Staying In On New Year's Eve (Without FOMO)

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Ah, New Year's Eve. For some, it's a night to get dressed up and go out on the town. If that's you, I'm kind of jealous you have a reason to wear sequins. But for others (including myself), there's nothing really glamorous about it. Frankly, I'd opt for a casual night in over freezing my buns off in stilettos any day. Between you and me, I've just spent NYE in my PJs watching HGTV marathons of House Hunters the past couple years. A clear sign I need to get out more.

The point is, I feel like there's sometimes a lot of pressure and hype around what your plans are for NYE when there really shouldn't be. I'd much rather prefer a low-key night (with maybe a few more decorations and sparkle than any other night, just because!) spent with close friends and family, reminiscing about this past year and looking forward to ringing in the new one ahead.

So, if you're still on the fence, here's a few last minute ideas you can do while staying in this NYE that'll make everyone else rethink their plans for next year.

6 Tips for Creating Work/Life Balance (Trust Me, You Can Do It!)

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With the new year approaching, I'm getting ready to dive into it with a fresh start. An important resolution for me is practicing work/life balance. Over a few years, I'm learning how to let go of things I can't control and embracing rest. I used to toss and turn over work-related issues and worked myself to the bone to try and resolve it after hours. But in the end, I just ended up being burnt out and it showed in my work as well. I learned that taking breaks are not only good, but necessary.

Also, I understand that everyone's job is different and some need extra hours put into it after work and that's okay! These may not all work together for you, but hopefully you'll be able to find the right work/life balance in your life with these suggestions.

Make Holiday Gifting Easier Next Year

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We've all experienced the stress of gift giving around this time of year. Most of the time, I'm pressed for time and scrambling to get everything together at the last minute and aching with the pains of a low bank account. I've learned my lesson and figured out a few ways to save myself from the stress next year. With a few simple suggestions, you can turn it around and get ahead of it all next time!

Look Festive and Chic In Sweats (YES, I Said Sweats!)

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My family doesn't get really dressed up for Christmas, so I like to make sure I'm comfortable, but still somewhat put together so I can jokingly say "I woke up like this."

I saw this sweatshirt a couple weeks ago at J. Crew and I knew it was an insta-buy. I love it because I'm literally wearing a sweatshirt (a sweatshirt!), but the lace detailing makes it kinda fancy. What's not to love? Unfortunately, it's now sold out (sad face), but I've rounded up a few others that I think would be perfect to wear to Christmas dinner. Comfy without sacrificing style – and plenty of room for that post-dinner food baby.

'Tis The Reason (And an Advent Playlist, Have a Listen!)

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Happy Friday, friends! I hope you’ve enjoyed my gift guide series these past couple weeks and I hope it’s sparked some ideas on what to get a few people in your life.

But real talk for a minute. I’ve got to admit – my head was so buried in preparing this series, that I quickly lost sight of what the Christmas season really means to me. But by God's grace, I was humbly reminded by family, friends, and many others what this season is truly about. (PTL for community!)

It’s more than the excitement of the first snow, twinkly lights, perfectly wrapped presents under the tree, and the return of holiday drinks (in plain red cups). Don't get me wrong, I love seeing all the lights, Christmas shopping in my PJs (Ebates, anyone?) with a gingerbread latte in hand. But most days, my joy has become dictated by Pinterest-perfect decorations and Instagram-able moments instead of capturing the beauty of what this season really represents.

Gift Guide: The Neat Freak

This one might as well have just been named "Rachel's Ultimate Wishlist." For the organization aficionados, for the type-A personalities, for the creatives, or just for the person who appreciates beautiful design – these gifts will fit that bill. I think they'd also be a great gift for co-workers too!

Gift Guide: The Jet Setter

This is for the person who is always moving from one place to the next and racking up those frequent flyer miles like a boss. These gifts are not only practical, but they'll really appreciate the thoughtfulness that went into it because these are things they'll use time and time again.

Gift Guide: The Fitness Buff

As the new year quickly approaches, I know I'll say working out will be a resolution (yet again). So whether they're already a fitness guru or they're trying to reach #fitgoals, these pretties will hopefully give them more motivation to hit the gym more often and be healthier!

Gift Guide: The Beauty Lover

For the friend you always go to for beauty tips and ask to borrow their lipstick. There's a few tried and true staples that they'll love and a few new products that they'll be dying to get their hands on. Ready, get set, swatch.