Why does this topic even matter? Well, as I was packing my work bag last Sunday night, (the start of a long week in the office) I realized over the course of this wellness journey my work bag contents have drastically changed. Workout sneakers, healthy snacks, lunch, small bluetooth speaker, and reusable water bottle have replaced old habits. My work planner, coffee thermos, contract, notebook and variety of pens still remain. What I know for sure, is caring for myself no matter where I’m working increases my performance. A quick internet search provided a plethora of research to confirm this sentiment. One comment struct me most…..
If you’re not practicing self-care at work, are you practicing self-neglect?
According to Harvard business review, with demanding workloads and overly full plates, self-neglect can become a familiar pattern for many of us. As feelings of anxiety and being overwhelmed increase, it becomes harder to maintain composure and say no to the daily fire drills, interruptions, and demands of others. We may end our workdays feeling completely burned out. Using you’re work bag to pack those items that help you care for yourself wherever you are can balance this area of your life.
To write this weeks post I surveyed some of my favorite Queens to share their recommendation for the question of the season for me… I typically refresh my work bag each year to meet current needs and I wanted some ideas. Spoiler, I realized this question helped me learn a bit more about my friends!! The responses range from friends from literal coast to coast. Not getting to see them every day, but knowing what they carry gave me a peep into their life I normally wouldn’t. This exercise became social wellness too!!
What is your go-to Work Bag?
They DID NOT disappoint as you will see below…Before we dig in… in a previous post on mid-career advice I mentioned the important of investing in a good work bag that can meet both professional and self-care needs. Feel free to peep at that post for a deeper dive.
Queen #1- “Company-issued backpack”. The company issued backpack is typically ergonomic, fits tech equipment properly and gets from A-B. Loved this note from my friend as it represents those of us that just need the essentials.
Queen #2 -“My Coach briefcase and I love it”
Queen #3- “Work bag varies… Kenneth Cole work bag. I telework so I don’t use them anymore. For work travel, I prefer the Swiss book bags.” Swiss Gear backpacks can be quite nifty with pockets and protections for tech.”
Queen #4 “Well if I had one it would be my LV Neverfull. Everything goes in there to include my computer. I use other compartment bags to keep it organized. Since I fly to go to work, I find my book bag is best. Neverfull can be heavy and I do not like putting it under my seat on planes. Simple go to work…hands down Neverfull wins!!” This was a pretty cool response given the varied nature of commuting.
Queen #5 “I just grabbed this one for travel and tried it out this travel round. So far going well.” Amazon.
Queen #6 “I feel in love with the Prada overture bag for work. It has handles as well as a long strap for crossbody action and a cute wallet that comes with it. So no need for a purse when you carry this baby❤️”
Queen #7 “#1 is my teflar puff”. The second is my Tumi voyager… that bad boy has traveled the country with me this year and held me down 😂
Queen #8 “My work bag is the Ezri executive backpack… Due to travel and my line of work. I wouldn’t necessarily have much to compare it to, but I like it and it suits me”.
Queen #9 “I have a Beis work tote/ school bag. Not too pricey very spacious I put everything in it. I’ve had it for about 3 years now and it’s still in perfect condition”
Queen #10 Taylor Tote Faux Suede
So here’s the story on the Monos duffle…while traveling in Portland, OR last summer I stepped on the elevator with an elegant woman carrying that bag on her shoulder. I could not stop gawking at its smooth coloring, and ingenious exterior pouch! As we reached the bottom floor I said to her “Queen that bag is everything…. can you tell me where I can find it?” With a friendly smile she said of course! We launched into a chat about the best travel duffles and how hard it is to find a good one. She gave me the info and I ordered it. It was a splurge for me at the time, but since then I have been very pleased with it. I often travel within the state on day trips to visit partners and stakeholders. This bag has been exceptional for short stays and keeps me incredibly organized. I also like that there’s an internal laptop pocket so for overnights, clothes shoes and tech can all be together.
Bonus• if you are in need of referral tips to make the contents of your work bag more functional, Corporate Executive turned Influencer At Work with Nikki is a go to for me. She not only shares great work advice, but advice overall around the home. This video is specific to work bags. Work Bag tips At Home with Nikki
I hope you found this information helpful! I look forward to digging into these recommendations for my next adventure.
In peace,
J