Have you already spent a few hours combing the chaotic aisles at Target, neck deep in folders, binders, pencils and composition notebooks? It’s that time of year again. Back to school time.
Shopping for kid school supplies isn’t nearly as fun as back-to-school shopping could be, especially if you put an adult spin on it. We’ve sought out a few items available at local stores that will glam up your workspace and get you motivated for the fall work rush.
Item: The Perfect Temperature-Controlled Sweater
Office temperatures during seasonal transitions can be temperamental, at best. One day the AC is on, the next day the heat is blasting, and no matter what, it’s always incongruous with what’s going on out of doors. Head to For Now boutique in the Seaport (or on Nantucket) to pick up a sweater that you can throw on, or off, as needed.
Even better, the shop’s owners are focusing on female-run businesses this season so you can be sure the woman who designed your sweater knows exactly what you’re going through.
Item: An In-Office Self Care Station
At what moment do you need self-care more than when you accidentally “reply all” with an off-hand remark to an e-mail chain your boss is on? Or, when you have to walk through client expectations with your colleague for the fifty-thousandth time? We’re not sure there is one.
Swing by Olives & Grace in the South End to pick up an essential-oil diffuser, a jade face roller or a Ruth Bader Ginsburg prayer candle (yes, that’s a real thing).
Before you know it, your office will transform into a mini-spa, and that five minutes of lavender-scented jade rolling goes a long way on a work day.
Item: Tools for a Bearable Commute
Getting in and out of the office can be rough, especially lately (looking at you, MBTA). But with the right tools, even endless delays can be soothing and productive. Change your perspective and downtime can be delicious — even on a creaky train car.
If you’re a reader, stop by Brookline Booksmith to pick up the latest The New York Times bestseller, and while you’re there treat yourself to a novelty bookmark. You deserve it.
If you’re more of a crafter, Stitch House in Dorchester (run by councilor Annissa Essaibi-George) has all the knitting, embroidery and quilting supplies your heart desires.