When I lived in New York City, I would invite my friends to an upscale hotel bar, toast to a great year, and usually end up grabbing a night cap at a nearby dive bar. I always loved seeing my friends — a group of kind, ambitious women I’ve met over the years — getting to know one another.
Last year, my boyfriend and I moved to San Francisco and attend his very fancy, very corporate office party. (It was Mardi Gras themed! We dressed up! There were snacks, roulette tables, and karaoke!) When we requested an Uber home, I told him that I was going to throw my very own holiday party the following day. So, we got massages, ordered Thai food, and sipped Prosecco while watching James Bond.
It doesn’t matter if you’re grabbing socially distanced drinks or staying at home, I firmly believe it’s important to throw yourself a holiday party. Not only is it a great opportunity to reflect on everything you’ve accomplished this year, but it can also get you excited to conquer the year ahead.
Want to host your own hustler holiday party? Here are my tips for celebrating you and your business.
Save the Date
Let’s face it: Many self-starters are guilty of putting their clients and customers’ needs over their own. (There’s no shame! Meeting deadlines and hustling are necessary to keep your business afloat.) While having a holiday party might sound like a good idea in theory, it’s all too easy for those plans to fall by the wayside if you’re swamped with deadlines. But, how can you put your best foot forward if you don’t put your needs first? Show up for yourself by picking a date, adding it to your calendar, and sticking to it. Trust me, you’ll be happy you did.
All Dolled Up
Freelancers and self-starters get a bad rap for spending the entire day in their pajamas. While that stereotype was once a total myth — we had meetings and co-working spaces to go to — many of us find ourselves spending more and more time in sweats. (I’ve personally spent the bulk of 2020 in workout clothes.) Even if you’re not leaving the house, make your holiday party special by getting dolled up. (That’s right, I’m talking hair, makeup, and a really great outfit.) It’s amazing what a change of dress can do for you.
You Do You
So, what’s on the itinerary for your holiday party? That’s entirely up to you. Since you’re the boss, you have the power to call the shots. While your options might be limited — fancy hotels and massages are out of the question in 2020 — fill your schedule with events that make you happy. Whether you want to order in your favorite takeout meal, FaceTime your accountability buddy, or have a glass of wine and watch your current streaming obsession, your holiday party is all about you.
Practice Gratitude
Of course, your holiday party can’t be all fun and games. In fact, it’s a great opportunity to reflect on what you’ve achieved, areas where you can improve, and your goals for the year ahead. As self-starters, we spend so much of our time hustling, moving, and grinding that we forget to take the time to truly celebrate all of our accomplishments. Go ahead, use your holiday party to remind yourself that you’re a total rockstar. (Need some inspiration? Check out the ways I stay grounded and gracious here.)
Invite Your People
Why celebrate by yourself when you can invite your friends, family members, and fellow self-starters? This year, I am so excited to celebrate by ordering takeout with my boyfriend and FaceTiming my friends and family members.
Hustler of the Week: Tenisha Wilde
What’s your favorite thing about being your own boss? Least favorite?
My favorite part is that I’m constantly learning, which I love. I never want to feel stagnant. I’ve always been creative. Nowadays, I love designing, styling, marketing, branding, and so much more. Creating a brand out of all these interests made the most sense. I’m always striving for more. My least favorite part would have to be feeling like there’s not enough hours in the day — in this lifetime even — to fulfill all of the dreams and ideas I have.
What is the best lesson you’ve learned since becoming your own boss?
The best lesson I’ve learned is discipline; how to prioritize and respect my time. [It’s about] being intentional and more present with those I share my time with, and respecting the time that people choose to share with me. I have to be disciplined in order for my business to prosper, but it’s also enhanced my personal life in many ways.
The holidays are coming up and jewelry is such a sought-after gift! What is the one piece of jewelry we should all add to our wish lists?
That’s a hard one! I’d have to say the Snake Chain 3mm. It’s simple, sleek, and shines alone beautifully or layers well. Plus, it’s been loved by Vanessa Hudgens and Tracee Ellis Ross as of late! I do have to squeeze in mentioning any of the hoops, too. There’s a range of options and the majority of them are versatile.
Give Tenisha some love by following Ten Wilde on Instagram and treating yourself (or a loved one!) to some jewelry.
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