There are two kinds of workers. The one who shows up to work with nothing but themself and those who show up with their entire life packed into perfectly organized designer tote bag. I like to be somewhere in between. I don’t want to carry around too much extra luggage, but I also don’t want to be without anything that I may need throughout the day. There’s nothing worse than being at work and realizing that you left something at home that you need. Here is what I pack in my work bag to ensure that I have everything that I need so I can have a successful day.
Planner/Notebook
I have officially gotten to the stage where I forget things if I don’t write them down. Having a notebook and a planner at work is a great way to stay organized and make sure that you complete all the tasks that you have planned for the day. I like getting notebooks from Anthropologie because they have really beautiful designs and stickers that motivate me to actually write in my planner. If you decide to use a planner, consider either having a separate journal or notepad to go with it so you have room to write longer notes if needed.
Lip balm
No matter where I am I always want to have lip balm on me. There have been times when I have forgotten my lip balm at home and I have literally contemplated going back for it. Having dry lips makes me feel so messy and unorganized (dramatic, I know). While I like to always have my favorite lip balm on me, I also make sure to keep an extra lip balm in my bag just incase I forgot my main one. My go-to lip balm is the Smith’s Rosebud Salve Tube that I get from Anthropologie (shocker). I love this because it’s very hydrating and leaves my lips with a pretty sheen. I don’t always like how lipstick or lipgloss looks on me, but this gives me a really pretty finish and makes me feel put together.
Lotion
Another thing I always like to have on me is lotion. You never know when your hands or face will become dry and flaky, especially during the winter months. I find it hard to concentrate when I dry skin so I always like to make sure that I have lotion on me. My favorite lotion is the Kiehls Creme De Corps. I love this creme because it’s thick and hydrating, yet non greasy. I don’t normally find lotions like that so this is definitely a winner. This creme is on the pricier size but the quality and the fact that a little goes a long way makes it worth the price tag.
Fork
This sounds silly, but you never know when you’ll need a fork! I hate when I’m getting ready to eat my lunch and then realize that I don’t have any utensils. It is obviously not one of the greater issues of the world (hello injustice and climate change!), but it definitely is inconvenient and easily preventable. I love the Anthropologie Reusable Travel Flatware because they clip into each other and save space. I’m all about simplifying my routine and carrying light, this is a great option for those who use silverware at work.
Hand sanitizer
Now more than ever it’s important to make sure that your hands are clean. In a workplace, you’re sharing a space and you end up using a lot of shared materials. While you should be washing your hands regularly, if you don’t always have time to run to the sink, consider carrying around hand sanitizer. This will kill germs and save you from getting sick. Remember to apply after touching shared materials, before touching your face, and before eating.
Pain killers
If you suffer from frequent headaches, stomach acnes, or menstrual cramps, you’ll benefit from carrying around pain killers. When you are in pain, the last thing you want to do is take a trip to a pharmacy. Your future self will thank you for having these on hand.
What are your top three must have work bag items?
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