and interacting with others — working in an office provides me this opportunity. Traveling to a physical office also allowed me to disconnect by leaving the building at the end of the day to enjoy my evening.  When I first transitioned to a fully remote setting, I was living in a one-bedroom apartment with my husband, who was also fully remote (thanks a lot, COVID!). Since then, he is back in-office, which has brought a new dynamic of working alone at home. Having lost the ability to see co-workers every day, compounded by losing my last real-world co-worker (my husband), I felt isolated and missed the social interactions. No matter your living situation, the transition from an in-office work setting to a remote setting can be an adjustment. Here are few things that have helped me navigate the transition: Make time to get out of the house  — This is not something I was great about in the beginning, but learned was necessary. There would be days where I would be stuck in my house all day and would go stir crazy. Whether it’s 5 minutes sitting outside on my back patio or a short walk/drive to get coffee, I try to block this time during the day. I also like to “commute home” at the end of my days by taking a longer walk around my neighborhood to disconnect and create separation between working and relaxing. Find an activity  — This was a game changer for me. I am a tennis player and regularly play on weekends but didn’t have a weekday activity. Last year, I signed up for a class at my local yoga/barre studio and now attend regularly. Finding an activity outside of the house not only made me feel physically good, but also helped me disconnect from work. Set an end time — Of course we all have busy times where we might have to work later, but in general, I try and set a time for myself to log off. If you find yourself not adhering to this rule, set a re-occurring calendar reminder to support a regular schedule. Be intentional about making time to make personal connections — this one is especially important to me with my love for socializing. I think about this one in two parts: Make time (virtually) for things outside of your usual scope — If your colleagues don’t live near you, make time virtually to catch up. I try and join my organization’s “Coffee with a Colleague” program regularly which allows me to meet new people in various parts of the business. If your organization does not have a program like this, it’s something you easily can setup on your own and only takes a few minutes out of your day. In addition, finding professional groups to join has been important to me. For instance, I am an Accessories Council Junior Board member which has allowed me to meet and interact with new people. Take advantage of in-person opportunities — When I travel to my NYC office, I try and make the most of my time in the city by setting up breakfast or lunch meetings with internal and external colleagues that I don’t see on a regular basis. If you don’t typically travel for work, look for co-workers in your city or find local professional groups. I found that many organizations offer local chapter events. Most recently, I was able to attend a Philadelphia PRSA  networking and panel event as well as a local WIIM event where I made some great connections in my own city. Consider these tips as a springboard to explore your own ways to better balance work and personal time, whether working in a fully remote or hybrid environment. Written by Ally Kamelhar

There’s something magical about the holiday season. People smile more, hold doors open, exchange warm greetings and wish one another well. A simple "Happy Holidays” or a friendly nod in passing seems to come so naturally this time of year. It’s as if the world slows down just enough for us to notice each other again — to see the humanity that connects us all. Have you ever stopped to wonder why it feels easier to extend kindness in December than it does in, say, February? The truth is, the spirit of the holidays isn’t seasonal — it’s something we can choose to embody all year. Complimenting someone’s new haircut, thanking them for a kind gesture or telling a parent how well-behaved their children are may seem small, but these moments can mean everything to someone silently struggling or trying to hold it all together. These gestures remind people that goodness still exists in the world — and that they’re seen . What’s even more beautiful is that giving these compliments and small acts of kindness also lifts you . Science tells us that doing something nice releases endorphins — the same "feel-good” chemicals that come from laughter or exercise. It’s a double gift: you brighten someone’s day while nourishing your own sense of joy and purpose. That’s the real power of kindness — it multiplies . In the optical world, where helping others see clearly is part of what we do, let’s also help people feel  seen. The next time you read someone’s One-Minute Inspiration, take a moment to email the author and let them know it resonated with you. It’s something I make a habit of doing because I’ve learned how deeply those words of acknowledgment matter. Positivity is contagious, spreading through every thoughtful comment, every compliment and every small connection we make . Recently, I shared a simple lesson with my children while driving: "You don’t always have to honk when the light turns green.” It’s a reminder that patience and understanding go a long way. You never know what the person in front of you might be facing. Maybe they’re distracted by something heavy on their heart. Choosing to give grace instead of frustration can change the energy of your entire day. Sometimes, it can restore someone’s faith in kindness . As a mom of three very impressionable young minds, I often pause to consider what my children see when I react, respond or lead through a moment of challenge. They’re learning not only from what I say, but from how I show up.   The same is true for leaders in their professional lives . Sometimes we need to take a step back to see the full picture before making a decision or responding to something unexpected. There isn’t always a rule book — or even AI — to guide us in the moment. What matters most is how we choose to act when no one is watching, and when kindness isn’t required. It’s in those moments that our true character shines through . As the holidays approach, let’s soak in that joyful energy, but let’s also commit to keeping it alive when the decorations are packed away and the New Year begins. Smile at the stranger in line. Compliment a co-worker’s effort. Send a note of gratitude just because. These simple, intentional acts ripple far beyond the moment. They build a culture of compassion and connection that lasts long beyond the season . Written by Madalyn Moeller