By Anne St. Amant

If you are like me, you cannot get your work done unless you are completely comfortable. When I’m at my desk, I usually have a minimum of two beverages next to me (water and coffee), and by the afternoon, a la croix as well. My chapstick and hand lotion have to be in reach. I also have a hard time focusing if I feel like a mess. Somewhere along the way of my desk job, I learned the value of keeping a stash of crucial items, not only for myself and to improve my focus, but also for the other women in the office. I learned that you never know when an important meeting will pop up, so best to be prepared. 

So, here is the list of items I always make sure to have:

1. You knew this was going to my number one: feminine hygiene products. We all know there is nothing worse than getting a little surprise from mother nature at work. No need to make it even more miserable by having to run to the nearest convenience store in a frantic dash mid-work day.
2. Deodorant/Perfume.
3. Concealer.
4. An extra pair of heels/ and blazer. You never know when you will get pulled into a meeting you didn’t plan for, but having a neutral blazer to keep in your office is always a good idea.
5. Safety pins/ fashion tape. 
6. Tide-to-go pen. For that mid-day coffee spill.
7. A spare tube of lipstick/ chapstick.
8. Makeup wipes. Sometimes, you have those days where your face feels oily or your makeup just doesn’t look right. It’s nice to be able to have a refresh at work.
9. Advil.
10. Microblade. Don’t let rogue hair on your chin or right in between your eyebrows bug you all day.

Everyone’s “go-to” list will look differently. But I’m not over exaggerating when I say I reach for my bin almost every day. And even better, I’ve been able to save the day for the other women in the office when in need.