Friday Faves: Emojis, Oreos, Convenience, Plants, Gossip

​If there’s one thing I absolutely LOVE, it’s sharing my opinions. Things I like, things I hate, things I think you should try. This weekly blog post is a summary of the things I found this week that I wanted to share with you. Hopefully at least one item on the list makes your world a little better! We made it through the week! I hope your weekend is amazing! 

​1. People Love Emojis

Use them on social media AND in email subject lines. Inc.com explains why if you want to learn more about the power of emojis. 

"The vast majority of emoji users (90%) believe the modern-day hieroglyphs make it easier for them to express themselves. Eighty-nine percent of respondents said emojis simplify communicating across language barriers. And 67% said they think people who use emojis are friendlier, funnier and cooler than those who don't." - read more from CNN.com 

​2. Oreo Helping Parents Hide Their Sweets

Well, this is genius marketing. For a limited time, Oreo is disguising their cookie packages as something else so parents can hide their sweets in plain view without little munchkins begging for them nonstop in a whiny voice. Nice for parents. GREAT for the other brands which are now prominently displayed in  households!

3. Customers Want Convenience ... Every Time

The pandemic has changed - and is continuing to change - the way people shop. If you're not taking these factors into the account then you will be left behind. Guaranteed. 

"People count on convenience more than ever. Global searches for “along my route” (+1,000%) and “curbside pickup” (+3,000%) both soared year over year. Convenience became a key differentiator for retailers who were able to quickly pivot. This is likely to create a new post-pandemic shopping norm."

​4. You Need More Plants

Plants reduce stress levels, boost your productivity, improve indoor air quality, and more. Learn more about their benefits from Healthline.com, then go support a local nursery or garden center to grab your own. 

If you're a plant lover, and your sense of humor is warped, you might find "Planty Hoes" on Instagram kinda funny. 

​5. Find Yourself in a Gossip Group?

​Have you ever been in the middle of a conversation and realized it took an ugly turn toward a mean bad-mouthing session? Gossiping can be hard to avoid - especially with certain people - but for your own sanity, you should totally try to avoid it. Use these tips from YogaJournal.com. Also, check out these tips for being less negative in general (your mental, emotion, and physical health will thank you).