We've all heard of FOMO (or fear of missing out), but there's yet another concerning trend in the workplace streets. FOBO, or fear of becoming obsolete, is real, and it's affecting women professionals in significant ways. According to a recent report, 22% of professionals believe advances in technology will make their jobs obsolete, reflecting a rise in concerns compared with 2017. Women were found to be more concerned than men, and the worries hit those ages 18-34 much more than other age groups surveyed.
Why does this matter? Well, the rise in the use of AI in the workplace (yeah, hey, ChatGPT) has been found to disproportionately affect women, especially since many of us hold jobs expected to be affected the most by automation (think retail workers, administrative assistants, healthcare professionals, and finance personnel, to name a few). And though Asian and White professionals have a higher percentage in this category, 15% of Black professionals face high "levels of exposure to AI."
So, how do we combat FOBO? Here are a few tips in case you're facing this very real, justified fear:
1. If you can't beat 'em, join 'em.
While tech has had its fair share of layoffs, bias challenges, under-representation in tech roles specific to AI, and employment woes, there's still room for women to thrive in tech and learn innovative ways to use AI in their workplaces. One CEO suggests that companies empower their teams by getting them into programs to help them "feel empowered and inspired by AI and its potential." On the flip side, as an employee, find ways to advocate for yourself and fellow women in your office by talking with your manager about such programs, requesting that they finance and offer training, and online courses, or demanding other ways your workplace can support your understanding and knowledge about AI and other tech advancements.
Another good idea is to connect with the tech department or others at your company who are savvy. Have coffee with them. Sit in on meetings if you can. Ask them to show you a few things when they have the time. Request to assist managers in strategizing tech-related budgets or other areas of the business that involve leadership in that area.
(This is one way I learned about digital media before a company I worked for even started monetizing it--before social media became what it is today. It led to expanding my skills, and when my previous job indeed became quite obsolete, I was already on to a different aspect of journalism, and I'm still here almost 20 years later.)
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2. Find ways to update your soft skills and/or get new training that adds to your credentials and ability to be the best at what you do.
It's always good to be a lifelong learner, and if there are certifications or other ways to get more experience and education to help you advance, go for it. Don't think of it as being the leader of Team Too Much. Think of it as becoming the highest version of yourself and keeping the fire alive in what you're spending time doing to make a living. Nobody likes to get bored with work, and a great solution for avoiding a rut is to stay ahead of the game by boosting your knowledge, qualifications, communications skills, and tech proficiency.
3. Network and authentically connect with amazing people in your industry.
Whether you decide to do this across or above, building relationships with great people doing creative, innovative, or disruptive things in your industry is essential. And you don't have to fake it or force it, and it doesn't have to be the so-called "leaders," or "40 under 40" listers either. (No shade, but there are indeed so many folks out there who have unique and progressive vision, know how to effectively solve problems, or have knacks in skills like salesmanship, presentation, spiritual actualization, or motivation.)
When you're able to relate with others authentically (and when it makes sense), you're better able to enjoy a fulfilling, long-term career and find opportunities for promotions or partnerships. There's always an opportunity out there for you.
Sometimes, it's not just about who fought their way to the top, having lunch with the CCO, or being part of the cool crew at work. It's about people saying your name in rooms that you're not in, advocating for you to remain on staff even when layoffs are unavoidable, recommending you for other opportunities if you indeed end up on the chopping block, or finding ways to use your skills in other roles so that you're never really without a job.
And you don't have to be the "boss," per se, to be a leader. Simply be sure you're offering real value in whatever position you're in and that you're putting your own authentic stamp on the projects you work on to positively impact the people you work with or serve.
4. Always have a real exit strategy, even if your job is a "dream" one.
Every successful person knows how long they'll stay at a company, they know when it's time to move on, and they know how they'll strategically level up. Sometimes, becoming obsolete in a job is directly related to staying in a position too long or getting stagnant at one organization instead of elevating either via the roles you go for or the companies you work for. You don't have to be stuck to one position, role, or job for a decade or more. You should be challenging yourself at each level to outgrow it and move on---make room for the next person who's trying to elevate in their own right.
Pay close attention to where things are going in your industry, what companies or leaders are innovating, what's trending, and how you can use your skills to transition into something or to somewhere new when it's the right time. Don't wait until there are rumors of layoffs, you're burned out or disgruntled, or that moment when there are sweeping layoffs in another department to put a plan together as to how you'd like to drive the ship that is your career.
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It's easy for couples to fall into a routine, going through the motions and letting their connection sit on autopilot. While comfort is natural in a long-term relationship, it’s important to remember: that what you don’t nurture, eventually fades. So, why not make 2025 the year you reset your relationship? Here’s how to start the year with a renewed bond, reigniting the spark that brought you together.
Step 1: Schedule Your Reset Meeting
The first step to hitting the reset button is a State of the Union meeting with your partner. This is your chance to take a pulse on the relationship, discuss what's working, and identify areas that need attention. It’s all about creating space to reflect, without distractions.
Grab a pen and paper (or open a shared note on your phone) and come prepared to share your top 2-3 desires for your relationship.
What do you both want to feel more of in 2025? Maybe it’s feeling more appreciated, or perhaps you want to reignite the passion you had when you first started dating. Whatever it is, get clear about it, and make sure both of you are on the same page.
This isn’t just about listing your own wants, it’s also about discussing ways to nurture each other’s needs. Relationship goals should be focused on fostering deeper intimacy, trust, and mutual respect. Use this time to check in, not only with each other but with your individual feelings and expectations. Set the foundation for a fulfilling year ahead.
Alistair Berg/Getty ImagesStep 2: Set A Date (Or Multiple!)
Having the meeting is only the first step. Now, it’s time to take action. One of the simplest ways to breathe new life into a relationship is by reintroducing consistent, intentional time spent together. For many couples, life gets busy, and date nights fall by the wayside. But dating doesn’t stop when you say "I do"—in fact, it’s even more essential.
During your reset meeting, lock in a regular date night that works for both of your schedules. This could be a weekly dinner date or an every-other-week adventure—whatever keeps things fresh. The goal is consistency. It’s easy to push date nights aside when life gets hectic, but if you set a specific date each week or month, you’re making your relationship a priority.
If you’re unsure what to do for your date nights, don’t worry! The key is creating new experiences together. This is what sparks excitement and brings you closer as a couple. Whether it’s cooking a new recipe together, trying a dance class, or exploring a nearby town, it’s about creating shared memories that build your connection.
Getty ImagesStep 3: Find an Accountability Partner
Just like you might have a personal trainer to help you crush your fitness goals, an accountability partner for your relationship can do wonders for keeping both of you on track. Consider hiring a marriage coach or therapist—someone who can meet you where you are and guide you in strengthening your relationship.
When selecting a professional, it’s important to choose someone who truly wants the best for your marriage and can provide actionable advice.
Don’t be afraid to set high standards for your relationship, and seek guidance on how to keep it thriving for the long haul. In your reset meeting, discuss your commitment to growth, and be honest about areas where you may need support.
Marriage isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it endeavor—it’s an ongoing process. Regular check-ins with a professional can help keep your relationship in tip-top shape and “divorce-proof” by addressing issues before they become insurmountable.
DMP/ Getty ImagesStep 4: Try Something New Together
Stale routines can easily make a relationship feel monotonous. Spice things up by trying something new! Couples that explore new activities and create new memories together have stronger, more fulfilling bonds.
My husband and I host one of the top luxury marriage retreats, A Weekend For Love, designed to help couples experience new things together. From couples' workshops to outdoor adventures, the retreat provides a platform to rediscover each other and reconnect on a deeper level.
The element of surprise can reignite your connection. It’s exciting, fresh, and shows your partner that you’re committed to growing together. This doesn’t have to be a huge commitment—it could be as simple as trying a new hobby or planning an impromptu weekend getaway.
Your Relationship Should Be A Priority
As you start the year with personal goals in mind, don’t forget the importance of nurturing your relationship. It’s easy to get caught up in work, fitness, and family obligations, but your bond with your partner deserves to be at the top of your list. Resetting your relationship offers an opportunity to reignite that spark and remind each other why you fell in love in the first place.
In 2025, make a commitment to prioritize your partnership, to nurture it daily, and to invest in its growth. Take time to celebrate each other’s victories, support one another’s dreams, and build a foundation of love and respect. When you start the year with a clear focus on your relationship, you’re setting it up for success.
So, before you start mapping out your new workout plan or work goals, do yourself a favor: put your relationship at the top of that list. Your love story deserves a fresh start, too.
Happy New Year, and here’s to a love-filled 2025!
Couples, if you are ready to do the work and invest in your relationship register for A Weekend For Love: Heart Retreat Feb 21-23, 2025.
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However, to my surprise, I received an email that read: “It’s with great excitement that we announce your film, Super High: A Period Piece, has been selected for the 24th Anchorage International Film Festival.” After looking at the flight distance from Atlanta to Anchorage—a solid 10 hours one way— I’d decided this would be one I wouldn’t attend.
That was until there was a follow-up email that shared that the festival was sponsoring two excursions for filmmakers: A Northern Lights Tour and A Glacier Hike.
With that, I knew I had to make the trip to the 49th state! I flew Delta, which offered the shortest layovers—just 50 minutes each way. For a more comfortable flight on the longer legs that were about six hours between my layover city and Anchorage, I upgraded to first class with an in-app discount for $256 (the regular price of a first-class ticket runs about $2,100), which was so worth it for additional space and service for the six-hour trek.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
"So What’s Alaska Like? Did You Have To Wear a Snowsuit? What’s the Food Like?"
These are among the major questions I’ve gotten. Anchorage reminds me less of a bustling major city and more of a small town with an easygoing feel. When I arrived, they’d just had snow a few days before, so it was cold, and the streets were slick. So, I was so happy I’d invested in a pair of snow boots. For my first few days, the locals said it was warm. Warm to them being 20s at night and mid-30s during the day.
However, by the time I left, fresh snow was on the ground, and temps were well into the single digits—and it felt like it. Oh, the sun doesn’t rise until 10:30 a.m., and it sets around 4 p.m. That was among the most challenging things to experience because I felt like I never really woke up. So, between the lack of sun and the four-hour time difference, I felt tired the whole time I was there.
As for food, I didn’t explore a ton because I was so cold. But I found two gems! First was Whiskey and Ramen. If you enjoy ramen and exceptional service, this is a must-visit. I’d make a trip back just for their Wagyu ramen and their special take on an old fashion!
And, for coffee, I thoroughly enjoyed That Feeling Co. The coffee was great, and being surrounded by plants helped to perk up my spirits.
The Northern Lights
Iceland is one of the most popular places to see the Northern Lights, so I was very excited to know that Alaska also gets to see the Aurora Borealis light show. Typically, many people visit Fairbanks to see them, but there are tours offered in Anchorage too! When prepping for the late-night tour, we’d heard that the night we were heading out to see the lights, the cloud coverage likely meant we wouldn’t be able to see them. Bummer. I know. So, we could sit the tour out or still try. But, in my mind, I was like, why would I come all the way to Alaska not to try?
So, at about 9:30 p.m., we piled into vans and headed out to chase the Northern Lights. We traveled about an hour and a half from Anchorage, and when we stepped out of the van, it was cold and pitch black. And unfortunately, after a couple of hours in the cold, those clouds in the sky never parted for us. I know that when we see the posts of people who do get to see Mother Nature do her thing, we don’t have all of the context of the science, which is Aurora Borealis.
Sometimes, the weather just doesn’t do what we earthlings would like, which can lead to disappointment. However, our guide did give a recommendation. When you book a trip to see the lights, give yourself four to five days to see them. Don’t bank on one day because, at the end of the day, this is science.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
Now, On to the Glacier!
Just six hours after returning from the Northern Lights tour, we were up for the glacier tour because they were back-to-back! I was exhausted and so excited. If someone had told me I’d hike on a glacier, I would have given them a mean side-eye. I mean, where on earth does one climb a glacier? Let me share a few destinations with you, just in case you want to plan an icy adventure: Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Chile, Argentina, and Alaska.
Aside from the fact the Matanuska Glacier is 22,000 years old, it’s the largest glacier accessible by car in the United States—27 miles long and four miles wide, making it one of the easier ones to see IRL. As a girlie with generalized anxiety disorder, I get anxious about doing this kind of thing because I know that to see these world wonders is usually a mountainous trek.
This one was two hours long, one-way, up snow-capped, windy, mountainous terrain. However, my therapist always reminds me to push myself to do what scares me (as long as it’s for a reason, of course). I held my breath for the journey there and back! And white-knuckled it from time to time, too.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
Once we got there, we were surrounded by fresh, fluffy snow, and it was COLD! In the negative cold. I was thankful, I’d over-prepared. If you even go on a glacier tour, I recommend a few things: Balaclava, heavy-weight gloves, cashmere socks, snow boots, and lots of layers.
Here’s what I wore. My first layer was Ann Taylor leggings and a Wolford Turtleneck. Then, I layered a cashmere turtleneck and cashmere joggers. A COACH down vest, which I’d recommend anyone own just for winter, in general, because it’s SO warm! For my feet, I wore Ann Taylor cashmere socks (I love these because they’re affordable and so warm) and Adidas Adifom Superstar Winter Boot and topped all of that with a Brandon Blackwood ankle-length parka. I know BB is known for his accessories, but the brand’s outwear is truly amazing and worth the investment. After two hours on the ice, I felt great!
If you’re open to adventure travel, I highly recommend putting a glacier tour on your list of things to do. There are a few reasons. First, standing on an ice age-old massive piece of glacier was my 2024 version of touching some grass. I was reminded that I’m a speck on this spinning rock and need to spend more time grounded in that fact as I move through the world. I looked to the sky and thought of how proud my ancestors would be, even though I know they’d be telling me to get my butt home and off a dog on a glacier!
Secondly, I gained an ever-large appreciation for Mother Nature as I learned that glaciers are the world's largest reservoir of freshwater, containing around 69% of the world's freshwater. Again, another fact that helped me gain perspective. Lastly, it’s just fun and stunningly beautiful!
After this, I’m looking forward to my next cold-weather adventure! Iceland and Argentina are at the top of the list!
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Featured image courtesy of Bianca Lambert