• We've gathered up an array of Christmas tree decorations to make your home festive for the holidays.
• Whether it's an 8-foot ceiling duster, a tiny tabletop tree, or any size in between, an unadorned conifer is merely a houseplant, not a Christmas tree. It's what you put on the tree that transforms it into a celebration of the holidays. That's why we've rounded up the best ornaments, toppers, lights, and tree skirts below.

Whether you prefer to cut your own tree, choose one from the local tree lot, or retrieve your faux tree from storage, it's just not Christmas without a decorated tree gracing the living room. For many families, trimming the tree is a treasured holiday tradition, with all family members participating. In other households, one person prefers to do the decorating alone. Either way, it's always fun to get reacquainted with your holiday decor as you pull each piece from storage containers. 

Of course, there are times you need, or just want, to add some more holiday decor to your collection. Or maybe this is your first year living on your own or setting up a holiday tree. Either way, you're on the hunt for Christmas tree decorations, which generally include ornaments, lights, some sort of topper, and a tree skirt to cover up the typically unattractive tree stand and provide visual balance to the tree's height. 

And while there are a lot of places to buy tree decorations, it can be rather overwhelming choosing your favorites from the nearly endless options available online and in brick-and-mortar stores. That's where we come in. 

Life can get a bit hectic as the holidays approach, so to make it easier for you to cross a few things off your must-do list, we've selected a wide selection of our favorite Christmas tree decorations to turn that plain conifer into a holiday star. 

Though we admit there really is no "best" Christmas tree decoration and it mostly comes down to personal preference, we do stand by our assertion that you really can't go wrong with any of the following options. So whether you prefer traditional, whimsical, or something in between, get ready to trim your holiday tree. 

Here are our favorite Christmas tree decorations: 

• Best clear traditional tree lights: Prextex 100-count Christmas Lights
• Best colored tree lights: Brizled LED Mini String Lights 
• Best bubble lights for the tree: Novelty Lights Bubble Set
• Best animated tree topper: Mr. Christmas Santa Sleigh Animated Tree Topper
• Best snowflake tree topper: Layered Wood Snowflake Tree Topper
• Best tree topper for kids: Hugging Snowman Tree Topper
• Best angel tree topper: Silk Waldorf Angel Tree Topper
• Best personalized ornament: Winter Family Ornament
• Best blown-glass ornament: Christmas Sloth
• Best felted-wool ornaments: Christmas Mice
• Best ball ornaments: Knit Ball Ornaments
• Best wooden ornaments: Wooden Heart Ornaments
• Best faux-fur tree skirt: Snowy White Faux Fur Christmas Tree Skirt
• Best traditional tree skirt: Holiday Plaid Christmas Tree Skirt
• Best knit tree skirt: Reversible Fair Isle Christmas Tree Skirt
• Best elegant tree skirt: Valery Madelyn Gold Christmas Tree Skirt

Updated 12/05/2019 by Lisa Sabatini: Updated prices, links, and formatting. Removed out-of-stock items.

Christmas Tree Lights

When it's time to trim your holiday tree, start with the lights. As a rough rule of thumb, you'll want 100 mini lights for every foot of Christmas tree height. So for example, if your tree is 6 feet tall, you'll want a total of 600 lights. While you can connect strings of different colored lights, you do need to stick with the same size and type of bulb, so keep that in mind when choosing holiday string lights.

The best clear traditional tree lights

If you like traditional clear lights with a steady glow, you'll love the Prextex 100-count Christmas Lights. The green wire blends in with your tree, and the lights are bright and dependable. The string of lights is approximately 18 feet long, and you can connect up to five strings to cover your entire tree. 

The best colored tree lights

One 66-foot strand of Brizled LED Mini String Lights features 200 LEDs and should provide enough colorful bulbs to decorate an entire tree. They're rated to last for 25,000 hours, so you probably won't have to replace the strand. Ever. With just one strand of these bright, colorful LED lights, you should be able to decorate even an 8- or 9-foot tree. 

The best bubble lights for the tree

If you have fond childhood memories of these vintage bubbling candle-shaped lights adorning your Christmas tree, you'll be thrilled with the Novelty Lights Bubble Set. You're not going to decorate your entire tree with bubble lights (probably), but tucking one or two strings of these old-fashioned fun bubblers along the tree branches adds an instant dose of nostalgic fun and color. Each string is 7 feet long and has seven bubblers with small clips to keep them in place and steady. 

Christmas Tree Toppers

Once your lights are in place, it's time for the topper. Typically, these slip over the top of the tree's trunk, and generally take a little bit of wiggling or adjusting before they sit steadily. While stars and angels are very popular options, there are plenty of other choices as well.

The best animated tree topper

Your kids will love watching Santa flying around the Christmas tree in his reindeer-drawn sleigh with a "Believe" banner trailing behind. The Mr. Christmas Santa Sleigh Animated Tree Topper has a brightly lit yellow star that attaches easily to your tree's top, and with a flick of the on/off switch, Santa begins his journey. This topper is AC powered with adapter included. 

The best snowflake tree topper

Snowflakes are a popular Christmas-tree theme, but this handcrafted, laser-cut beauty from Cost Plus World Market isn't the run-of-the-mill cheap plastic design. Instead, the Layered Wood Snowflake Tree Topper has three overlapping wooden pieces with just a hint of glitter for extra pizzazz. The wire-coiled base holds the star securely on the top of your tree. 

The best tree topper for kids

The Hugging Snowman Tree Topper will absolutely thrill your kids, but let's admit it: It's adorable enough to thrill adults as well. It's easy to position too. Just slip Mr. Snowman's head over the top of the tree, and then bend his wired arms to grip the branches and keep him in place. His long red scarf adds even more fun to the tree. 

The best angel tree topper

Hand-crafted in silk and wool, this Silk Waldorf Angel Tree Topper from Etsy can be custom-made according to the size and hair color you desire. Each angel is made with a wool body handcrafted from the fleece of New Mexico sheep and then topped with woolen and silk needle-felted fibers.

Christmas Tree Ornaments

Your tree is up, it's strung with lights, and your topper is firmly in place. Now it's time for the best part: trimming it with your favorite ornaments.

While everyone has their own preference when it comes to ornaments, it generally makes the most sense from a budget and convenience perspective to decorate the bulk of the tree with inexpensive, easily found shatterproof or glass balls in your favorite holiday colors. You'll find every color of the rainbow at Target or Walmart. Then add your own personality with individual ornaments or small sets reflecting a hobby, color, interest, or something whimsical that strikes your fancy.

The best personalized ornament

The holidays are all about family, so celebrate yours with a personalized ornament that includes everyone's name. The Winter Family Ornament from Bed, Bath & Beyond includes your family name in the center, surrounded by up to 12 first names. It's made of porcelain with a glossy finish and is nearly 3 inches in diameter. 

The best blown-glass ornament

What do you get when you combine traditional blown-glass with an of-the-moment and absolutely adorable craze? This super-cute sloth ornament from Old World Christmas, that's what. The Christmas Sloth is hand-blown from glass, then hand-painted and sprinkled with a bit of glitter. The kids are going to argue over who gets to put this on the tree, but don't feel bad if you have the urge to step in and do it yourself.

The best felted-wool ornaments

While Cost Plus World Market has a large selection of wonderfully unique felted-wool Christmas ornaments, you can't go wrong with this adorable set of two Christmas Mice. Mr. and Mrs. Mouse are all dressed up and ready to celebrate the holiday with their very own tree and gifts. The mice are made of handcrafted of wool and 5.5 inches tall. 

The best ball ornaments

You already have your shiny glass or shatterproof ball ornaments, so add some warm texture, pattern, and color with two sets of 12 Knit Ball Ornaments from WEWILL. Each ornament measures around 3 inches in diameter and is completely covered with knitted wool in a colorful winter sweater design. Each set contains multiple patterns.

The best wooden ornaments

While the majority of Christmas ornaments are made of glass, plastic, or wool, it's nice to mix it up a bit with a variety of textures, which is why we love these Wooden Heart Ornaments. You get two sets for 24 ornaments in all. Measuring 2.7 inches across, each ornament is delicately laser-cut by hand into a reindeer-and-bird design and finished with a red satin ribbon for hanging. 

Best Tree Skirts

Most Christmas tree stands are not very attractive, so a Christmas tree skirt serves two purposes: It covers up the stand, and it provides a horizontal counterbalance to the upright shape of the tree. Smooth your tree skirt in place once the tree is fully decorated, and then arrange the wrapped gifts on top of it. Now you're ready for Santa's visit!

The best faux-fur tree skirt

The Snowy White Faux Fur Christmas Tree Skirt is hard to resist. It's almost like a wintry drift of snow beneath your tree, except this snowdrift is warm, plush, and fuzzy. At 48 inches in diameter, it's large enough to work with just about any tree and has hooks and loops along the slit edge to fasten it around the tree's trunk. The only downside is that your cat or dog might decide this is the best sleeping spot ever, but never fear: The skirt is hand-washable in cold water if necessary. 

The best traditional tree skirt

The Holiday Plaid Christmas Tree Skirt is decorated with a red and green plaid print with a thick border of green velvet for a traditional finish to your Christmas tree decorations. Best of all, it comes personalized with your family name or any word up to 20 characters. The skirt is 47.5 inches in diameter and can be spot-cleaned. 

The best knit tree skirt

The Reversible Fair Isle Christmas Tree Skirt is softly knit like your favorite sweater, and sports a cheerful red-and-white Fair Isle reindeer pattern on one side. Flip it over, and it's white with red stripes. Whichever side you choose to display, the tree skirt is a traditional design that adds lot of holiday cheer. The tree skirt is 48 inches in diameter and can be spot-cleaned. 

The best elegant tree skirt

If your holiday decor leans more toward classic elegance than cutesy designs, you'll love the beautiful Valery Madelyn Gold Christmas Tree Skirt. This 48-inch velvet and satin stunner has gold sequins throughout the central star as well as along the satin border. The cream and gold color scheme complements a collection of metallic gold and clear glass ornaments. 

For more Christmas decorating inspiration, check out our other great guides

The best Christmas decorations you can buy

A beautifully decorated home is part of the wonder of the holiday season. We've rounded up the best decorating essentials for your home to make it easier for you.

That's why we've gathered up the top suggestions for a wide range of Christmas décor. Whether you go all-out decorating for the holidays, or just stick with a tree covered with a few glass balls, we've got the best of the best for your holiday home.

Here are the best Christmas decorations you can buy:

• Best tree stand: Krinner Tree Genie Christmas Tree Stand
• Best ornaments: Shop all ornaments at Target
• Best tree topper: Christmas Snowman Tree Hugger
• Best tree skirt: Primode Holiday Images 50-Inch Tree Skirt
• Best wreath for your front door: Woodland Eucalyptus Wreath
• Best stockings: Needlepoint Stockings from L.L. Bean
• Best garland: Home Accents Holiday Pre-Lit Plaza Garland
• Best advent calendar: Byer's Choice Christmas Tree Advent Calendar

The best Christmas lights you can buy

Holiday decorations bring feelings of warmth and cheer even in the darkest and coldest days of the year. Testing, setting up, and connecting Christmas lights can be anything but a joyful experience, though.

To that end, this year I've worked to assemble a buying guide filled primarily with holiday lights that not only look great, but that also make your life easier.

Here are the best Christmas lights you can buy:

• Best Christmas lights overall: KooPower Waterproof Battery Fairy Lights
• Best Christmas lights: Good Tidings Light Ceramic Multi-Colored Holiday Lights
• Best solar Christmas lights: VMANOO Solar Powered String Lights
• Best mini Christmas lights: Brizled LED Mini String Christmas Lights
• Best permanent Christmas lights: Everlights Starter Kit

The best tree skirts you can buy

Tree skirts add a dash of color and style to your holiday decor while hiding away that unsightly tree stand and all the Christmas light cords.

Here are the best tree skirts you can buy:

• Best tree skirt overall: Primode Holiday Images 50-Inch Tree Skirt
• Best traditional tree skirt: Valery Madelyn 48-Inch Tree Skirt
• Best mini tree skirt: VHC Brands Burlap Mini Tree Skirt
• Best affordable tree skirt: Ivenf Christmas Tree Skirt
• Best large tree skirt: Kurt Adler Embroidered and Pleated 60-Inch Tree Skirt

The best Christmas tree stands you can buy

The best Christmas tree stands are designed to last for many decades, have a stable base that holds plenty of water, are easy to set up, and store easily after the holidays are over.

Here are the best tree skirts you can buy:

• Best Christmas tree stand overall:Krinner Tree Genie Christmas Tree Stand
• Best screw-in Christmas tree stand:Jack-Post Welded Steel Christmas Tree Stand
• Best Christmas tree stand for artificial trees: National Tree Folding Tree Stand
• Best full-sized, live Christmas tree stand on a budget: Cinco C Express Tree Stand.

• Zach Both and Nicole Lopez built a modern yurt when they realized the cost of living in Portland, Oregon, was too expensive.
• The $30,000 yurt took just one weekend to put together. The couple then spent an additional $30,000 to transform it into a beautiful, comfortable home.
• The main feature of the house is a circular loft surrounded by hanging plants, but the yurt also has a full kitchen, bathroom, living room, and office. 
• They estimate they're saving about $1,000 in living costs compared to renting an apartment in Portland.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Moving to a big city in the US can get expensive, so to avoid the high city costs, Zach Both and Nicole Lopez decided to do something different. 

The couple moved into a 730-square-foot yurt — a circular tiny house built from poles and fabric — on a small island just outside Portland, Oregon, in April 2019. For the past few months, they've been living in their yurt full time and documenting their experience on a blog, Do it Yurtself.

Take a look inside their tiny house that has a modern and contemporary flair.

FOLLOW US: Insider is on Facebook

Zach Both was living in a converted van when his girlfriend, Nicole Lopez, got a job in Portland, Oregon, so he knew it was time for a change.

Both lived in his van for almost four years and traveled across the country in his home on wheels. 

"I wanted to travel more and have some sense of freedom to do what I wanted," he said. 

But Lopez got a full-time nursing job in Portland, so Both knew he had to settle down in a more permanent place. 

"We were looking for houses and apartments to rent, but we were dumbfounded by the rent prices," he said. 

Instead of paying the high rent prices in the city, the couple decided a yurt would be cheaper as a permanent home.

After living in a van for several years, Both knew he could continue living the tiny house lifestyle.

"We always joked about living in one, but when the opportunity came, we came back to it because it's such a unique structure and has such a unique history," he said. "So we settled on the yurt."

Yurts go back thousands of years and can be found in Central Asian countries like Mongolia. They are typically circular structures made from flexible poles covered in fabric, like felt. 

Both and his girlfriend set out to build a yurt that was different than others they'd seen in the past.

"I wanted to make something unique that people haven't seen before," he said. "Almost every yurt looks exactly the same — very rustic. It was an opportunity to do something completely different and to make a yurt that is modern and contemporary." 

After finding a spot on Sauvie Island off the coast of Portland, Both and his girlfriend got to work building their home.

The couple bought a yurt assembly kit from a company called Rainier Outdoor for $30,000. They enlisted the help of a few friends and built the exterior of the yurt in one weekend in October 2018. 

"We managed to build the entire structure in one long weekend even with very little experience," he said. "Some of my friends never even picked up a power drill before. It's like putting together Ikea furniture just on a much larger scale."

But their house wasn't completed just yet.

"We were then left with an entirely blank space that you can make whatever it wants to be," he said.

For the next several months, Both and Lopez focused on turning the inside of the yurt into a livable, modern home.

The couple first installed water, plumbing, and electrical, which was a learning experience for them both. They then moved on to building and designing a modern interior, which lasted three months. In the end, they spent another $30,000. 

When the house was completed, the couple realized they were saving $1,000 in monthly costs by living in their yurt.

Since the yurt itself is completely paid off, Both and Lopez only pay $600 per month for the land they are on and for utilities. Both said they would be paying two to three times that in the city of Portland where the median rent price for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,595.

While saving money is a great perk, Both said he loves the 730-square-foot yurt for a second reason: the circular loft.

While lofts are common in tiny living spaces, Both was determined to make his loft and bedroom look different. Situated in the middle of the 30-foot-diameter house, this yurt's loft is completely circular and is surrounded by "hanging plants that cascade over the edge." 

A ladder at the back of the house takes Both and Lopez up to the lofted bedroom.

Ladders are common in tiny houses, especially in ones that have lofts. 

Upstairs, the bedroom looks like a modern jungle.

"It was quite a challenge [to build], but it pays off in the end," Both said. "When you're sleeping up there and looking through the skylight at night, there's nothing else quite like it."

Beneath the circular lofted bedroom is the bathroom.

The bathroom has a compost toilet, a shower with hot water, and a sink. There's also a storage closet where Lopez and Both keep most of their clothes and camping gear. 

The living space also has a modern, eat-in kitchen.

In the kitchen, you can find a full fridge, a sink, and a toaster oven. 

At the front of the yurt, there's a large living room.

The living space has a pull-out couch, which also stores linens and pillows inside.

"We needed to find multiple uses for different pieces of furniture," Both said. 

At the far end of the living room, there is a large wood-burning stove.

Both said one of the biggest challenges they face is temperature control.

"It's too hot during the summer and too cold during the winter," he said.

The wood-burning stove is meant to warm up the place in the winter, but for the summer months, they had to find ways to ventilate the home. 

"It takes a little more work than just a normal apartment or house to work through those problems," Both said. 

Around the corner, there's an office.

While Lopez works in the city, Both works from home as a filmmaker, and he uses this space as an office. The shelving unit houses Both's camera equipment and books. 

"We didn't have to skimp on the living features that most people are accustomed to," Both said. 

Although the couple isn't living in the city of Portland, they are confident that they made the right decision by living in their modern yurt.

"It's always a challenge," he said. "It's always a learning opportunity. I think perseverance is the key. It's easy to get discouraged at times, but when you're at the end and everything is finished, you'll be able to sit back and relax. It all pays off." 

• Read more:
• A 23-year-old turned an old van into a 'mobile studio' to explore the US
• 7 gorgeous tents that you can 'glamp' in
• 23 photos that show the ugly truth of living in a tiny house
• This couple's 130-square-foot home is the most traveled tiny house in the world. Here's what their life is like.

• Forget old-school self-help.
• With this 31-day guide full of sage life advice, you can head into the new year feeling confident to tackle anything.
• Tasks include overhauling your LinkedIn, practicing a new language, and setting a savings goal based on your age.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories

2020 is upon us. Meaning it's time to stop thinking about how to improve your health, job, relationships, and life in general — and time to start doing. And we're here to help.

Above is our 31-day guide to starting off a healthy, wealthy, happy year. Each day is accompanied by a task, along with a quick explanation of why it's important.

Read on to find out how to set yourself up for success.

SEE ALSO: 15 ways to be more productive and manage your time better, according to career experts

January 1: Ask yourself: What do I want that I already have? What else, if anything, do I truly want?

Katherine Schafler, a New York psychotherapist, wrote about the "ambition trap" in a post for Thrive Global. It's the tendency for getting everything we want to make us unhappy.

"The more self-aware you are, the easier it'll be for you to distinguish between what you like, and what you actually want to acquire," she writes. "But how do we make that distinction? As human beings, we're so used to wanting more as a default mode. More food, more money, more friends, more sex, more stuff, more time, more attention. So how do we start wanting less?"

It starts with the questions posed above.

January 2: Stop hitting the snooze button.

It might feel as though pressing the snooze button in the morning gives you a little bit of extra rest to start your day, but the truth is that it does more harm than good.

That's because when you wake up, your endocrine system begins to release alertness hormones to get you ready for the day. By going back to sleep, you're slowing this process. Plus, nine minutes doesn't give your body time to get the restorative, deep sleep it needs.

January 3: Start keeping track of your net worth.

One of the easiest ways to keep track of your financial progress is to monitor your net worth: everything you own minus everything you owe.

As a financial planner in New York, Business Insider's Lauren Lyons Cole says one of the first tasks she asks clients to complete is their current financial snapshot, an overview of every aspect of their financial situation, including account balances. Once you can see all your money in one place, you can start figuring out what you want to do with it.

Bonus: Getting organized frees up brain space so you don't have to think about money nearly as much.

January 4: Talk to your boss about your professional ambitions.

It's on you to tell your boss that you want a promotion or a salary bump.

That's not necessarily an easy conversation to have, but it's a key one, according to Toni Thompson, vice president of people and talent at The Muse. Thompson told Business Insider, "Talk about what you want with your boss. Make sure that they know what salary you want eventually and the title you want or more opportunities that you want."

While your boss may not be able to give you what you want right away, they can at least start helping you get there.

January 5: Overhaul your LinkedIn.

Business Insider spoke with Hari Srinivasan, head of identity products at LinkedIn, who was in charge of LinkedIn's redesign of its user experience. Srinivasan shared some pointers for crafting a killer profile, such as:

• Filling out your summary.

• Sharing stories and blog posts that would interest your audience.

• Highlighting at least five skills relevant to your role and industry.

January 6: Use a simple calculation to figure out how much you need to save before you can retire.

If Saturday beach trips and golf games have you dreaming about walking away from your nine-to-five for good, there's a simple way to calculate how much you need to save to make it happen:

Your desired retirement income ÷ 4% = How much money you need to retire.

For example, if your perfect retirement salary is $80,000, divide it by 4%, and you get $2,000,000. That's your magic retirement number, and you can call it quits as soon as your account balances hit it — even if you're only 28.

January 7: Take a Sunday to do 'fake work' and be more productive during the workweek.

"Fake work" is a made-up term for email correspondence, scheduling phone calls, and organizing to-do lists — that is, the stuff that any modern professional has to do to stay employed, but that rarely produces an immediate, tangible result.

It's important, but it doesn't take that much energy or concentration, so you can easily do it from a coffee shop or while lounging in your pajamas.

If you focus on big projects Monday through Friday, and save fake work for Sundays, you won't have to worry about trying and failing to toggle between the two on a daily basis.

January 8: Start your day with a 'power hour.'

A "power hour" is when you work uninterrupted on a top-priority project. Laura Vanderkam, the author of several books on time management and productivity, recommends scheduling one first thing every morning.

This isn't as easy as it sounds, especially when you arrive at the office to find your inbox overflowing and your boss on your case about a new assignment.

But if you don't at least plan to spend the first 60 minutes of your day on something that matters, you may easily find yourself spending multiple hours wading through your inbox, attending to things that aren't necessarily important or urgent.

A "pro level" version of this strategy, Vanderkam said, is dedicating all of Monday morning to a bigger task that's more speculative and requires some deep thought.

January 9: Get it done first — make it perfect later.

Business Insider's Daniel McMahon says that when he's working on an important task that needs to get done ASAP:

"I turn off the internet and work straight through without stopping until the project is done, or at least one significant part of the project is done. I don't aim for perfection, but simply to get the project done. Later, I can go back and make the work as good as I can. This has worked well for me."

January 10: Set up a networking coffee with someone you admire.

In a post on his website, I Will Teach You to Be Rich, GrowthLab CEO Ramit Sethi says that your initial email is crucial to getting a meeting with a successful person you admire.

You can find Sethi's full template for what to say here. Some things to keep in mind:

• Mention how you came across their name.

• Explain what you want from them — their advice.

• Respect their time, and offer to meet on their schedule.

January 11: Change your scenery to stay productive if you work from home.

Business Insider's Tanza Loudenback felt as if her productivity was suffering when she started working from home. But after about a month of trial and error, she found one strategy that worked: changing her scenery.

Loudenback now spends at least two hours every day away from her "work desk," which is in her bedroom, and at least one day a week outside of her apartment at a coffee shop or elsewhere. Brie Reynolds, a senior career specialist at FlexJobs, told Loudenback that moving from one space to another is "a great way to stay focused and productive throughout the day." Plus, it breaks up the monotony we all suffer from occasionally.

January 12: Make digital copies of your handwritten notes (and throw away the handwritten pages).

Josh Zerkel, a certified professional organizer and the director of global community and training at Evernote, has advice for anyone whose desk space is disappearing thanks to piles of notes. Capture and store all those notes digitally— and then throw the papers away.

Having all your files in one place is the best thing you can do to start being more productive, he said.

Zerkel added that you shouldn't spend more than 10 minutes a day on this project. He recommended using a free Evernote app called Scannable, though there are a bunch of similar apps available.

January 13: Talk to your partner for 10 minutes about anything except jobs, kids, and housework.

The "10-minute rule" is a suggestion from sociology professor and relationship expert Terri Orbuch.

As Orbuch describes it in her book "5 Simple Steps to Take Your Marriage From Good to Great," the rule is a "daily briefing in which you and your spouse make time to talk about anything under the sun — except kids, works, and household tasks or responsibilities."

Orbuch developed the rule after learning that most of the happy couples she studied know their spouse "intimately"— outside the bedroom — and make time often to exchange intimate knowledge.

January 14: Write your to-do list, and prep your workout clothes for tomorrow morning before bed.

Retired Navy SEAL commander Jocko Willink told Business Insider there are two things he does every night to get a running start the next morning — and that anyone can use them.

One, prepare your gym clothes tonight. The biggest obstacle for a person developing a workout routine is putting in extra effort to make it fit into their schedule. To make it easier on yourself, Willink said, prepare your workout gear at night so you can throw it on as soon as you slide out of bed.

Two, finish making tomorrow's to-do list tonight. You already know what you have to accomplish tomorrow, and you're better off planning your day quickly.

January 15: Create a 'work uniform' to save time and energy.

The "work uniform" is a concept that's been adopted by plenty of successful people. Mark Zuckerberg, Barack Obama, and Steve Jobs have all put work uniforms to use.

Some experts say that making lots of small decisions like what to wear and what to eat throughout the day saps your mental energy for when you need to make more pressing decisions, a phenomenon called "decision fatigue." This mental fatigue makes people more likely act impulsively or do nothing at all when more important matters come up.

Penny Geers, stylist and owner of Your Closet, Your Style, recommends being prepared to splurge on your work uniform so that it withstands lots of wear and laundering. Geers said you'll probably need to buy at least three to five bottoms, and no fewer than five tops.

January 16: If you want to learn a new language, start practicing it every night for 15 minutes before bed.

People who practice their language for 15 minutes before bed have a major edge on other Duolingo users, according to founder and CEO of the language learning app Luis Von Ahn.

"Those people we know are going to stick around for a really long time," Von Ahn says. "We see them doing that for a week, we say, 'This person is going to be here for a while.'"

Meanwhile, users who binge — spending hours on the site, cramming in French or German or Chinese language lessons — tend to disappear fast.

January 17: Talk to your partner about which chores you hate and which you don't mind so that you can stop fighting about housework.

On an episode of their podcast "Best of Both Worlds," Vanderkam and her cohost, physician Sarah Hart-Unger, talk about the "mental load" of parenting — that is, all the psychological energy it takes to remember to sign Davie up for swimming lessons and drive Janie to the dentist.

Their strategy for lightening the mental load and splitting responsibilities evenly between coparents is twofold:

1. Each person writes down all the family responsibilities they're taking care of.

2. Each person shares which of those responsibilities they enjoy, and which they don't.

That way, you'll find out how much of the burden you're really shouldering and figure out which chores you can "trade" or outsource so everybody's happy.

January 18: Set up a shopping filter in your Gmail to stop impulse spending.

Business Insider's Libby Kane has found that the best way to resist the urge to spend money online is simply to set up email filters.

Now all her shopping emails get immediately filtered into a shopping folder — not her inbox — until she realizes she needs something specific. Then she clicks in and sees if any of her favorite retailers are having sales.

January 19: Talk to a fellow passenger on your commute.

A 2014 study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology found that people are much happier on their commutes when they engage another passenger in conversation. They even feel more productive.

Yet the study results also suggest that people don't chat with fellow passengers because they think those passengers don't want to talk to them. If you can get over that fear — and realize that you might be doing yourself and them a favor — you might be better off.

January 20: Make cleaning your home manageable with '20/10' sprints.

This strategy, from Rachel Hoffman's "Unf*ck Your Habitat," is simple: You clean for 20 minutes and then take a 10-minute break. Hoffman says that you can tweak the exact times so you clean for 45 minutes and take a 15-minute break, for example.

That's enough time to put away a clean load of laundry or take the level of grossness down a notch in your bathroom.

The idea is to avoid what Hoffman calls "marathon cleaning"— that is, you let your home get messier and messier until it reaches the point where you can barely breathe. Then you spend a few days "cleaning like a maniac until it's livable again."

January 21: Create financial goals with your partner.

Financial experts told Business Insider that one of the most important things to do with your money when you get married is to create goals together.

That means getting on the same page about your priorities. Is it important to send your kids to private school? Is a weeklong vacation every summer crucial to your sanity? Do you want to eliminate your student loans before doing anything else? And so on.

January 22: Start waking up two minutes early, like a retired Marine.

During his stint in boot camp, Marine veteran Andrew Wittman picked up a morning habit that's stayed with him ever since.

"I was on the top bunk, so my face was six inches away from the double fluorescent light,"Wittman told Business Insider. "What they would do every morning is flip the lights on and throw steel garbage cans down the center of the room. On the first day, I was like, 'Oh, my God.'"

To avoid the shocking wake-up call, Wittman trained himself to always wake up two minutes early. For example, if he has a 5:30 wake-up, he'll get out of bed at 5:28.

Today, Wittman said, he sets himself up for success every morning by spending his extra two minutes on a daily affirmation.

January 23: Write down three things you’re grateful for.

In a commencement speech at UC Berkeley, Facebook's Sheryl Sandberg revealed one of the psychological strategies she's been using to cope with her husband's death: "Write down three moments of joy before I go to bed each night."

"This simple practice has changed my life," Sandberg said. "Because no matter what happens each day, I go to sleep thinking of something cheerful."

Martin Seligman, founder of the positive psychology movement, found that, after six months, study participants who wrote down three positive things before they went to bed each night felt happier and less depressed.

January 24: Set a savings goal based on your age.

To save 10% or 15% of your income each month, as experts recommend, you have to put in effort.

According to Fidelity's recommended retirement-savings benchmarks, if you're 30 years old and earn $60,000 a year, you should have the equivalent of one year's salary ($60,000) saved. At 35, it should be twice that amount ($120,000). At 40, it should be three times that amount ($180,000). You can see the full chart here.

Keep in mind that you don't have to save every penny of the amounts above to get to your goal. Your savings will grow exponentially if you invest the money you save.

January 25: Generate 20 business ideas in 10 minutes.

GrowthLab and I Will Teach You to Be Rich CEO Ramit Sethi says there are four questions you'll want to ask yourself to isolate the profitable skills you already have:

1. What do you already pay for?

2. What skills do you have?

3. What do your friends say you're great at?

4. What do you do on a Saturday morning?

"Spend about 10 to 20 minutes now writing down five answers for each of the four questions above," he writes. "Once you're done, congratulations — you now have 20 potential business ideas that you can grow into a flourishing side hustle."

January 26: Ask yourself a question from the CEO of Dropbox: One year from now, five years from now, what will I wish I had learned today?

That's a question Drew Houston, CEO of Dropbox, shared in a post for Business Insider.

It's smart to be "systematic" about learning, Houston told Business Insider US Editor-in-Chief Alyson Shontell on an episode of Business Insider's podcast "Success! How I Did It."

He said:

"Whether it's just the fundamentals of business or things like public speaking or being more inspiring or being a better leader, these are all things you can get better at with practice. You should set your sights high in terms of what you aspire to do, but you also have to be patient.

"It's like playing an instrument. You're not going to be great as a public speaker, or you're not going to improve a lot in five days, but in five years, you might be really surprised at how much you can improve."

January 27: Complete your estate-planning documents — such as a power of attorney form and healthcare directive — to remain in control of your life.

The best way to protect yourself from experiencing financial mistreatment or abuse, according to Jenny Flom, a New Jersey lawyer at Cole Schotz who focuses on guardianship actions, is to make sure your estate-planning documents are complete, and that means more than just a will.

"Make sure your power of attorney and your healthcare directive are completed," Flom told Business Insider.

A power-of-attorney form is a legal document that gives one or more people access to your financial accounts and the ability to make decisions with your money when you can't. A healthcare directive does the same for medical decisions.

January 28: Start a side hustle to supplement your income.

If you ask Chris Guillebeau, a New York Times best-selling author and entrepreneur, there's more reason to launch a side hustle than the lure of an extra paycheck.

"I do believe people need it, and I don't think it's just something that's nice — I think there's an urgency to it," Guillebeau, 39, told Business Insider. While he does think starting a side business is a smart way to develop some financial security, there's a deeper, "very positive" benefit he encourages people to shift their focus toward.

It's also crucial to "look away from the gig economy" and part-time jobs, he said, and put your energy toward creating something unique and valuable that people will pay for.

January 29: Ask your team for feedback on your performance (and wait quietly until they answer).

Kim Scott, a CEO coach and a former Google and Apple exec, is big on getting feedback from one's team. But she knows employees get squeamish around criticizing a boss.

In her book "Radical Candor," she offers a potential solution. The next time one of your employees gives the standard "Everything's fine" response? Silently count to six before saying anything else.

"Almost nobody can endure that much silence," Scott told Business Insider. "And they'll tell you something."

Maybe they'll mention that you're not so great at meeting deadlines, or that you consistently pay more attention to one person on the team. Whatever they say, don't dismiss it.

January 30: Start hugging or kissing your family before you leave for work.

According to IKEA's "Life at Home" report, while most people surveyed say it's important to hug or kiss their partner in the morning, far fewer people report showing this kind of physical affection before heading out the door.

And yet when it comes to romantic relationships, research suggests physical affection is related to greater relationship satisfaction.

Interestingly, one study, of college students and other adults, found that a person's satisfaction with the kind of physical affection they receive from their partner — like how often they hug and kiss and not just whether they actually do — strongly predicts how much they love their partner.

January 31: Start walking into job interviews like you already have the job.

Meghan Welch, an HR exec with Capital One, says the best way to nail a job interview is to pretend you already have the position.

She said the best candidates succeed by thoughtfully and enthusiastically articulating their big ideas for the company.

"It comes off as, 'I am super excited about the problem you are talking about right now, and I have a whole bunch of ways I would love to solve it,'" she said. "I get a lot of energy from that kind of discussion."

• Read more:
• 4 ways to find a sense of accomplishment when you're going through a rough patch at work
• 9 high-achieving execs share the craziest advice they've ever received that ended up leading to their success
• 7 strategies that help me get more done in less time as a founder and CEO
• The most successful children have parents who play 8 roles, according to a Harvard researcher

• Airbnb announced new policies on Thursday in an effort to crack down on unauthorized parties and address complaints by neighbors and city officials.
• The changes come on the heels of a deadly shooting at an Airbnb rental and concerns about fraud on the platform.

• While certain parties pre-approved by hosts will still be allowed, Airbnb is banning any "open-invite" parties, including those promoted on social media.

• Guests who violate the updated rules will be given one warning before potentially having their accounts suspended or shut down.

• Airbnb said it also planned to open hotlines for neighbors and city officials to lodge complaints.

• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories. 

Airbnb said in a blog post Thursday that, starting in early 2020, it would ban all unauthorized parties and update its guest standards in an effort to address growing trust and safety concerns surrounding the platform.

Airbnb said it hoped to crack down on party houses by prohibiting any "open-invite" parties that were not pre-approved by hosts, including those promoted by guests on social media. The new policy would also ban large parties and events in multi-family residences, such as apartments and condos, but would still allow hosts with single-family homes and professional event venues to set their own rules around events.

The updated guest standards address situations involving excessive noise, major cleanliness concerns, and unauthorized guests, parking, or smoking. While Airbnb has long required guests to follow hosts' rules, it said the new policy creates a "clear and actionable enforcement framework" in situations where guests violate those rules. First-time violations will result in a warning and "required education on Airbnb rules," while subsequent ones could mean account suspensions or removals.

Airbnb also said it had plans to launch hotlines for neighbors and city officials to contact the company with any concerns. In a blog post last month, the company detailed the planned staffing, rollout, and structure of its neighbor hotline. Airbnb said it would have more information in 2020 about its hotline for city officials.

The company's announcement comes in response to growing concerns about trust and safety on the platform, including a recent deadly shooting at an Airbnb property in California and an extensive scam operation uncovered by Vice reporter Allie Conti.

In the blog post, Airbnb's vice president of trust, Margaret Richardson, said the policy changes "are part of a continued commitment to develop technological and human interventions to prevent, detect, and respond to safety issues that undermine trust within our community."

Join the conversation about this story »

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• Signing up for a rewards credit card and earning its welcome bonus is the quickest way to earn a ton of points, miles, or cash back.
• While some credit card bonuses stay largely the same, others increase from time to time. Pay extra attention to limited-time offers if you want to earn as many rewards as possible.
• In December, you can score up to 200,000 miles with the Capital One® Spark® Miles for Business. And the American Express® Green Card got a significant makeover — it's a great option for earning Amex points if you don't want to pay a premium-level annual fee.
• Plus, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card's offer remains a great way to get started with some of the most valuable points around.
• Read more personal finance coverage.

If you want to earn points and miles, there's no quicker route than signing up for a rewards credit card and earning its sign-up bonus. This typically requires meeting a minimum spending requirement in the first three months or 90 days, and it's well worth it — you'll be rewarded with thousands of points or miles to put toward your next trip, or with a sizeable amount of cash back.

Before you apply for any new cards, make sure you understand how credit card applications affect your credit score. Then, scroll down to check out some of the best sign-up offers available in December.

Keep in mind that we're focusing on the rewards and perks that make these credit cards great options, not things like interest rates and late fees, which will far outweigh the value of any points or miles. It's important to practice financial discipline when using credit cards by paying your balances in full each month, making payments on time, and only spending what you can afford to pay back. 

1. American Express® Green Card

Welcome offer: 30,000 Amex points after you spend $2,000 in the first three months. Plus, if you apply by January 15, 2020, get up to $100 in statement credits toward eligible purchases made with Away, the luggage company.

Annual fee: $150

Amex just announced a complete makeover of its Green card, and it's now a very good option for earning Membership Rewards points at a reasonable price point. 

The Green card used to be pretty boring and unrewarding, but now it earns 3x points on all eligible travel and at restaurants worldwide. That makes it competitive with other top rewards cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve when it comes to earning points on these two popular spending categories. 

The Amex Green card also offers up to $100 in statement credits toward CLEAR membership (it's an alternative to TSA PreCheck but it also offers expedited security at some stadiums and arenas) and up to $100 in statement credits per year on LoungeBuddy, which lets you book airport lounges.

If you apply by January 15, 2020, you'll be eligible for an additional $100 in statement credits — in this case, for eligible purchases with Away, the popular luggage company. If you can put these perks and credits to use, the Amex Green card could be a great way to improve your travel and boost your Amex points balance.

Click here to learn more about the Amex Green card.

2. Chase Sapphire Preferred

Welcome offer: 60,000 Chase points after you spend $4,000 in the first three months

Annual fee: $95

If you want a rewards credit card with points that can be used with a variety of travel partners, you can't go wrong with the Sapphire Preferred. It's one of the best general credit card picks if you're new to the world of points and miles or if you don't want to pay the $450 annual fee of the Chase Sapphire Reserve, as the Sapphire Preferred has a $95 annual fee.

The card has been offering a 60,000-point sign-up bonus for the last several months, and you can use those points to book travel directly through Chase, or you can transfer them to partners like British Airways, Hyatt, Singapore Airlines, and United.

Beyond earning some of the most valuable points around, the Sapphire Preferred offers primary car rental insurance and doesn't charge foreign transaction fees.

Click here to learn more about the Sapphire Preferred.

3. Capital One Spark Miles for Business

Welcome offer: 50,000 miles when you spend $5,000 in the first three months and 150,000 miles when you spend $50,000 in the first six months

Annual fee: $95 (waived the first year)

Earning the full 200,000 miles with this elevated sign-up bonus requires spending even more than with the Amex Business Platinum, but if your business can easily (and comfortably) spend and pay off $50,000 in six months, this offer is a great opportunity to rake in the Capital One miles to save on future travel.

If you use 200,000 miles to wipe travel spending from your Spark Miles statement with the Capital One Purchase Eraser feature, you'll get $2,000 toward travel. And don't forget that you'll earn miles on your spending, too, and the Spark Miles for Business earns 2x miles on all spending. So if you hit the $50,000 requirement in the first six months, you'll earn an addition 100,000 miles, for 300,000 miles total — or $3,000 toward travel.

In addition to redeeming miles to cover travel purchases, you can transfer them to Capital One's airline transfer partners, including Emirates and Singapore Airlines. 

This is a limited-time offer, and we don't know the end date, so if you're interested we recommend applying sooner than later so you don't miss out.

Click here to learn more about the Capital One Spark Miles for Business.

4. Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business

Welcome offer: $500 cash bonus when you spend $5,000 in the first three months, $1,500 when you spend $50,000 in the first six months

Annual fee: $95 (waived the first year)

Like the Spark Miles for Business, the Spark Cash for Business is currently offering a very valuable sign-up bonus. If your business can spend $50,000 in the first six months, you could earn $2,000 in cash back.

Since this is a cash-back card rather than a miles-earning card, you can only redeem your rewards for statement credits or a check. If your goal is to put money back in your business rather than to earn miles toward travel, the Spark Cash could be the better option for you.

Again, this is a limited-time offer without a public end date, so apply sooner than later if you're interested.

Click here to learn more about the Capital One Spark Cash for Business.

5. The Platinum Card® from American Express

Welcome offer: 60,000 Amex points after you spend $5,000 in the first three months

Annual fee: $550

If you travel frequently and can put its many, many benefits to use, the Amex Platinum can be an easy decision even with its $550 annual fee. See how Business Insider's David Slotnick got more than $2,000 in value from the card in his first year for more info.

Some of the card's top perks include a 5x earning rate on airfare purchased directly from the airline, up to $200 in airline fee credits each calendar year, up to $200 in Uber credits each cardmember year, and up to $100 in Saks Fifth Avenue credits each calendar year. 

The card also stands out for its airport lounge access benefits. As a card member, you can access Amex Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs (when you're flying Delta), Priority Pass lounges, Air Space Lounges, International American Express Lounges, Escape Lounges, and Plaza Premium Lounges.

You can use the Amex Membership Rewards points you'll earn with this card to book travel with airlines like British Airways, Delta, and Emirates, and with hotel partners including Marriott.

Click here to learn more about the American Express Platinum.

6. United Explorer Card

Welcome bonus: Earn up to 65,000 miles — 40,000 miles after you spend $2,000 in the first three months, and another 25,000 miles after you spend $10,000 total in the first six months

Annual fee: $95 (waived the first year)

If you fly United a few times a year and you don't have the Explorer card yet, you can currently score an elevated sign-up bonus. Earning the full 65,000 miles requires spending $10,000 in the first six months, but that works out to just $1,666 per month.

Beyond the bonus miles you can earn with the current sign-up bonus, the Explorer card offers 2x miles on United purchases and at hotels and restaurants (and 1x on everything else). The card has the standard airline card features including a free checked bag (when you pay with your United card) and priority boarding, but it also offers a few valuable extras.

First, you get up to a $100 credit to cover the application fee for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, and two one-time United Club lounge passes each year. Plus, you get access to additional saver-level United awards compared to non-cardholders, which makes it easier to use your miles. 

Click here to learn more about the United Explorer card.

7. Capital One® Venture® Rewards Credit Card

Welcome offer: 50,000 miles after you spend $3,000 in the first three months

Annual fee: $95 (waived the first year)

The Venture Rewards card has consistently added benefits over the last year or so. While previously you could only use miles to erase purchases on your statement, you can now transfer them to a variety of airline programs, including Air Canada, Air France/KLM and Etihad. There are occasionally transfer bonuses that help you stretch your miles further, too.

This card offers a strong lineup of benefits considering the reasonable $95 annual fee (that's waived the first year). You get an application fee credit of up to $100 for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, and earn 10x miles when you book hotels through the hotels.com/venture landing page.

Earning 10 miles per dollar on hotels is hard to beat, and that's in addition to the free night for every 10 paid nights you book that you'll earn through the Hotels.com Rewards program. You'll also earn 2x miles on all non-hotel purchases.

Click here to learn more about the Capital One Venture.

8. Wells Fargo Propel American Express® card

Welcome offer: 30,000 bonus points after you spend $3,000 in the first three months

Annual fee: $0

If you prefer earning cash back to points and miles, the Wells Fargo Propel is a great choice. It earns 3 points per dollar on dining, on travel, gas stations, rideshares, and on popular streaming services, and 1 point per dollar on everything else. That's a strong selection of bonus categories, and it's even better when you consider that this card has no annual fee. 

The Propel Card also includes cell phone protection, and there are no foreign transaction fees.

Click here to learn more about the Wells Fargo Propel Amex.

9. American Express® Gold Card

Welcome offer: 35,000 Amex points after you spend $4,000 in the first three months

Annual fee: $250

If you eat out or buy groceries on a regular basis, the Amex Gold card is made for you. You'll earn 4 points per dollar at restaurants, and 4 points per dollar on the first $25,000 spent at US supermarkets each year (then 1 point per dollar). The card also offers up to $120 in dining credits each year, split into $10 each month, at Grubhub, Seamless, The Cheesecake Factory, Ruth's Steak House, or participating Shake Shack locations.

As with the Amex Platinum, you can use the Amex Membership Rewards points earned from this card to book travel with more than 15 airline partners and three hotel programs (Choice, Hilton, and Marriott).

Click here to learn more about the Amex Gold Card.

10. Ink Business Preferred Credit Card

Welcome offer: 80,000 points after you spend $5,000 in the first three months

Annual fee: $95

The Ink Business Preferred card offers the highest sign-up bonus among Chase cards that earn Ultimate Rewards points. Plus, it has generous bonus categories — you'll earn 3 points per dollar in the first $150,000 in combined purchases you make on categories including travel, shipping, and advertising (and 1 point per dollar on everything else).

This card has a $95 annual fee, and it offers benefits like primary rental car insurance when you're renting a car for business purposes.

Click here to learn more about the Ink Business Preferred.

11. 75k points with the Brex corporate card

Welcome offer: 75,000 points upon sign-up with the Brex Corporate Card for Startups and the Brex Corporate Card for Ecommerce

Annual fee: None

The two versions of the Brex corporate card could be worth a look if you have a small business and are willing to make this your exclusive corporate card. When you do, you can earn up to 7x points on purchases, and you can redeem points with seven airlines, including JetBlue and Singapore Airlines. The Brex Corporate Card for Startups and the Brex Corporate Card for Ecommerce are offering elevated bonuses of 75,000 points to those who sign up by December 31.

Read more:Brex corporate credit card review

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• Steph Korey, the CEO of luggage startup Away, has issued an apology after The Verge's Zoe Schiffer reported on a toxic work culture at the company.
• According to The Verge, bosses reportedly berated employees publicly over Slack, and demanded long hours with little paid time off or overtime pay.
• Korey was included in many of the leaked Slack conversations published by The Verge, and said in a statement that she was "appalled" to read messages she'd sent in the past.
• On Friday, The Verge reported that managers at Away were instructing employees not to interact online with any of the coverage of the company's culture. 
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Travel startup Away just became the most recent workplace horror story after Zoe Schiffer at The Verge published an account of the company's "cuttroat culture" where employees were regularly "brutally criticized" on public Slack channels.

In the wake of the story, CEO Steph Korey has issued an apology.

"I can imagine how people felt reading those messages from the past, because I was appalled to read them myself," Korey said in a statement to Business Insider. "I am sincerely sorry for what I said and how I said it. It was wrong, plain and simple."

Many of Korey's Slack conversations were included in the story. At one point, she reportedly called the manager of a project "brain dead," and in another conversation, screenshots show Korey sending messages at 3 a.m., informing her team that no paid time off or work from home requests would be approved until they reached specific consumer experience milestones.

Read Korey's full statement below:

"I can imagine how people felt reading those messages from the past, because I was appalled to read them myself. I am sincerely sorry for what I said and how I said it. It was wrong, plain and simple.

We want Away to be a company that sets the highest standards for how we treat our employees and help them grow. Over the last 12 months we've invested in creating a culture that allows our people to thrive, including executive coaching for the senior staff, diversity and inclusion training for everyone at the company, 360 reviews, establishing employee resource groups and adding 100 plus new team members to better divide workloads. I am working to be better every day and I promise to keep at it for the sake of our employees, our customers and our company."

One week before The Verge published this article, Away's vice president of people and culture, Erin Grau, told Business Insider that Away cared about its employees and their career development. Away has since disputed some of the investigation's findings. 

On Friday, The Verge reported on a leaked memo from Away managers telling employees: "Please do not share the article. Please do not fave/like/comment or interact with any commentary (negative or positive) through either your personal or professional accounts."

To read the full report on Away's culture, head over to The Verge.

SEE ALSO: The HR chief at $1.4 billion Away told us the company wants employees to 'bring their full authentic selves to work.' But a new bombshell investigation describes a cutthroat culture of bullying and burnout.

Join the conversation about this story »

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• Insider spoke to current and former employees about things you should never do in a hotel.
• Stripping the sheets and pillows off of your bed isn't helpful unless you're checking out.
• A hotel's throw pillows can be tough to clean, so you should avoid sleeping on them.
• You should read the welcome booklet in your room before asking staff members a lot of questions. 
• Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

Staying in a hotel can be a pretty great experience, but there are some behaviors you might want to avoid during your next visit. 

Here are few things you should never do in a hotel, according to current and former employees. 

It's not actually helpful when you strip your bed every morning.

Although it seems helpful in theory, stripping your pillowcases, duvet covers, and sheets every morning can actually give the cleaning crew more work. 

"On busy days, staff will simply plump pillows and reuse the same sheets, only changing the linens every three to four days. Stripping the bed every morning can add unnecessary minutes to the time-sensitive housekeeping staff duties," Flavio Serreti, manager of Soprano Villas and Rome Lofts, told Insider. 

If you absolutely need your sheets changed, leaving a note for the housecleaning staff or phoning the front desk should do the trick. 

Throw pillows can be hard to clean, so you should avoid sleeping on them.

Daniel Romero, manager of the Park James Hotel in Menlo Park, California, told Insider that dirty throw pillows can be a housecleaning nightmare. 

"Throw pillows are not easy to clean. Anytime someone drools or gets makeup smeared on these pillows, they need to be specially cleaned or, in the worst cases, thrown out," said Romero. 

Avoid checking out late without notifying reception.

Checking out late can mess up a hotel crew's entire schedule, and you could also be charged extra for your room. 

"In busy periods, housekeeping staff are under more pressure to turn guest rooms around before new check-ins. Guests leaving rooms even 10 minutes later than scheduled can result in new guests being delayed at check-in," said Serreti. 

Before calling the front desk with questions, skim through the welcome booklet in your room.

Before phoning reception or just assuming you know the hotel's rules, be sure to take a peek at the guidelines, menus, and information that's placed in your room upon your arrival. 

This information is typically located in a booklet or folder.

"Many hotels have unique rules. For example, at some hotels, breakfast service finishes at 10 a.m. and you won't be served after. For some, smoking or having pets in the room is prohibited. It's not the hotel's fault if you don't read the hotel rules," former hotel manager Emma Atanasoska told Insider. 

Don't expect your room to be cleaned immediately.

Even the most efficient housecleaning crew can't take a room from filthy to fresh in an instant. 

"Guests sometimes expect their room to be cleaned within 15 minutes of them leaving the room and removing the 'do not disturb' sign," said Serreti. "We can rely on at least one guest a day complaining that their room isn't cleaned by the time it has taken them to eat lunch."

A good rule of thumb is to give cleaning staff at least a three- or four-hour window in which to tidy your space. This may mean lingering over lunch or calling the hotel to check on the status of your room before returning. 

But if you'd rather have the freedom to breeze in and out of your room all day without having to dodge housekeeping, you can try leaving the "do not disturb" sign on your doorknob. 

You shouldn't take home full-size bath amenities unless you're willing to pay for them.

Although you can often take home miniature bottles of shampoo and body wash, bulk amenities generally are not up for grabs. 

"Use as much as you'd like during your stay, but if you take a full-size bath amenity home, you will be charged for it. So don't act shocked when it happens if you stow one away in your luggage," said Romero. 

Generally, other large like robes and towels are also not complimentary and you should ask before taking them home.

Don't leave the hotel without alerting staff to damaged furniture.

Atanasoska told Insider that damage to room furniture, decor, or linens is surprisingly common — and oftentimes guests try to pretend it never happened. 

"The damaged furniture will usually be charged to your bill at several times more than its original price — and don't think you can get away with it by saying that it wasn't your fault or by not telling the front desk at all," said Atanasoska. "During your check-out, the front desk is usually sending someone to check your room."

So, if you accidentally break or damage something in your room you might want to immediately alert hotel staff. 

In some cases, they may deem the damage to be normal wear and tear and skip the extra charge. However, trying to hide the damage or leaving without reporting it increases the likelihood that your card will be hit with a hefty fine.

If you want an early check-in, you should ask days in advance, not the morning of.

Whether you're flying in on an early flight or just want to drop your bags and start exploring as soon as possible, early check-in is a great option.

However, you need to make sure you request this service well in advance. 

"If you want an early check-in, then email or call in advance. Staff will then allocate your room to be the first cleaned, so you can check in first. However, if you ask on the day, then it is usually too late," Serreti told Insider. 

Don't assume your group will automatically be given adjoining rooms.

If you're traveling with family or a large herd of friends, don't assume that hotel staff will automatically give you rooms that are connected, or even on the same floor. 

"Please do not assume your rooms will all be next to each other in a row. Unless you have specifically reserved adjoining rooms, it is nearly impossible to get your seven guest rooms on the same floor, let alone all together in a row," Chris Bunting, sales manager atHilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront Hotel, told Insider. 

Don't even think about sneaking a pet into your room.

Unless you're at a pet-friendly hotel, attempting to smuggle an animal into your hotel room is a recipe for trouble.

Depending on the hotel's policy, you could be fined or even kicked out of your room.

"Please make sure to book a pet-friendly room or package if your pet will be accompanying you during your visit. Don't sneak your pet into your room," said Bunting. 

Read More:

• 25 hotels you can stay in across the US that are believed to be haunted
• 15 things you didn't know you could get for free at a hotel
• 8 things that happen at 5-star hotels that employees don't want you to know

• At a Friday meeting at the White House, President Donald Trump spoke at length about water and energy conservation in bathrooms.
• He said "we're looking very strongly at sinks and showers and other elements of bathrooms" because, among other reasons, "people are flushing toilets 10 times, 15 times."
• Earlier in the meeting, Trump also jokingly complained that energy-saving lightbulbs made him look bad, saying, "Of course, being a vain person that's very important to me."
• As The New York Times reported in December 2017, Trump "has an odd affinity for showing off bathrooms, including one he renovated near the Oval Office."
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

At a Friday meeting at the White House, President Donald Trump expounded at length about water and energy conservation, saying the Environmental Protection Agency is looking into restrictions in part because, he claims, "people" are flushing their toilets 10 to 15 times instead of once and are therefore using more water.

"We have a situation where we're looking very strongly at sinks and showers and other elements of bathrooms, where you turn the faucet on in areas where there's tremendous amounts of water, where it all flows out to sea because you could never handle it all, and you don't get any wate," he said. "They take a shower and water comes dripping out, very quietly dripping out. People are flushing toilets 10 times, 15 times, as opposed to once, they end up using more water. So EPA is looking very strongly at that, at my suggestion.

"You go into a new building, new house, a new home and they have standards where don't get water, and you can't wash your hands practically, there's so little water," he added. "And the end result is that you leave the faucet on and it takes you much longer to wash your hands, and you end up using the same amount of water. So we're looking very seriously at opening up the standard and there may be some areas where we go the other route, desert areas, but for the most part you have states where they have so much water where it comes down — its called rain — that they don't know what to do with it." 

In his comments, Trump appeared to be referring to the standards set by the National Energy Policy Act of 1995, federal regulations which stipulated that all newly-manufactured toilets had to use a maximum of 1.6 gallons of water per flush, a significant decrease from previous standards. 

Earlier in the meeting, Trump also jokingly complained about energy-saving lightbulbs. "They got rid of the lightbulb that people got used to," he said. "The new bulb is many times more expensive and I hate to say it, it doesn't make you look as good. Of course, being a vain person that's very important to me. It gives you an orange look, I don't want an orange look, has anyone noticed? So we'll have to change those bulbs in rooms where I'm in." 

Trump's interest in light bulbs and his appearance shouldn't be a surprise, but neither should his lengthy comments about water usage in bathrooms.

As The New York Times reported in December 2017, Trump "is naturally garrulous, and loves to give White House tours. He has an odd affinity for showing off bathrooms, including one he renovated near the Oval Office."

Read more:

The 8 fast-food chains with the best bathrooms in America, according to people who use them

An off-grid toilet called the 'iThrone' shrinks and dehydrates poop — no plumbing or power required

This $50 bidet attaches to your toilet — I tried it and was impressed with how well it cleaned

SEE ALSO: Incredible photos show how the White House has celebrated Christmas through the years

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: Extremists turned a frog meme into a hate symbol, but Hong Kong protesters revived it as an emblem of hope

• This is a preview of the AI in Insurance research report from Business Insider Intelligence.
• 14-Day Risk Free Trial: Get full access to this and all Fintech industry research reports.

The insurance sector has fallen behind the curve of financial services innovation — and that's left hundreds of billions in potential cost savings on the table.

The most valuable area in which insurers can innovate is the use of artificial intelligence (AI): It's estimated that AI can drive cost savings of $390 billion across insurers' front, middle, and back offices by 2030, according to a report by Autonomous NEXT seen by Business Insider Intelligence. The front office is the most lucrative area to target for AI-driven cost savings, with $168 billion up for grabs by 2030.

There are three main aspects of the front office that stand to benefit most from AI. First, Chatbots and automated questionnaires can help insurers make customer service more efficient and improve customer satisfaction. Second, AI can help insurers offer more personalized policies for their customers. Finally, by streamlining the claims management process, insurers can increase their efficiency. 

In the AI in Insurance Report, Business Insider Intelligence will examine AI solutions across key areas of the front office — customer service, personalization, and claims management — to illustrate how the technology can significantly enhance the customer experience and cut costs along the value chain. We will look at companies that have accomplished these goals to illustrate what insurers should focus on when implementing AI, and offer recommendations on how to ensure successful AI adoption.

The companies mentioned in this report are: IBM, Lemonade, Lloyd's of London, Next Insurance, Planck, PolicyPal, Root, Tractable, and Zurich Insurance Group.

Here are some of the key takeaways from the report:

• The cost savings that insurers can capture from using AI in the front office will allow them to refocus capital and employees on more lucrative objectives, such as underwriting policies.
• To ensure that AI in the front office is successful, insurers need to have a clear strategy for implementing the tech and use it as a solution for specific problems.
• Insurers are still at different stages when it comes to implementing AI: a number of them need to find ways to appropriately build their strategies and enable transformation, while the others must identify how to move forward with their existing strategy.
• Overall, incumbents should focus on a hybrid model between digital and human to ensure they're catering to all consumers.

 In full, the report:

• Outlines the benefits of using AI in the insurance industry.
• Explains the three main ways insurers can revamp their front office using the technology.
• Highlights players that have successfully implemented AI solutions in their front office.
• Discusses how insurers should move forward with AI and what routes are the most lucrative option for players of different sizes.

Interested in getting the full report? Here are two ways to access it:

1. Purchase & download the full report from our research store. >> Purchase & Download Now
2. Subscribe to a Premium pass to Business Insider Intelligence and gain immediate access to this report and more than 250 other expertly researched reports. As an added bonus, you'll also gain access to all future reports and daily newsletters to ensure you stay ahead of the curve and benefit personally and professionally. >>Learn More Now

The choice is yours. But however you decide to acquire this report, you've given yourself a powerful advantage in your understanding of AI in insurance.

Join the conversation about this story »

• Ferrara, a 127-year-old bakery, is one of the last surviving pastry shops in Little Italy.
• It's famous for pastries like cannoli, tricolor cookies, and tiramisu.
• But around the holidays, the most coveted dessert is struffoli, a Neapolitan dish made of baked balls of dough covered in honey.
• Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

Following is a full transcript of this video.

- Taryn Varricchio: New York City's Little Italy is a fraction of what it used to be, but one surviving bakery is still thriving. It's the main attraction on Grand Street in Lower Manhattan, and it's a staple for Italian pastries. You'll find many traditional desserts, but none more popular than struffoli during the holidays. This is Ferrara's, and it's been making the best holiday struffoli in New York for over 100 years.

Customer: I heard of Ferrara's as a young child. Been coming back ever since, that's about 60 years now. It's an iconic institution that is one of the few remnants left of the neighborhood, and it's great that it can continue.

Taryn: It is cold in Little Italy today, but we're heading to one of the most famous places in this neighborhood. Ferrara's is known for tons of classic pastries, from cannolis to tiramisu to rainbow cookies, but especially struffoli around the holidays. So, we wanna know, why is this the go-to spot for Italian pastries in Little Italy? Let's go find out.

Ferrara's started as a gathering place for Italians on the Lower East Side. In 1892, owners Antonio Ferrara and Enrico Scoppa, who were professional bakers back in Italy, decided to turn the club into a café. The original Caffé A. Ferrara became popular among locals as one of the first and only places to serve espresso in the city. But today, customers come to Ferrara's for much more than a cup of coffee. From famous cannoli to the quintessential tricolor cookie, Ferrara's glass cases are never short of customer favorites.

Customer: The coffee's delicious, and the pastry. Whatever you choose in here is good. It's really good.

Taryn: But as temperatures drop and Christmas comes closer, the coveted pastry turns to struffoli. It's a part of Italian holiday tradition to enjoy this Neapolitan dessert, which is made of little balls of puff-pastry dough covered in honey and shaped into wreaths. Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, bakers make 1,300 wreaths of struffoli a day.

Ernest Lepore: People will walk by and understand right away what it is. I put up samples just so people can enjoy and experience it. Which, this is very important to Italians.

Taryn: But there's a reason customers choose a wreath from Ferrara's over other New York pastry shops. Unlike most traditional struffoli, the Ferrara's version isn't fried.

Ernest: So, we bake our struffoli, and a lot of people fry their struffoli. This, being baked, lasts longer, has less calories, and it's lighter. So the Ferrara struffolis float.

Taryn: It's, like, crunchy, but not hard, and a little bit of airiness. And it's just light and sweet. And I just couldn't believe how many of these they sell. A woman walked in as we were sitting here, and she looked over, and she immediately knew that this was struffoli, 'cause this dessert is the dessert to get here around the holidays.

I might have to... now that I know how to make it, could add to the table.

Customer: Struffoli.

Taryn: Struffoli! [laughs]

And Ernest was telling us, thousands and thousands, like, 50,000 orders of struffoli get pushed out of here around the holidays, so that is just mind-blowing to me.

After years of success, it seemed as though nothing could get in Ferrara's way. The bakery was a true destination in the neighborhood and one of the oldest remnants left of Little Italy. But in February 2018, an unexpected turn of events threatened the shop's 125-year history.

Ernest: My sister calls me at 7 o'clock in the morning and says, "The store's on fire."

News anchor: Flames broke out around 7:30 at Angelo's of Mulberry Street.

Ernest: These buildings are very close, and someone flicked a cigarette between the buildings, and a huge fire came up. I'm like, oh, my God, we're in trouble. I walk in, and everybody that's in the kitchen is standing on the sidewalk. And I get to the kitchen, and there's fire coming in. There's nothing I can do. We had to rebuild a third of the bakery.

Taryn: Fortunately, everyone was safe at Ferrara's, and many of the baked goods in the glass cases survived. The bakery only lost two hours of business, but the event had a lasting effect on Ernest and his team.

Ernest: It was like a shift in reality. We've never had a problem, and then all of a sudden, you're walking down the block and you're saying, "Is it still there?"

Taryn: Ferrara's is, in fact, still in its original location from the 1890s, and it's still drawing in crowds for its cups of espresso and freshly baked desserts, maintaining a century-old tradition as one of Little Italy's only surviving pastry shops.

Customer: Every time we always have family visiting, we always bring them. We have to come Ferrara's because everything is just so delicious.

Join the conversation about this story »

• Each month, Amazon's book editors add a batch of new releases to the Best Books of the Month section, which serves as a convenient resource for readers throughout the year.
• This December, you'll find 10 great reads, from exhilarating spy novels andepic historical stories to raw memoirs.
• Check out this month's top picks, with short summaries provided by Amazon's book editor, Erin Kodicek.

The year 2019 is approaching its curtain call. During a stressful time marked by limited daylight, holiday shopping, and somber weather, literary escapism is certainly warranted — and as a new Insider Picks fellow, I found solace in a good book after spending weeks scouring Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals for our readers.

Just in time for the holiday season, the Amazon Books team has selected its favorite reads of December, concluding the Best Books of the Month section for this year.

December's roster is an eclectic mix highlighting scientific exploitation, fantasy worlds, and intrepid adventures, among other page-turning topics and storylines. Widely acclaimed authors like Tomi Adeyemi are featured alongside new writers making fresh debuts in the literary space. Whether you're on the hunt for a thoughtful gift or seeking to expand your personal library, this month's list is a useful starting point. 

Keep reading to see this month's book selection below. To view the complete breakdown of Amazon's Best Books of 2019, visit amazon.com/bestbooks2019.

Captions have been provided by Erin Kodicek, editor of books and Kindle at Amazon.com.

"Such A Fun Age" by Kiley Reid

Buy it here >>

A 25-year-old black babysitter — clad in her "going out" clothes — takes her young charge to a moneyed market, only to be accused of kidnapping by a security guard and fellow shopper. Thus begins a deft and heartfelt exploration of race, class, parenthood, and youth.

"Once More To The Rodeo" by Calvin Hennick

Buy it here >>

In his probing and profound memoir, Calvin Hennick hits the road with his 5-year-old son searching for answers to questions like: "What does it mean to be a man today? What can a white father teach his biracial son?"

"Children Of Virtue And Vengeance" by Tomi Adeyemi

Buy it here >>

The Legacy of Orisha continues with the second book in the fantasy trilogy, "Children of Virtue and Vengeance." In it, the rich world-building continues, and the plot grows ever more complex and thoughtful as the kingdom threatens to tear itself apart. 

"Under Occupation" by Alan Furst

Buy it here >>

In Alan Furst's latest spy novel, readers will be transported to Paris in 1942, as a mystery writer begins to act like the hero of one of his own novels and gets drawn into the center of the action in ways that are both exhilarating and terrifying.

"The Playground" by Jane Shemilt

Buy it here >>

In Jane Shemilt's shocking page-turner, "The Playground," the lives of three couples converge when their children end up in the same tutoring group, with unexpected and dangerous consequences.

"Labyrinth Of Ice" by Buddy Levy

Buy it here >>

In July of 1881, Lt. A.W. Greely and his crew of 24 scientists and intrepid explorers set out for "farthest North," a region not yet found on any map. Fast-paced and rich in detail, Buddy Levy's "Labyrinth of Ice" captures this perilous polar adventure.   

"Anyone" by Charles Soule

Buy it here >>

In this chilling work of speculative fiction, a scientist's accidental invention — technology that can transfer consciousness from person to person — ends up being exploited on the black market.

"All That's Bright And Gone" by Eliza Nellums

Buy it here >>

In this unusual murder mystery, reminiscent of Mark Haddon's "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time," young, disarmingly sweet Aoife decides that the only way to get his distraught mother back is to find out who murdered his brother.

"Land Of Tears" by Robert Harms

Buy it here >>

Full of action, "Land of Tears" is the fascinating story of the Congo river basin and lands west — all the way to Zanzibar — during the late 1800s when European powers and Arab traders were fighting over resources in equatorial Africa.

"Regretting You" by Colleen Hoover

Buy it here >>

Colleen Hoover returns with a moving novel about a fractured relationship between mother and daughter that is further complicated by a death in the family and the revelation of a surprising affair.  

See more of this year's Amazon Book Of The Month picks below:

• The 10 best books of 2019
• The 10 must-read books of January
• The 10 must-read books of February
• The 10 must-read books of March
• The 10 must-read books of May
• The 10 must-read books of July
• The 10 must-read books of August
• The 12 must-read books of September
• The 12 must-read books of October
• The 10 must-read books of November

• Urban Outfitters is most widely known as a clothing store, but it's also a go-to destination for tech, home, and lifestyle products. 
• From warm winter clothing to the cutest stocking stuffers, Urban Outfitters is well equipped to be your one-stop-shop for the holiday season.
• Check out all of our 2019 holiday gift guides here.

There's no better feeling than finding a gift that perfectly aligns with someone's personality. Searching for a gift that feels unique to a specific person can be a difficult task. Thankfully, Urban Outfitters is the ultimate source for fun gifts that seem tailor-made for your friends and family.

Whether it's clothing, tech, home accessories, or anything in between, Urban Outfitters has something for everyone. Plus, the store's new Gift Center makes finding a gift easier than ever as it sorts holiday gifts by product categories (women's gifts, men's gifts, tech gifts, home gifts, etc.) and price categories (under $15, under $25, under $50, and so on). We combed through the Gift Center ourselves to put together a list of our top 30 gifts from the store. 

SEE ALSO: Your ultimate guide to holiday gift ideas for 2019 — from gifts under $100, $50, and $25, to the coolest tech gifts out there

A fleece blanket that will keep them warm all season long

Amped Fleece Throw Blanket, $49

Some days, it's just too cold to leave the couch. With plenty of color choices, this fleece throw is bound to please anyone.

A cute sloth to start their day with

Sloth-Shaped Mug, $12

This adorable sloth can't make the winter go by any faster, but it can help make the cold mornings a little brighter. This sloth mug can add a bit of fun into anyone's wakeup call. 

A camera to capture all of the new year's memories

Fujifilm UO Exclusive Instax Mini 9 Instant Camera, $69

This Polaroid camera makes capturing memories more fun than ever. Plus, it's a timely gift for anyone who wants to commemorate the upcoming new year. 

A cheese board for the cat lover in your life

Cat Cheese Board, $18

If you ask me, cheese tastes better when it's served on a cat-shaped board. This cheese board is sure to be a hit at any happy hour, dinner party, or game night. 

A mini backpack that holds the essentials

Herschel Supply Co. Nova Mini Backpack, $50

This mini backpack is a great fit for adventures in the upcoming new year. 

A record player that sounds as great as it looks

Crosley UO Exclusive Cream Canvas Cruiser Bluetooth Record Player, $79

Keep playing Christmas music all year long with this Bluetooth-compatible record player. Its portability and subtle cream color make this record player an excellent addition to any room. 

A Bluetooth speaker that looks concert ready

Crosley Charlotte Bluetooth Speaker, $60

This speaker packs a whole lot of sound into its relatively small size. Plus, it's compatible with the turntable listed above. 

A jacket that's as cozy as it is warm

UO Willow Fuzzy Drawstring Teddy Jacket, $69

This jacket is both on-trend and incredibly comfortable. With its various color options and its fleece material, it's the perfect gift for anyone who has to face the cold weather. 

A pair of cable-knit gloves for cold hands

Cable Knit Chenille-Lined Glove, $18

These gloves are the perfect stocking stuffer for anyone with a cold commute.

A hoop earring set for any occasion

Hollow Hoop Earring Set, $20

A good pair of hoops goes a long way. Luckily, this set gives you three pairs. Urban Outfitters even offers a mixed metal option (pictured) for those who can't decide between silver and gold. 

A popcorn popper suited for game day

Spalding Basketball Popcorn Maker, $60

When the holiday season and basketball season coincide, it's important to have some spirited snacks. Any NBA fan will be pleased with this basketball-shaped popcorn popper. 

Some fetch magnets

Mean Girls Mini Burn Book + Magnet Set, $9.95

This magnet set will make your "Mean Girls"-obsessed friends feel as happy as when Glen Coco received four candy canes. 

A necklace for every name in the book

Initial Bar Necklace, $14

This necklace is a great way to add a personal touch to your gifting. The design is simple yet stylish, and every initial is available. 

This comfy set of slippers for lazy days

Minnetonka Taylor Clog Slipper, $45

There's nothing quite as cozy as a great pair of slippers. This Minnetonka pair is a go-to for anyone who likes to stay at home and relax on a cold day. 

A cozy pullover sweater

UO Rosie Cozy V-Neck Pullover Sweater, $49

This sweater is perfect for lounging, yet nice enough to wear outside of the house. 

A pair of joggers that's up for anything

Champion Reverse Weave Jogger Pant, $64

This classic pair of joggers is a wardrobe staple for anyone who strives for comfort. Whether running errands or just lounging, Champion joggers are the way to go. 

A light that's almost good enough to eat

Smoko UO Exclusive Dumpling Light, $16

What's cuter than a smiling dumpling? This portable light adds just the right amount of glow (and a slight dumpling craving) to dark nights. 

An affordable pair of wireless earbuds

Wireless Ear Buds, $30

These wireless earbuds have all the perks of the higher-end pairs without the price tag. 

A winter accent for every outfit

Bouclé Knit Beanie, $24

This knit beanie is soft and warm, which makes it the ideal winter accessory. 

A wintry update to the classic denim jacket

Levi's Type III Sherpa Lined Denim Jacket, $129

Levi's came up with a solution for all those who've wished denim jackets could be worn year-round. Available in classic indigo, vintage denim, and black, there's an option for every look that the winter will bring. 

A gift card for those who just can't decide

Urban Outfitters Gift Card, from $25

One of the best things about Urban Outfitters is the variety. For those who like to be open to options, a gift card is a perfect solution. 

A warm hug from a hedgehog

Huggable Hedgehog Cooling + Heating Pad, $22

This not-so-prickly hedgehog is the perfect companion for a cold day. The material is both microwaveable and freezable, so this heating pad can double as an ice pack. 

A speaker to keep pet anxiety at bay

Illumiseen LED Dog Collar, $19

My dog is so little that, sometimes, the grass or snow is taller than she is. This LED Dog Collar is incredibly useful to any dog owner that walks their pup at night. 

A set of socks fit for any 'Star Wars' fan

Star Wars 12 Days Of Socks Crew Sock 12-Pack, $40

The force meets the feet with these "Star Wars" socks. These 12 designs are sure to make any galaxy fan smile. 

A sweatshirt for anything — from sports to sleep

Champion Reverse Weave Fleece Crew Neck Sweatshirt, $54

Whether relaxing at home or getting in a workout, this sweatshirt is up for the task. Plus, it's offered in many different colors.

A cool storage space for their cosmetics

Cooluli Mini Beauty Refrigerator, $59.95

This miniature fridge is specifically designed for cosmetics that need to be kept cool, such as serums and creams. It's the perfect gift for the beauty enthusiasts in your life. 

A smiling basketball for a happy athlete

Chinatown Market X Smiley UO Exclusive Smiley Basketball, $59

This basketball is bound to make anyone smile. The Chinatown Market X Smiley collaboration will be a hit on the court. 

A journal for every star sign

Velvet Zodiac Journal, $14

This journal is a great option for any astrology fan. It's almost as fun to look at as it is to write in, with a velvet exterior that includes an astrological sign printed in foil.

A pair of boots appropriate for any season

Dr. Martens Jadon Platform 8-Eye Boot, $180

Doc Martens have been a staple for years, and with good reason. These boots are ready for all seasons, outfits, and gift recipients.  

Looking for more gift ideas? We've got you covered.

• Our master list of every gift guide you'll ever need
• 50 creative gift ideas under $25
• 50 thoughtful gift ideas under $50
• 76 clever gift ideas under $100
• 44 cool stocking stuffers on Amazon
• 26 affordable tech gifts under $25
• 51 thoughtful gifts for her, all under $50
• 65 cool gifts for him on Amazon
• 23 cool gift ideas from 'Shark Tank' that you can get from Amazon

• If they're looking to jumpstart a new fitness routine or want to tone up, useful workout gear that helps them get closer to their goal will be much more appreciated than a set of candles.
• Whether they're into running and need a new pair of sneakers from Saucony, or they're stuck at the office all day and want to get their steps in with a Cubii under-desk elliptical, they'll love these 26 thoughtful fitness gifts.
• Looking for more gift ideas? Check out all of our holiday gift guides here.

Everyone has a fitness goal whether it's to gain muscle, tone up their core, or increase their flexibility. No matter what goal they have for 2020, we've got a gift that'll help them get there. 

From ugly Christmas sweater-inspired running sneakers to a quiet elliptical they can use at their desk, there are plenty of gift ideas that work within your budget and their fitness level. And if their fitness level is nonexistent, there's a ClassPass membership to get them started too.

The top 5 best fitness gifts:

1. A monthly ClassPass membership to try different local gyms and classes
2. Water-activated powder shampoo from OWA
3. A neoprene Dagne Dover duffel that works for the office and the gym
4. IGK's charcoal-based dry shampoo for oily roots
5. Ugly Christmas sweater sneakers from Saucony

Here are 26 gift ideas to help them achieve their 2020 fitness goals:

A monthly membership to try different local gyms and classes

ClassPass Membership, starting at $59/month after free trial, available at ClassPass

A ClassPass membership gives them the freedom to switch up their routine and try new workout classes and gyms in their city without long-term commitments. You can get them two months for the price of one — there's a free trial and then the monthly fee goes back up to $59.

Water-activated powder shampoo

OWA Haircare Moondust Hair Wash, $29, available at Credo Beauty

I love bringing this water-activated shampoo when I work out at boutique gyms for its convenience. The bottle is small so it doesn't take up a lot of space in my bag, and the formula is a water-activated powder so it won't make a mess if the bottle bursts open.

I just sprinkle a little on my hands, add some water, and lather. It cleans as well as any other shampoo I've tried and the formula includes, and there's a scent-free version too. I also like taking this when I travel since it's not a liquid that can spontaneously combust in my toiletry bag.

A neoprene duffel that works for the office and the gym

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall, starting at $95, available at Dagne Dover

The beauty of this duffel is in its small, but mighty stature. It can hold their laptop, gym shoes and clothes, and tons of accessories without looking bulky. There's also a thoughtfully-designed water bottle pocket to keep their drink upright, avoiding spills and leaks.

Charcoal-based dry shampoo for oily roots

IGK First Class Charcoal Detox Dry Shampoo, $27, available at Sephora

If they prefer dry shampoo for a quicker exit, IGK's charcoal-based shampoo helps get rid of oil and odor. It brushes out better than a lot of other formulas I've tried, and they'd only need a bit at the roots to feel like a new person. The mini size is great for their gym bag so I'd recommend a few bottles of these instead of the standard 6.3 oz. bottle.

An ugly Christmas sweater shoe they'll wear every time they run

Brooks Revel 3, $100, available at Brooks

It's the ugly Christmas sweater but in sneaker form. The shoe itself is Brooks' Revel 3 with all kinds of festive style upgrades like Fair Isle stitching with heat-activated yarn that helps the shoe keep its shape, metallic laces, and even a glittery logo.  

An elliptical machine they can use at their desk

Cubii Pro Seated Under-Desk Elliptical, $349, available at Amazon

This little elliptical machine fits under their desks so even the biggest workaholic won't have an excuse this year. From personal experience, it's really quiet and actually kind of fun. It also syncs with their Apple or Android phones, Apple Health, and Fitbit to track their performance.

Grippy socks perfect for pilates or barre

Gaiam Grippy Yoga Socks, from $7.98-$16.99, available at Amazon

These socks have durable grips along the bottom for stability during pilates or lounging around the apartment. No judgments here.

Delicious ready-to-blend smoothies

Daily Harvest Subscription, $6.99-$7.99 per cup, available at Daily Harvest

If they're not switching up their diet along with their workout regimen, all that cardio and weightlifting might just be going to waste. Encourage them to eat healthier with a membership to Daily Harvest for delicious smoothies, harvest bowls, chia bowls, and more.

An Alexa-enabled fitness tracker

Fitbit Versa 2, $196, available at Amazon

FitBit's newest fitness tracker has built-in Amazon Alexa so you can check your daily fitness, heart rate, weather, and even set alarms all via voice. 

A two-in-one foam roller for sore muscles

Lululemon Double Roller, $58, available at Lululemon

This foam roller is actually a two-in-one surprise. The outer roller has a wavy texture to release tension in their arms and legs, while the interior roller has deeper grooves to massage their back.  

A colorful water bottle

Takeya Actives 18 oz. Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Insulated Spout Lid, from $21, available at Bed Bath and Beyond

This insulated water bottle keeps their drink cool while they work up a sweat, and the bright shade means they won't forget it at the gym either.

Wireless headphones with built-in artificial technology

Soul Electronics Run Free Pro Bio, $109.99, available at Soul Electronics

This pair of wireless earbuds have built-in artificial technology that acts as a running coach to provide real-time adjustments and suggestions to improve your posture, gait, and more. 

Read our full review and see how the headphones helped shave three minutes off our mile time here.

A sweat-wicking headband

Lululemon Cardio Cross Trainer Headband, $14, available at Lululemon

No one really thinks about fitness headbands — until their hair starts getting into their eyes and mouth as they're doing burpees. This thin style from Lululemon is an easy way to combat that annoyance, and it comes in a bunch of lovely pastel and neutral colors.

Weight training gloves

C9 Champion Women's Workout Gloves, $14.49, available at Target

These fingerless gloves will help them avoid calluses and make them look badass as they reach their deadlift goals.

A backpack for all their gym gear

Aer Fit Pack 2, $150, available at Aer

If they like to carry all of the things to the gym, this backpack is a great option.

It has an extra-large opening for easy access, a ventilated shoe compartment, and a padded laptop sleeve. Best of all, the overall look is so sleek that it doesn't scream "This is my gym bag!"

Meal prep containers they'll actually use

Tone It Up Meal Prep Collapsible Container 2pk Set, $17.99, available at Target

If they love prepping healthy-ish meals in advance, they need this set of collapsible containers from the Insta-famous Tone It Up duo.

Cleansing body wipes to avoid post-gym B.O.

Yuni Shower Sheets Large Body Wipes, $15, available at Amazon

These large body wipes clean, deodorize, and calm skin so they can avoid cramped gym showers. The wipes are also waterless so they won't make a mess if the packaging pops open in their duffel bag. 

New running sneakers because theirs have more than a few holes

Saucony Kinvara, $110 for men's and women's styles, available at Saucony

Upgrade their running shoe to this pair from Saucony. It has lots of cushioning and heel support but is still super light, so it doesn't feel like they're running with leg weights around their ankles.

A shaker bottle for easy protein drinks

BlenderBottle Radian Insulated Stainless Steel Shaker Bottle, $21.97, available at Amazon

If they make a protein shake after working out, they'll love a shaker bottle like this one. The stainless steel whisk is great for mixing smooth drinks, and the copper shade is a style upgrade from the plastic one they've been using for years. 

Their own boxing gloves so they can stop renting sweaty ones at the gym

Sanabul Essential Gel Boxing Kickboxing Training Gloves, $19.99-$29.99, available at Amazon

Sorry, but using boxing gloves that many, many other people have used before isn't hygienic at all. Get your favorite boxer their own pair of gloves, and choose from eight different colors for the one that matches their personal style best.

An extra-long mat with a lifetime guarantee

Manduka PRO Yoga and Pilates Mat, $88-$160, available at Amazon

For yogis who hate having to adjust their poses to fit on standard-length mats, this extra-long style from Manduka is perfect. It's definitely much more expensive than other mats out there, but it does come with a lifetime guarantee so they'll never need to buy another mat again.

Dice that'll determine the day's workout routine

Strength Stack 52 Fitness Dice, $33.97, available at Amazon

Instead of doing the same routine every day, they can switch it up by rolling these fitness dice and leaving it up to chance. There are three levels of intensity — beginner, normal, advanced — and then several exercises on each side of the dice, so they can create a new routine every day.

A yoga set for beginners or those who want to deepen their practice

Clever Yoga Yoga Set Kit 7-Piece, $56.49, available at Amazon

Whether they're a yoga newbie or expert who wants to deepen their practice, they're going to appreciate this seven-piece yoga set. It includes an extra-thick mat, two microfiber towels, two yoga blocks, a yoga strap, and a carrying case to stash everything inside.

Exercise resistance bands for arms

P.volve Exercise Bands, $29.99, available at Amazon

These resistance bands are great for at-home or on-the-go toning workouts. They're lightweight so they'll travel well, and because the stretchy bands are attached to fingerless gloves, they won't dig into your skin like with the traditional ones that look more like giant rubber bands.

An ultralite silicone ring for men and women

Enso Rings, $19.75 - $19.99, available at Amazon

Shop all Enso Rings here

Silicone rings are great for working out or doing outdoorsy things like hiking. I have a few different ones from Enso that I switch between, but they're all made with hypoallergenic silicone that won't irritate my skin.

They're also super lightweight so I don't even feel them after a few seconds, and there's a huge variety of styles, colors, sizes, and widths so you can choose the one (or several) that best fits them.

Reusable makeup remover pads

Croon Makeup Remover Pads, $98, available at Amazon

These eco-friendly makeup removing cloths are actual magic. Once they're wet, they can remove every bit of makeup (including waterproof and long-wearing mascara) without the need for separate makeup remover.

They're machine-washable so once you've used it a few times, just throw them in the included washbag and then air dry. Since I don't need a separate makeup remover, I like bringing this when I travel too.

Looking for more gift ideas? We've got you covered.

• Our master list of every gift guide you'll ever need
• Creative gift ideas under $25
• Thoughtful gift ideas under $50
• Clever gift ideas under $100
• Cool stocking stuffers on Amazon
• Affordable tech gifts under $25
• Thoughtful gifts for her, all under $50
• Cool gifts for him on Amazon

• Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray told Insider that she first learned how to walk in stilettos by wearing taller shoes before going down to a four or five-inch heel.
• "Once you're able to twirl in a six-inch heel, you can go down to a four-inch heel and feel like you're flying," she added.
• Top runway coaches Mandy Dyonne Lieveld and Jessica Gregory told Insider that they agree with Gray. 
• Gregory said starting from a taller heel makes it "easier to transition into wearing higher heels faster" than starting from a lower heel that will already feel comfortable. 
• Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

Even before she was crowned Miss Universe 2018, Catriona Gray became a viral sensation for her "lava walk." 

Gray, who hails from the Philippines, won praise from supermodels Tyra Banks and Ashley Graham as she slowly glided down the pageant stage with confidence and ease. 

It's safe to say that Gray knows a thing or two about walking in high heels, and she has shared her tips for mastering the skill with Insider. 

Google "how to walk in high heels" and many articles will tell you to start with a lower heel and build your way up. But Gray, who will crown the next Miss Universe on Sunday December 8, disagrees.

"I started actually from a taller heel," she told Insider. "And then went down to a four or five-inch." 

Gray says that learning how to walk and balance on a taller heel gave her the confidence she needed to regularly walk in stilettos.

"Once you're able to twirl in a six-inch heel, you can go down to a four-inch heel and feel like you're flying," she said. "So that's what I did." 

While Gray's advice may seem like it goes against the grain, top runway coaches Mandy Dyonne Lieveld and Jessica Gregory agree that starting with a higher heel makes sense.

"If you can walk on a higher heel the right way, a lower heel will be much easier," Lieveld, the runway coach for Holland's Next Top Model, told Insider. 

"It may sound rare, but I completely understand why Catriona would say that," Gregory, whose students have walked for the likes of Chanel and Louis Vuitton, added. "When you practice walking in taller heels right from the start, you create that momentum to walk more confidently in the heel of your choice." 

Gregory explained that because most people "walk all day long in shoes with no heels," they are already comfortable with a low heel. 

"My take on it is to start strong and end strong," she said. "In many cases, it makes it easier to transition into wearing higher heels faster, as you are starting at a challenging point versus a lower heel. After coaching several models and women, I have seen great results when they automatically start practicing in the high heels that they will be wearing regularly versus starting out small." 

Lieveld said that the hardest part about learning to walk in heels is balance. 

"If you want to feel more stable, you have to use your core," she said. "I don't mean walking like the Hulk! I mean flexing your abdominal muscles so they give that support, so you can still breathe and talk." 

Lieveld also recommends walking with your shoulders back and relaxed while "elongating your legs." 

"Sometimes I see ladies walking down the Manhattan streets on their heels, and their knees are bending while making a step," she said. "That doesn't look so elegant." 

"One thing that makes walking on heels seem easy is to think that there is some water on the floor and every step is a 'splash, splash, splash!' So walk with some energy." 

Gregory agrees that core strength is the key to balancing in heels, which she said should be the main focus when you're just starting to learn the skill. 

"Practice standing with one leg up for 30 seconds so you are more comfortable balancing in the heels," she said. "And rotate between legs." 

Gregory then recommends putting painter's tape on the floor as a guide to help you practice learning how to walk back and forth in a straight line. 

"Start off by taking small steps," she said. "And allow your hips to naturally sway from side to side." 

Gregory also advises learning on leather heels, as they tend to be more comfortable, and purchasing comfort cushions, heel grips, or comfort insoles for extra support if needed. 

At the end of the day, everyone agrees that it all comes down to practice — and confidence. 

"Not one of us is born with the ability to walk in six-inch heels down the runway and twirl," Gray said. "I really trained in it — not just the walking itself, but how I felt walking." 

"For me, being a very conservative person naturally, and also coming from a conservative upbringing, being in a two-piece in front of people freaks me out," she added. "So I needed to come to a place where I felt comfortable in my body and also confident in myself." 

"And it just came with training in heels."

• Read more:
• Miss USA Cheslie Kryst helped free a man sentenced to life in prison for a drug offense and says marijuana should be legal
• Meet the 90 contestants competing to be Miss Universe 2019
• What 13 Miss Universe contestants look like without makeup
• Behind-the-scenes photos show how Miss Universe 2019 contestants get ready for the world-famous pageant

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: 9 items to avoid buying at Costco

• Each week, Insider rounds up a list of great movies to watch on Netflix on the weekend.
• This weekend, we recommend watching the criminal justice documentary "Dream/Killer," and Martin Scorsese's new film "The Irishman." 
• With the holidays fast approaching, there are also plenty of festive movies to watch on Netflix, like "A Christmas Prince: The Royal Baby." 
• Visit Insider's homepage for more stories. 

Netflix has hundreds of movies available to stream, and it can get a little overwhelming figuring out what to watch. That's why Insider rounds up a list of great films (and TV shows) to watch on Netflix each weekend.

The holidays are coming up, which means that there's plenty of festive movies available to stream, including "A Christmas Prince: The Royal Baby," a sequel to the previous two "Christmas Prince" movies. 

In addition to the holiday fare, "Dream/Killer," a moving and relevant documentary about criminal justice reform, is also available to stream. 

Here are seven great movies you can watch on Netflix this weekend.

"The Irishman" is Martin Scorsese's latest film.

Netflix description: "Hit man Frank Sheeran looks back at the secrets he kept as a loyal member of the Bufalino crime family in this acclaimed film from Martin Scorsese." 

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 97% (certified fresh)

Audience score: 86%

Starring Scorsese stalwarts Al Pacino and Robert de Niro, "The Irishman" has a lengthy running time — over three hours — but features masterful performances by the lead actors. It's a must watch for anyone who's a fan of Scorsese's earlier work, or slow-burning crime dramas in general.

"Dream/Killer" investigates the inequities of the criminal justice system.

Netflix description: "This riveting crime doc follows Bill as he confronts America's broken judicial system after his son is falsely sentenced to 40 years in prison." 

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: n/a

Audience score: n/a

Even though this documentary came out several years ago, it still feels incredibly timely, especially given the increased focus on criminal justice reform. Although the story of Bill's son is heartbreaking, it's a necessary reminder that there's still a lot of work to be done in terms of prison reform. 

A Mexican-American singer is the focus of "Searching for Sugar Man."

Netflix description: "Decades after Detroit singer-songwriter Rodriguez disappeared following the commercial failure of his two albums, two fans try to track down their idol."

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 95% (certified fresh)

Audience score: 92%

Music fans will love "Searching for Sugar Man," an engaging documentary that answers questions as often as it raises them. Rodriguez, who was deeply engaged in social and political issues of his time, is as good of an idol as any — and the soundtrack proves just how talented of a musician he really is.

"Tiffany Haddish: Black Mitzvah" is a new stand-up comedy special from the "Girls Trip" star.

Netflix description: "On her 40th birthday, Tiffany Haddish drops a bombastic special studded with singing, dancing, and raunchy reflections on her long road to womanhood." 

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: n/a

Audience score: n/a

If you're not a fan of Tiffany Haddish, odds are you won't enjoy this special that seems specially crafted for her diehard devotees. Featuring her signature mix of raunchy humor and relatable stories. "Tiffany Haddish: Black Mitzvah" will have you laughing out loud more often than not.

"Marriage Story" is an emotional and tender film that many critics are calling one of the best of the year.

Netflix description: "Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Noah Baumbach directs this incisive and compassionate look at a marriage coming apart and a family staying together." 

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 97% (certified fresh)

Audience score: 83%

Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson play a couple in the midst of a dissolving marriage in this Noah Baumbach film, which is heartbreaking, infuriating, and funny all at once. Featuring standout performances by Driver and Johansson, as well as a scene-stealing role for Laura Dern, "Marriage Story" is a must-watch for anyone who's ever felt like they couldn't go on after a breakup.

"A Christmas Prince: The Royal Baby" is a sequel to the previous two "Christmas Prince" movies.

Netflix description: "Christmas brings the ultimate gift to Aldovia: a royal baby. But first, Queen Amber must save her family and kingdom by unwrapping a monarchy mystery." 

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: n/a

Audience score: n/a

It may not be "The Irishman," but "A Christmas Prince: The Royal Baby" is still a sweet and engaging film in its own right. The plot is a bit predictable, and the performances are nothing special, but the Christmas cheer is downright infectious.

"Grease" is a classic musical comedy that's an undeniably fun watch.

Netflix description: "John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John star in this hit musical about a greaser and the good girl he falls for — much to his friends' chagrin." 

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 75% (certified fresh)

Audience score: 87%

If you've never seen "Grease," you should definitely stream it ASAP. Set in the 1950s, the film has catchy songs, fun choreography, and a heartwarming, if unoriginal, romance at its center. Plus, what could be better than watching John Travolta shimmy and shake to musical numbers like "Greased Lightning"? 

• Laser eye surgery for vision correction has been around for more than 20 years and can cost at least $1,500 per eye. 
• Business Insider's Michelle Yan was offered two options: Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). 
• This video follows her through all the steps involved with the procedure: consultation, surgery, and recovery.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Following is a transcript of the video. 

Michelle Yan: It definitely hurts. Hi, I'm Michelle, and I've been wearing glasses for 16 years and contacts for about nine. I was always hesitant about getting LASIK because it's expensive, and the idea of lasers cutting up my cornea scares me. But recently, my contacts have been getting really uncomfortable, and I just got to a point where I was mentally and financially prepared to take this next step.

Ideally, doing this surgery would mean I could see perfectly clearly without glasses or contacts for the rest of my life. And that would be so amazing because I wouldn't have to deal with dry eyes from wearing contacts all day, spend money on contacts and solution every year, and the inconvenience when I travel. But first, I needed to see if I even qualify for laser eye surgery.

So, I went to my eye doctor for a free consultation, and he told me that there were four things that he looks for during the examination: a stabilized prescription, how much treatment is necessary, the curve and thickness of my cornea, and how moist the eye is. The good news is I am eligible for eye surgery. Instead of LASIK, the doctor recommends that I do something called PRK.

Dr. Harry Koster: Some patients, instead of having a flap, have the surgery directly on their cornea. That's called PRK surgery.

Michelle: Because my eyes were on the drier side, the doctor recommended that I do PRK instead of LASIK, because with LASIK, there's an increased chance for me to get chronic dry eyes. So I decided to go with PRK even though it might take up to a month to get 20/20, while with LASIK it takes only a few days.

The next pre-surgery step is dilation, which allows the technician to obtain a more precise measurement of my prescription.

Finally, surgery day!

I just took some Valium, and we're waiting for that to kick in. Sherri, my surgical counselor, was telling me how it should feel like I drank three to four cups of wine, but it's supposed to calm me down and stuff like that.

The first thing the technician did was sanitize my eyes. Then Dr. Koster added a piece of tape to keep my eye open. After that, he applied some medication on the surface of my eye to relax it as well as some drops to moisturize it. Dr. Koster said this was like a little spa for my eyes. While he was doing this, I couldn't feel anything or really see anything. Just colors of the red and green light.

After eye prep, it was laser time! I had to focus on the green light for 10 seconds. I didn't see any movement of the laser or feel it cut my cornea, but I did smell a little bit of burning. I tried not to think about what was happening while it was happening so that I wouldn't freak out. And before I knew it, the surgery was done! Dr. Koster added some medication over my eye to prevent it from healing more than it should, and he put some medical contacts on my eye to protect the cornea while it heals, with a final touch of eye drops. Once he finished with the left eye, he repeated the same process for the right eye, and that was it! All of this took about 15 minutes.

'It just happened so fast. So now I have to do my part in taking care of this and recovering.

One hour later

So, I just got home. I'm getting a little tired. My left eye is definitely feeling a little bit of sting. Currently gonna take some Tylenol as well for the pain. But so far not too much pain.

I ended up falling asleep before I took the Tylenol, and that was a big mistake, and I definitely suffered the consequences.

I just woke up from, I don't know, a short nap, and my eyes are beginning to hurt a little bit. It definitely hurts.

The pain, on a scale of one to 10, 10 being really painful, it was a solid 11. It felt like someone shaved my eyes, and I couldn't do anything about it.

Day 1

Good morning. It's currently 7 a.m. Man, yesterday night, it was pretty unbearable. I don't know if this is normal, but I also felt hot and cold at the same time. But today it's a lot better. I also had to stick to a very specific schedule of various eye drops: The antibiotic eye drops, the anti-inflammatory eye drops, and the preservative-free artificial tears.

My eyes are still very sensitive to light, so they're kinda closed. Even as I'm talking right now, they're closed. I ended up eating and sleeping some more. I used Siri to text a friend and continued to put on eye drops.

Day 2

Today's Saturday. Last night, I felt like my eyes were really dry, so that's why it's good that today I get to put in the artificial tears for eight to 10 times a day. I also set a bunch of alarms to remind me when to put in all my eye drops, just in case I forgot or fell asleep. For the rest of the day, I was just listening to stand-up or sleeping. I'm noticing that my left eye can see a little more clearer than my right. So hopefully within the next few days they'll both be clear, but that's kind of a concern for me right now.

Day 3

By day three, I was beginning to feel a little restless, because I was stuck in my room all day not being able to do much. But it was really nice to see some progress. It's Sunday, 7 in the morning, just woke up, and I can kind of open my eyes a little more without needing sunglasses. Not a lot of discomfort anymore. My eyesight has been fluctuating; sometimes it's blurry and sometimes it's pretty crystal clear, but, yeah, it's slowly getting better and better. They look pretty good, right?

Day 4

I really wanted to wake up today and be like, "Boom, oh, my gosh, I can see 20/20 without glasses or contacts." But that's not the case.

Day 5

It's Tuesday morning. I just showered with these guys on, just to protect myself from water going into my eyes. And I'm going into work, but before work, I'm going to go to the doctor's office to get these medical contacts out. First time walking outside. Sun is not too bad. I'm not super sensitive.

Dr. Koster: It is time to see how you're doing.

Michelle: All right.

Dr. Koster: A few dry spots, but you're right where you should be. Things are going to improve the next few days.

Dr. Koster: All right, so let's take out the lens. Look toward the ceiling. That's good.

Michelle: Wow, just like that! 

Dr. Koster: It's easy, huh? I've been doing it for a few years.

Michelle: So, when do you think I should be able to see 20/20?

Dr. Koster: Mm, usually there will be glimpses of it, depending on how moist your eye is. But usually by two weeks you'll hunker down pretty well. Now you just have to trust the science the next few weeks. Let the science do the work for you, OK?

Day 11

After being back at work for about a week, my eyesight was still fluctuating. During the morning, I would see pretty clearly, but then by early afternoon, my vision would be blurry. When I was on the computer, I had to zoom in 175% to see clearly. This continued to happen for the next few days.

Usually, when I come home, I would take off my contacts and then put on my glasses, and I was really tempted to do that today, but it's just so amazing how I don't have to do that anymore.

Day 19

It's officially two weeks since I got my medical contacts off and finally went back to work. My eyesight is still fluctuating, but I think I'm like 98% there. It's been kind of frustrating because I wanted my eyesight to be clear by two weeks, but it's taken some time, and I'm just patiently waiting still. Tomorrow will be the last day that I stop putting in my drops. So, yeah, definitely a lot of commitment for post-recovery. Hopefully, the results will be worth it.

Day 30

It's officially been a month since my PRK surgery, and I can confidently say that I can see 100% clear. My right eye has definitely caught up to my left. No pain, no dryness, no discomfort, no redness. It's been awesome! I'm also traveling right now, and it's been so convenient to not need to bring glasses or contacts or solution with me. I think the last thing that's left to do is donate all my contact solution, because I'm not gonna need them anymore. 

Final thoughts

I'm still amazed that the whole surgery only took about 15 minutes and that I didn't feel any pain during it. Dr. Koster and his team really took care of me. Although the idea of lasers cutting up my cornea still scares me, I found that thinking about other things while the surgery was happening really helped.

As for the post-surgery pain, the first night was definitely an 11 out of 10, but that probably could've been avoided if I had taken the Tylenol with codeine before I passed out by accident. Other than that, the first two nights, the pain was bearable, like, four out of 10.

The most annoying part about this whole process was, for three weeks, my eyesight just kept fluctuating. Getting my work done was really, really difficult. And there were moments where I felt skeptical and sad that the surgery might not have worked. But I just kept thinking about what Dr. Koster said, "Let the science do the work for you, OK?" And I just tried to remain patient.

If you're planning on doing PRK, I would be prepared to block out a month for recovery. I know with LASIK the recovery time is much faster with similar results. But doing PRK was worth the money and the wait for me, because now I get to wake up with clear vision without the need of glasses or contacts.

If you're thinking of doing laser eye surgery, do your research. Find out which procedure is best for you and which doctors have the experience and care. And don't forget to follow all of their pre- and post-surgery instructions for the best results.

Michelle: That's my eyeball!

Jade: Yeah, like, you were not reacting to it. Like, it was so strange.  

SEE ALSO: What happens when you sleep in your contacts

Join the conversation about this story »

• Jermall Charlo defends his WBC middleweight world title in Brooklyn on Saturday.
• Before the bout, he told Business Insider that the changing landscape of one of boxing's most storied weight classes is because of him, making middleweight American again.
• For years, the division had been in the public eye because of the Mexican champion Saul "Canelo" Alvarez, the Kazakhstan puncher Gennady Golovkin, and the British slickster Billy Joe Saunders.
• But Charlo sees now as his time to shine, and says he wants every challenger to come to America if they want to try and make it as a middleweight.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Jermall Charlo has got a big family, a big house, and he's headlining world title fights.

Charlo recently celebrated the birth of a daughter, who, for him, is child number five. "I love it," he told Business Insider, adding his house is "a palace with a lot of crazy things."

It's like he's got it all but, at 29, they remain the foundations for what he hopes to come — even bigger things.

It starts, of course, with Saturday's showdown where he defends his WBC middleweight championship against Dennis Hogan at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

It is a fight he is all too happy to tell you that he will win, in style, as he continues to help make the middleweight division, one of boxing's storied weight classes, American again.

For years, it has been ruled by Saul "Canelo" Alvarez of Mexico, Gennady Golovkin of Kazakhstan, and British contenders like Billy Joe Saunders.

Now, in 2019, it's got a distinctive American flavor with the Texan technician Charlo, the Brooklyn boxer Danny Jacobs, and the Providence southpaw Demetrius Andrade all ranked in the boxing record keeper Boxrec's top five middleweights in the world.

"I brought the middleweight division back to America," Charlo said.

The fighter told us he's "in a great place, comfortable, and focused. My body is strong, and my mind is in tact," he said.

Charlo says he's ready for his weekend opponent, Hogan. "He's coming in, trying to win but that's what I'm coming in trying to do. It's part of the game plan. Whatever he has, I'll shut it down.

"He jumps in, head down, he doesn't really jab a lot. I will definitely dictate the fight. I'll make things happen. Add this one to the highlight-reel."

Another fighter Charlo wants to add to his highlight-reel is the British super middleweight Chris Eubank Jr., who takes on Matvey Korobov on the same night, in the same venue, this weekend.

It may well be a bout that materializes in 2020. But Charlo has a clear message. The middleweight division "is going to stay in America.

"Everybody has to come to America to find out about the middleweight division."

Read more:

If Anthony Joshua beats Andy Ruiz Jr. his promoter says he might raise his middle fingers to say 'f--- you' to all his haters

'They know what I possess': Deontay Wilder says Anthony Joshua will keep avoiding him even if he beats Andy Ruiz Jr.

Saudi Arabia's Andy Ruiz Jr. vs. Anthony Joshua fight is littered with athletes who have been busted for drug use

The $100 million Andy Ruiz vs. Anthony Joshua fight is 'masking a darker truth' in Saudi Arabia, and boxing is burying its head in the sand

Wladimir Klitschko says Anthony Joshua should never have lost to Andy Ruiz Jr. and expects him to dominate once again at heavyweight

Deontay Wilder says Andy Ruiz Jr. has Anthony Joshua's weaknesses all figured out

Insiders are confident Anthony Joshua will beat Andy Ruiz Jr. in style the second time around despite 3 problems ahead of their first fight

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: 5 things about the NFL that football fans may not know

• Look no further than Amazon for all your gifting needs.
• Regardless of your budget, you can find a thoughtful and useful gift for the men in your life on Amazon. Many of the gifts are Prime-eligible so they'll arrive quickly. 
• Check out all of our gift guides.

There's no shame in buying all your gifts in one place. from Amazon. After all, it offers gift ideas in categories as diverse as home, kitchen, tech, clothing, grooming, and more. 

From cool new books to premium espresso machines, we've rounded up the best 65 gifts for the men in your life— all from Amazon. They cover a range of prices and brands, including newer startups you didn't even know about you could find on Amazon. 

A camp mug he’ll carry with him everywhere

YETI's double-walled vacuum insulation keeps his cold drinks cold and hot drinks hot.

An addictively fun set of miniature magnets

Whether he's naturally fidgety or he enjoys building things with his hands, he'll love these tiny mashable toys.

Smooth and soft luxury sheets

It's no secret that we love Brooklinen sheets. Treat him to the luxury of silky and satin-like sateen sheets this holiday season.

The "Goldilocks" pillow he'll love sleeping on

The support and fluffiness level of this pillow is just right for many sleepers. It owes this perfect balance to a two-layer construction and cotton percale weave casing. 

A deluxe hardcover version of a bestselling sci-fi novel

"Dune" is a true epic. If he's already borrowed it from the library countless times, he'll love having a special-edition version to keep for himself.

A sleek pair of wireless headphones

The stylish, comfortable, and foldable headphones feature 40mm drivers that capture the satisfying sound of deep and low bass.

A classic French press

If he's partial to the French press way of making beverages, then get this sturdy and substantial press. 

A sampler of four gourmet coffees from Seattle

Visit Seattle and you have to grab a cup of coffee from one of the city's many small-batch roasters. The freshly roasted beans travel directly to him with this gift box, which also comes with tasting notes and brewing tips. 

Amazon's smart speaker

The newest Echo speaker in the Amazon device family boasts Dolby 360° audio, dynamic bass response, and adjustable equalizer settings. Beyond taking song requests, the Echo can tell him the weather and news of the day, help him turn on smart home devices, and more. 

A cool Monopoly board for Mario fans

Pick a character (Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and more) and compete for the glory of placing a flagpole on each world. There are tons of Monopoly editions out there, but this one might be the most nostalgic for video game lovers.

A cult-favorite, acne-banishing solution

Just dab a bit of this lotion on the blemish to dry it out and reduce its appearance overnight.

A high-tech electric toothbrush

Oral-B is known for making some of the best electric toothbrushes you can buy. This particular model has a smart pressure sensor that lights up when he brushes too hard. It can also connect to an app to give him other feedback on his brushing habits.

A professional-quality teeth whitening kit

He might look a little silly with this appliance in his mouth, but the ultimate result is a brighter, whiter smile. The portable, mess-free process involves a fast-absorbing, minty brightening formula and LED light. 

A stretchy, lightweight shirt

Basics are anything but when they're as comfortable as the shirts from Mizzen + Main. The henley is durable yet breathable so it'll keep up with his busy, active day.

Comfy joggers

It's vacation every day in these relaxed lounge pants.

Fuzzy house slippers

Combine these furry slippers with loungers and a soft tee, and he has all the parts available for a cozy winter day in.  

A small and super effective soap bar

We swear by this fresh and non-toxic soap bar to take out all the stubborn stains on our clothing.

A tech-friendly backpack

With separate compartments dedicated to his MacBook, iPad, and iPhone, this backpack is ready to keep him organized when he's on the go. It's also comfortable to wear and made from an ultra-durable nylon material.

A minimalist watch

In addition to timeless automatic watches, MVMT makes minimalist chronograph watches that match seamlessly with his style. It's not made for intense outdoor use, but it is weather-proof up to 50 meters. 

A well-designed leather wallet

We love Bellroy's thoughtful approach to wallet design, which is why the Slim Sleeve has remained our favorite men's wallet for years. It manages to fit up to 12 cards, with two quick-access slots for his most-used cards and a pull-out section for the rest, while remaining surprisingly compact. 

A suspension trainer kit

The system includes everything he needs to train and challenge his body from the comfort of his home, including a free 30-day trial with the TRX app to discover smart and efficient workouts. 

A foam roller used by physical therapists and trainers

Foam rolling can change the way his body reacts to workouts. It keeps his muscles loose and speeds up recovery times. 

A device that delivers deep muscle treatments

After a tough workout, he'll want to reach for this massage device that relieves tension and soreness and speeds up muscle repair. 

A soft, cloud-like comforter

The fluffy comforter is covered by a soft, cooling eucalyptus fiber that always feels silky smooth against his skin. 

A caddy to keep his bedtime essentials close at hand

Whether he chooses to wind down at night with a book or TV show, this felt organizer can store those nighttime ritual accessories. 

A quiet robot vacuum cleaner

Weekend chore days just got a lot easier thanks to eufy's popular robot vacuum cleaner. At less than three inches tall, it can squeeze into those hard-to-reach nooks and crannies to clean up dust and debris.

A smart bulb starter kit to add some ambiance to his space

The Alexa-enabled lights feature 16 million color options, so he can set the mood for any occasion. They install just like a regular lightbulb, too.

His very own espresso machine

Breville's machine is our top pick for the best espresso machine. It makes delicious espresso and bundles in important accessories so he doesn't need to spend additional money on his coffee habit. 

The multi-cooker everyone knows and loves

The Instant Pot is efficient, versatile, and convenient, featuring seven different cooking functions that can help him make anything from a hearty stew to a sweet dessert.

A cookbook that gives him recipe inspiration

The recipes are specifically designed for use with the Instant Pot, which means he can avoid any guesswork and uncertainty.

A slim yet durable phone case

The cushioned phone case is also scratch-resistant, while the ridge design provides a no-slip grip. Visit Speck's store page to find cases for other phone models. 

A kit to clean his dirty phone and glasses screens

The kit isn't the most brag-worthy gift in the list, but it might be the most practical. The alcohol- and ammonia-free formula cleans and polishes his screens with startling effectiveness. 

Apple AirPods

The divisive earbuds are admittedly useful for iPhone users because they connect automatically to his phone and he can say Siri commands. The latest model delivers a faster wireless connection to your devices, and it's on sale right now for $144, just in time for the holidays. 

A compact battery pack

Don't let him leave the house without a portable charger like this 10,000 mAH pack. It's especially useful for traveling, giving him the peace of mind that he won't lose his phone capabilities when he needs them most. 

A long and durable charging cable

Anker says this cable lasts more than 30 times longer than other cables. And since it's extra-long, he can charge his device far away from the outlet. 

A gift card to use at your next movie night together

Despite the prevalence of streaming services, seeing a movie in theaters is still an unbeatable experience.

A memoir from the bassist of the Red Hot Chili Peppers

In this brand-new book, Flea recounts the tumultuous, hilarious, and inspiring experiences that ultimately brought him to start the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

A personal water filter

No outdoors trip or travel adventure should take place without a LifeStraw on hand. The light and compact device removes more than 99.9% of waterborne bacteria and parasites.

A soft flannel

You can't go wrong with a classic cotton flannel in the winter. Columbia's Boulder Ridge style comes in 20 attractive colors.

A snug beanie

Gift the attention-grabbing neon-green beanie, or take the more subtle route with a neutral navy or white style. 

A pack of comfortable boxer briefs

Though they don't come cheap, Tommy John's underwear consistently ranks among the best we've ever tried. The Second Skin fabric in particular — a blend of smooth micro modal and spandex — is a standout that's always breathable and never pills. 

A pair of stylish boots

It's boot season and this handsome leather boot will be the star of his shoe lineup. The cork footbed and EVA comfort strip offer unparalleled, all-day comfort. 

A versatile game console

The Nintendo Switch is very versatile — he can play alone or with friends, at home or on the go. There are now plenty of Switch game options to choose from and start playing. 

A 12-month membership to Nintendo Switch Online

The affordable membership works with compatible games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe to let him compete against his friends, share his screen, or pass on a virtual controller. 

Purple and orange Joy-Con controllers

Maybe he already has a Switch. In that case, let him switch up his style with a set of cool neon Joy-Cons. 

An everyday water bottle to carry any beverage

He'll always stay hydrated with a Hydro Flask in his bag. There are a variety of bright colors to choose from, as well as smaller sizes if you know he doesn't like carrying heavy bottles. 

A SodaStream for seltzer on demand

If he drinks seltzer regularly, it might be more cost-efficient and less wasteful to get a gadget that lets him make it himself at home. The kit includes "Fruit Drops" in lime and orange flavors. 

A heavy-duty skillet

The workhorse of the kitchen is the humble cast iron skillet, which lends its strong heat retention to baking, searing, stir-frying, and other cooking tasks.

A mouth-watering hot sauce

The savory hot sauce is the recipient of multiple awards. While created from one of the world's hottest peppers, the mild sauce is more smoky than spicy.  

Fancy, infused salts

Easily elevate his meals with flavor-infused salts such as Black Pepper salt, Pinot Noir salt, and Habanero salt. 

A cream that gives him a comfortable shave

He can lather up with a rich and foamy cream that won't irritate his skin or give him razor burn. For a fun seasonally appropriate option, gift him the peppermint-scented version.

A shaving set that takes care of his beard

Cleanse, protect, moisturize, protect, and repeat with this three-piece set. The products contain natural, effective ingredients such as kaolin clay, macadamia nut oil, and blue algae extract. 

A wireless charging pad

It's made for any Qi-enabled device (including AirPods!) and delivers speedy wireless charging speeds. It also looks more composed and stylish than a regular charger. 

A waterproof ebook reader

The thin and light Kindle Paperwhite ebook reader has a crisp and glare-free display, and it's now waterproof so he can read by the beach or in the tub worry-free. While he can buy ebooks, there are also a few ways to expand his reading collection for free. 

An Audible membership

If he prefers to listen to his books while commuting, an Audible membership would be a more suitable gift. Each month, he'll get access to one audiobook and two Audible Originals of his choice, plus 30% off any additional audiobooks. 

A travel pillow with a unique design

Once he's gotten used to the curious stares from his fellow passengers, he can settle into a long and restful nap. The soft and cushioned Trtl Pillow keeps his neck propped up and supported through the flight. 

Compression socks that don't look like compression socks

The socks look like ordinary socks, but they actually contain medical-grade compression technology to keep his legs comfortable on flights and after workouts. 

A small and portable cocktail making kit

Alcohol's not included, but everything else is: recipe card, spoon/muddler, jigger, syrup, and coasters. Even if he's squished into Basic Economy, he'll feel like he's flying Business Class. 

A seat cushion made by a mattress startup

He'll want to bring this seat cushion to work, his car, and sports events. It features a gel grid design that soothes pressure points and adapts to the way his body moves. 

A Lego Y-Wing Starfighter kit

A Star Wars gift he'll spend an afternoon playing around with is this newly updated Lego collectible. The details, like the opening cockpit and the accurate mini figures, are what really stand out. 

A miniature version of an arcade game

Can't fit an entire arcade console in his space? You can still get this adorable mini game with all the graphics and music to take him back to the '80s. 

A fun word game

Rather than playing the same old games during game night, bring out Codenames, a challenge to figure out the secret identities of 25 agents. 

A box of luxury Belgian chocolates

One of the best chocolates you can gift is Neuhaus, which has been making chocolates in Belgium since 1857. Ingredient snobs will be impressed — the dark chocolates contain only all-natural ingredients, including sustainable cocoa.

A streaming stick that gives him access to more than 500,000 movies and TV episodes

Roku's Streaming Stick+ is exceptional for its 4K, HDR, and HD streaming, and long-range wireless receiver. Installing it is an easy process and starts by plugging the stick into his TV. 

A massager he can bring anywhere

The portable massager is a pillow that nestles into his neck and back and delivers deep, heated massages. It's like a professional massage — at a fraction of the cost. 

Looking for more gift ideas? We've got you covered.

• Our master list of every gift guide you'll ever need
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• 44 cool stocking stuffers on Amazon
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• When he's having working lunches or dinners at the White House, President Donald Trump often wields salt and pepper shakers almost twice the size of everyone else's.
• This could be another one of his power moves, alongside his fierce handshakes and bulky suits.
• Photos show Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama using the same size shakers as their White House guests, while Trump's usually tower over others.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

President Donald Trump displays his power with firm handshakes, a second scoop of ice cream, and towering salt and pepper shakers.

Mark Knoller, CBS News' White House correspondent, pointed out how much bigger Trump's shakers were in a tweet on Thursday.

Insider combed the photo archives and found that Trump more often than not gets much larger salt and pepper shakers than other foreign leaders or American politicians when dining at the White House. And we couldn't find instances of Trump's most recent predecessors using larger shakers than those of their guests.

The large shakers might just be because he enjoys salty foods like KFC chicken, Big Macs, and bacon and eggs. But it could also be another power move, alongside his fierce handshakes and bulky suits.

These photos show how much bigger Trump's White House salt and pepper shakers usually are than everyone else's, and how they compare to those of Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama.

SEE ALSO: 18 photos show Trump's disastrous NATO summit, where he was left isolated and embarrassed by his closest allies

DON'T MISS: 30 of Trump's most famous quotes since becoming president

To set the scene, we'll start with Clinton. It appears he and Vice President Al Gore ate lunch with typical, nondescript salt and pepper shakers.

Condiment equality continued with Bush. In 2005, he seasoned his food with the same size salt and pepper shakers as Condoleezza Rice, his secretary of state.

When Vice President Joe Biden joined Obama for lunch in the private dining room of the White House, the shakers were equal.

But Obama was known for his regimented eating, so maybe bigger salt shakers weren't a priority.

Source: Business Insider

In the one photo we could find of Obama dining in the Cabinet Room — where he and Clinton would usually have coffee or tea, not full meals — he had the same size shakers as his guests.

White House meals changed when Trump became president. When he dined with the emir of Kuwait in the Cabinet Room in September 2017, they reportedly shared a laugh at the expense of the media, but they didn't share shakers — Trump's were far larger.

Source: Washington Post

Note the positioning here. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson's little shakers float all alone, while Trump's sizable shakers are positioned right behind his title card.

Trump's shakers were again larger than everyone else's when he dined with the United Nations Security Council at the White House in early 2018.

The trend continued in March 2018. Even Secretary of Energy Rick Perry got the small shakers.

Let's get a closer look.

We did find a few instances where Trump had the same size shakers as others. Interestingly, this was in the Cabinet Room, the same room where the shakers have tended to be different sizes.

Everyone had normal-sized shakers in the Roosevelt Room at a lunch in December 2017 ...

... and again in the Roosevelt Room in June 2018.

But there were more examples of the president's larger shakers. In April, Trump met with Baltic leaders at the White House, and he made it clear who was boss.

Trump continued his shaker tradition when he met again with the UN Security Council in late 2019.

Trump's pepper shaker alone dwarfs both shakers for Kelly Craft, the US's ambassador to the UN.

There's one other strange dynamic to this shaker controversy. Note how in this photo everyone's salt and pepper shakers sit close together, while Trump's shakers (which are the same size as everyone else's here) are far apart.

Look at that width.

People might wonder: How much seasoning does a president need? And why are the shakers so eye-catching? Are they intertwined?

One answer is that it could be another Trump power move — instead of a handshake, now he displays his power with a mighty shake of salt or a spray of black pepper.

Source: Esquire

Or maybe he just feels at ease having a pinch more salt and pepper at the ready.

The White House didn't respond to Insider's request for comment on the larger salt and pepper shakers, so the world may never know.

• People worldwide who live to be 100 or older have staple cooking ingredients in common, according to "The Blue Zones Kitchen," a new cookbook by Dan Buettner.
• In Blue Zones, areas of the world where people tend to live the longest, diets are often rich in whole, plant-based foods believed to boost health into old age, although there are several other lifestyle factors at play. 
• Common ingredients include beans, leafy greens, olive oil, cruciferous veggies, and whole grains. Blue Zone diets also tend to have much less sugar, meat, and dairy than typical American diets. 
• Visit Insider's homepage for more. 

Beans "reign supreme" in Blue Zone diets.

Blue Zones are found across the world, from Costa Rica to Japan, Greece, and California. One thing they all have in common is a love of beans, from garbanzos to soy beans to black beans. 

Beans are high in fiber, a nutrient Buettner said in the cookbook is crucial for good health and a long life, since it supports healthy gut bacteria. They also contain a lot of protein. A combination of beans and a whole grain like rice or corn forms a complete protein, meaning it contains all the amino acids needed for health.

According to Buettner, Blue Zone diets contain four times as many beans as the average American eats in a day. He recommends at least half a cup per day. 

Nuts are a nutrient-dense staple.

Another common denominator among people who live to 100 is habit of snacking on nutrient-rich nuts. Whether it's almonds or pistachios, nuts are packed with healthy fats, fiber, potassium, magnesium, and protein.  

"If you're eating a couple ounces of nuts a day, it's probably adding a couple of years of life expectancy to your own life," Buettner told Insider. 

He said two handfuls of nuts a day is a good goal if you're looking to live a long, healthy life. 

Olive oil, full of healthy fats, is used in many recipes.

Olive oil is eaten with bread, salads, and veggies, in addition to being used to cook nearly everything in Blue Zones, Buettner noted in the cookbook.

It is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, which has been found to lower "bad" LDL cholesterol and in turn reduce the risk of heart disease.  

It's also anti-inflammatory and packed with antioxidants. This can help reduce the risk of many types of chronic illnesses, like cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer's, metabolic syndrome, and even arthritis. 

Even though olive oil high in fat and calories, it's also been linked to weight loss.

Cruciferous veggies may add years to your life.

Cruciferous veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage may be most shunned in typical American diets, but they could hold the key to a longer life. 

Buettner found that in Sardinia, Italy, a diet high in cruciferous vegetables appeared to benefit thyroid function, potentially slowing down the aging process. 

These veggies are high in fiber, folate, and vitamins C, E and K, which are important for everything from your brain and nervous system health to strong bones and a vigorous immune system. 

Drink plenty of water ...

Beverages are important for longevity, Buettner said in the book. The Blue Zone beverage of choice is just water, and plenty of it. 

Most American diets tend to be high in sodas and similar drinks that are loaded with sugar, Buettner wrote. As much as half of our daily sugar intake, on average, comes from soft drinks. 

Sugar-free diet sodas are full of artificial sweeteners that have many of the same detrimental effects on your health as sugar. 

...but also coffee...

Coffee is an American staple, in addition to being beloved worldwide. There's a huge amount of research that it's good for us, reducing risks of heart and liver disease as well as supporting brain health.

If coffee isn't your cup, try tea: people in Okinawa, Japan, a highly-studied Blue Zone, drink lots of green tea, which is linked to health benefits like protecting against cancer and lowering the risk of diabetes. 

Whichever you choose, be wary of loading it up with too many syrupy sweeteners . Again, a key principle of Blue Zone diets is they tend to be very low in sugars, particularly refined sugars. 

... and enjoy a glass of wine with dinner.

Another shared trait of Blue Zones, Buettner writes, is that they tend to enjoy alcohol in moderation, particularly wine. Along with having a low concentration of alcohol, wine is rich in polyphenols, compounds from grape skins known to protect against human health risks like heart disease. 

According to Buettner, red wine in particular can also benefit your ability to absorb antioxidants. This, combined with a healthy plant-based diet, means you're getting a lot of beneficial micronutrients which are crucial to living a long, healthy life. Cheers to that. 

Read more:

'Biologically younger' people who defy their real age often have 5 things in common

The man who unlocked the world's secret to living to age 100 says you can skip the gym