“Saying no is already challenging. Jenny Singer really hits the note of how frequently women are pressured into accepting certain roles without fully grasping the financial and emotional strain they can impose. It's a strong reminder that it's entirely acceptable to establish boundaries and decline when the commitment doesn't match your own needs and limitations.” -Ruhama Wolle

RW: “Dealing with the stresses of the environment around us begs the question: How do we cope? Self-care in 2023 seems to be a radical act: saying no, standing up for yourself, setting boundaries. It’s not only about pedicures and bubble baths. This article gives examples of how exterior stress can add to migraines, and how to deal with it.”

RW: “Emotional labor doesn’t just come in the form of stressing over an event or feeling obligated to spend money you don’t want to, it also shows up in how other people perceive you. As the holidays approach, this story is a reminder to ‘well-intentioned’ aunts or uncles to leave our bodies alone. Body-shaming costs an emotional toll on people who are simply living their lives, especially while enjoying our favorite foods like turkey or pie.”

RW: “The burnout is real. Traditionally, a bride’s only expectation of the bridal party was to show up on the day and smile for the camera. But today, the role of bridesmaid has expanded to mean (and cost!) so much more. This collection of stories deep-dives into the emotional weight of being a key part of a friend’s special day, and gives real advice on how to navigate these sometimes tense waters.”

RW: “I appreciate these bridesmaids’ confessions because whether or not you've been a bridesmaid or a bride yourself, these stories offer a humorous and relatable take on the sometimes chaotic nature of weddings. It’s a must-read for anyone who can relate to emotional obligation in their social circles…and needs a good laugh.”

RW: “I don’t know another group of people who have to deal with more emotional labor than parents. This piece gives a controversial look at how one mom decided to reduce the mental load of being a mom with one small act of rebellion.”

RW: “The idea of being “voluntold” to do something hit home hard. Of course we want to work in a place where it’s normal to help a colleague or mentor a junior employee, but this “extra 20 percent” of work usually falls squarely on the back of women. Jessica Grose captures what it’s like to be the “office mom” and feeling stalled professionally for not taking on invisible tasks in the office.”