To all who read this

It doesn’t feel right to start this article without acknowledging what is going on in our world.

My heart goes out to every person affected by covid19 around the world.

Currently we are each asked to make sacrifices for the greater good: Some place themselves in harm’s way daily to help others. We are forever grateful to our first responders, military, healthcare providers, grocery store clerks, and anyone in an essential position. For the rest of us…Many have or will spend weeks in isolation or quarantine. Some will have pay, some will not. My husband and I are lucky to have his income, while concerned about my future income as a small business owner. Some of our friends will be stranded in foreign countries, or forced to change travel plans. Parents find themselves suddenly homeschooling children, while trying to navigate these stressful times. Countless businesses will close — some will close permanently.

I feel I must acknowledge these challenges because as humans we all face the same fears, loss, uncertainty, stressors, and grief. Even though our circumstances are unique, this human experience can bring us together.

This blog post is meant to assist those who are suddenly working from home. My tips can also assist anyone who wants to make their space feel more safe, familiar, or stable.

Recognizing that my readers are suddenly in varied financial circumstances, I am going to include links for some of my favorite small businesses whose products I adore (I do not benefit in any way from these links, just from Amazon and lululemon links). If you are making purchases, please consider these community partners. If you are not able to purchase but would like to brighten a business owner’s day in a scary time, you could share their page/product/or send them a little note or comment on their social media.

we will get through this, together

I’m sending extra love to all of you today and every day.

xo,

Mallory

Here we go….I took a poll on Instagram and 73% of people were “losing it” at home

I am married to an extrovert who HATES being at home…so I see firsthand the struggle for so many and my heart goes out to you!

For the past 18 months, I have spent a LOT of time at home. I sustained significant injuries (to brain, eye, and jaw) that I continue to recover from. I have changed a lot in the process; including having to be sensitive to my environment.

The most important aspect of being homebound is making the space comfortable. I’m giving you ideas for this today, and showing you how I’ve done this for myself.

The second item (which we will cover on Monday) is creating routines.

Creating a safe space

I have to thank Rebecca for giving me the idea for this blog. She walked into my office last week for the first time in a long time.

She loved the changes I made, and asked for some ideas on how to make her new home office more welcoming.

As I see countless people in the same position — and some adding homeschooling their kids to their new workspace too — I realize I can help with this!

welcome to my office

The before

It’s clean, fresh, and plain. It was functional and a good space for the work I do.

I needed to adjust the lighting for the sake of my eyes/migraines, and was encouraged to make it a warm, homey space….check out the after!!!

the after

Now my office is welcoming, warm, inviting. People walk by my open door and remark how good my office smells. People comment on how safe it feels. One client even said the space is like “truth serum”!!

I am NOT an interior decorator, a pinner, nor do I consider myself creative….I just added things I loved.

Now I have a space I can thrive in…and you can, too!

Here’s how I created my space. I invite you to follow along, and bring yours to life in your mind.

1. I closed my eyes, and pictured a space where I felt safe, warm, and welcome

2. I picked a color scheme (rose gold, obviously

3. I wanted to select things that I connect to, that inspire me, and that would give me great reminders that support my goals (like “breathe” because I need that reminder when I’m busy or stressed).

4. I also picked items that were soothing to my brain, eyes, and allowed for less stress.

I’ve linked my favorite items on my Amazon storefront. If you shop through my link, I deeply appreciate your support as I earn a small commission on these products.

Local favorites

I want to include some of my favorite small businesses, in case you are in a position to support them with your purchases. I will include their website and social media (I know they would appreciate your comments/support with sharing their info if you can’t make a purchase at this time).

I am not receiving a kickback or compensation for these recommendations — they are businesses I have personally patronized and appreciate.

dog candle co is woman-owned and gives a portion of proceeds to animal rescue charities

They are offering special coronavirus quarantine candles. These will make you laugh, while you enjoy the clean scent. I love lighting a candle as I work on my blog — I’m actually burning their coffee candle right now!

Wicker goddess art + greeting cards

Sarah of Wicker Goddess sells beautiful art prints for your wall or desk. Her greeting cards are my personal favorite. I love to follow her instagram for homey inspo.

Simple Jane co

Do you type a lot? Do you get neck/shoulder tension from sitting at a desk or chasing after your kids?

Simple Jane Co has thoughtfully-sourced, high-quality, THC-free CBD oil + balm to ease your aches and pains away.

The pink Himalayan salt stone isn’t just pretty (and shaped like a heart); it is a great soft tissue release tool. And it’s pretty.

You do you journal

I love this journal, created by Andrea Robinson, for helping me get my head on straight first thing in the morning.

Along with gratitude, intention-setting, and an empowering affirmation, you will get access to an online community!

Feather + cove

I don’t know about you, but I LOVE to wear intentional jewelry—especially under stress.

Feather + Cove is owned by my sweet friend Alyssa, whom I am convinced is an angel on this earth.

Along with artistic talent, this new mama has a heart of gold. She donates a portion of all proceeds to charity, and creates a new bracelet each month featuring a different charity.

Pictured: the March bracelet of the month, benefitting the Love Your Brain foundation.

Featuring stones and crystals to improve mental clarity, purification, protection against negativity, awareness, emotional regulation and other benefits. There’s even a black lava bead for you to diffuse the oil of your choice!

Peacock proud press

I’ve had the pleasure of working with Dr Laura Bush to write my book. I have wanted to write a book from my earliest memories, and never knew where to start.

Laura has been a tremendous support, a kind teacher, a cheerleader when needed, and has created the structure for me to thrive. I am forever grateful to her for her mentorship.

If you want to make the most of your quarantine, contact her to get started!

Clothing

If you know me, you know lululemon is life.

Wearing cute, comfortable, functional clothes are key when working from home.

I’ve linked my favorites below. Shop away! I appreciate your support.

I’m wearing: lululemon align 25” super high rise tights in diamond dye stargaze + the be at ease poncho in pink taupe.

I’m always so grateful for your support and taking the time to read my blog. I hope that this post helps you to find some comfort in these crazy times.

Come back Monday for my article on the importance of routines. Sending love!!