#5SmartReads - May 15, 2023

Jenny on getting back together with an ex, safe spaces at the workplace, and the WWW's birthday

May 15, 2023

Genevieve “Jenny” Dreizen is the co-founder and COO of Fresh Starts Registry, the first and only platform for everything you need to begin again, including divorce or breakup, moving, career changes, stepping into your truth, or starting again after grief. Jenny is passionate about creating usable, efficient, and beautiful systems to run Fresh Starts to maintain their Experts, Support Specialists, and Freshies. When not planted in front of her multi-screen setup, Jenny might be found baking brownies, working on a poem or essay, or doing her favorite thing - going for a walk and buying herself a little treat.

Exes are a tough business and getting back together with one can be fraught emotionally, socially and even logistically. Luckily this article co-authored by Taylor Andrews, Rachel Varina and Morgan Sullivan is here to guide us through with 18 steps of practical advice.

The article emphasizes the importance of taking time to work on oneself, addressing any personal issues that may have contributed to the breakup. The author also advises avoiding past mistakes, setting clear expectations for the future, and establishing healthy boundaries to ensure a successful reconciliation. Most importantly, Susan Trotter emphasizes the importance of identifying the WHY of why you want to rekindle the flame with your ex. An important point, indeed.

Nell Beram pontificates on the rise of male beauty influencers on social media, the increasing sales of men's skincare products, and the growing acceptance of traditionally feminine practices like eyebrow shaping and nail polish among men.

I love how Beram argues that this shift is not just about vanity, but also about self-care and mental health, as taking care of oneself can boost confidence and self-esteem. Importantly, the article celebrates the idea that beauty and self-care should be gender-neutral. I cannot be convinced we shouldn't all be celebrating ourselves.

Beram encourages everyone, regardless of gender, to embrace their own unique style and take care of themselves in a way that feels right for them

I hate to say it but I think we've all worked in environments that don't feel safe - psychologically, emotionally, and/or creatively. This piece by Jennifer Gendron emphasizes that creating psychological safety, which she defines as an atmosphere in which people feel comfortable speaking up, sharing ideas, and taking risks without fear of ridicule or retaliation is crucial for building trust, fostering innovation, and improving overall team performance.

Gendron suggests leading by example, showing vulnerability and admitting mistakes to encourage others to do the same, actively listen to others, giving them space to share their opinions and ideas without interruption or judgment and finally, encouraging open communication and feedback, creating channels for employees to share their thoughts and concerns without fear of retribution.

The piece also discusses the importance of acknowledging and addressing power dynamics, promoting inclusivity, and celebrating diversity. Gendron is mindful to note that this is an ever evolving and ongoing process requiring effort from leadership in order to make their workplace a healthy and safe environment for all.

I, for one, wish a few ex bosses had this article then!

I will never, ever stop beating the drum of how important friendship and community are. This article by Lindsay Geller, Naydeline Mejia and Lydia Wang is here to back me up.

The co-authors point out that research shows that social connections are crucial for mental and physical health, so it's worth making the effort to build new friendships. They offer great practical and usable suggestions related to community building, networking friends to access more friends, volunteering, and embracing your hobbies. Most importantly they note the need to be both patient and persistent.

We all need connection, so it's important to let people find their way to you in their busy lives, it just may be worth it!

Happy Birthday to the World Wide Web! Quite literally, I'd be nowhere without you!

This piece by Julian Ring discusses the affect of the web on society, from its humble beginnings as a way for scientists to share information to its current role as an essential tool for communication, commerce, and entertainment.

The inventor of the World Wide Web Tum Berners-Lee reflects on the benefits of the web, such as its ability to democratize information, connect people across borders, and facilitate innovation. However, he also acknowledges that the web has potential risks, such as privacy violations, misinformation, and the spread of hate speech.

Berners-Lee argues that it's essential to address these risks and create a more open and equitable web that benefits everyone, not just a few powerful corporations. With all of it's potential and experienced pitfalls, I do have to say - I am glad the World Wide Web and I exist at the same time.

I wonder what it wished for when it blew out their candles?

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