ed’s note
PHOTOGRAPHGEORGES ANTONILIAN LOMBARD, acting editor
@compulsive_stylistI love a fresh start. Who doesn’t? The idea that every day ahead is a
blank page, just waiting to be written on, gives even the most cynical of
us a burst of energy.
While New Year’s resolutions may be a passé concept- often associated with the guilt of previous years, when you never
looked at the bloody list again after making it – I can’t advise scrapping
the process of reflection entirely. On the eve of a fresh chapter, deciding
what is worth hanging on to in this new year (and what to leave behind)
can influence the course of the next 365 days in unexpected ways.
One of the phrases I scribbled on my list for 2015 has remained with
me ever since: ‘Let go or be dragged.’ You’ve probably heard it a
million times before, but that doesn’t make it any less powerful - a reminder of the futility of hanging on to things that do not serve you.
This line has inspired me to quit a job, motivated me to move on
from disappointments both major and minor, and been a saving grace
when things out of my control have gone wrong, as they sometimes do.
Hopefully, some of the fascinating features the Marie Claire team created
this month will inspire you to set intentions for the year ahead that will
have a positive impact on the moments to come.
Here are my favourite picks from this issue...
- ‘How to Achieve Business Zen’ on page 57 reminds us
of the importance of aligning your career goals with your life purpose.
Definitely something to ponder before returning to your desk this year. - In ‘A Beautiful Mind’ on page 36, three women tell us what it’s really
like to live with OCD, ADHD and autism. Their stories resonated with
many Marie Claire team members, who felt a sense of renewed energy
in confronting their own mental health, whatever form it may take. - As a rather time-poor individual, I wasn’t surprised by many of
the findings in our sex feature (p46), which focuses on the impact of
technology on our collective time between the sheets. If love is defined by
an action, that action is attention. Starting this year, try loving your other
half by giving them your full, undivided attention (in the bedroom too).
I love this quote by writer and painter Brian Andreas: ‘Everything
changed the day she figured out there was exactly enough time
for the important things in her life.’ - On page 54 we introduce you to Nneile Nkholise, an engineering
entrepreneur using 3D-printing to help women who’ve had mastectomies
regain their shape, at no charge. Many believe that the way to happiness
is to do more for others. Perhaps the best thing you can do for your state
of mind in the new year is to find a way to contribute to your community. - Our wellness section (p104) provides you with inspiration for
a healthier new year. Plus some very stylish women reveal their guilty
pleasures, and I concur with actress Zoe Saldana – a couple of glasses of
bubbly after a long week is just the ticket, so I’ll be stocking up for sure.
This first issue in 2018 is also my last as acting editor. Thank you to the
brilliant team who creates such insightful content each month – it’s been
a privilege to work with you on such an inspiring brand. And to our
readers, fans and followers, I wish you the very best for 2018!