TODAY IS WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17

WHAT TO EXPECT

• stories: leisure sickness, rich-girl hair, whats causing your blood sugar to spike
• listen to this: the life that’s waiting audiobook
• in collaboration with: Cozy Earth
• job seekers: strategy & operations associate, growth product manager, integrated marketing manager
• extra stories
• recent article: best work sneakers that are office approved
• quote: on longevity
• bon voyage: Barcelona, Spain

LIFESTYLE: YOU MAY BE PRONE TO LEISURE SICKNESS
Have you ever noticed that you tend to get sick just as your time off starts? Researchers actually call this leisure sickness & it’s where your body’s immune response dips once work-related stress or the “grind” comes to an end/halt. To help prevent it, try easing into vacation mode by maintaining healthy routines before time off (hello work-life balance), managing your daily stress, staying well hydrated, and avoiding big abrupt changes in your sleep schedule.

BEAUTY: RICH-GIRL HAIR ON A REAL GIRL SALARY
“Rich-girl hair” isn’t really about a bank balance anymore. From blow-drying just the front section to masking weekly and adding a touch of shine serum or chic accessories, small changes make hair look quietly luxe without the luxury price tag. The secret? Healthy, shiny strands that whisper moneyed, not messy.

WELLNESS: WHAT’S REALLY SPIKING YOUR BLOOD SUGAR?
Blood sugar spikes aren’t just caused by your sweet treats. Starches, processed “healthy” foods, and even the order in which you eat your meal all play a major role. Pairing carbs with protein, fat, or fiber, enjoying whole fruit instead of juice, and starting meals with veggies can all help keep blood sugar steadier — which could reduce the risk of insulin resistance and type-2 diabetes over time.

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to slow down and reset, here it is. The Life That’s Waiting by bestselling author Brianna Wiest is equal parts grounding and inspiring—a guide to reconnecting with yourself, embracing change, and finding clarity in the in-between moments.

The best part? You can listen free on Spotify if you’re a Premium member. Consider it your new go-to soundtrack for long walks or cozy mornings.

IN COLLABORATION WITH

You deserve the best night’s sleep & one way to get that is with luxury bedding + loungewear. Cozy Earth gives you just that & is known for its bedding to provide incredible softness and temperature regulation. They’re one of those rare items that simply make life better (and comfier 😉)

Strategy & Operations Associate, HEADWAY (remote): Apply to this role if you have 2-5+ years of experience in consulting / operations / investment banking or related experience. $70,040-$103,000 USD

Growth Product Manager, CLICK UP (remote): Apply if you have product management experience. $145,000—$212,500 USD

Integrated Marketing Manager, SKIN SPIRIT (remote): Apply if you have 3+ years of experience in integrated marketing, brand marketing or management consulting. $90,000 - $120,000 USD

Smart & Stylish is our Sunday newsletter — part Vogue, part Business Insider — think trend reports, deep dives into business and brand news, 15+ remote jobs a week, and recs worth your cart. You can expense it with your employer, using this template.

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Although sneakers may be deemed as "too casual" for an in-office job, there are many ways to utilize sneakers to create the perfect corporate-casual look. Pairing a colorful statement sneaker with a maxi dress, or a chunky sneaker with a tailored pant, are two simple ways to wear sneakers in a way that are office-approved. Whether you are a collector of trendy sneakers, an enjoyer of dad stompers, or somebody who just loves platform sneakers, here are the some of the best sneakers to style for a day in the office.

ON LONGEVITY: The secret of longevity is to keep breathing, eat moderately, and have a purpose worth living for. — Unknown

Longevity isn’t just about surviving—it’s about living wisely and with intention. Breathing and eating moderately truly have such importance in the aspect of your physical care, while having a purpose gives life meaning and resilience. At the end of the day, a balanced body and a motivated spirit are the true keys to a long, fulfilling life.

BARCELONA, SPAIN

EAT: Head to Batea for market-inspired small plates on offer here have a constant focus on the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. Ciutat Comtal is another place known for its wide variety of small dishes. The menu includes everything from traditional Spanish tapas to more contemporary options, making it a great place to sample a range of flavors and dishes in a cozy and welcoming setting. Head to Disfrutar for dinner — one of the world’s top restaurants; creative, playful, and absolutely worth the splurge

STAY: Hotel Arts Barcelona is a luxe 5-star hotel along the waterfront where you get stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and skyline. It's known for its elegant rooms, excellent dining options, including the Michelin-starred Enoteca restaurant, and a rooftop pool with panoramic views. Cotton House Hotel Autograph Collection is a beautifully restored 19th-century neoclassical building that offers a blend of historic charm and modern luxury. It features stylish rooms, a lovely terrace, and a library that showcases the building's history.

DO: Visiting Sagrada Familia has to be at the top of your list when visiting Barcelona, the iconic landmark. The basilica is a masterpiece of modernist architecture and is still under construction but jaw-dropping inside and out. Another thing to do is to stroll down Las Ramblas, Barcelona's most famous boulevard that stretches almost a mile down. It's a lively promenade lined with cafes, shops, street performers, and colorful flower stalls where you'll be able to soak in the vibrant atmosphere, explore the Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria (a bustling food market), and visit attractions like the Gran Teatre del Liceu opera house.