As women, we have this internal checklist of what items we need to have in our pocketbooks before we leave the house. And, if you’re anything like me, you usually leave your bag packed all the time, so you don’t forget the essentials when you are heading out in the morning. Even those times when I choose to switch bags… I am sure to empty the complete contents of one into another, so I can ensure I don’t leave home without the essentials. The only exception is if I am downsizing to a small wristlet for a specific occasion; and even then, I leave my original work bag packed for the normal everyday travels.
With that said, I have also come to learn the importance of having other items and places organized and ‘ready to use’, to help me remain on task, productive and efficient from day-to-day… or day to night. One of those places is my nightstand (or bedside table), which I keep packed with the things I may need in the middle of the night or morning. Having certain essential items next to you when you are in the bed (even when sleeping) is important to the success of your evening, night, and often – the following day. So… what’s on your nightstand?  Here’s a quick snapshot of my recommendations (based on what I currently keep on mine):
Lamp/light – A small lamp or night light is essential if you need light in a hurry after you have gotten into bed, or in the middle of the night for some reason. Rather than having to get up to switch on a light, a small light is easy to turn on, use and then turn back off, without having to get up or wake anyone else in the bed with you. The more you can stay in bed, the less disruption to your rest and sleep patterns.
Alarm clock – Whether or not you are the type of person who wakes on her own at dawn or doesn’t sleep past a certain time… it is crucial to have an alarm clock. You need to be able to open your eyes and see the time as necessary, and you need to have a back-up alarm set (aside from your phone) just in case you need it. Oversleeping or being late is not an option when you are practicing a routine for a successful day.
Notepad & pen – If you are a woman of a certain age (as I am), you have probably experienced those times when you have awoken in the night or early in the morning with a new revelation or idea on your mind. When that happens, it is imperative to jot it down, even if just a few words, so you remember when you wake &/or during the course of your day. Personally, I cannot tell you how often I did not do this in my younger years, causing me to lose ideas and forget tasks, hindering my success later on. I have even experienced times when I’ve had dreams that I want to remember. So, I now use my phone (Samsung Note) which has a notepad & pen built-in for writing, and I also make sure I have paper and a pen close by, as back-up.
Box/package of tissues (or handkerchief) – Consider me old school, but I am still one of those ladies who believes that having a facial tissue or a handkerchief handy is essential in almost all circumstances. You should never underestimate the times when you may need to wipe a tear, blow your nose, or clean your glasses. A ‘clean cloth’ is always essential to have, day or night!
Eye-mask – This is something that has evolved over the years. Once upon a time, a cold washcloth was all that was available to us tired, hard-working, puffy-eyed ladies. However, with the various eye-masks on the market today, you should have at least one at the bedside. Whether it is lavender scented to help you sleep, gel filled to soothe irritated eyes, or just a plain soft cushion to block out unwanted light – an eye-mask can ultimately help with restlessness during sleep, as well as tired eyes at the end of a long day.
Cell phone(s) – This probably goes without saying, as almost all of us are sure to have our phones close by and plugged in/charging. However, I felt the need to note this one anyway. A charging cell phone during the night is crucial for so many reasons. (If you have a house phone as well, having a cordless extension on your nightstand is also helpful, in case of emergencies.)
Valet tray – This is so important if you are one of those ladies who may forget to take off certain pieces of jewelry, but are often too tired to get out of bed to put them away in her jewelry box. Having a small tray where you can drop small forgotten items brought to bed with you in error, is necessary so you do not have to get up after laying down in bed.
An inspirational book or pamphlet – I feel this is one of the most important, promoting your growth and keeping your sanity. Every successful woman should have a motivational, inspirational, or religious book/pamphlet, that she can easily reach. This helps to end the day as well as start the day, on a positive note. (My book of choice is the Bible, usually accompanied with another small quick read.)
And, if you still have space left… feel free to add a small glass of water, a small electric diffuser, or a small plant. The first to drink, the second to humidify and give off pleasant scents into the air, and the third for decoration & clean air.
Overall, a nightstand is there to help get you through the night easily & peacefully, and to set you up for success in the next day. So, use it wisely. Be sure to create a space that will give you the appropriate assistance and an effective routine during the night, when you are the most tired and vulnerable. This all leads to a good night’s rest!Â
 -Chintz 💄
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Looking for more success tips? Check out: How Do You Really Feel About Where You Are in Life Right Now? and How To Let Go of Childhood Memories and Move Forward in Confidence and What Does It Actually Feel Like to Be a Woman In a Mid-Life Crisis? Or, click here for additional articles.
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I already have most of these, but I have so much more that needs to be removed and cleaned up. Another use for cell phone is to use an app to play meditation music. I use Insight Timer’s free version; the music puts me to sleep within a few minutes. It really helps to shut my brain down.
I think clean up is a process we all need to go through for everything! LOL!! And thank you so much for sharing that free app! That is such a good add to my list. There have been times when I have needed background noise or meditation music. I often play soft music, but this sounds even better. I will definitely check this one out! 💗💄