Learn from my mistakes.
Plan for the worst but hope for the best- and always go to work prepared. Next time you’re packing up your work bag in the morning, use my list of office essentials to make sure you are truly ready for anything.
If you want to see which bag I’m carrying to work everyday, check out my post A Little Corner of My World
Bandaids
If you’re wearing heels to the office everyday, you will inevitably get blisters and need bandaids just to get by. Even a new pair of flats will give you issues if they’re not broken in yet. Instead of hobbling around the office, save the day with a bandaid.
Medicine
Headaches, stomach aches, or any other type of pain can seriously ruin your day. For me, I get pretty bad shoulder and back pains when I sit in front of a computer for too long so ibuprofen is a saving grace. Bring a a few doses of your favorite over the counter pain reliever, just so you're prepared for anything.
Cardigan
I recommend buying an inexpensive, basic, light sweater and leaving it at your desk because it’s always good to have a backup. This one came as a surprise to me, but I learned pretty early on that the office is a frozen tundra. I believe this is a universal truth, that all office spaces are kept at an uncomfortably low temperature- so don’t underestimate it. (Pro tip: Bring a grey or black sweater...something that will match with any outfit)
Snack
Bring a granola bar or small snack just in case you need an extra energy boost. (or maybe you miscalculated how much food you needed for lunch and you’re left feeling hungry.) Carry some type of non-perishable snack with you, or leave some in your desk. I've found that emergency snacks are essential.
Headphones
You WILL get annoyed by noisy coworkers- it is a right of passage. Headphones are good for drowning out nearby conversations- but they’re also a great defense mechanism if you’re in the zone and don’t want to be bothered.
Sample Size Perfume
Sometimes it’s nice to spritz yourself mid-day and freshen up. Especially if you are meeting with a client or someone important. I can’t be the only one who feel this way…
Phone Charger
For obvious reasons
Cash
I like to carry around a $20 bill, or at the very least a few dollars in cash. My parents always told me it's good to have emergency gas money (in cash), and I just feel safer knowing I can make a small purchase in a pinch, if the moment presents itself. (i.e if you forget to bring pain reliever and need some ASAP)
Post-It Notes
Admittedly, I'm a bit obsessed with Post-It notes, but I really think they come in handy quite often in the office. I find myself jotting down quick notes, or leaving a message for a coworker on their desk.
Business Cards
You never know when you're going to need to hand out one of these. Even if you're not regularly interacting with clients, you can use business cards for networking or just making sure someone on the other side of the office has your correct email.
Travel Size Deodorant
Sometimes you just need to freshen up...especially if you work/live in Texas like me. Having a small, travel-size, deodorant in your desk or work bag is nice when you want to sneak off to the bathroom and reapply. No judgement...
Pack of Gum
After that 3rd cup of coffee...you'll need it. Trust me.
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