Lifestyle
The Ultimate Guide to Growing and Trimming a Pencil Moustache
A pencil moustache is a thin strip of facial hair that runs along the upper lip, usually just above it. This timeless classic and elegant style can flatter many different face shapes and personal preferences; however, proper care must be taken in order for it to look sharp and neat. In this article we’ll provide tips and tricks on how to grow and trim a pencil moustache along with celebrity examples who have rocked it successfully.pull laine yak France sweat laine merinos France pull en laine uniqlo France conversecuir France mules arizona en nubuck kaki birkenstock France pull laine italien France conversecuir France pull en laine de marque France vente birkenstock carrefour France pull en laine de marque France pull laine yak France pull laine yak France pull laine mousseuse France chaussure de marche homme a scratch France birkenstock semelle etroite France
pencil mustache
How to Grow a Pencil Moustache
Step one of growing a pencil moustache involves allowing facial hair to grow for several weeks until you have enough length and thickness to work with. From there, use beard trimmers or scissors to keep all beard and moustache locks at an equal length, or completely shave off as desired for a clean-shaven appearance.
Once your pencil moustache has reached maturity, you can begin its shaping. A fine-toothed comb, small scissors, razor or electric shaver and several other tools may be required for successful shaping; here are the steps:
- Comb your moustache hair downwards and trim any stray hairs that extend past your lip line. With scissors in hand, carefully follow its natural shape while using the comb as a guide for an even and straight cut.
- Use a razor or shaver to use any unwanted hair above and below the pencil line, creating an obvious contrast between your skin and moustache. Shave off corners for an angular and defined look.
- Repeat the process on the other side, taking care to match its length and shape with that of the original side.
How to Trim a Pencil Moustache
To keep your pencil moustache looking neat and tidy, regular trimming is necessary – at least once weekly. You can either use the same tools and techniques described above, or invest in a specific moustache trimmer with narrow blade and precise guard. Here are some helpful hints:
- Comb your moustache hair downward and trim any length that extends beyond your lip line or pencil line.
- Use a trimmer or scissors to shape the edges of your moustache according to the curve of your upper lip, and modify its width and angle as per your preference.
- Use a razor or shaver to eliminate any hair that falls above and below the pencil line, maintaining an aesthetic that is both smooth and unblemished.
- Use moustache wax or gel on your moustache, and style it using either fingers or a comb. Keep the ends straight or cur them slightly for a classic, vintage look.
Examples of Pencil Moustaches
A pencil moustache can be an attractive and fashionable addition to many men’s looks, providing it fits their face shape, personality, and lifestyle. Here are some examples of notable men who have chosen this option as part of their signature or temporary looks:
- Clark Gable: was one of the greatest Hollywood legends, famed for his charming and debonair persona enhanced by his pencil moustache with its slight curl at its ends, giving him an elegant and sophisticated appearance.
- John Waters: is known for his eccentric and provocative style, including a signature pencil-thin moustache which he draws on himself with an eyeliner pencil to achieve its iconic exaggerated look that perfectly matches his eccentric yet irreverent persona.
- Prince: was renowned for his extravagant and creative fashion choices, often sporting a pencil moustache and sporting various hairstyles and outfits to go with it: curly locks and ruffled shirts were worn together with sleek suits and sunglasses to complete his signature look.
- David Beckham: As both a soccer star and fashion icon, Beckham has experimented with various facial hair styles such as pencil moustaches. Pairing this look with his buzz cut and stubble resulted in an unconventional yet modern appearance that contrasted well with his clean-cut image.
A pencil moustache is an effective way to show your individuality and style, provided it is taken care of properly. Through patience, practice, and creativity you can develop one that complements your face shape perfectly.
Stay tuned to Centralfallout for the latest scoops and updates of Latest News, Trending News, Technology News, World News and Entertainment News.
Our Greats The Royale pick has recently undergone an upgrade. Called The Royale 2.0 (men’s, women’s), the new version offers some subtle aesthetic differences as well as better fit and comfort, according to brand claims. We will test this update and will share our review here on this guide.vente birkenstock carrefour France converse star player cuir France gilet merinos uniqlo France pull laine mohair France pull laine et coton France gilet merinos uniqlo France pull laine mohair France tong papillio gizeh France pull laine mohair France sweat laine merinos France converse star player cuir France tong papillio gizeh France mules arizona en nubuck kaki birkenstock France pull laine mohair France mules arizona en nubuck kaki birkenstock France
January 2024 A pair of crisp white sneakers can add instant style and vibrancy to any ensemble, from streetwear to evening wear. We researched 79 pairs and tried 22 of them – using our panel of four testers as guides – before selecting four great options that provided both comfort and style: classic canvas low-tops; full-grain leather pair that requires more time to break-in; celebrated streetwear sneakers beloved for decades; and an understated canvas workhorse. All are equally suitable for women’s (or unisex).
White Sneakers
How We Selected
Enduring Style We were searching for low-top sneakers that would stand the test of time while meeting a variety of tastes and requirements.
Comfort
Our goal was to find shoes that would provide both fit and feel. Additionally, an easy break-in period (or no break-in period at all) would have been ideal.
High Quality
Our focus was on details like uniform stitching and seamless overlays, plus any unique design touches.
Available Now
The shoes we recommend are all timeless models available through major retailers in both women’s and unisex sizing options.
Are You Searching for something else?
Wirecutter has released its list of 2022’s Most Popular Clothing and Accessory Picks.
Wirecutter’s Top Clothing Picks of 2023
Style Research’s Top Leggings and Shoe Rack Picks can be seen here, while Converse Chuck Taylor All Star (low-top) sneakers are a classic canvas low-top shoe to consider for your shoe rack.
Clean and elevated all leather sneaker: Greats The Royale
Nike Air Force 1 ’07 Low Top is an iconic streetwear staple.
Superga’s 2750 Cotu Classic Sneakers offer simple canvas workhorse functionality at an economical price point.
Why you can trust us
How we researched and tested competitors Footnotes
Sources
A classic canvas low-top example would be Converse Chuck Taylor All Star (low-top).
Our pick for low-top unisex Converse Chuck Taylor All Star shoes.
Legendary low-top sneakers — known by their nickname of legendary low-tops–go with any outfit and are equally cool when brand new or well worn-in. Plus, they’re reasonably priced and easy to locate!
Spend $60 at Converse to receive it.
Converse Chuck Taylor All Star (low-top) sneakers offer an effortless casual style, and everyone from Michelle Obama to supermodel Gigi Hadid have been seen sporting these canvas kicks. Not only are they durable enough for years of use but they come in more sizes and colors than almost every shoe we tested! For $60 from Urban Outfitters.
Chuck Taylors can pair perfectly with any ensemble–midi dresses, shorts or full suits are all perfect partners; or channel their skater heritage and pair these shoes with ripped jeans and an oversized sweater.
Chuck Taylor low-tops have become iconic. These timeless shoes boast long, rounded silhouettes with rubber soles and toe caps for durability, along with bright white uppers featuring distinctive red and blue piping (for those seeking monochrome options there’s also the all-white pair available). Their iconic shape makes these footwear immediately identifiable while remaining pleasing to the eye, placing these shoes firmly into “can’t go wrong” territory.
Chuck Taylors are an exceptional value. At around $60 each, they’re significantly less expensive than other sneakers we tested, and can last you from one year to nearly 10 depending on how often you wear them – one Wirecutter staffer in New York City wears his frequently and replaces it about annually; senior editor Jennifer Hunter from Los Angeles experienced wear-and-tear that didn’t cause its rubber sole to peel until year seven with light wear.
Lightweight sneaker styles from Nine.2 Ounce per Shoe may not provide much cushioning, and their insoles tend to be on the thin side with no real support provided; thus they might not be optimal choices for spending an entire day on your feet. But according to orthopedic surgeon Lance Silverman from Silverman Ankle & Foot in Edina Minnesota suggests thinner soled and less supportive shoes may actually encourage your foot to do what its designed to while walking and keep muscles toned and toned (of course, always consult with a medical provider if any health issues arise).
Not dealbreakers
Figuring out your first pair of Chuck Taylors may prove challenging – due to their narrow toebox, the shoe should be longer than usual and Converse suggests buying half size smaller than your usual size.
Chuck Taylors can make your feet appear longer than they really are.
Wirecutter staffers have noted that their white Chuck Taylors become dirty very quickly (though some consider the look better when their soles become slightly worn-looking).
Shoe Sizes for Men/Unisex 2 to 18; for women 4-20
Sizing Advice: Runs half size large
Color Options: Over a Dozen Colors and Create Your Own Designs
Return window of 30 days on all leather sneakers such as Greats Royale.
Our Pick: Royale (men’s). A sleek all-leather sneaker that will help elevate any ensemble.
This sneaker, made of full-grain leather with an elegant, subtle shine, exudes elegance. Unfortunately, however, its stiff construction may prove challenging to break in; furthermore, at 1 pound per shoe it may prove too heavy for some wearers.
Greats The Royale Women’s Shoe for just $180.00 from Greats.
Elegant all-leather sneaker for women.
This full-grain leather sneaker with its subtle sheen gives the wearer an elevated and refined appearance, but may be difficult to break in and weighs one full pound per shoe; therefore it may not suit everyone.
Note that Greats has recently announced they are discontinuing the original The Royale sneaker model as of January 2024 and introducing The Royale 2.0 (men’s, women’s). According to Greats, The Royale 2.0 offers some aesthetic differences as well as improved fit and comfort compared to its predecessor; we will test these shoes ourselves and will share our review here in this guide.
Greats’s The Royale (men’s and women’s versions) is an attractive yet durable pair of full-grain leather sneakers from Greats that’s versatile yet refined, providing comfort once the initial break-in period (painful as it may be!) has passed.
These gorgeous shoes make an impressionful statement when worn with casual wear; yet, they remain appropriate even for more formal events, such as with slacks, wide-legged pants or flowy dresses.
Royale sneakers are stylishly understated. Our panelists described them as classy and really nice; some testers appreciated the subtle contrast tan interior for added color in an otherwise white palette; however, others weren’t fans.
Breaking in these thick leather shoes may take some time. They require time for them to conform to your feet; when first tried on, they may feel awkward at first; eventually though they will become more comfortable over time. To ease into them slowly and prevent blisters forming it is best to wear them for just a couple of hours at a time–don’t forget socks.
Royale is also the heaviest shoe we tested here at 1 pound per shoe; even our more substantial-looking pick, Nike Air Force 1, weighs only 13.8 ounces per shoe.)
These were the only sneakers we tested that differed significantly between men’s and women’s sizing recommendations: Men’s shoes run one half size larger, while women’s run half a size smaller than average; otherwise these are identical models.
These Royale sneakers may be our most costly pick, but we believe their high-quality construction should last through many years of regular wear. Although the Royales are the priciest option among our selection, we believe their affordable pricing makes them a smart investment compared to similar full-grain leather sneakers that often run into hundreds of dollars (such as Common Projects Original Achilles Sneakers which cost more than double). We think of the Royales as being worth their cost; with high-grade materials used and construction that should withstand regular wear-on and tear over time.
Shoes made of full-grain leather require some TLC; as a result, they’re susceptible to developing creases. Alan Vinogradov, co-founder of traveling sneaker convention Sneaker Con, recommended that we size down for creasing reduction because your foot bends less in a smaller shoe. As this may not always be feasible or suitable, keeping shoes super clean may also help minimize creasing appearance.
Not necessarily dealbreakers
Royale sneakers can be stiff out of the box. While that’s typical of full-grain leather products, their break-in period can be particularly taxing.
Some panelists were dismayed at these shoes’ tan interior, while others found it pleasing.
Men’s shoe sizes: 7-15; women’s: 6-10
Sizing advice: Men’s sizes run a half size large while women’s run half sizes small.
Color Options Available: White and Black Limited Editions.
Return period: 30 days A classic streetwear staple: Nike Air Force 1 ’07 Low Top
Our pick: Nike Air Force 1 (low-top, unisex/men’s).
Hardtop haute
This classic sneaker has long been a go-to sneaker both on the court and out and about in public. Though bulkier and heavier than many alternatives, its chunky leather design remains both comfortable and eye-catching as a statement piece.
Nike Air Force 1 Low (women’s) shoes cost $110.
Hardtop Haute This classic sneaker has long been worn on and off the court. Though chunkier and heavier than many, its comfort makes it an attractive statement piece.
Nike Air Force 1 Low-Top Sneakers retail for around $110 each and boast a unique, chunky profile and ultra-bright leather construction, making them the must-have white sneaker of choice for sneakerheads everywhere. Just ask any sneakerhead what they consider the best white sneakers are and they are likely to name the Air Force 1 Low-tops from both men’s and women’s lines as an example of best white shoes. They command attention without overstaying their welcome with its bold looks – although some might find its thick profile too robust; once put on, chances are, you will understand their decades-long appeal.
Pair your Nike AF1s with a white T-shirt, dark jeans or joggers in dark tones and Nike socks (Tip: it is best not to mix athletic brands).
They’ve earned themselves an excellent reputation. The Nike Air Force 1 was created for basketball court use; first introduced as a high-top version in 1982, its popularity quickly spread among NBA superstars such as Moses Malone of Philadelphia 76ers.1. Soon thereafter, Nike introduced a low-top version and has seen continued success ever since.
Nike nearly discontinued all AF1s in 1984; however, sneaker enthusiasts in inner cities demanded they bring back this shoe.
Since its original debut, the Air Force 1 has seen numerous collaborations and variations while remaining true to its roots. “The white-on-white Air Force 1 is without question the greatest shoe ever created,” according to Alan Vinogradov of Sneaker Con.
These shoes are big and bold. At first, our panelists–none of whom were diehard Nike fans–struggled with the bold style, including stocky soles, thick toe box, and an eye-catching swoosh. But in time they became fans. One tester declared them his favorites: “A little thick, loud but I love them” as another said they “stand out, in a good way”.
Nike also offers the Air Force 1 in a high-top version dubbed the Nike Air Force 1 High ’07.
Cuddly on the inside, sliding into AF1s is easy thanks to its firm-but-not-too-stiff padded interior and hands-free fit; no forcing required! We like that these shoes provide enough structure so they can be put on without force and leaving creases behind.
Although initially somewhat stiff, our Air Force 1 shoe does not require as long to break-in than Greats’ The Royale full grain leather sneaker.
The Air Force 1 stands out in our tests with its cushioned insole that made walking feel as though we were floating through air (no pun intended!). Furthermore, its generous foam insoles provide extra support on days when feet need an extra bit of TLC.
These kicks feature a low-cut foot collar with padding to hug ankles for added support; however, some testers found this stiff collar too restrictive (one tester commented they wouldn’t wear these while walking through an amusement park all day.).
Our panelists were skeptical that, at 13.8 ounces each, these sneakers would be too heavy and slip off their feet; but the collars kept them secure without rubbing against their heels like many of the other models we tested.
Air Force 1 shoes have a sturdy structure, making them likely to outlive even their most wearers if properly maintained over time. One Wirecutter staffer confirmed this claim: “They have held up well over time.”
However, these flaws should not be dealbreakers.
The Nike Air Force 1’s chunky style may not suit everyone.
Not all members of our panel enjoyed this shoe’s more structured collar.
Access can sometimes be an issue; we had to wait for a restock to test these shoes for this guide. But if it has sold out in your size, try switching from women’s to men’s (or vice versa), as many styles are unisex in design.
Shoe sizes available: unisex/men’s 5-18; women’s 6 1/2 to 19 1/2 (also wide width options are available).
Sizing advice: stick with your regular size
Color options available for selection: white, black and various other hues; various combinations and collaborations to help create your unique design; use our design templates or create your own!
Return window of 60 days; This workhorse in canvas: Superga 2750 Cotu Classic Sneakers is ideal for everyday use.
Our selection of Superga 2750 Cotu Classic Sneakers.
Versatile and sleek
With subtly textured canvas uppers and an understated shape, these shoes make a versatile statement piece that complements many outfits. Additionally, with its rounded, shorter toe box they make feet appear more petite than some other canvas sneakers do.
Amazon and Zappos both offer gift certificates of $50 or $70 respectively.
Superga 2750 Cotu Classic Sneakers offer both style and comfort for just $70 from Superga, making these canvas sneakers ideal for everything from running errands to attending art gallery openings. One tester raved: “These sneakers are cute yet practical, universally appealing, sporty yet attractive; regardless of what outfit is being worn!”
These Superga shoes pair nicely with silk midi skirts or maxi dresses, light linen trousers, straight-leg jeans or preppy casual attire including light cotton fabrics in pastel colors with intricate patterns.
Superga shoes are highly versatile. In comparison to our other canvas choice, the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star low-tops, they feel more delicate and subdued; sans rubber toe caps and colorful piping they can coordinate easily with multiple outfits.
Panelists were particularly fond of the shoes’ textured canvas uppers, which add a splash of personality and make them stand out among a sea of plain white sneakers. Unfortunately, though, their nubby texture makes these harder to clean than smooth canvas designs.
“These shoes are more comfortable than you might imagine; their canvas uppers are pliable, requiring no break-in time, and our testers found them comfortable despite their relatively thin soles,” according to Alex Vaughn of Wirecutter’s reader growth team. He noted they do not cause issues with rubbing, blisters or discomfort when worn for extended periods. “I love these shoes!” he declared “I wouldn’t necessarily pick them specifically for days with lots and lots of walking; however when worn over very long days I have experienced no such problems resulting in discomfort from any of these models. I love these shoes!” remarked Alex Vaughn in his review: “I love these shoes,” and noted this particular product manager of Wirecutter Reader Growth Team: “I love these shoes”.
They’re flattering. These shoes feature clean lines and long, subtle seaming that shape around the foot in an appealing manner, making it appear smaller. Some panelists who weren’t fans of Converse Chuck Taylor All Star low-tops preferred shorter Superga styles that made their feet appear more petite; indeed a size EU 39 1/2 (US women’s 8 1/2) Superga 2750 Cotu sneaker measures nearly half an inch shorter than an equivalent US women’s 8 Chuck Taylor low-top style sneaker.
Superga offers exceptional value for the dollar; their sneakers feature fine stitching and metal eyelets that keep their shape. A pair should last approximately one to two years of regular wear (Superga recommends cleaning them according to specific instructions in the washing machine); Cory Hartmann of The New York Times states he replaces his pair annually once its treads become worn-through.
Flaws that do not negate their significance.
Superga 2750 Cotu sneakers feature crepe soles that can become extremely slippery when wet, making these shoes potentially hazardous in inclement weather conditions.
At an estimated weight of 12.8 ounces per shoe (compared with 9.2-ounce Converse Chuck Taylor low-tops), these sneakers may carry more weight than many people prefer.
Shoe Sizes for Unisex Shoes in Europe Range from 35 1/2 to 50 (roughly equivalent to US Mens sizes 4-13 1/2).
Sizing advice: Stay true to size
Color Options: Over 70 Color Options Available including white, gray, sage green and pink
Return Period: 30 Days
We Trust Us
n order to gain insight into sneaker culture, I spoke with Alan Vinogradov – co-founder of Sneaker Con and Gabby Rosenthal, host/producer of The Kicks N’ Shit Show podcast respectively – both experts on sneaker culture.
La Carmina, an alternative fashion blogger who specializes in subculture styles, provided me with insight on unique ways to style white sneakers, while Dr. Lance M. Silverman of Silverman Ankle & Foot spoke about shoe comfort and fit.
How we picked and tested
In search of the perfect pair of white sneaker, I combed through forums, social feeds, blogs, customer reviews and sneaker podcasts to locate my selections. Focusing specifically on low-tops I researched 79 pairs across men’s, women’s and unisex sizes made from materials ranging from recycled plastic bottles to leather – an exhaustive process!
As I reviewed shoes, I considered aesthetics, size ranges, availability, third-party reviews, price, and color options other than white (which we didn’t require but found nice to have). We whittled our selection down to 22 pairs.
As part of my initial testing process, I ordered shoes in my regular size (women’s 8 1/2 or men’s/unisex 7) or as per manufacturer guidelines and wore each pair for several hours to assess quality, fit, comfort and overall quality before discarding any that did not meet these criteria – including any that fit poorly, were uncomfortable, had sloppy stitching or appeared visibly damaged – leaving only eight pairs remaining for further consideration.
Three people accustomed to wearing women’s size 8, men’s 11, and 13 shoes assessed the finalists and set out on an objective: finding sneakers that feel great from the moment you put them on.
Our testers wore each pair of white kicks for one day, grading their fit, comfort, and overall performance. While one day might seem insufficient to truly assess a pair of sneakers, it should provide plenty of time for decision makers to determine whether to keep or return a pair of kicks.
Wherever possible in this guide, we have also sought the feedback of Wirecutter staffers and testers who have worn these choices for extended periods.
Bensimon Lace-Up Tennis Shoes were thin and uncomfortable, with flexible soles causing us concern for rapid wear-and-tear.
Though we were less than enthusiastic with their appearance, Converse Chuck 70 Vintage Canvas sneakers did provide more support than our traditional Chuck Taylor All Star pick if that was what you desired. If this doesn’t bother you but padding is something you want more of then they could be worth looking into further.
Everlane’s The Forever Sneaker disappointed us, due to its subpar canvas quality and tight toe box.
Keds Women’s Champion Originals Sneaker and Vans Canvas Old Skool had soles that were too snug, leading to testers having their feet hang off the sides and stretching out canvas material.
Vans Slip-On Shoe was too tight and scratchy.
Adidas Stan Smith Shoes are popular among sneakerheads, yet none of our testers could find a comfortable fit or wear them for more than 24 hours without discomfort or irritation to their feet despite wearing socks. Their tightness around bridges and arches made them hard to navigate on occasion while the long tongues and rough leather interiors made for uncomfortable experiences even with socks on.
Adidas Superstar Shoes were uncomfortably tight, even after trying them on in larger sizes.
Though reasonably priced, the Italic Cadence Leather Sneakers had uneven stitching and a bulky collar; these made breaking them in difficult. So did their more costly counterparts such as Koio Capri Triple White.
Our testers found the uppers and heels of Nike Killshot 2 Leather sneakers uncomfortably thick, while also disliking its suede accents.
These faux-leather Adidas ZX 2K Boost Shoes were too gym-inspired for us and had scratchy tongues that caused irritation.
Veja V-10 sneakers were unfortunate in that their vegan-leather tongues didn’t feature burnished edges, causing discomfort for wearers.
This article was edited by Ingela Ratledge Amundson and Jennifer Hunter.
Footnotes Michael Jordan became one of Nike’s biggest ambassadors when he signed onto their team in 1984 and introduced his signature sneaker, Air Jordans, which helped bolster their image even further.
Jump back.sources La Carmina, Fashion Blogger (email interview on October 26, 2020)
Gabby Rosenthal, co-host and producer for The Kicks N’ Shit Show (October 29 & 30, 2020) participated in a phone interview.
Lance M. Silverman, MD, FAAOS of Silverman Ankle & Foot was available for a telephone interview on October 29, 2020.
Alan Vinogradov, co-founder of Sneaker Con and phone interview on November 5, 2020.
Meet Your Guide(s)
Kaitlyn Wells, a Senior Staff Writer for Wirecutter and previously covering pets and style for Wirecutter. Previously she covered productivity apps; though never having met one she didn’t like. Kaitlyn wrote her debut picture book called A Family Looks Like Love about how love makes a family instead of appearance alone.
Keep reading: Wirecutter’s 2019 Clothing and Accessory Trends to Watch For
These shoes, shirts and accessories were the top sellers on Wirecutter clothing in 2022.
Wirecutter’s 2023 Top Clothing Picks.
These stylish pieces were among the Wirecutter’s top clothing and accessory picks in 2023.
Find The Top Leggings As of Right Now on Our List
Stay tuned to Centralfallout for the latest scoops and updates of Latest News, Trending News, Technology News, World News and Entertainment News.
Productivity guilt can drum up the anxiety to maximise each minute of each day, pushing workers into burnout and into giving up
tabs on your productivity
Two years ago, when New Delhi-based Paridhi Poddar, 29, now head product designer at lifestyle accessories brand DailyObjects, was in the midst of launching a collection, she found herself stuck in a cycle of guilt and frustration. She would hunker down at her desk every day to begin following the long list of the to-dos she had to check off.
At the end of each day, tired but consumed by guilt that she’d not gotten enough done, she would end up taking work home, and staying up with it till late, not getting enough rest. She’d be back at work the next morning, doing the same thing all over again. Soon, as she’d started catching glimpses of colleagues taking breaks, she wondered if hers was a sustainable way to work.
Anubhav Nath, 42, director of Delhi gallery Ojas Art, feels the same way between December and February, when the season of art fairs and fashion shows starts—despite having worked all year. Guilt gnaws at him; he starts wondering about everything that he could not get done the rest of the year.
Whether you blame it on hustle culture, or tying one’s self-worth to one’s work performance, or the evil of comparing one’s progress with someone else’s, the pursuit of being productive and the burden of guilt when it feels inadequate seems to have become a fixture of today’s workplace.
This can happen to anyone, irrespective of their designation or position: “Productivity guilt is when an individual feels guilty for not being able to fulfil expectations of being productive or being able to complete ‘meaningful’ tasks that would help them improve certain aspects of their life,” says Divija Bhasin, founder and head psychologist at The Friendly Couch, a mental health organisation in Delhi. “The root cause depends on the individual’s history, and people have different reasons for having this guilt.”
The guilt can drum up the anxiety to maximise each minute of each day, pushing the individual to the extent of them wanting to give up. This can hit people who’ve moved into entrepreneurship or creatives who have risen to managerial positions, especially hard.
For Pritika Singh, 29, founder of Mohh Furniture, the experience of being an entrepreneur has meant that her best-laid plans have often gone awry. “When I was working a job, my KRAs (key responsibility areas) were clearly defined, and tasks were assigned to me. So productivity then was different from what I deal with as an entrepreneur,” she says. “Now, there are so many situations that arise out of the blue—calls, impromptu meetings, firefighting—so my schedule can go absolutely haywire and at the end of the day, I end up feeling like I didn’t accomplish what I set out to,” she says. A few days like this, and she ends up feeling dissatisfied or like she’s not working hard enough.
Poddar, too, feels this way on days when her responsibilities, such as coordinating with vendors and other managerial functions, do not leave her time for her own design research.
What’s more, Poddar says that in the early stages of product development, some processes like fabric selection, are time-consuming and iterative. This means the results are not visible immediately, and would lead to her questioning the efficacy of her efforts. Singh agrees: “The process of creating, creative-direction, or even design feedback are such ongoing things with no metrics that can help you say ‘I did x and y and z things today’,” she notes.
TO-DO LIST
To this end, Poddar has learned to lean in and celebrate small wins. Meanwhile, Manisha Prakash, 35, the entrepreneur behind the yoga centre LifeYoga, says that goal setting by breaking down time into year, quarter, month, week, and day—and differentiating work and personal goals—has served her well. Having often slipped into regret and indulging in self-blame if her days didn’t go as planned, Prakash would only follow it up with overwork and then, burnout.
When she realised this, she’d also just had a baby. “Especially as someone who’s used to working all the time, staying home, healing and breastfeeding can suddenly feel like you’re doing nothing all day, even though it’s a lot,” she notes. For her, this was the tipping point that pushed things into perspective.
“It doesn’t matter whether I do my goal-setting in an organized way (on paper or digitally), or in an unorganised way (making a mental note or a quick scribble onto a post-it) while washing the dishes or taking a walk,” says Prakash. The idea is that taking a more zoomed-out view of things, while also having a closer metric can help in two ways: it can help alleviate misplaced guilt and reveal that things are not as bad as they seem; or it can help alleviate anxiety by providing a set of facts based on which one can reorient themselves and plan next steps.
Singh, too, believes in the power of taking stock and being nimble. On the commute back home, she often goes over the things she’d set out to do versus the things she did do, and if there has been a mismatch, she quickly comes up “with a new plan and timeline for the next day,” she says, adding that playing catch-up while guilt-ridden is “just exponentially worse”.
In some cases, it helps to have someone else help calm the guilt. “When a part of you is convinced that you’re just never living up to your responsibilities, that part is also not very good at logic and reasoning its own way out,” says Anukriti P., 24, a programme assistant at a non-profit. “It only wants to cling to the idea that you’re not smart, and never going to do something meaningful.” She recognised the need for a lesser workload, but felt too guilty to ask for it from an already small team. Getting therapy made her realise that her productivity guilt stems from “a very cliched realisation of how deeply I don’t trust myself,” she notes, now equipped to recognise and stop any unhealthy thought spirals. She acknowledges accomplishments, even if “small”.
This is in line with what productivity expert Ali Abdaal says in his new book Feel Good Productivity, “my mistake wasn’t in what I thought about productivity. It was in how I thought about it.”
Despite best efforts however, sometimes productivity guilt tends to creep right back in. Poddar, for instance, confesses that she still can’t help overthinking when taking even just three days off from work. Even as she shares her planning hacks, Prakash offers a disclaimer: “you’ve just caught me on a good day”.
Singh acknowledges this all-pervasive reality. “90%, if not all of us, will keep going through productivity guilt,” she says before adding with a laugh: “But listen, if you’re going to spiral, you might as well do it when you’re off the clock.”
TIPS TO FIGHT THE GUILT
Take a break
Small walks or the act of making a tea or coffee can be a good start. The time away can help with clarity when you’re back to the grind.
Prioritise
There is always going to be more than enough—consider the Eisenhower matrix to determine where your tasks stand on the Urgent-Important scale, and knock them out of the way.
Celebrate
Allow yourself some joy. A celebration involves any appreciation and acknowledgement of the effort and time that you’ve put in .
Reframe
Guilt, much like stress, can be beneficial to a certain degree, and help in conscientiousness. More than that, and you may have to rethink and reframe the point of the feeling itself.
Get a hobby
Guilt will make it seem impossible to even think of doing anything else. But that’s what you can try after assessing the pressures of the week—have something else to look forward to, which will let you feel contentment from a different avenue of life.
Source link
Snow Falling: Snow is a natural phenomenon that occurs when water vapor in the atmosphere freezes into ice crystals. Snow can have various effects on our mood, health, and environment, depending on how much, how often, and where it falls. In this article, we will explore some of the positive and negative impacts of snow on different aspects of our lives.
Mood
Snow Falling
Snow can affect our mood in different ways, depending on our personality, preferences, and experiences. Some people may find snow to be beautiful, calming, and fun, while others may find it to be depressing, stressful, and boring. Snow can also trigger memories and emotions associated with certain events or seasons, such as holidays, childhood, or winter sports.
Some of the factors that can influence how snow affects our mood are:
- The amount and duration of snowfall: A light dusting of snow may create a cozy and festive atmosphere, while a heavy blizzard may cause anxiety and frustration.
- The timing and frequency of snowfall: Snow that falls during the day may brighten up the scenery and provide opportunities for outdoor activities, while snow that falls at night may disrupt sleep and travel plans. Snow that falls occasionally may be more exciting and enjoyable than snow that falls constantly.
- The location and climate of snowfall: Snow that falls in places that are used to it may be more welcomed and prepared for than snow that falls in places that are not. Snow that falls in colder regions may be more expected and tolerated than snow that falls in warmer regions.
Health
Snow can also affect our health in various ways, both physically and mentally. Snow can have positive effects on our health, such as:
- Providing exercise and recreation: Snow can encourage us to engage in physical activities, such as skiing, snowboarding, sledding, or snowball fights, which can improve our cardiovascular, muscular, and respiratory health, as well as our mood and cognition.
- Reducing air pollution and allergens: Snow can act as a natural air filter, trapping dust, smoke, pollen, and other pollutants and allergens in the air, which can improve our respiratory and immune health, as well as our visibility and comfort.
- Increasing exposure to sunlight and vitamin D: Snow can reflect and amplify sunlight, which can increase our exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays and vitamin D, which can improve our bone, skin, and mental health, as well as our mood and circadian rhythm.
However, snow can also have negative effects on our health, such as:
- Causing injuries and accidents: Snow can increase the risk of injuries and accidents, such as falls, fractures, sprains, strains, frostbite, hypothermia, or car crashes, which can impair our physical and mental health, as well as our mobility and productivity.
- Increasing stress and depression: Snow can induce stress and depression, especially for people who suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that occurs during the winter months. Snow can also trigger feelings of isolation, loneliness, boredom, or hopelessness, which can affect our mental and emotional health, as well as our social and professional relationships.
- Decreasing access to health care and resources: Snow can limit our access to health care and resources, such as doctors, hospitals, pharmacies, or grocery stores, which can affect our physical and mental health, as well as our nutrition and hygiene.
Environment
Snow can also affect our environment in various ways, both locally and globally. Snow can have positive effects on our environment, such as:
- Providing water and moisture: Snow can act as a natural reservoir, storing water and moisture that can replenish rivers, lakes, streams, groundwater, and soil, which can support plant and animal life, as well as agriculture and irrigation.
- Regulating temperature and climate: Snow can act as a natural insulator, moderating temperature and climate by reflecting and absorbing heat and radiation, which can prevent extreme fluctuations and variations, as well as reduce greenhouse gas emissions and global warming.
- Enhancing beauty and diversity: Snow can enhance the beauty and diversity of our environment, creating stunning landscapes and scenery, as well as unique habitats and ecosystems, which can attract tourism and conservation.
However, snow can also have negative effects on our environment, such as:
- Disrupting transportation and infrastructure: Snow can disrupt transportation and infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, railways, airports, or power lines, which can affect our mobility and connectivity, as well as our economy and security.
- Increasing waste and pollution: Snow can increase waste and pollution, especially when mixed with salt, sand, chemicals, or trash, which can contaminate water and soil, as well as harm plant and animal life, as well as human health.
- Altering patterns and cycles: Snow can alter patterns and cycles, such as precipitation, evaporation, runoff, or erosion, which can affect the availability and quality of water and soil, as well as the stability and sustainability of our environment.
Stay tuned to Centralfallout for the latest scoops and updates of Latest News, Trending News, Technology News, World News and Entertainment News.
News4 years agoMichael LaVaughn Robinson AKA Barack Obama Wife
- Anime3 years ago
Who Is Rock Lee Wife And Metal Lee’s Mother?
- Technology4 years ago
PS6: When can we expect the PlayStation 6 & what do we want to see?
News4 years agoWho is Ian Miles Cheong, and why does the internet care where he lives?
News2 years agoWorld Baseball Classic 2023: Live Stream and Schedule for Quarterfinals and Finals
- World3 years ago
Elliana Walmsley, Sister To Famous Actress Emma Watson
- Entertainment4 years ago
Sissy Husband
- Entertainment4 years ago
Boku no pico – Story & Details
