bazaar February 2023 issue

Int

Hello amazing bazaarites, and happy February! February is always one of our favorite months (no, not because it’s so short!), but because the weather is usually amazingly crisp and sunny, combined with amazing sunsets, Valentine’s Day is always amusing, since you get to make fun of all of the cheesy dreamers out there, and of course National Day is always a lot of fun, especially now that they’ve finally sort of managed to get the water balloon/water gun crowd under control.

Speaking of the big holiday coming up, we’re kicking off February with a festive cover created to celebrate the skyline of our small but mighty nation state via a dreamt up rooftop solo party, with walls adorned by the works of local graffiti artists like Fahad Mohmd (Flickr), On Yong77 (deviantart) and Brian J. McMorrow.

And before you think we’re total cynics, we want to help you celebrate Valentine’s Day in style this year. Treat your partner and yourself to a celebratory night at the Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya or check out the fabulous offerings at Waldorf Astoria Kuwait to add some spark to your relationship. Dinner is a great idea, but you can always seal the deal with a useful and also fun gift from Xcite, with a little help from our gift guide.

Shockingly, Ramadan is just around the corner too and we’re not going to lie, we are feeling a little dazed! It simultaneously feels like it has been years and also only a couple of days. The last few years have taught us the true value of friends and family, so we’re already planning Iftars and Suhours so we can enjoy their company as much as we can while munching on delicious food. We’re a little older and wiser, so we want to level up our hosting game. This Ramadan, Pottery Barn and West Elm are launching gorgeous dinnerware and home accessories that will turn any table from great to amazing.

Most of us want to chill, so we can find the brain bandwidth to do the things that actually interest us. This month we met up with Ahmad Jamal who is doing just that. We learned more about how he was hired by SONY Pictures for his mad skills! We also got Up Close and Personal with Nouf Alali who told us all about how and why she coaches people to become their best selves.

It might be a short month, but it is definitely full of great stuff, so kick back and jump right in!

Happy reading!

Ahmed El-Adly

The bazaar team...

Boss

Ahmed El-Adly

Editor

Alia Al Duaij

Operations Manager

Ihab Youssef

Content Manager

Yasmine El Charif

Mixed Media Solutions

Jennifer Cádiz

Account Manager

Ali Al-Hassan

Design

Shadi Mofeed

Staff Writer/Online Media

Mariam Raslan

Yasmin Gamal

Sahira Ladha

Contributing Writers

Rasha Ezzeddine

Communications

Hala Y. Sharara

Syndicates & Sources

Fast Company

LA Times

MCT International

Newsweek

Printing

British Industries for Printing and Packaging

BE YOUR BEST SELF WITH NOUF ALALI

Nouf Alali decided to leave the corporate world to pursue yoga training, and her journey in the field of health and wellness took off from there. The mother of three children, a holistic health coach, and a yoga teacher loves helping people. She tells us more about what motivates her to continue doing what she does.

THINGS TO DO THIS LONG WEEKEND

We have a long weekend coming up, and we’re excited about the break. Some of you might have serious Netflix and Chill plans, which is great, but if you want to have some alternative fun, we have the guide for you.

AHMAD JAMAL, MAKING IT TO SONY

Ahmad Jamal had a dream while growing up in Kuwait to being part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It is almost as if he manifested Sony Picture Imageworks hiring him in order to work as a VFX Animator for two main projects, Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special and the upcoming Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3. We met up with him to learn what it is like living the dream.

LOVE BLOOMS AT THE FOUR SEASONS

Valentine’s Day is all about portraying love and there aren’t many places that do it better than Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait, where romance and luxury combine in perfect harmony to create an absolutely unforgettable experience under the concept: Love Blooms. Find out what you can do to share the love on this special day!

MY MUJI, MY MOOD

Relaxing is an art. This month, we learn how to find some zen in a hectic life with a little help from MUJI. From switching out your bedding to using aromatherapy, there are many things you can do to help you feel relaxed.

CELEBRATE THE SEASON OF LOVE AT THE WALDORF ASTORIA

If you haven’t thought about how to spend Valentine’s Day this year, the Waldorf Astoria has you covered with delightful options that are sure to delight your loved one! You can splurge in an all-exclusive romantic getaway or choose from romantic themed dinners, afternoon teas, and spa treatments.

MAKING THE FRENCH CONNECTION

We’ve always been fans of the UK-based fashion brand French Connection. Luckily, for us, the brand is finally making its way to Kuwait. Starting this month, you will be able to find it at Debenhams. Check out the latest collection in this month’s feature.

GIFTING SEASON WITH XCITE

Some people are naturals at finding the perfect gift, others just need a little bit of help, so we’ve come up with a solution. This February, take advantage of the great products on offer at all Xcite stores and online and buy yourself and your loved ones the perfect gift.

bazaar connect

Freedom to find us +250 locations

bazaar is published every month, delivered free of charge to a large subscriber database, and distributed free of charge in all of the following locations across Kuwait:

Amiri Hospital

Mazaya Tower 1

Rigae

Honda Motorcycle

Jazeera Terminal - Landside - T3

Sama Mall Khaitan

Manara Mall - City Centre Shuwaikh

Jaber Ahmad Hospital

Mazaya Clinic Hawally

Mall 30

Dalal Complex

MOI

Souk Salmiya - City Centre

Wafra COOP

Sabah Al Salem

American University of ME - AUM

Kuwait Motor Town

Mazaya Clinic Jabriya

AJ’s Bneid Al Gar

Ministry Of Defense CO-OP (MOD)

Twin Tower

Mahboula

KOC Tameer

Costa Coffee Outlets:

Marina Crescent

Dar Al Shifaa

Al Arjan

Airport Arrivals

Safat Alrai

Sahara

Ghawally

Marina Mall

Avenues

TSC Hawally

Safat Home - Al Ghanim 101

Shaab Al Bahri

Kaifan Coop

Salmiya Plaza

Kuwait Airways HO

Sleil Al Jahra

Kuwait Parliament

The View

Sheikha Complex

KOC North Ground

Mowasat Hospital - OPD

Salmiya Boulevard

Souq Al Kuwait

Injazzat Tower

89 Mall

Alfa Gas (Eqaila)

Alfa Gas (Shuwaikh)

Promenade

Yaal Mall

Jalboot Khairan

Dasma C6

Sedra Residential Towers

Saveco

Alia Hospital

Ahmadi Hospital

Souk Al Kabeer

Mikhyal Mall

Kout Mall

Hamra Office

Scientific Center

Salam Hospital

360 Mall

Bairaq Mall

Banta

The Story Tower

Alfa Jleeb Al Shuyoukh

Avenues Mall Phase 4

Omniya Tower

Square Park

Grey Mall

Hamra Mall

Jazeera Terminal T5 - Airside

Mowasat Hospital - IPD

Levels

KPC Head Quarters

Al Kout Medical

Ahmadi Hospital 2

Al Derwaza Tower

Terminal 4 Kuwait Airways

Ministry of Health (MOH)

Environment Public Authority (EPA)

Sabah Al Salem - Drive Up

Alkhiran

British Counsel

Aviation

Sabah Alahmad

MED Clinic

Assimah 2 2nd floor

Assimah 1 basement

Magic Mall

MOEW

KU - Eng

KU - ART

Lincoln Drive Thru

Aswaq Alqurain

Starbucks Outlets:

Abdullah Mubarak

Adeliya

Airport Mall

Al Mowasat Hospital

Al Shaya Head Office

Aliya & Ghalia Complex

Andalouse Coop

AUK

Bairaq Mall

Baitak Tower

Behbehani Complex

Bida’a Complex

BMW Showroom

Daiya Co-op

Dar Al Awadi

Divonne, Abu Hassaniya

Four Points by Sheraton

Hilton Resort

Jabriya

Kaifan

Khalifa Resort

Kout Mall

Marina Crescent

Marina Mall

Mishref

NBK

Nuzha Co-op

Plaza Hawalli

Rosa Castle

Salhiya

Salmiya, Salem Al-Mubarak

Salmiya Co-op

Salwa Co-op

Scientific Center

Seif Hospital

Shaab

Shamiya Co-op

Sharq Co-op

Sheikha Complex

Sheikh Saed Al Abdullah Terminal

Shuwaikh Zain Headquarters

Souk Sharq

The Avenues

The Palms Hotel

Zahra Co-op

Other Outlets:

Elevation Burger, Abu Halifa, Al Bida’a, AlHamra, Avenues, Mishref, Alseif

Haagen Daz- Souk Sharq, Arraya

Johnny Rockets- opp. Salhiya Complex, Marina, Salmiya, The Avenues, Alia & Ghalia

Complex

November Bakery

Clinics & Hospitals

Al Mubarakiya Dental Clinic - Egaila, Salmiya

Al Safat American Hospital

Boushahri Clinic

Dasman Diabetes Institute

Diet Care Center

Gulf Clinic

International Clinic

Maidan Clinic - Fahaheel, Farwaniya, Hawalli, Sharq, Subah Al Salem

Noor Clinic

Salam Hospital

Seif Hospital

Soor Center

Taiba Clinic

The Cosmetic Surgery Clinic

Hotels & Health Clubs

Crowne Plaza, Farwaniya

Hilton Kuwait Resort & Spa

Holiday Inn, Salmiya

Jumeirah Messilah Beach Resort Hotel & Spa

JW Marriott – Residence Inn, Sharq

Millenium Hotel & Conference Center

The Palms Beach Hotel

Malls

Al Salam Mall

Arraya

Al Hamra

Boulevard

The Promenade

Mall 360

Marina Mall

Marina Crescent

Souq Sharq

Symphony Mall

The Avenues

Airport Mall

Salhiya Complex

Stand Alones

Virgin Megastore

Alghanim Marine

Alghanim Showrooms - Safat Al Rai, Shuweikh, Sharq, Fahaheel

beau-tique cosmetics

British Embassy

US Embassy

Brush Salon

CAP Gallery

Dar Al Funoon

Dar.Nur

Gold Class Lounge - Grand Cinemas Al Hamra

TONI & GUY- Cliffs

Kuwait Airport Business Class Lounges

Shuwaikh Market

Sultan Gallery

The Chairman's Club

Schools & Universities

American International School

American University of Kuwait

Australian College Kuwait

Bayan School (Hawalli)

Boxhill College

BSK - British School of Kuwait

Universal American School

Kuwait University

Starbucks Khaldiya

Starbucks Adeliya

Starbucks Jabriya

Starbucks Shuwaikh

Freedom to read 30,000 readers

With a bilingual audience of both English and Arabic, we cover everything from what’s on, to the bizarre. We print and distribute 10,000 copies of bazaar every month; each copy is read by an average of 3 people, giving us a total readership of over 30,000.

Freedom to surf

www.bazaar.town

200,000 unique monthly visitors

In addition to delivering our readers with our monthly print installment of bazaar, we’re here to pick your brain daily with www.bazaar.town–The ultimate guide to Kuwait!

Freedom to socialize

50,000 fans and followers

With more than 50,000 collective fans and followers, we love starting different conversations, sharing music, jokes, photos, competitions, and much more.

bazaarmagazine bazaarTube bazaargram bazaartweets

Freedom to flip

issuu.com/bazaarmagazine

20,000 monthly readers

Too busy to go pick up bazaar from your local café? Browse through the entire magazine online via issuu.com and on www.bazaar.town.

members of:

www.bpaww.com

bazaar magazine became a member of BPA Worldwide in June 2010, a renouned agency which ensures complete transparency, and verifies bazaar as an audited publication which distributes 10,000 copies on a monthly basis. To access our BPA report, please visit www. bpaww.com or log onto our website www.bazaar. town for a downloadable pdf version.

what's trending

February 2023

#1

What: @chibi_anime_store

Info: Anime Merchandise in Kuwait

Editor’s Note: We’re letting our weeb show

#4

What: @hybread.kw

Info: Artisan bakery

Editor’s Note: Hi bread!

What: @yellow_kw

Info: Gifts and décor store

Editor’s Note: We’re making our own lunches from now on!

What: @my.leer

Info: Health and Beauty products

Editor’s Note: A loofah has never looked this good

What: @haute_kw

Info: French Inspired, Luxury Chocolatier.

Editor’s Note: Delicious and gorgeous

RESET YOUR APPROACH TO HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Nouf Alali speaks to us about how she helps people feel their absolute best!

By bazaar staff

In a past life, Nouf Alali, studied finance in university and worked in an investment companies for 6 years before she decided to leave the corporate world to pursue yoga training, and her journey in the field of health and wellness took off from there. Now Nouf is a mother of three children, a holistic health coach, as well as a yoga teacher. It is clear from her line of work that she loves to help people. She tells us that witnessing people heal and change into a better version of themselves brings her so much joy and motivates her to continue what she does.

Nouf received her health coaching certification from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in 2019. As a health coach she helps clients achieve their wellness and health goals; together they explore the best nutrition and lifestyle choices that help people feel their best. She follows a holistic approach, focusing not just on food, but also career, spirituality, relationships, and environment. She believes that each person is unique, in their physical composition, emotional needs and lifestyle and therefore her work with clients is very customized, depending on their goals and their current lifestyle.

Her passion for health and wellness started early in life as Nouf initially got interested in nutrition and diets a couple of decades ago while she was in high school. What started as a desire to lose excess weight turned into a lifelong passion. She started researching and experimenting with the latest theories on food and spending time in the kitchen cooking healthy recipes. From years of studying and more importantly, from personal experience, she realized that the journey of wellness and happiness is an integrative and interconnected process of all aspects of our lives. Nouf strongly believes that “if you’re doing what you love, happy in your relationships, follow a spiritual practice, exercise, and eat the right food for you, this will surely make you happy and well.”

In November 2021, Nouf launched the RESET program, a ten-day anti-inflammatory diet in an E-book form, offered both in English and Arabic. It explains the benefits of the program, contains a list of the foods to eat and to avoid, a self-assessment sheet to monitor symptoms before and after the program, and a list of guidelines that help the client receive the best results from the program. The program also contains a 10day meal plan, that is optional to follow, and over 30 anti-inflammatory recipes that are great not only during the program, but also delicious and nourishing for the whole family. Upon purchase of the program, she also offers a complimentary session for clients to answer any questions and to make changes to the program, should the need arise. This is just the kick start we all need in the new year to start feeling like the best versions of ourselves!

Nouf explains that “this program helps anyone who suffers from symptoms that we were taught to live with such as fatigue, headaches, bloating, indigestion,

constipation, gas, poor sleep, brain fog, and sugar addiction. It also helps to kickstart the process of weight loss and stabilize sugar levels making it suitable for prediabetics. The program is free from gluten, dairy, sugar, grains, caffeine, and GMO food. Some people do it to help cure certain symptoms, and some do it to reset and cleanse the body a few times a year. All clients notice an improvement on a physical level, whether it’s weight loss, improved energy, improved gut health, clearer mind, reduced sugar craving or better sleep. They also become more aware of the effect of food on their physical and mental state. Every client, upon completing the program, becomes more aware of the relationship of daily habits and his state of being, and will continue practicing some habits he picked from the program.”

Nouf uses the same philosophy that she uses with her clients for her kids; educate and empower. She specifically talks about the effect of different foods on the body. She also gets them involved in the kitchen to help cook and bake, and teaches that there is no such thing as bad foods or good foods. It’s the ingredients that make them so. She cooks the usual foods that kids love from scratch, using quality ingredients and healthier cooking methods. When her children go to gatherings and parties, they have the freedom to eat whatever they want, and they do a great job in choosing every unhealthy option! Nouf shares that “life is about balance. And having a positive relationship with food is crucial and it starts at a young age. We don’t use the word diet at home, and we don’t label food. We enjoy what we eat and we’re aware that when we indulge, tomorrow we go back to our normal routine.”

“To achieve and maintain long term health and wellbeing, one should know that it’s a journey that keeps evolving as the person and his life circumstances change. And this is when the role of a health coach comes into play.” Nouf tells us. We love this since I think we have all experienced how something that worked for us once may not work for us again.

As a health coach, Nouf hasn’t forgotten her yoga. Yoga is an integral part of my daily routine. She tells us that yoga is a philosophy and a way of life and she applies its teachings when working with clients, whether it’s on a physical, emotional, or a mental level. She believes that yoga helps her understand and connect to her clients better and helps them in their health journey.

Nouf shared three tips with us to get us started on our wellness journey immediately:

Practice awareness. Spend a few minutes in the morning breathing, meditating, or practicing yoga. You couldn’t start your day in a better way!

Sleep. Sleep early, ideally by 10pm, and get 7-9 hours of sleep. The quality of your sleep affects your food choices, your energy levels, and your mood the next day.

Learn. Read a book, listen to a podcast/ audio book, or watch a reel or a YouTube video to learn something new every day. It could be something related to health, spirituality, self-development, or a new recipe.

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL QUESTIONNAIRE

What do you most value about your friends? Their authenticity.

Which living person do you most admire? My uncle, Hameed.

What is your idea of perfect happiness? One that comes from within.

What is your greatest extravagance? Tableware! My weakness.

What is your most treasured possession? I honestly can’t think of anything tangible that I treasure a lot, because everything is replaceable. Although I can’t possess my family, it’s my greatest treasure.

What is your greatest fear? Failure

What is your most marked characteristic? Social and trustworthy.

Which talent would you most like to have? Not procrastinating!

What is one trait you have that you are most grateful for? Forgiveness.

What is the human trait you most dislike about others? Dishonesty.

What is it that you most dislike? I can’t think of something that I dislike. I’m a go with the flow kind a girl.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse? Should! And I’m learning to use it less.

What are your favorite words to live by? Live and let live.

Where would you most like to live? Anywhere green and close to the beach. With a warm weather all year long. Sounds like the tropics, no?

If you could have any job, what would it be? A teacher! Which is what I’m doing now, to a certain extent.

What would you consider your greatest achievement?

I had many achievements in my life, on an academic, professional and personal levels. But nothing beats the feeling of having a well spent day with the family.

What do you hope for the future?

I hope for a future with more awareness. Where people slow down and dedicate time to practice mindfulness. As we become more aware, an

internal shift happens. It changes the way we see and treat our bodies, minds, and souls.

Have you been considering taking your health and wellness into your own hands? Well, Nouf Alali can guide you along your journey. Check out her Instagram to learn more about her and her approach towards health coaching @ noufalali82 .

ENJOY THE FEBRUARY FESTIVITIES

Enjoy this special month by taking in everything it has to offer

By bazaar staff

February is always a very special month in Kuwait. So special in fact that the whole month is seen as a month of celebration as it’s affectionately referred to as “Hala Febrayer” where stores prepare offers, malls are packed, events are in full flow and people are just taking in the great atmosphere. It all ends with the most important celebrations of all: The National and Liberation Days on the 25th and 26th of the month. This usually means a long weekend and therefore the chance to plan something wonderful for yourself and the family!

Take in the Festivities

Throughout the month and more specifically the National and Liberation Days, Kuwait loves to put on a show. Whether you go down the Gulf Road and take in the celebrations or decide to stop somewhere and be outdoors while enjoying the atmosphere around you, there is always something going on. Rallies, air shows, parades and other celebrations will be on show and it’s a great time to take the family out and enjoy the activities on offer where everyone can get involved.

Keep an eye on social media this month and you will learn where you can park and sit down the Gulf Road or enjoying the rallies and parades in Salmiya

Book a Chalet/Kashta

One of the great things about these celebrations taking part in February is the weather. It’s still nice outside and it’s a wonderful opportunity to be outdoors. If you don’t want to be part of the festivities in the city, you can book a Chalet or Kashta for you and the family to enjoy time together away from the noise and celebrations taking part just an hour or so away from you. Spend some quality time with family and friends as you take this chance to recharge your batteries before heading back to work the week after. You can find some great places online to book incredible getaway locations!

Organize Gatherings

Sometimes, nothing beats having some people over, ordering a pizza, and catching up! Take this time to meet with friends and family by visiting each other. You could also organize a game night, a movie marathon or watch your favorite TV shows together with the noises of the celebrations taking part in the busy streets around you. Sometimes, a little peace and quiet with your closest friends and family is the perfect way to spend the long weekend.

You can try games like Jackbox (an online game where you can find many different games under it that are fun for gatherings, Risk (a board game that requires strategy and planning), or the traditional Truth or Dare (a fun game of questions where you can get to know each other better). Planning a movie marathon? Why not go for the Harry Potter series!

Food!

Not many people can deny that you can find some of the best food in Kuwait! However, the issue there is that many people don’t end up taking the time to visit some of the authentic Kuwaiti restaurants and try the incredible food they have in store. What better time to visit a Kuwaiti restaurant than on the National and Liberation Days? Forget the burgers, pizzas and pastas as

you spend this long weekend visiting the tasty locations and trying out the Machboos, Harees, Quozi and other unforgettable dishes.

Head to Fareej Al Swaileh, Dar Hamad or Shatea Al Watea for some classic Kuwaiti cuisine.

Image Credit: Wikipedia & Pexels

Kuwait Long Weekend

THE MARVEL-LOUS AHMAD JAMAL

From a dream while growing up in Kuwait to being part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Ahmad Jamal continues to shine and grow with Sony Picture Imageworks.

It really is the road less travelled. Not many people are able to drive down the road of achieving their dreams and ambitions because of various reasons, but a select few do and achieve greatness through perseverance, drive and hard work. One of those select few is Ahmad Jamal.

“I always loved animation, I love bringing characters to life and having them emote, react and do impossible things that we can’t physically do. Animation is a reflection on our reality and I love expressing myself and telling stories in that medium.” said Ahmed when asked about what initially piqued his interest in this wonderful and expressive world of animation as a young man growing up in Kuwait.

Ahmad was hired by Sony Picture Imageworks in order to work as a VFX Animator for two main projects, Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special and the upcoming Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3, which is one of his many upcoming projects.

During this journey so far at Sony, he has been able to take it as a unique learning experience. One of the main takeaways until now though has been the idea of teamwork. “The team in a large movie production stays together with no ego whatsoever. That’s the key element to making things work. Everyone is there to help each other finish the project successfully.” It sounds simple but having so many different people with different backgrounds come together and work seamlessly on such a major production takes work.

From dreaming of being an animator to being part of Sony Picture Imageworks

bazaar staff

However, as Ahmad embarks on this journey at Sony, he always had another goal in mind. A goal much closer to the country he calls home. During the COVID-19 Pandemic, he co-founded In-visible-inc along with his close friend and partner Bader Al-Moulah. The aim of this is to be able to tell stories using a new medium of 3D Animation and VFX, which is something that has never been seen in Kuwait but is possible. They want to show that the ability to produce Hollywood quality animation and VFX locally in Kuwait.

With everything that he’s been doing, Ahmed definitely has a lot of exciting things on the way. He has been working on a 3D Animated Short over the past three years as well as multiple films, shows and plays that he aims to produce. One of the main upcoming plays is “Fog Al Nakhal”, which is a musical written by his father Najaf Jamal and has a lot of spectacle and social commentary.

“To any Kuwaiti interested in pursuing their passion, go for it! Nothing is impossible and if you put in the time and effort and set your goals then you can not only achieve those goals but also go beyond them!” Ahmad Jamal is living proof of this and knows that it’s definitely possible for everyone to reach for the stars.

TRUTH OR DARE QUESTIONNAIRE

How would your mother describe you in one word?

I’m not sure. Maybe “Driven”

How would you describe her in one word?

I don’t think that one word will do her justice.

What is the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done?

A weekend trip to Hawaii with my best friends!

What is your theme song?

I have never really thought about it. But I think it would be the “Incredibles” theme song.

What word in the English or Arabic language do you wish you had invented? Amalgam.

Where would you like to live? New Zealand.

What is your dream retirement location? New Zealand.

What is the first famous quote that comes to your mind?

“Animation is not a genre, it’s medium”Guillermo del Toro

Do you miss anything from your childhood life and if so, what was it?

Theme parks in Kuwait such as Showbiz, Shaab Park and Entertainment City.

If you could change your name, what would you change it to?

I wouldn’t change it actually. I like my name.

Who is your favorite historical figure?

Leonardo da Vinci.

What do you think is lacking in the world, which [if there were more of it] would make the world a better place? Leadership.

Why do you think most people who do, like you?

It’s not really up to me to describe that.

Finish this sentence: “Happiness is…”

When I’m around my loved ones. My family and close friends.

You can follow Ahmad and see more of his work on Instagram on @spaces.in.film and @in.visible.inc

AESTHETIC ROULETTE

Is maximalism in or out of style? This year, let’s decide it doesn’t matter

By Elizabeth Segran

Every year, design journalists heatedly discuss whether we’re in a maximalist or minimalist moment. As one of those writers myself, I understand the impulse and admit that I’ve occasionally jumped into the fray. Articulating design trends is a compulsion for design media. It’s a way to put a finger on the cultural pulse. It’s also a way of delving into how optimistic we feel, where we’re choosing to spend our time, and how our current aesthetics fit into the broader arc of design history.

But it’s increasingly clear that any supposed shift between maximalism and minimalism today is an artificial construct. In the age of social media, a plethora of aesthetics abound. There’s no need to wed ourselves to one or another— and certainly not based on what some “expert” asserts.

“It’s really all about your personal point of view,” interior designer Kelly Wearstler tells me. “There was a time when people wanted to go one way or another because it was the trend. But for years now, it’s really come down to how an individual wants to feel in their home.”

So I propose that we kill off the predictions about which of these styles is currently on trend. Instead, it is more helpful to think of maximalism and minimalism as functional design languages that influence how we want to feel in any given space.

The Swinging Pendulum

If you’re scanning through interior design magazines, you might get the idea that maximalism is coming in with a bang in 2023. Everyone from Architectural Digest to Better Homes & Gardens declares that maximalism is trendy, with interiors dominated by bold colors and patterns. And this aesthetic will extend into fashion with layered prints and jewel tones, according to trend forecasters at Stitch Fix.

This narrative makes sense. Swings between maximalism and minimalism are often prompted by broader historical events. In its earliest form, maximalism popped up in the baroque period, starting in the 17th century, when the wealthy decorated their homes with ornate, gilded furniture and art. It was a way for Europeans to demonstrate the riches they had acquired from their colonial conquests and for the Catholic church to push back against Protestant asceticism.

Minimalism emerged in the late 19th century in response to the excesses of previous centuries’ maximalism. A cadre of European modernists believed in eliminating ornamentation and focusing instead on the functionality of interior design. The style also coincided with the last great pandemic.

In 1918, influenza killed 50 million people around the world and germ theory was just emerging, so it made sense that architects and designers would strip homes down to their basic

elements. They created clinical-looking spaces, with no fabrics or decorations for germs to adhere to—and plenty of sunlight to kill them off.

During our own pandemic, design writers debated whether minimalism would once again dominate. I, for one, argued that COVID-19 had killed off maximalism. Stuck at home for

long stretches, we wanted to get rid of fussy decor and clutter, à la Marie Kondo, to create the illusion of space in our homes. But in Vox, Rebecca Jennings argued the opposite, suggesting that the pandemic would encourage us to have overstuffed, garish interiors. At a time of crisis, she contended, we want to be surrounded by objects that make us happy.

The Age of Choice

The truth is, we were both right. If you looked in the right corners of TikTok—such as the account of New York interior designer Hugh Long, who reviews celebrity homes—you’d see a celebration of “more is more.” But in other corners, such as the Instagram feed of California designer Jenni Kayne—whose revenue doubled during the pandemic—you’d find lots of white space and neutral, earthy textures.

When travel picked up again, you could stay at a the richly layered Graduate Hotel chain, whose busy decor tries to capture the spirit of a nearby college. Or you could opt for a cleaner, sparser look at, say, the Edition or CitizenM hotels that have barely any color or design elements in the rooms.

We now live in an era of overwhelming choice, which renders the idea of any true, culturally pervasive trend increasingly moot. If you favor a particular aesthetic, you can find a multitude of influencers to inspire you and brands to fill your life with products suited to that style. Whatever style you choose, Wearstler suggests taking the time to deliberately craft a home that makes you feel good, whether it is sparse or busy.

“I design homes that people will live in for decades to come,” Wearstler says. “We spend a lot of time at home, both on a daily basis and in terms of the years we will live in them. It makes sense to design them with care.”

More function than form

There’s been a lot of conversation about the politics of the two aesthetics. Over the centuries, maximalism was often used to signal power and conquest; it was associated with upper classes who had the means to travel and collect art. Meanwhile, minimalism reflected the opposite, historically speaking. The working class had no choice but to live in sparse homes surrounded by purely practical objects.

Some cultural critics argue that society embraces minimalism during leaner periods, such as in the years after the 2008 recession and Occupy Wall Street protests, when few of us wanted to be associated with the rich.

But designers have also pushed minimalism as a marker of taste and class. It’s part of the reason so many post-recession direct-toconsumer brands adopted the same minimalist aesthetic, which some have described as bland because of their boring sameness. Our contemporary fascination with minimalist carries on the ideals of European modernism, which has come to signify a level of “good” taste at the erasure of more visually complex cultures.

As Diana Budds writes in Curbed, maximalism, in all its complexity, allows us to better respond to social movements like Black Lives Matter and second-wave feminism. Artists like Kehinde Wiley, who captures the Black experience in America, is known for the complex, patterned backdrops in his portraits. (His most famous one, of President Barack Obama, features a lush background of plants from Hawaii, Indonesia, and Chicago.)

At this point, the values around maximalism and minimalism are all jumbled up, freeing us from needing to use them to express our ideals. In the home sphere, many wealthy people embrace minimalism as a sign of taste and a way to achieve a peaceful mind amid a busy life. Consider the airy Montecito home featured in Harry & Meghan, the Netflix documentary about the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, or Kayne’s newly renovated ranch in Santa Ynez. At the same time, maximalism is used to signal wealth, as it has in the past.

Wearstler tells me that some of her clients veer toward a more maximalist aesthetic because they want to highlight their large art collections, for instance. But in a world where decor is increasingly inexpensive (and widely available at

Ikea and Wayfair), it can also be a way to create a warm, cozy atmosphere.

Consider interior designer Justina Blakeney’s Jungalow aesthetic, which is crowded with plants, vintage furniture, and happy, saturated colors. Or Jonathan Adler’s penchant for creating quirky decor. (For Hannukah this year, we received an elephant menorah Adler designed that my kids adore.)

Maximalist design often has a distinct purpose, as I argued in a previous story. It is about filling a space with meaningful objects that conjure memories and lift your spirit. The goal is to see a print or a sculpture that reminds you of a time you were happy or serves as an inside joke that makes you giggle. Embracing maximalism makes space for more of yourself. It reinforces your identity and experiences.

Minimalism does the opposite. It creates a clean slate, so you don’t have to think or remember anything at all, which can be calming amid an already overcrowded life. According to Kondo’s Shinto ideology, it creates the ideal backdrop for meditation, when you want your brain to go blank. It creates the illusion of wideopen space, which inspires you to think of all the things you have yet to see and become in the world.

So perhaps it is time we finally liberate ourselves from feeling like we have to follow one approach or another based on some oppressive notion from interior design magazines about what is “in.” Maximalism inspires us to fondly remember the past, minimalism inspires us to look ahead. Both are equally valuable; it all comes down to how you want to feel in your home.

Photo by Bench Accounting on Unsplash.

ARE THE BOTS COMING FOR US?

They might be, but not today

By bazaar staff

I joke about being ready for the robot uprising all the time, I changed my phone’s name to AI Overlord a couple of years ago and truly believe that Artificial Intelligence (AI) hasn’t peaked yet. Not because AI is smarter than us, but mostly because software engineers are usually people who are curious enough to keep tweaking and developing something just for the fun of it. It also doesn’t hurt that the capitalist machine incentivizes innovation that saves money, especially by reducing wages and employment.

AI is no longer a concept that messes with your mind after binge-watching the latest season of Black Mirror, you can experience it yourself by asking ChatGPT to write you an article or asking for art from DALL-E. These might be the bigger names, but you can find even more interesting implementations from BOBA an AI dating coaching app to DEEP NOSTALGIA, an app that can animate family photos for you.

To be honest, AI isn’t really intelligence in the way you and I think of it. A machine still can’t have an “AHA!” moment, but it can learn from patterns and incomprehensible amounts of data. Which is probably why many of these AI apps become less like HAL 9000 and more like Microsoft’s Clippy when you try to use them in non-western regions. There isn’t enough local data that’s useful to it.

I asked AI-Article Writer 4.0 to write an article about Kashtas in Kuwait, and it read like a spam website from the early 2000s. It repeated the keywords, suggest adding a section about Kashtas and the Ottoman rule, and didn’t include anything at all about the actual practice. The same thing happens when you try asking DALL-E to create Arab-inspired art. It is so stereotypical that it feels like stock imagery, or it looks so futuristic that it doesn’t feel relatable at all.

While we do create a lot of content in the region, the bulk of it is social media. Ephemeral and missing a lot of our cultural context. Maybe in the future, when there is more regionally created content that actually represents our rich heritage, knowledge, art and cultures, the machines will have an easier time creating content

As someone who works in the creative field, I don’t think AI is going to take my job away tomorrow, but I do believe that we will need to keep leveling up to stay ahead of the game. There might come a day when we can’t keep up. However, there are many tasks that AI can help with, from writing emails to creating social media captions and suggesting catchy titles. Even if these tools just provide an outline which I can then tweak, they are time savers, and I can see more and more people wanting to streamline their processes at work, so they have more spare time to pursue the creative endeavors that interest them.

Featured image was created using DALL-E mini.

kuwait kulture

LOVE BLOOMS AT THE FOUR SEASONS HOTEL KUWAIT AT BURJ ALSHAYA

Surround yourself with an ambiance of love this Valentine’s Day

By bazaar staff

Valentine’s Day is all about portraying love and there aren’t many places that do it better than Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait, where romance and luxury combine in perfect harmony to create an absolutely unforgettable experience under the concept: Love Blooms.

Love blooms, a concept that branches out to the different areas of the hotel, is a visual twist between the 90’s neon craze and today’s modern contemporary look and feel. Four Seasons Hotel’s General Manager Martin Kipping explains the concept perfectly; “The perfect setting has been curated once again with various experiences for you to choose from at the impeccable restaurants as each is carefully designed for you to enjoy an evening of love.”

Dai Forni (21st Floor - Roof Top)

Enjoy magnificent Italian dining at Dai Forni with wood-fired pizzas, homemade pasta, and

impeccable coffee. The Diamond Package offers you a window seat with a five-course set menu compromising a selection of starters, pasta course, main course and a dessert in addition to unlimited beverages of water, soft drinks, juices, mocktails, coffee or tea as well as one bottle of Gold Emotion Sparking per two people. There will also be a live performance as you take your seat at your Valentine’s Day decorated table with giveaways.

• Packages starting from KWD 100 per person

• Window seat special package available at KWD 150 per person

• Two seatings are available, at 6:00 pm or 9:15 pm

Distinct flavors such as succulent meat from the Robata Grill, Steamed Bao Dumplings and Teppanyaki Cuisine make this hot spot a must for Asian food lovers. Take in the tastes of Asia during a memorable night full of food, vibes and a live performance.

• Packages starting from KWD 100 per person

• Window seat special package available at KWD 150 per person

• Two seating are available, at 6:00 pm or 9:15 pm

Sintoho (21st Floor - Roof Top)

Resort-Style Dining

Are you looking for a completely different setting to spend your Valentine’s Day? The Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait has got you covered with that as well offering various choices to pick from. Enjoy experience of our Resort-style poolside cabanas – the perfect place to tuck yourself away together and savour divine Italian food and a live dessert presentation. Includes 30 roses, a personalised menu signed by our Executive Chef, and live performers to really impress.a

Take in the poolside views and dine under the stars alongside some incredible live performances as you and your loved one create memories amidst the beautiful weather.

• Packages starting from KWD 40 per person

There is also the Romantic Cabana Breakfast on either February 14 or February 15 at KD 150 per person which includes an enhanced menu, decor and a special dessert. And to offer more convenience, we offer female butlers to cater to you in the privacy of your cabana.

Spa Treatments

A day spa which is loved by the local community can now be part of your Valentine’s Day and provides the perfect gift for your loved ones or even treat yourself.

The incredible experience inspired by the Valensole Plateau lavender fields is the perfect two-hour journey at KWD 95 which leaves your body completely rejuvenated at the end. The Oriental Essence treatment is also available as it takes you on a relaxing 75-minute journey for KWD 65 and includes warm compresses, Thai stretching techniques and a nourishing massage.

This is all in addition to yet another option with special room packages created just for you and your loved one as you can enjoy our offerings in the spacious rooms across the hotel.

You aren’t short of options when choosing the Four Seasons Hotel on this Valentine’s Day so book your experience today.

With live entertainment focusing mainly on customer engagement, various art decorations and other great activities, love will truly win when you choose Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya on this Valentine’s Day.

For reservations and information about Valentine’s Day at Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya visit fourseasons.com/kuwait, call: 2200 6065 or email: festive.kuwait @fourseasons.com. Follow the hotel’s latest on Instagram @FSKuwait.

ANNA SCHUUR TALKS TO US ABOUT WOMEN’S HEALTH PHYSIO

And why it is important for women to take charge of their own health

By bazaar staff

Women often neglect their health, especially when it “seems’’ to be a normal part of a woman’s experience. We wanted to shed light on how important it is to take matters into your own hands and seek out professional support! Meet Anna Schuur! She is a physiotherapist from Barcelona, specializing in women’s health, pelvic floor and postural re-education. She found her passion in helping women improve their pelvic health during different stages of their lives when two of her friends became pregnant, and had premature babies. She made it her mission to help them recover andsupport them during that time. Since taking a deep dive into women’s health, she has never looked back.

The innovative line of Westinghouse appliances deliver harmonious style and asthetics, with the reliability and practicality of over 100 years of Westinghouse quality built in.

Anna herself is a mother of a gorgeous little girl, and heads the women’s health unit at DISC Kuwait. Even though she has been a women’s health specialist since before she had her baby, she found that through the experience of pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum, she was better able to understand women during consultations related to the childbirth process. She feels her journey into motherhood has helped her become more empathetic and flexible when programming treatments.

“A women’s health physiotherapist is a specialist who helps women during the course of their lives, as they go through different natural processes, such as menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause,” Anna shares, she tells us about some of the examples of injuries women may face, such as low back pain or any other pain during pregnancy, separation of the abdominal muscles after giving birth (diastasis recti abdominis), leakage of urine when you cough, sneeze, jump (urinary Incontinence), pain in the pelvic floor rehabilitation region during certain activities or related to hormonal imbalances.

Women most commonly visit Anna during pregnancy and after giving birth in the postpartum stage. “During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes many transformations due to change in posture and the role of hormones. From a physiotherapy perspective we help women optimize their physical condition and reduce any type of pain,

as well as to prepare her body for childbirth,” she explains.

The treatment that Anna offers is usually based on therapeutic exercise and manual therapy (which is close to a deep tissue massage), such as myofascial release techniques and/or mobilizations. The treatment depends on the initial assessment and has to be personalized, depending on what the woman needs at that time according to Anna. It makes sense that there is no one size fits all approach and that each treatment is tailored for the issues a woman is facing.

We asked Anna how many sessions it takes for women to notice a difference in the issue that she is visiting the physiotherapist for. “It depends on each patient and each condition will be different. During the assessment time, we will decide a treatment plan which usually could be 3 weeks in case of a short-term treatment or a long-term treatment which may last at least 3 months. For example, a patient with stress urinary incontinence that was related to a weak pelvic floor and abdominal muscles. With 10 sessions of personalized physiotherapy and unique treatment she improved to a point that she stopped having urine leakage when she was making efforts such as jumping, coughing or sneezing,” Anna tells us.

Anna advises us to pay more attention to our lifestyle, because our health depends on it. The quality of our sleep, the food we eat, the physical

exercise we do are factors that determine our health. Regarding women’s health, it is important to keep these factors in mind and also to understand that pain (during menstruation, during penetration, etc.) and urine leakage or constipation, is NOT Normal.

It is always best to visit the physiotherapist to get custom treatment or advice for any issue you have, but in the meantime, Anna gives us three tips every woman should be following for good health:

Avoid the “stopping peeing” technique. It can be dangerous for your pelvic health.

Healthy habits such as getting 8 hours of sleep, eating unprocessed food and regular exercising are the key to being healthy.

Practise a mindfulness breathing exercise every day.

Anna practices the advice she gives, and she loves getting outdoors to connect with nature. All of her hobbies are related to outdoor activities such as cycling and hiking. She is trying to instil the same love of the outdoors in her daughter, and whenever the weather is nice, she plans outdoor activities. She also maintains an active lifestyle by regularly working out , cycling and swimming during the summer season.

To learn more about women’s health physiotherapist and to get some amazing tips and advice, follow Anna Schuur on Instagram @annaschuur_physio.

#MYKUWAIT

You can take the girl out of Kuwait, but you can’t take Kuwait out of the girl

By Rasha Ezzeddine

Incoming! The season of singing and dancing begins, where all the creative houses are torn between wondering how and when they will break this mold of advertising and at the same time fighting to make sure they capture the soul of the occasion best. Here comes the content change in radio, the friends voting for the best ad (and the worst), the national pride on display in all ways, the only time when fashion disasters are accepted (as long as they are in the colors of the flag). Here comes the time when every organization wants to target Kuwaitis inside and outside Kuwait, here comes the emotional marketing at its best and nostalgia enough to give anyone goosebumps. It’s that time of the year, when all brands turn into Cinderella’s stepsisters fighting for attention but there will always only be one ‘Belle of the Ball’ - who will it be in 2023? Let me know!

National and Liberation days in Kuwait are at another level. The happiness, the unity, the patriotism, the national costumes, the smell of barbecue, live stations and ‘machboos deyay’, the gatherings filled with black, red, white and green, and the national songs in the background coupled with singing and celebrating, the proud flag waving high in the sky and pinned to everyone’s outfithow I will miss it this year. Some of us left Kuwait for one reason or another - but Kuwait will never leave us…it will never leave me. I will remember my days in Kuwait fondly and my heart will always swell with pride and love as I say a little prayer for this beautiful little country that gave me and so many, so much.

National days is the weekends where we would all go to chalets, or co-ordinate our lives around the traffic of the parades. National day is where culture, family values and the story telling between generations filled homes and heart, because everyone wants to share and teach what the core of Kuwait is. This is when we would go to work and be greeted with flags everywhere you can think of, reminding us of what this tiny country overcame and why it will never go back. This is when we would go to watch the fireworks and laser show at Kuwait Towers, this is when I would look around, laugh, smile and say ‘el hamdilla’ for Kuwait and its people, el hamdilla for being here, watching it grow and being an integral part of my story.

Kuwait, the Bride of the Gulf, the neutral Kuwait where 6 degrees of separation are down to 3, where you make friends that are for life, where Palestine is never forgotten, where everything is secure and easy, where we work to live, not live to work, it’s where you can sleep with the door open. Kuwait is where Talabat was born, where entrepreneurship is at another level, where Instagram boomed, where BBM turned into a social tool instead of business, where bank accounts make millionaires, and where women lead.

Kuwait helped us take care of our families, she helped us give back, she opened opportunities and doors. Kuwait turned me into a food snob (because the food is just so good), encouraged

F R E E S T Y L E C

L O U R & C R AYO N

These mult i-t a sking heroes for eyes, l ips and cheeks del i ver a burs t of col our Break t he r ul es wit h a variet y of 20 mat te and shimmer shades, f rom subt l e nudes to v ibrant reds .

The cream col ours are enriched wit h C ommunit y Fair Trade coconut oil f rom S amoa and l eave skin feel ing nourished wit h moist ure. In f ac t , 7 7 % a gree t hat

t hese col ours l ef t t heir l ips felt moist urised wit h a non-s t ick y feel ing The velvet y crayons are enriched wit h C ommunit y Fair Trade shea but ter f rom Tamal e, Ghana , and are super buil dabl e and bl endabl e.

• Mult i-t a sk ing c ol our for eye s , l ips & che eks

• B l enda bl e c ol our – no tool s require d

• L ig ht weig ht , buil da bl e intensit y

me to experiment with style and to explore. Kuwait taught me to be.

Yes, there are the bad days or things labelled as negative, but they forced me to be creative and innovative, Kuwait forced me to think outside the box and to learn how to create my own entertainment. Kuwait made me appreciate things that I took for granted and get on that plane and go to destinations I never thought of.

Aside from all that, I learnt about the complexities that come with Arabic music and being Arab. My journey was a spiritual and divine one that my soul needed. Whilst I sit in delightful Dubai, my head is missing seeing the beautiful coastline along the Arabian Gulf Road, I remember

the sound of the Athan as I got off the plane and landed for the first time in Kuwait. I crave the cardamom, spices and bukhoor smells of Souq Mubarkiya, and oh to taste again THAT falafel from there. I miss the haggling in the souq, the kind merchants of dates, fruit and veg, I miss the conversations with my friends (coupled with the latest dessert find of course), I miss the creative and bold outfits and accessories, those chapati with ‘glass cheese’ and sambousa mornings (with Karak or Arabic coffee), I miss the smell of Bin Al Ameed’s roastery, the yummy nuts at Kuwait International Mills. The visits to Blokkat to find and make our own pieces, the creativity of coffee houses, the luxury taste of Noora Saffron teas.

But more than anything - I miss my friends, friends and friendships that ONLY Kuwait can give and nurture. I may not be Kuwaiti, I may not have been born and raised there, but my heart and soul will be celebrating with you Kuwait #myKuwait. Till we meet again.

Rasha Ezzeddine, CMO at gigCMO - a spiritual global (Belgian) citizen, Sierra Leonean roots, Lebanese blood, Indian in a past life, London at heart, Kuwait at soul, redefining in Dubai. You can find Rasha on Instagram @Rasha208.

CELEBRATE THE SEASON OF LOVE

The Waldorf Astoria has you covered with memorable 5-star experiences

By bazaar staff

It’s that time of the year again where love is in the air! If you haven’t thought about how to spend Valentine’s Day this year, worry not because Waldorf Astoria has you covered with some lush options that are sure to delight your loved one! You can either splurge in an all-exclusive romantic getaway or choose from romantic themed dinners, afternoon teas, and spa treatments.

A Romeo and Juliet-Themed Valentine’s Day

Marking the day of love, AVA lights up in red to set a romantic ambience like no other to celebrate each other with a Romeo and Juliet themed evening. You can enjoy an exquisite five-course premium set menu along with welcome cocktails and a bottle of bubbly while being surrounded with ongoing live entertainment. The romantic setup at the restaurant will set the scene for the perfect amorous evening.

AVA’s Valentine’s Day set menu is available on the 14th of February 2023 from 6:30PM to 11:00PM starting from 100KWD per person at the indoor seating, and 120KWD per person at the terrace. For ultimate exclusivity, guests can also book the Private Dining room for 400KWD for two.

A Romantic Afternoon Tea Experience

You can also charm your loved one with a romantic Valentine’s Day afternoon tea experience at Peacock Alley. Taste a selection of exquisite sweet and savory delicacies to tickle the palate and pair it with freshly brewed tea and signature coffee. Peacock Alley is delivering on all fronts, not only will the food be luscious, the atmosphere with live piano and violin performances will be an experience to remember.

Peacock Alley’s Valentine’s Day High Tea Experience is available on the 14th of February 2023 from 3:00PM to 11:00PM for 25KWD per person.

Celebrate Love Under the Stars

Some of us love the outdoors, and at this time of year, there is something exceptionally idyllic about eating under the stars. The OXIO Poolside Restaurant has created an oriental sharing-style set menu with live cooking and barbeque grill stations. We especially love the special romantic setup accompanied by live entertainment as well as a DJ. This is the ultimate experience to celebrate with a loved one!

OXIO Poolside Restaurant’s Valentine’s Day set menu is available on the 14th of February 2023 from 7:00PM to 11:00PM for 110KWD per person at the pool seating area, 300KWD per couple for

the small cabanas, and 350KWD per couple for the large cabanas. Shisha is available to be served with an additional price on request, with shisha included for cabanas seating.

Indulge in a Wellness Escape that Transcends Luxury

If you prefer to treat yourself and someone

special to a little relaxation, do not miss this luxurious wellness escape at the newly opened Waldorf Astoria Spa. You can relax and rejuvenate with a unique selection of treatments creating a journey that transcends luxury. The Valentine’s Day rejuvenation experience includes a 75-minute bespoke massage by AMRA with techniques created alongside decades of aesthetic mastery.

Enriched by exclusive treatment protocols, targeting specific areas of deep tissue stresses and elegantly easing areas of concern, this treatment will leave you feeling like a million dollars! And to top it off, you can continue sparkling at home with the Gold Rejuvenating Body Oil that you receive when leaving.

The Valentine’s Day rejuvenating AMRA treatment is available on the 14th of February 2023 for the duration of 75 minutes for 65KWD per person.

Romantic Getaway

If you just want more than one of the experiences highlighted above, why not indulge in an allinclusive romantic getaway which includes a dinner at AVA for two, a luxurious spa experience, a gorgeous room setup as well as a flower bouquet upon departure from the hotel.

The Valentine’s Day Escape at Waldorf Astoria Kuwait is valid from 10th to 18th February 2023 for 499KWD* for a Deluxe Room.

Make

this Valentine’s Day one to remember!

We are convinced that these experiences won’t last, so make sure you book early: call +965 2477 4414 or visit https://www.hilton.com/ en/hotels/kwiwawa-waldorf-astoria-kuwait/ for more information. Follow @WaldorfAstoriaKuwait to stay up to date with the exciting activities and events taking place at the hotel.

WHO’S THE IMPOSTER?

How to internalize your success and beat imposter syndrome once and for all

By AJ Hess

My client Jill, a seasoned marketing strategist, had a long list of achievements. Over her 20-year career, she had received numerous industry awards and was even promoted twice in one year. Despite these accolades, Jill was constantly haunted by thoughts of her inadequacy. When we first met, she told me, “I worry that, at any moment, my boss and colleagues will realize I have no idea what I’m doing. I’m not truly an expert; I’m simply making things up as I go along.”

Jill struggles with imposter syndrome, an experience of intellectual phoniness first described by psychologists in 1978. Today, scientists estimate that up to 82% of people face impostor syndrome, which can include feeling as if they have deceived others into believing that they are more intelligent and capable than they really are.

Through coaching high-performers over the last decade, I’ve witnessed this type of chronic self-doubt hold countless intelligent individuals back from speaking up and sharing their ideas, advocating for new opportunities, taking risks, and even practicing much-needed self-care.

A disconnect between a person’s selfperception and reality is at the core of imposter syndrome. While you may possess skills,

training, degrees, and have a track record of accomplishments, you may struggle to attribute your success to your competence. Instead, you dismiss it and credit luck, timing, charm, or even good looks. In other words, people with imposter syndrome have trouble internalizing their successes. They have difficulty owning their accomplishments and integrating those experiences into a more positive view of themselves.

It’s possible to overcome imposterism by retraining your thinking and internalizing your successes—without becoming big-headed. Here’s how.

1. Rewrite misconceptions about confidence

Many professionals I coach are hesitant to

acknowledge their achievements. They don’t want to come off as too conceited or cocky, nor do they want to become lazy and complacent.

Keep in mind that there’s a big difference between healthy confidence and overconfidence. Those with healthy confidence are not only secure in their judgments and strengths, but they can also show humility and admit their weaknesses. Overconfident people, on the other hand, overestimate their competence and think they can excel in areas in which they have no knowledge. This is often referred to as the Dunning-Kruger effect.

But perhaps you have thought that being hard on yourself is what keeps you striving higher. Research shows that self-criticism is a poor strategy. When used excessively,

New

More volume with its 30% smaller oval detachable head for closer to the roots styling.

it is consistently associated with less motivation, reduced self-control, and greater procrastination. Instead, consider how you might take a more self-compassionate approach. For instance, if your friend landed a great new role, would you tell them, “eh, you got lucky”? Or would you celebrate them?

2. Shift your explanatory style

In the late 1990s, psychologists Gregory Buchanan and Martin Seligman coined the term “explanatory style” to describe the way people interpret events that happen to them. People with imposter syndrome tend to have a pessimistic explanatory style. When something good happens to them, they tend to attribute it to external factors, such as luck or timing. They see any success as temporary and fleeting.

The good news is that you can train yourself to have a more optimistic explanatory style, which is shown to lead to greater happiness, motivation, and productivity. This style can help you to interpret positive events that happen to you as a result of internal factors, such as your inherent capabilities or effort, and is more long-lasting.

Consider something good that happened to you this past week and explain it through an optimistic versus a pessimistic style. For example, perhaps you were assigned to a highvisibility project at work. Instead of assuming you’re on the team because the client likes you (pessimistic style), consider how your background, expertise, or talent contributed to you being nominated to the project.

3. Accept compliments

When someone applauds your work, are you quick to brush off their praise and say, “Oh, it was nothing”? When you experience imposter syndrome, praise can create cognitive dissonance. Because positive feedback about your capabilities doesn’t fit into your current selfimage, you reject it.

The next time someone gives you a compliment, try to receive it graciously. Resist the urge to explain away your successes or to rattle off a string of justifications as to why your accomplishment is no big deal. Instead, keep your response short and simple, such as, “Thank you, I’m so glad you noticed” or, “I appreciate that.” You can take this a step further by asking a question to get more information about your strengths such as, “Thanks for the feedback. What did you enjoy about my presentation?” or, “What stood out to you the most?”

4. Start a brag file

Achieving your goals is great, but you’ll never gain confidence from them if you simply move onto the next thing and don’t pause to celebrate your wins. Psychologically speaking, celebrating your accomplishments isn’t frivolous: When you do so, your body releases endorphins that reinforce a feeling of competence.

One simple way to do this is by creating a brag file. This is a place where you keep a log of your wins at work. It can be kept as a Microsoft Word or Google doc, an Evernote note, or even an email folder.

A brag file can help you look back on your work with a healthy sense of pride. This could

include concrete accomplishments like hitting a major milestone or kind words from customers, colleagues, or your manager. Your brag file can help you better understand your skills, what type of work you most enjoy doing, and even comes in handy for performance reviews or job searching.

5. Broaden your definition of a win

Imposter syndrome is closely connected with perfectionism, which can lead you to define achievement in a hyper-specific way—complete and total excellence at all times. In order to beat imposter syndrome, you don’t need to lower your bar, but you do need to broaden your scope of what qualifies as a “win.” Give yourself more credit for moments of strengths that grow your resilience and resourcefulness by broadening your definition of success to include:

• Pushing through a fear

• Having a difficult conversation

• Advocating for your ideas

• Setting a boundary

• Approaching a situation with a different mindset

• Taking a small step toward a goal

Take a few moments at the end of your workday to consider moments where you made yourself proud. Research shows that savoring, the psychological practice of reflecting on and appreciating positive moments, can boost feelings of satisfaction and self-efficacy.

With effort and intentionality, you can make your thoughts work for you instead of against you and ensure that imposter syndrome doesn’t steal your joy.

Photo by Tengyart on Unsplash.

FAMILY TRAVEL 5

How your camera can help you make the most of your vacation

By Lynn O’Rourke Hayes

1. People pictures

It’s true. Every picture tells a story. Later, you’ll be glad you withstood the verbal resistance and nudged the kids or grandparents to succumb to one more photo. Encourage your family members to be the focal point of landscape images, cityscapes and your active adventures. The photos and videos will enrich the experience, provide context and stoke your memories long after the trip has ended. For more: www.moabphototours.com

2. Capture light and color

You may have heard about the “golden hour.” It’s that magical time around sunrise and sunset when your photographic subjects seem to have a special glow. Capturing images in this soft light can make for beautiful pictures.

Markets, festivals, marinas and parades often provide an array of colorful subjects and unique experiences that will help tell the story of your family’s vacation. At the market, be on the lookout for brightly colored vegetables, fruits, meat or fish unlike those in your local grocery store. Fuel your children’s natural curiosity by asking the vendor to explain the origin of items. Better yet, choose from

the available items and craft a family dinner from the local resources. Capture the experience from start to finish and relive the tastes, sounds and smells at a future family gathering.

3. Give animal photos a shot

Whether at the zoo, in the countryside, on safari, at sea or within a national park, snapping photos of critters can be an enriching experience as you observe the animal in their native habitat. Will you get the shot when the lion roars, the giraffe reaches upward, the monkey swings from the branch, or the whale breaches the surface? Remember, though, it’s important for every member of the family to understand that animals in the wild are just that: wild. Don’t take chances. Keep a safe and respectful distance.

For more: www.abercrombiekent.com, www.nps. gov

4. Get in on the action

It’s fun to capture the movement, emotion and exhilaration of a family adventure — whether it’s wild rides at the theme park, bike or running races, or rafts in the rapids.

You don’t need a fancy camera to create fun shots that tell the story. Try clicking the shutter while moving your body at the same pace as the action you want to record.

Compare notes and consider experimentation part of the family adventure and experience. For more: www.oars.com

5. Use your camera to take notes

Encourage each member of the family to use their phone cameras to provide an extra layer of safety. Snap a photo of your parking space, the extended itinerary, a designated family meeting spot and your hotel address and room number. It can also be fun to photograph the restaurants and menus that make your favorites list.

When visiting a new environment or when worn out from a full day of traveling, it can be difficult to remember these details that are an important component of safe and stress-free travel.

Whether you travel close to home or take an extended trip, consider these ideas for capturing the moments that matter.

Photo by Alicia Steels on Unsplash.

AlRai, The Avenues, Souq Sharq, Al-Kout, Boulevard, Promenade

BURGAN BANK CROWNS FIRST MILLIONAIRE WITH A KD 1,500,000 PRIZE

Every legend has its origin, and the legend of Kanz has its origin rooted in Burgan

By bazaar staff

Most of us have dreamt of winning big and becoming millionaires. For Kaid Fakhruddin and Salim Kalimuddin, joint owners of a Kanz Burgan Bank account, that became a reality. This life-changing event was celebrated with a unique musical performance and an unprecedented experience for a bank-orchestrated prize draw. Not only did Burgan Bank crown its first millionaire, with the KD 1,500,000 prize in the first Kanz account annual mega draw they did it in style. The draw was hosted at the drama theater of the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Cultural Centre (JACC), under the supervision and in the presence of a representative from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

It serves to note that the musical, Kanz Burgan, reflects the Bank’s commitment to delivering a valuable message to its customers and people of Kuwait; within an artistic context that revives elements of Kuwaiti heritage with a modern twist. The theatrical performance was met with a huge public turnout, which included the Bank’s senior management, highprofile figures, VIP guests, prominent Kuwaiti journalists, media icons, as well as a number of artists from across the art community in Kuwait. As the act unfolded, the audience were swept away by the epic tale of “The extraordinary journey and a legendary treasure hunt with Kanz Burgan”, which culminated in an emotional

musical number in the finale entitled “Dream”, performed by Mutref Al-Mutref and written and composed by Bashar Al-Shatti.

The play told the tale of the Burgan treasure that rests, hidden away from sight in the folds of Burgan’s dunes and rich landscape, awaiting its rightful owner to claim it. The audience tread on the heels of Najm, the play’s young protagonist, who follows the legend and heads to Burgan in search of the buried treasure. The theatrical act is a first-of-its-kind for Burgan Bank, as the Bank continues to innovate in the way it communicates its values with the community. This time, Burgan Bank chose to deliver its message through a musical that reminded its audience of the

necessity of believing in one’s dreams, and going the extra mile to turn them into reality. This is the same reality that came true for the Kanz account customers who believed in, someday, becoming a millionaire.

The musical was written and directed by Ahmed Mohamed Al-Awadhi, and starred an elite group of Kuwaiti performers, including Yaqoub Abdullah, Ghouroor Safar, Ahmed bin Hussein and Wadha Al Roumi, with a finale performance performed by Kuwaiti singer Mutref Al-Mutref, written and composed by singer-songwriter Bashar Al-Shatti. The show also featured sound production by Rabih Al-Sidawi, set design by Briza Al-Roumi and Hammoud Al-Amiri, lighting by

Abdullah Al-Nassar, costume design by Hessa AlAbad and decoration by Muhammad Behbehani. Speaking on the highlights of this event, Nasser Mohammad Al-Qaisi, Chief Retail Banking Officer at Burgan Bank, stated: “On behalf of the Burgan Bank family, I would like to congratulate our first millionaire, KAID FAKHRUDDIN and/or SALIM KALIMUDDIN, on becoming the winners of the KD 1,500,000 annual Kanz mega draw prize. Under the Bank’s motto, Driven by You, we are proud to be the first Kuwaiti bank to present such a novel approach to draws. This event underscores our commitment to our customers and our wider community, as we continuously seek to push the boundaries of what we consider to be our best, to deliver a holistic experience that’s elevated and satisfactory to our customers. Our Kanz account is regarded as one of the best draw accounts of its kind in the market, promising customers plentiful chances all year long to win prizes that range between KD 1,000 and KD 1,500,000. At its core, the Kanz account aims at promoting and instilling the savings culture among the Bank’s customers, which comes in line with Burgan Bank’s unwavering commitment to continuously improving its offers and rewarding its customers with next-level experiences.”

On her part, Mrs. Kholoud Rida Al-Feeli, Group Head - Marketing and Communications at Burgan Bank, commented: “We are proud to crown our first millionaire as part of the Kanz Burgan play, which marks a quantum leap that’s fitting of the Bank’s leading position and its first millionaire. In accordance with our strategy and our commitment to social responsibility, we made sure that all the talents involved in this theatrical piece of work, whether on-stage or back, were all young Kuwaiti artists. This stems from our faith in these young people’s abilities to deliver a high-quality and memorable original show. We are proud to say that the musical’s 630 tickets sold out within an hour from the show’s announcement on social media and JACC’s platform. – a truly impressive feat.”

“In response to public demand, the performance was live-streamed on the Bank’s social media channels with topnotch cinematic direction, garnering over a million views,” AlFeeli added. “I wish to genuinely thank everyone who turned this musical into a success from the media production company, Partners, to the entire technical staff, and of course, our own Burgan Bank team.”

Meanwhile, Ahmed Al-Awadhi, playwright, and director, commented: “We are very grateful to Burgan Bank for presenting us with this special opportunity to soar freely in the skies of artistic creativity. Besides legacy and originality, creativity and novelty have always been core values that reflect the Bank’s personality. That’s why, it was essential to draw a narrative that captures both ends of Burgan’s rich spectrum,

striking a perfect balance between the heritage and innovation that is in sync with modern marketing dynamics. Furthermore, modern marketing techniques now rely on reinforcing the interactive relationship between the brand and its customers, often in an entertaining atmosphere and altogether steering away from direct-selling. This shines clearly in the idea that we presented: a play that is inspired from Kuwait’s heritage and reflects Burgan Bank’s values, meanwhile providing a shared space of entertainment and engagement that connects the Bank to its audience. With that, we truly wish Burgan Bank success on its plans moving forward.”

On another end, Bashar Al-Shatti said: “It delights me to express our pride at Partners for being part of this exceptional mega event. Part of what makes us who we are is our enthusiasm towards coming up with brand new ideas and working tirelessly to bring them to life, at the highest possible quality. That’s why we turned to our national Kuwaiti heritage for inspiration, drawing on its values and wealth. Everything from the narrative progression to the song aimed at entwining the old with the new, in a grounding way that inspires pride in our collective past, as well as faith in a bright future that’s weaved in dreams and hopes.”

Mohammed Al-Shatti from the Partners team echoed his team’s sentiments, noting that

working on the Kanz Burgan play was an important decision at the company that propelled them into a new creative arena of events management, adding: “We received a lot of support from the team from Burgan Bank, which guaranteed the event’s success in marking a grand leap in the Bank’s marketing excellence.”

On his part, Rabih Al-Sidawi commented that the play trail blazes uncharted territory in the field of marketing in Kuwait, creating an opportunity for reviving Kuwait’s heritage and traditional culture, in a way that appeals to the younger generations. He also noted that it marks a milestone in the national pursuit of raising awareness on the importance of preserving national heritage, with its harmonious blend of legacy, originality, and modernity in a unique artistic manner.

Burgan Bank continues to deliver all that is innovative and novel through events and activities that rise up to its leading position and its customers’ aspirations. It also remains committed to supporting young Kuwaiti talents across all fields, reinforcing their role in paving the path towards a more developed Kuwait.

For more information about how you can open a Kanz account and become Burgan Bank’s next millionaire, visit your nearest Burgan Bank branch, call the bank’s Call Center at 1804080 or apply online at burgan.com.

FAIL AND LEARN

Lessons from 8 of the biggest tech product failures of all time

By Chris Morris

There’s no denying that the Consumer Electronics Show has produced a number of truly revolutionary products. But for every success there are dozens—possibly hundreds—of gadgets, apps, doodads, and whatchamacallits that are bound to never be seen again.

It’s not just startups that fall short. Even some of the biggest names in technology have had some very notable whiffs. And this year, some of the biggest tech misses of the past 50 years were on display in a Gallery of Flops presented by Prelaunch.com, a platform for launching products.

Ranging from music players and gaming headsets to beauty devices, the gallery included some familiar products from big brands that have since become the tech equivalent of cult classics. There were also a few head-scratchers. Here’s a look at some of the biggest tech product fails in history.

Amazon Fire Phone

In 2014, Amazon launched a 3D-enabled smartphone, looking to continue the success of its Fire tablets. It had unique features designed for the Amazon faithful, such as X-Ray (software technology that identifies actors, songs, and other things on screen, as well as trivia and Easter eggs in content) and a dedicated customer service tool. As it turns out, though, those loyal Amazon customers were also loyal to Apple and Samsung—and had no interest in Amazon’s take on the modern smartphone.

TwitterPeek

Long before Elon Musk was a factor at the social media platform, Twitter decided to try something oddly different. It teamed with mobile tech company Peek in 2009 to create a pager-like device that let users send and receive tweets. Priced at $100, it also carried a charge of $8 per month. Consumers quickly decided that they would prefer to use their phones than pay to tweet.

iPod HiFi

Apple’s first take on an in-home stereo system lasted just 18 months. It had tremendous sound quality and was praised at its rollout, but it wasn’t an especially portable device. And as high-quality portable speakers at affordable prices began to hit the market (and competitors like Sonos grew), Apple threw in the towel.

Sony

Google TV Remote

The plan was a good one: modernize the living room with a consumer-friendly device. The execution? Not so much. Whether because of poor design or disagreements between the two

tech giants, this 88-button remote was much too complicated for most users, who couldn’t even figure out how to change the channel.

Microsoft Zune

Apple’s iPod had been on the market for five years by the time Microsoft got around to releasing its own digital music player. And the initial entry in the market was a clunky device that lacked any of the style consumers had come to expect. The Zune’s catalog didn’t measure up to what was offered in iTunes, and it was a bit ahead of its time, offering a music subscription service rather than focusing on people buying singles and album downloads.

Nike Magneto

Nike knew that its athletic-focused customers wore sunglasses, so it made sense to introduce a Nike-branded line. Aware that one of the chief complaints of athletes was how glasses slip when the wearer gets sweaty, the company took an unusual approach—asking customers to glue magnets to their temples to ensure the glasses would stay put. Shockingly, people were not willing to do that.

Rejuvenique Face Mask

Arguably the oddest product in the Gallery of Flops, this beauty industry monstrosity aimed to restore youthful looks with electrical stimulation.

As if the very idea weren’t scary enough, the actual device—designed to be strapped to a user’s head—resembled something out of a horror movie (a look that seems to be making a comeback). It was backed by Dynasty star Linda Evans, but the Food and Drug Administration declared it unsafe and it eventually disappeared from store shelves.

Nintendo Virtual Boy

Nintendo’s 3D gaming headset was a forerunner of sorts for the Meta Quest and other VR headsets. But it made just about every mistake imaginable. It was priced well beyond what most Nintendo fans could afford. Its 3D effects were . . . not impressive. And wearing it caused neck, back, and eye pain for some users. After less than a year, the company decided it had made a mistake.

The one thing Prelaunch may have overlooked with its Gallery of Flops is the nostalgia value of bombs like these. In some cases, what the companies lost in investment, they may have made up for in pop culture notoriety. Years after they were pulled from the market, products like the Zune and the Virtual Boy are still hard to forget. Even though they were commercial flops, they definitely left a lasting impression.

Photo by the blowup on Unsplash.

HAPPY WORKPLACES

5 ways office design can make you happier at work

By Nate Berg

Designer Dan Sullivan wants to change your brain. As VP of R&D at Kova, a maker of building materials, facades, and windows, he’s been exploring the practical implications of what’s being called neuroaesthetics, or the ways that physical design can lead to measurable changes in the brain’s chemistry.

A growing body of evidence suggests that designing spaces in specific ways—lights with precise color temperatures on the Kelvin scale, rooms with particular layouts—can trigger the brain’s release of dopamine, a chemical associated with pleasure, and help people be more focused, productive, and happy.

Sullivan, the former head of design for Google Architecture’s R&D Lab, says neuroaesthetics is a design approach that can vastly improve the human experience of our built environment. And the place it’s probably needed most is the office.

“In the worst historical context, the workplace has been filled with poorly designed places full of distractions,” he says. It’s no wonder, Sullivan argues, that many people feel more effective and comfortable when they work from home. And during the pandemic, when many white-collar workers realized their jobs could be done just as well from home as from the office, the case for going into a badly designed workplace got even weaker.

But the office can still be a powerful space for work and collaboration. “If we want the workplace to become important again, it has to be a place that’s attractive to employees,” Sullivan says. “It has to make their work easier and make them happier humans.”

Here, Sullivan offers five science-backed ideas for making workplaces less distracting, more productive, and more enjoyable.

Update office layouts to reduce distractions

Too many offices fail to provide the kinds of spaces where different kinds of tasks can be done effectively. “We put a bunch of people in open office spaces and we expect them to be able to have creative insights and focus on their work. Meanwhile they’re able to overhear the meeting happening behind them and there’s a conversation happening two desks down,” Sullivan says.

Offices should be designed with better separation between focused work areas where people can get into flow states and places where people can collaborate or have impromptu meetings. “Making sure those functions are separated in a floor plan is really important,” Sullivan notes.

To that end, Kova has developed a reconfigurable partition system that can be used to break up spaces within open-plan offices, either temporarily or permanently, and moveable walls and furniture are being used to more affordably adapt spaces from high schools to corporate headquarters. The investment required to make floor plan changes

can be high, which partly explains the advent of one of the most notorious office design products: the cubicle.

Create physical transitions between spaces

When different parts of an office are used for different purposes, interior design can subtly show people what’s appropriate where. Sullivan says designers can use physical structures and forms to help people understand how the office changes from place to place, such as a hallway from an open area that gradually funnels down to more private meeting space or quiet areas. Just walking through differently shaped spaces triggers brain activity, particularly curved spaces, and can boost energy and cognition.

Connect with nature, without the view

“One great thing for restoration is a connection to nature,” Sullivan says. “I think people often associate this with a view outside, but views outside can actually be really distracting.” Research shows that the mentally restorative power of nature has a lot to do with the shades and shapes of green leaves and the visual complexity exhibited by plants and trees.

“You can bring those things inside to have that restorative effect,” Sullivan says. Plentiful office plants can provide the benefits of nature without the distractions of whatever’s happening outside the window. Such biophilic design has been shown to affect people’s moods and health, and simple potted plants can even cut down on annoying office noise. There’s also evidence that just seeing a plant can lower stress levels.

Soften the edges

That goes for everything from the shapes of rooms

to the types of furniture in those rooms to the decorative patterns on floors and walls. “Sharpedge patterns can trigger [the stress hormone] cortisol, and the brain is known to see those as threatening,” Sullivan explains. And when it comes to our aesthetic preferences, it’s been found that people really just love curvy architecture more than hard edges and right angles.

Soften the art

Art can often be found on the walls of offices, either for decoration or a sense of sophistication. Sullivan says offices should be careful about what kind of art they put on their walls. Overly jarring or detailed images can be triggering to people, or even a source of distraction. “Some people get lost in the story of the art piece,” Sullivan says. “For people who have different levels of neurodiversity conditions, like autism or ADHD, paintings can actually be super disruptive to finding flow.”

Being thoughtful about the impact of design decisions can help companies make their offices more productive spaces, but there’s no one method or pattern language to follow. Companies considering applying these ideas, or working with designers to create specific neuroaesthetic approaches for their needs, should be willing to test and revise.

“This area of research, or at least the implementation in the built environment, is sort of in its infancy,” Sullivan says. “A benefit to almost anybody is to think of their floor plans as experiments, and to provide themselves enough flexibility to be able to evolve those experiments until they get the results that they’re actually desiring.”

Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash.

AlRai, The Avenues, Souq Sharq, Al-Kout, Boulevard, Promenade

IPHONE HACKS

The iPhone’s white noise machine and other fun, little-known features

By Doug Aamoth

It feels like a lifetime ago—and I’m dating myself here—but phones used to come with full-fledged paper user manuals. A quiet, focused afternoon with one of those bad boys and you felt like the king of the keypad.

Oh, they had keypads, too.

Fast forward to today, and phones are supposed to just work. If it’s not intuitive enough to use right out of the box, some product manager is on the hot seat somewhere.

That doesn’t mean that everything is obvious, though. Take these iPhone features, for instance. They’re fun, useful, and not readily apparent unless you dig through the online user manual a bit.

Use the built-in white noise machine

Instead of hunting around for a white noise app— many of which aren’t free—just leverage the iPhone’s built-in white noise machine instead. It’s found under Settings > Accessibility > Audio/ Visual > Background Sounds and features six options: three noise variations, plus Ocean, Rain, or Stream.

You can quick-toggle this feature on and off by swiping toward the center of your screen from the upper-right corner and tapping the ear icon.

Create custom vibrations for important contacts

It’s 2023, which means everyone has their phone on vibrate and nobody uses a ringtone anymore, right?

Well, there’s a nifty little feature wherein you can tap out your own custom vibration pattern for any one of your contacts.

To set this up, open a contact from the Contacts app, then select Edit > Ringtone > Vibration > Create New Vibration.

You’ll then be presented with a big blank space to tap-tap-tap your way around in order to create your vibrational masterpiece.

Find out where you parked

We’re barely into the new year, and I’ve now twice caught myself wandering around aimlessly looking for my car: once at the mall and once at the airport.

It doesn’t have to be this way. Open the Maps app and it’ll show you the location of the last car your iPhone was paired with via Bluetooth as a little parked car on the map.

There’s an even quicker way, too: Just ask Siri where your car is.

Send bigger texts to emphasize importance

You, a person of great import, shouldn’t be relegated to sending the same size texts as the rest of us.

The next time you’re ready to show your recipient you mean business, hold down the Send button and select the “Loud” option to embiggen your message and have it wiggle a bit on the other person’s end.

Also, be sure to try the Slam option, which is a bit more aggressive. And you can toggle between “Bubble” and “Screen” at the top of the conversation to animate just the message text or fill the screen with a bunch of the same message, respectively.

Now, this only works between iMessage users. If you send a message like this to an Android user, they’ll get “(sent with Loud Effect)” appended to the text. Not quite as dramatic, huh?

Don’t let people know you’ve read their texts

Dial down the awkward by making sure people can’t see whether you’ve read their texts. The feature is called Read Receipts and is an iMessage-exclusive feature as well. It can be turned off across the board by going to Settings > Messages > Send Read Receipts.

Now, it may very well be that you want most but not all of your contacts to know that you’ve read their texts. In that case, you can turn off Read Receipts for individual people by tapping their name at the top of your iMessage conversation and toggling the feature off.

Photo by Ben Kolde on Unsplash.

THE ELEVATED RAMADAN TABLE BY WEST ELM

Get ready for fabulous gatherings

By bazaar staff

We’re excited for the most food-centric month of the year. Yes, Ramadan is just around the corner and we’re already craving all the colorful and mouth-watering dishes. But what we truly enjoy is spending more time with the people we care about. We can’t wait to see our friends and family over iftar and suhour. But mostly, we’re planning on hosting more get-togethers this year, which is why we’re excited about West Elm’s dinnerware collections that will help us make our table spreads look even more delicious.

Sama

Whether your family is big or small, coming together at the dining table and creating blissful Ramadan feels has never been easier with this Ramadan collection. Decorate your table with the new collection of dinnerware, glassware and light candles and sparkling lanterns for the extra touch and complete breakfast experience.

Sama

With vibrant blue brushstroke design, this stunning dinnerware collection brings an elevated design to any meal, whether casual or for a function. There are additional accent stoneware pieces that come in a beautiful blue. The collection includes mugs, the Sama serving platter, Sama pasta bowl, and cereal bowls.

Jothoor

Simple and versatile, the elegant Jothoor dinnerware collection features gold-detailed patterns that contrast to give your table an elevated mix-and-match vibe. The definition of laid-back glamor, this platter dresses up the table with a metallic rim, perfect for casual dinners as well special occasions. The collection includes the organic platter, cereal bowl, and mug.

Explore the Ramadan collections at West Elm Kuwait in Grand Avenue – The Avenues Mall. Want to skip the lines and lifting? Shop online in Kuwait at www.westelm.com/kw to have these pieces delivered to your doorstep. Follow West Elm @westelmmena for updates.

Sama

Jothoor

GRAY BEGONE

Just For Men – CGX, a hassle-free way to get rid of gray hair

By bazaar staff

One day, you look in the mirror, and you realize that you have spotted a gray hair, and then the next and the next, until you realize that your natural hair color has been swallowed up by the monster called aging. If you are not ready for that, we’ve got a super easy solution for you; Just For Men – CGX.

Aging is a privilege which we very much respect and accept, but that doesn’t mean we need to accept losing our hair color. But dyeing your hair can be an even bigger hassle. You need to find a talented stylist, make appointments, then schedule regular touch ups. But there’s a much easier way to deal with it all, and you can do it at home. The experts at Just For Men (JFM) have created CGX (Control GX) shampoo which is a breakthrough that uses multi-patented formulas, that make blending away gray as easy as shampooing — with incredibly subtle, naturallooking results.

You are already washing your hair; you just need to switch your regular shampoo with Just For Men CGX. The company spotted a gap in the market – men who weren’t necessarily concerned by their grays but wanted to target

them gradually, amid fears of a sudden drastic change. This led to the launch of Control GX, a new solution to hair dye that could provide men with subtle but permanent and natural-looking results.

Take control of your graying hairs once and for all with a little help from Just For Men.

Enjoy our limited Spring Menu with a wide variety of delicious dishes selected carefully to satisfy your taste buds

EAT AT TETA’S

Leave the busy streets of Sharq in the rearview as you walk into Teta’s cozy house.

By bazaar Staff

A classic atmosphere, a cozy seating and the aroma of baked bread and croissants greet you right away as you walk into Teta’s, a new Mediterranean inspired breakfast and bakery opened at T21 Tower in Sharq.

As soon as you step in, you are immediately surrounded by familiarity. A home away from home, if you will. Greeted with a smile, you can pick up a takeaway box and fill it with delicious, fresh croissants and breads or sit at the tables and look through the menu for some incredible dishes to order from.

If there is one thing that our Teta’s loves to do, it’s to feed their loved ones. The new Teta’s restaurant is no different.

We started off the meal with the Bonjour Teta Eggs, which is a homemade croissant stuffed with poached eggs and beetroot cream cheese with a side of pesto avocado gives you the perfect start to the morning, especially when accompanied by a cup of tea.

Refresh your palate with the Suzzana Salad which has mixed greens, Gorgonzola cheese, pomegranate and pine nuts tossed with honey vinaigrette, it was the perfect introduction to the Christa Sandwich. The slow-cooked shredded short ribs and red cabbage coleslaw were perfectly mixed in the homemade sourdough.

Want to order something to share amongst you and your friends or family? Their sharing platters are definitely highly recommended. The Breakfast Platter is a must as it consists of assorted cheese, cold cuts, dried and seasonal fruits, homemade jam bread and dips.

With a wide range of choices from their bakery, it’s impossible to not find your new favorite breakfast item while also trying something new and fresh daily. The Mediterranean menu offers choices that are perfect to order during any time of the year whether you’re looking for something light to start your day or if you’re a fan of a heavier breakfast.

Next time you’re looking for a good and trending breakfast place with a cozy outdoor seating and some incredible, Mediterranean comfort food, then you no longer have to look further that T21 Tower in Sharq where Teta’s is ready to welcome you with open arms into their home.

You can follow Teta’s on Instagram @EatAtTetas.

SHOES BY ROBOT

This robotic knitting factory might make your next pair of sneakers

By Chadner Navarro

In the open studio of a renovated 36,000-square-foot factory in Los Angeles’ Chinatown, a series of Shima Seiki automated knitting machines emit quick, whirring sounds. Around the machines, automated guided vehicles transport materials including spools of yarn in a Crayola box of colors, while robot arms fuss with uppers and outsoles rolling down the conveyor lines. Desks are buzzing with teams crowding over computers animatedly discussing design plans. This is the headquarters of KX Lab, a brand-new manufacturing facility making knit sneakers, through mostly automated techniques, in the heart of one of America’s most important urban sprawls.

These days, when you look at the bottom of your sneakers, rarely do they say “made in the USA.” While the US is the leading importer of footwear in the world (it received some 2.4 billion pairs in 2021), this is not the country where shoes are made, generally speaking. In 2021, China, India, Vietnam, and Indonesia accounted for nearly 75% of the world’s footwear production. (China is far-and-away number one with over 12 billion pairs; India, number two, produced 2.6 billion last year.) The reason why is obvious: It’s cheaper to get shoes made in Asia than it would be to get them made nearly anywhere else, but especially stateside.

There is shoe production happening in the US, but on a much smaller scale. Last year, New Balance opened its fifth domestic factory, an 80,000-square-foot facility in Massachusetts. But a price comparison on New Balance’s website shows that a pair of Made in the USA sneakers start at $184.99, while sneakers whose provenance is unknown (New Balance still sources parts from overseas for many of its shoes), however, could start as low as $64.99 a pair. While many factors influence price, domestic shoe manufacturing is unequivocally much more expensive.

So when Joshua Katz opened KX Lab, his focus wasn’t on cost-saving—it was on sustainability and creative collaboration. Katz says that the lab is designed to bring the “product-creation engine” much closer to both the people who are creating and the consumers who buy the finished product. “If you can work with the factory down the street, you can produce smaller runs, be closer to sampling and development, and bring products to market on a smaller scale,” he explains, adding that this allows for the lowering of carbon emissions that would otherwise come from global transport. But for Katz, there’s also the critical opportunity for brands to be much more involved with the creation process and perhaps feel inspired to take more risks.

While automated knit sneaker production has been thriving in Asia for years, it remains a largely new fabrication method in the West. And to educate brands into getting on board, KX Lab was built “like a prototype facility in the sense that here we have the opportunity to experiment,

learn, and improve,” Katz says, adding that the lab is constantly evolving with the goal of identifying how knit fabrication can become more valuable to the American design industry. The Shima Seiki automated knitting machines—the standard bearer in knit footwear—can churn out whole-knit sneaker uppers in 25 minutes. Upper designs are fed into a program, and the Shima Seiki knits it whole. Laser cutting machines are used to make reinforcement components. The goal is to minimize waste and physical labor.

Late last year, LA-based Clae, known since 2001 for minimalist sneakers in classic silhouettes, unveiled its first made-in-the-USA style in partnership with KX Lab. The Louie, a lifestyle sneaker that resembles a running shoe (though not designed for a specific athletic activity), features Clae’s signature sleek aesthetic plus more technical elements like a variety of knitting styles: tight where you want it like a snug collar that comfortably wraps around the ankle, looser where you want more breathability.

The technology involved also led to some dropped jaws, especially when the Clae team saw robotic arms (similar to what car manufacturers would use) applying the glue that would connect the printed uppers with the soles. Clae has also

long been committed to sustainability, ensuring its factories in Vietnam pay fair wage, launching cactus-leather sneakers in partnership with tanneries in Mexico. The team appreciates how knit manufacturing uses laser-cutting technology to minimize waste; plus, a single-piece print-out requires no adhesive.

“We priced this shoe lower than we normally would, but that was due to the simplicity of the design and how that translates into the perception of cost and value,” Clae CEO Jim Bartholet admits. “We also wanted it to be accessible.” A limitededition run that wasn’t necessarily cost-effective led the brand to forgo wholesaling the Louie—it’s exclusively available for purchase through Clae.

For its foray into domestic production, Clae adopted a largely experimental mix-and-match approach when it came to sourcing because of the up-front cost. The entire knit upper was created in KX Lab; while the outsoles, laces, and insoles were made by existing factory partnerships in Vietnam. But looking at Clae’s inventory of sneakers, the Louie slots in comparably on the top end of their retail range at $180 per

pair.

Photo by Imani Bahati on Unsplash.

MAKE YOUR OWN FRENCH CONNECTION

The brand is coming soon to a Debenhams near you!

By bazaar staff

UK-based design-led and fashionable clothing brand French Connection is finally coming to Kuwait. We’ve always loved the brand’s style. Their pieces are timeless and elegant, yet still fashionable and trendy, making them a staple in any closet. From their signature dresses, responsible denim and relaxed fits, there is always a ton to choose from. French Connection focuses on the customer because the brand focuses on their global community, which is the source of their inspiration. From design trends around the globe, to art and travel, they’re clearly energized by today’s street culture.

We inspire.

We excite.

We connect.

Behind French Connection’s fabulous designs is a group of passionate creators who design and produce contemporary clothing and home pieces responsibly, with eco-conscious materials and sustainable processes. They’re on a mission to produce mindful, eco-conscious products and covetable pieces and work hard to offer accessible, quality products that stand the test of time and make a statement.

We’ve always had a visit to French Connection on our itineraries when we travel, and we finally no longer have to board a plane because it has finally made its way to us in Kuwait!

Shop French Connection at Debenhams in Grand Avenue – The Avenues or online www.debenhams.com. kw. Call Customer Service: 182 1212. Follow @debenhamsmiddleeast on Instagram and Facebook for all the latest updates.

STOP SPYING

Tracking employees doesn’t work. Here’s how to move beyond productivity paranoia

By AJ Hess

If you’ve been following workforce news, then you’re probably familiar with a buzzword that’s recently emerged: “bossware.” It’s monitoring software that companies are increasingly utilizing to ensure that employees are staying productive. In fact, research has found that eight of the 10 largest private U.S. employers are using some form of it.

With the rise of remote work, it’s understandable that companies are anxious about keeping tabs on employees. As CEO of Jotform, a company with six offices in four countries, I can relate to the added stress of managing people across digital channels— not to mention various time zones.

But productivity-tracking software is a result of productivity paranoia and is ultimately detrimental to teams.

A flawed approach

For starters, bossware destroys an employee’s sense of autonomy and damages collective morale. It’s no surprise that workers have described it as “humiliating” and “toxic.” What’s more, research focusing on workers in call centers found a direct relationship between extensive monitoring and employee stress.

Perhaps most importantly, bossware fails to capture an individual’s productivity. Whether they’re monitoring mouse jiggles or taking periodic snapshots, tracking tools are subject to errors and can’t account for valuable non-digital work.

As someone who does some of their best thinking away from the computer—during my morning reading, while working out, or during walks with colleagues— bossware runs contrary to my core beliefs about creativity and productivity. And I’m not alone in my skepticism. Basecamp cofounder David Heinemeier Hansson went so far as to ban vendors from integrating with it.

The good news is if you’re worried about your team’s output, there are other, more effective ways to keep productivity high. They may not entail a quick software fix, but they could lead to more sustainable improvements in your team’s performance. Here are a few strategies that can promote productivity, innovation, and motivation—without relying on tracking software.

Fix the system—not the individual

If you sense a slip in your team’s productivity, you can either expend resources on micromanaging each person or take a step back and figure out what’s happening on an organizational level.

Harvard Business Review writers Rohan Narayana Murty and Shreyas Karanth advocate for the latter. For them, it comes down to empathy. As they write, “Empathy means focusing on a team, not an individual, and focusing on the environment in which people work and not on the specific actions of an individual.”

That doesn’t mean a company can’t collect employee data—in fact, Murty and Karanth recommend using data, but only to “see where processes are broken and

make them better”—not to track an individual’s hours on the clock. Importantly, they suggest anonymizing data and aggregating it into groups. That way, you can parse apart what’s happening on a systemic level and determine how to improve.

Break down corporate silos

In office settings, companies are often plagued by the formation of silos—barriers between departments that prevent the exchange of ideas and information, hinder collaboration, and ultimately hurt a company’s performance. In remote or hybrid situations, the potential for silos can be exacerbated unless leadership takes active steps toward breaking them down.

One approach that has worked wonders for Jotform is to organize our employees into cross-functional teams. Each team has a senior developer, a frontend developer, a back-end developer, a designer, and a CSS developer. Some teams also have a project or product manager. Teams manage themselves and each has a unique metric: For example, the growth team focuses on the number of active users, and the performance team focuses on the average response time for common activities.

Within each team, information is constantly exchanged across departments. This way, team members trust each other, they can make decisions quickly, and they can motivate one another.

Implement systems that break down the silo mentality and watch your employees’ performances take off.

Set KPIs for each department

As I mentioned, each of our teams has its own metrics for success. For us, tracking progress on these KPIs provides more useful insight than using bossware to track hours or keystrokes ever could.

To set KPIs for your company, think about how each team contributes value to the company’s overall mission. Determine what success means and then

decide how to measure it. You can, for example, ask employees to self-report or invest in relevant analytics software. You may even want to involve employees in the process of determining KPIs from the outset.

It requires an investment of time and resources to get the ball rolling, but once the KPIs are in place, they propel teams forward. Teams take ownership of their unique contribution, and leaders can easily monitor progress.

Implement downtime

Finally, establishing regular off-time boosts productivity during on-time. It might seem counterintuitive, but predictable rest helps to minimize stress and reduce the likelihood of burnout, which ultimately hurts productivity.

In fact, Harvard Business School professor Leslie Perlow found that implementing “predictable time off” (i.e., afternoons or evenings totally disconnected from work and wireless devices, agreed-upon email blackout times, or uninterrupted work blocks) resulted in greater job satisfaction and better work-life balance. Importantly, the predictable off-time did not compromise client service.

Many leaders understand that some time off is necessary, but going beyond the typical 10 to 14 days of paid vacation time by establishing predictable off-hours will create better rested, happier, more satisfied employees without hurting your company’s performance.

Bossware tracks employees like interchangeable cogs in a machine, but it’s time to move away from that idea. Today’s most innovative companies recognize that their employees are unique individuals who are part of a larger, dynamic organization. The best way to support them is not to monitor them but to implement organization-wide systems that support their best work.

Photo by Marten Newhall on Unsplash.

THE AI IS WRONG

If ChatGPT doesn’t get a better grasp of facts, nothing else matters

By Harry McCracken

Snap quiz: What was the first TV cartoon? That’s easy: The Flintstones, which debuted on ABC in 1960.

But wait. Eleven years before that, there was NBC’s The New Adventures of Pinocchio, created by Guido Martina and Angelo Bioletto. And Max Fleischer’s The Adventures of Peg o’ the Ring aired way back on April 30, 1933. Even that came after Bray Studios’ 1930 experimental cartoon The Creation, which itself was preceded by 1929’s The Funk Popilin Show.

Actually, all of these nominees are dead wrong. They come from OpenAI’s free AI chatbot ChatGPT, which provided a different answer every time I asked it “What was the first TV cartoon?” The Flintstones, as you know, was a real cartoon—it just wasn’t the first one made for TV. The others either didn’t exist or differed wildly from ChatGPT’s descriptions of them. The Adventures of Peg o’ the Ring, for example, was a 1916 theatrical live-action film serial, not a work of animation, and Max Fleischer had nothing to do with it.

(What was the first TV cartoon? Crusader Rabbit, which aired in syndication starting in 1950, traditionally gets the nod, and ChatGPT mentioned it in passing a couple of times. There are a couple of earlier candidates, and if you can name either, you know far more about the topic than any bot.)

It’s only been six weeks since OpenAI made ChatGPT available to the public. But its uncanny ability to understand requests and reply in clear, well-organized prose that reads like it was written by a human already makes its introduction feel like an epoch-shifting moment for the tech industry—if not humanity itself. I can’t think of another piece of new computer science that’s seemed so . . . well, impossible at first blush. (Sorry, 2007 iPhone.)

But whenever I chat with ChatGPT about any subject I know much about, such as the history of animation, I’m most struck by how deeply untrustworthy it is. If a rogue software engineer set out to poison our shared corpus of knowledge by generating convincing-sounding misinformation in bulk, the end result might look something like this. It’s prone to botching the chronological order of events, conflating multiple people with similar backgrounds, and—like an unprepared student— lobbing vague pronouncements that don’t require it to know anything about the topic at hand. How it comes up with gems like an imaginary 1929 cartoon called The Funk Popilin Show, I’m still not sure.

Even when ChatGPT is mostly accurate, as it sometimes is, it often makes a fundamental mistake or two. For example, it told me that former

Apple CEO John Sculley was responsible for the iPod, a product released eight years after he left the company. Some people will immediately spot that as an error; others will not. But will anyone bother to fact-check it?

Countless think pieces have been written about the possibility of students cheating by having ChatGPT do their homework for them. I’m more concerned about people earnestly using it as a research tool, buying into its inaccuracies, and spreading them—at which point it will be awfully hard to strike them from the record. Small wonder that Google, whose researchers invented the “transformer” AI that makes ChatGPT possible, is skittish about incorporating anything similar into its search engine.

To be fair to OpenAI, it’s careful to tamp down expectations about the current version of its bot. CEO Sam Altman has tweeted that it’s “a preview of progress” and there’s “lots of work to do on robustness and truthfulness.” The company’s FAQ warns that ChatGPT “can occasionally produce incorrect answers”—a welcome admission of fallibility, though it does so way more often than occasionally in my experience.

ChatGPT’s days as an admittedly flawed experiment may be numbered. Microsoft, which has already invested $1 billion in OpenAI, is contemplating chipping in a further $10 billion in return for a 49 percent stake in the company, report Semafor’s Liz Hoffman and Reed Albergotti. According to The Information‘s Aaron Holmes and Kevin McLaughlin, the software giant

plans to embed the technology at ChatGPT’s heart into an array of applications, where it could do everything from making Bing more conversational to allowing Word to automatically draft business documents.

By the time such features are live, they could be powered by GPT-4, the next version of OpenAI’s large language model, which is said to be radically more powerful than GPT-3. Let’s hope that it represents a breakthrough in accuracy.

For now, ChatGPT is most impressive when you steer it in directions that give it some leeway on matters of fact. One of my favorite examples of it being genuinely helpful is its response to a question from Platformer’s Casey Newton: “What are some styles of shoes that every man should have in his wardrobe?” You don’t need to be a footwear expert to judge the quality of the bot’s recommendations, which included oxfords, loafers, sneakers, and Chelsea boots. You might well find them a useful starting point for further research. And even if ChatGPT were to offer advice that wasn’t great—or was just plain weird—there’s no chance of it being a corrupting influence on society.

Or you could just invite it to make stuff up. For example, my colleague Jared Newman has been entertaining his kids by turning them into the stars of ChatGPT-generated bedtime stories. It’s tough to think of a nobler purpose for software that already spins fantasy with such aplomb.

Photo by Andrea De Santis on Unsplash.

MAKE MEANING AT WORK

How to make any job more meaningful, according to a positive psychology researcher

By AJ Hess

As someone who studies human thriving, productivity has always interested me. Humans are wired for it—we crave new challenges and opportunities to pursue our passions. But as a positive psychology researcher, my definition of productivity has never been about doing more in less time. Instead, I see productivity as doing more of what matters.

I developed and wrote a book about the Peak Productivity Pyramid framework, based on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, to help people do just that. The idea is that by moving up through five levels of organization and time-management techniques, we can move from surviving to succeeding to thriving. But the more I spoke with readers, the more I realized that the secret to doing more great work runs a lot deeper.

I have found we are most productive when we do work that feels meaningful—and that it’s possible to make any job more meaningful. Here’s how:

What motivates productivity matters

To achieve the kind of productivity that unlocks excellence, our work must be meaningful. And meaningful work is something we all want. A recent study found that 9 out of 10 workers would take a more meaningful job elsewhere, even if it paid less. But as stunning as that statistic is, it’s also a bit misleading. The underlying assumption is that some jobs are inherently meaningless. This simply isn’t true—and speaks to a common but dangerous misconception about the nature of meaningful work.

Why every job can be meaningful

If you heard someone describing themself as a “healer” whose role is doing everything they can to promote patient health and healing, you would probably guess this person is a doctor or a nurse. Would it surprise you to learn that, instead, they are a hospital janitor?

In her groundbreaking study of hospital custodians, Yale professor Amy Wrzesniewski discovered that about one-third of custodians changed their mindset about the work to find meaning in it. For some, cleaning was just a job. But others saw their role as critical to the patient’s healing process. These janitors got to know the patients and their families, often going the extra mile to make them more comfortable. And they found their work to be deeply meaningful.

A lot of people believe meaningful work is only for people in helping professions, nonprofits, or social impact work. While it’s true that some jobs are engineered for meaning, any job can be meaningful—even (especially) those that our culture might deem “mundane.”

Here are three things you can do to unlock

productivity and increase your performance by embracing meaningful work:

1. Find your contribution Contribution is the sense that your work adds value to your team, organization, customers, or something greater. In an ideal world, leaders would be better at connecting the dots between people’s day-to-day work and the difference the organization is making in the world as a result. But “cognitive crafting” can be a powerful tool to find meaning in your work, even if you’re several layers removed from those who benefit from your organization’s existence. Cognitive crafting involves reexamining your perception of tasks to find their greater meaning.

Wrzesniewski and her colleagues coined the term to describe the mental shift the janitors made to see themselves as healers. By reexamining tasks to find their deeper meaning, a cashier might see their work as less about scanning groceries and more about helping people feed their families. Being a hairstylist might be less about giving haircuts and more about helping stressed-out people relax for a few hours.

Spend some time reflecting on the positive impact your work has on the world to infuse it with meaning.

2. Challenge yourself

When we’re not being challenged to learn and grow, we quickly get bored. To find more meaning in your work, it’s important to seize opportunities to grow and stretch your capabilities.

I love how author Alain de Botton puts it: “Work is most fulfilling when you’re at the comfortable, exciting edge of not quite knowing what you’re doing.”

To infuse your work with more challenge, consider setting an ambitious “stretch” goal— one that will take some creativity and learning to accomplish. Volunteer to help with a project that’s just outside of your comfort zone. Seek out opportunities to acquire new knowledge or learn new skills.

3. Foster community

Humans are wired to crave belonging, and, as such, a caring community is a crucial aspect of meaningful work. Work communities come in all shapes and sizes. Even freelancers and small

startup teams can find a sense of community in their wider professional networks.

The only caveat for community is that it’s built on authentic relationships. As you look to improve your sense of meaning in 2023, carve out time in your schedule for social connection, especially with those who share the same values.

When we find our work meaningful, we are energized and motivated to do our best work. To unlock productivity and performance in 2023, make work meaningful.

Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash.

SET YOUR RAMADAN TABLE WITH POTTERY BARN

Explore the latest collections that can add a magical touch to your Ramadan gatherings

By bazaar staff

It feels like last Ramadan was only weeks ago, but here we are once more preparing for the Holy month’s arrival. It is one of our favorite times of the year, full of spirituality, connecting with loved ones and oh-so delicious food. We love going all out when it comes to our tablescapes as well as making sure we’ve created an inviting space at home to welcome friends and family. This year Pottery Barn is giving us all the beautiful items to make our Iftars, Suhours, and Ghabqas exceptional.

DINNERWARE

Dinnerware is often overlooked when thinking of a gathering. We usually focus on the menu forgetting that the plates and serving ware are a huge part of the presentation and can add a wonderful touch, with minimal effort. This year Pottery Barn have given us two gorgeous collections to choose from.

The Jenna Collection

With dynamic, global-inspired designs rendered in a beautiful blue and jeweled tones, the Jenna Collection creates a “heavenly” ambiance for Ramadan, just like its name. It brings a bold yet

Jenna Collection

Karam Collection

feminine presence to your twilight breaking of the fast. This collection is available in most place setting and entertaining pieces to complete your perfect table. The collection also includes Jenna Trays and Catchalls in a dynamic, globally-inspired design in beautiful blue and gold tones, to add a heavenly touch to any room.

The Karam Collection

Inspired by traditional Moroccan designs, the Karam Collection will be used for years to come. Generous in its intricate detailing and ornate pattern, this dinnerware is sure to make any event special. Designed exclusively for Pottery Barn, this collection is offered in a variety of pieces to effortlessly complete your table. Don’t forget to add the Karam Tray and Catchall to your collection too! Your guests will be enamored with your “generosity”, which is the meaning of Karam.

DRINK DISPENSER

Add a drink dispenser to your setup to give your gathering a more put-together feel. Not only is it a practical option that makes it easier for your guests to stay hydrated, it is also stunning. Made from polished white marble with a handsome contrast

of gold, which creates a bright and elegant base for entertaining, Pottery Barn’s drink dispenser this year is diving. This collection’s simple design highlights the beauty of the durable stone.

LANTERNS

The Ramadan lantern is iconic, but the Pottery Barn Brushed Gold Cutout Lantern is going to become a legend. This is ot the typical lantern found in souks. Intricate details and a brushed, antique-brass finish showcase the lantern’s glamorous design. Perfect décor for your indoor/outdoor entertaining, it easily pairs with Pottery Barn’s flameless flicker candles. The Caleb Lanterns are sized to make an impact. Simple details like arched windows and a finial keep the look fresh, and a choice of finish lets you complement your outdoor style.

You can find Pottery Barn at First Avenue –The Avenues. For more information, please call 2228 3370, and follow @potterybarnmena on Instagram. You can also shop Pottery Barn at potterybarn.com.kw.

Lanterns

Drink Dispenser

JARVIS, PLAY ME A SONG

AI can now build you a better playlist

By Elissaveta M. Brandon

When I was little, I made a lot of mixtapes. Later, I started downloading music from Limewire (the not-so-legal downloading site that was just reborn as an NFT marketplace) and burning it on CDs. Then came iTunes, Spotify, Deezer, and Youtube Music—all with their own ways to curate playlists, many of which were conveniently generated by algorithms that assumed to know people’s taste.

Those playlists will seem like old news with the launch of PlaylistAI, a new app that leverages OpenAI technology so you can build your own playlist by simply typing in a text box what you want to listen to. You link the app with your Spotify or Apple Music, then enter a prompt like “music similar to the artist Lady Gaga,” “music that was popular in the ’80s,” or “music for a rainy day, like Bon Iver,” and it presents you with a list of artists you can choose to keep or remove before finalizing your selection and automatically transferring it to your Spotify or Apple Music.

The past few years have seen countless playlist generators, both as web-based platforms and apps. Some rely on your mood, some depend on your music taste, and some appeal to your inner DJ. That the next generation of these generators is supported by OpenAI’s generative algorithms shouldn’t surprise anyone. Already, people are using AI to find interior design ideas, create art, and even write legal contracts. In most of these cases, the AI remains a tool designed to make your life easier. This is true of PlaylistAI as well, but what really sets it apart is the agency it can give back to those who like to build playlists— with a little help from their AI friend.

“Scrolling through playlists on Spotify is like scrolling through an algorithmic social media feed where you’re being fed what it thinks you want,” says Brett Bauman, who developed the app. Indeed, Spotify and most other music platforms, make a lot of assumptions about your taste. Spotify, in particular, uses your listening history to determine what music it will recommend next, which results in listeners being trapped in a constant musical feedback loop.

By comparison, PlaylistAI was designed to return some control to humans —to the extent that is possible when outsourcing something to an algorithm. “My vision for the app is to curate best ways to make playlists that lets you discover new music and artists that aren’t necessarily the most popular,” says Bauman.

So far, I’ve built 19 playlists, each for very specific occasions like writing a long article (“music to write to, like Emel, Le Trio Joubran, Belle and Sebastian”); hosting friends for a homecooked dinner (“dinner at home, similar to Regina Spektor, Anais Mitchell”); writing my resolutions (“introspective music, like Armand Amar, Ibrahim Maalouf); and . . . singing in the shower (“greatest singalong hits, classic”).

The app works best when you have a solid frame of reference. If you know the genre, or the kind of artist you want your music to sound like, that gives the AI something to work with. “The more detailed [the prompt], the better,” says Bauman. Like with any AI technology reliant on prompts, the result is only as good as the line you feed it. When I typed “obscure classical music,” the AI gave me Für Elise, one of Beethoven’s most famous compositions. But when I specified “classical music, romanticism era, like Schubert, Chopin, Liszt,” the selection was spot on.

For now, the UX is pretty basic. The latest version lets you edit your prompt if you’re dissatisfied with the results while in the app, but once the playlist is finalized and transferred over to Spotify, you can’t go back and edit it. Eventually,

however, Bauman wants to leverage GPT-3 to make the process a lot more conversational, so you can tell the app to “make it more dance-y,” or “remove this artist.”

After using the app for more than a week, it’s clear that I could’ve dipped into my own Spotify playlists, which I have built one song at a time and over the course of several years. But the ability to hyper-tune the soundtrack of my life in less than a minute has kept me coming back to PlaylistAI instead. You can even control the number of songs you get per artist, so you don’t end up with 5 ABBA tracks—though what’s the harm in that?

Photo by Dee. on Unsplash.

JUST SAY NO!

How to tell your boss “no” when they ask you to take on more work

By AJ Hess

One of the things I have struggled with in my career is saying “no.” Early on, I had trained myself to say “yes” to everything. The way I saw it, the more I would take on, the better it would be for my career. I would get more praise, I would get paid more, and I would get promoted faster. Unfortunately, it didn’t always turn out that way.

It can be particularly difficult to say “no” when your boss is the one asking you to join a task force, lead a new initiative, or take on another team responsibility. Can you even say “no”? Or do you begrudgingly say “yes,” secretly wishing you had said “no,” and feeling overwhelmed by everything you are working on?

So when your boss asks you to take on more work, here’s how to say “no:”

1. Review your current project list

Start by reviewing your current project list with your boss. According to a recent study from Resumebuilder.com, 61% of business leaders surveyed said they would likely have layoffs in 2023. Organizations will continue to reassess priorities, reallocate work, and stop work. This is an important opportunity to realign with your boss on what you are working on to ensure you are in fact working on projects that are still critical to the company’s success.

Bosses are human. We can forget what work we initially assigned, what we once said was important, and not understand the full scope of what team members are working on. Before your boss assigns you more work, give them the opportunity to review what you are currently working on. Their reaction might pleasantly surprise you. They may help you reprioritize. They may explain to you how this new task is connected to something you are already working on. Or they might change their mind and not assign you the additional work.

2. If you say “yes,” say “no” to something else

If you say “yes” to what your boss is offering for you to take on, see if you can say “no” to something else. Some bosses may not be proactive about stopping or pausing current work. I once approached a former boss and said, “I understand you want me to now take on this new initiative. How about we pause the newsletter we started this quarter and reevaluate next quarter?” He had agreed, saying he was thankful for me proactively bringing up that solution since it hadn’t occurred to him.

It’s understandable that some of us may be anxious about job security during this economic era of uncertainty. And at the same time, in order to continue delivering impact to the company, we have to focus on quality, not quantity.

Remember that the more you take on, your impact on each project may diminish and that

taking on more work does not guarantee job security. If you can’t deliver on any of the things you have agreed to do, doing more might have the opposite impact you intended.

3. Offer the opportunity to someone else Finally, offer the opportunity you want to say “no” to to someone else. Years ago, I was tasked with leading the division’s quarterly offsite. It was a great opportunity to work directly with senior leaders on the agenda and bring in great external speakers. And it was a considerable amount of work on top of my day job. As I entered my second year of leading these offsites, I was feeling burned out. I remembered a peer who had expressed that she would like more access to our senior leadership. When I approached her about taking on the initiative, she was thrilled. And my boss agreed and loved the idea that I was paying this opportunity forward.

Remember that you never want to assign, give or volunteer work without asking someone’s permission in advance. Being “voluntold,” where your name is volunteered without your permission, is one of the worst feelings and can breed feelings of resentment. Ensure you have aligned with colleagues on their career interests and how they are trying to currently upskill themselves. You may then be in a position to offer the opportunity given to you, to them. Saying “no” to your boss is never easy. But when you keep saying “yes” to work, whether you realize it or not, you are quietly saying “no” to other work you have. Saying “no” is just as critical as saying “yes” . Saying “no” to your boss is a critical skill to learn in order to successfully manage your career.

Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash.

WE NEED AN EDUCATION

Gen Z says school is not equipping them with the skills they need to survive in a digital world

By Shalene Gupta

Gen Z is coming of age in turbulent times—from rising costs of living, to climate change, to the pandemic. They will inherit the solutions we build. Dell Technologiesrecently published the results of a study that surveyed over 15,000 people—aged 18-26, from 15 different countries—about their thoughts on how governments could build resilient economies, as well as the role of tech in solving global problems. And overall, Gen Z is skeptical of government and education’s efforts to build a stronger future. Here are the key findings:

They believe government can solve problems, but won’t: About 50% are willing to accept economic pain in the short-term if that means policymakers can invest in long-term solutions, and over half believe the government should make investing in healthcare a top priority. However, only a third are confident that current government investments will lead to a flourishing digital economy.

The future is hybrid: A third of respondents wanted flexible and remote work, while another third wanted in-office work.

They see an education and skills gap: Fortyfour percent said that school only taught them very basic computing skills, while 37% said that school education (for children under age 16) didn’t prepare them with the technology skills they needed for their planned careers. Forty percent consider learning new digital skills essential to future career options.

Aongus Hegarty, president of international markets at Dell Technologies, said in a statement: “It’s clear that Gen Z see technology as pivotal for their future prosperity. It is now up to

us—leading technology providers, governments, and the public sector—to work together and set them up for success by improving the quality and access to digital learning. Forty-four percent of Gen Z feel educators and businesses should work together to bridge the digital skills gap, and with the speed at which technology continues to evolve, this will require constant collaboration.”

Photo by Kenny Eliason on Unsplash.

MY MUJI, MY MOOD

Time to take care of yourself

By bazaar staff

We love February. We’ve gotten our grandiose and self-delusional resolutions out of the way and returned to our senses by the time the month rolls around. Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and whether you are coupled up or single, we think that self-love is the purest and most important kind of love. Finally, we get a lovely long weekend at the end of the month, so February perfectly sets the mood for the rest of the year. We’ve turned to our favorite lifestyle brand, MUJI, to find all the inspiration we need to feel relaxed and cozy.

Aromatherapy at home

One of the easiest and most accessible ways to transform your home into a spa is to invest in an aroma diffuser and quality essential oils. You might thing that all scented oils are equal but they really aren’t, and if you will be smelling and breathing them, you have to make sure that you are buying the quality stuff. MUJI have a wide range of different oils that are sourced from reputable growers and processed in a way that makes sure you get the good stuff. The oils can help you relax, focus, or even sleep better. You can even

mix them to create your own personalized blends. How you release those beautiful scents into your space is up to you. We love the large Supersonic Aroma Diffuser to quickly spread the fragrance in a room, but also covet our Aroma Stone that slowly releases the essential oil into the air without being overpowering.

Lean into quality linens

Another simple way to elevate your experience at home is by investing in quality linens. They instantly improve your sleep and make every night

feel like a 5-star hotel stay. MUJI have an extensive collection of different pillow cases, bed sheets and duvet covers that suit a wide range of needs. If you’re not sure what works best for you, talk to MUJI’s staff, they will help you choose the perfect set for a good night’s sleep.

Visit

BAD MANAGEMENT

Why the wrong people are promoted to management

By Kathleen Davis

When I look back at the managers I’ve had since the beginning of my career, it’s clear to me—now, having done years of people management experience myself—that some of them should never have been given that responsibility. In talking to friends and coworkers, I realize just how shockingly common this sentiment is: Data shows that half of American workers have left jobs to escape a bad boss whose behaviors may range from micromanagement to acting on their unconscious biases.

Business culture has equated seniority of title with the ability to manage people, which is common a mistake. “You know that cliché, ‘people don’t leave bad companies, they leave bad managers’? It’s pretty accurate,” says Adam Karpiak, a recruiter. “The overall culture of an organization matters, but the direct supervisor is where it can be the most challenging.”

Bad management is a business feature, not a bug Karpiak says he gets hundreds of messages each year from job seekers, describing their experience with bad managers: They were treated as cogs in a machine and not as individuals who need to be developed. This “one-way street” approach leaves them feeling like they are merely tolerated, and not engaged or supported at work.

The problem is that very few organizations approach people management intentionally. Leadership often assumes that if an employee excels at their job, they’ll also excel at nurturing talent—but those are two entirely different skill sets.

“If you are an awesome cost accountant, you’re great with numbers. If you become a supervisor in the accounting department, all of a sudden, you have to figure out how to motivate people to work. You have to review work. You have to represent your department and manage stakeholder relationships. It’s a whole other ballgame,” Karpiak says.

So, why do so many good workers automatically get promoted to people-management roles?

Shonna Waters, vice president of strategic alliances and partnerships at coaching platform BetterUp, attributes this to the Peter principle, which she describes as the idea that “people are promoted to their level of incompetence.”

“When making promotion decisions, leaders may place weight on current performance rather than the skills required to be a great leader at the next level,” she says. This automatically pushes great individual contributors to managerial roles, and then impacts those being managed by the newly promoted leaders. “They might have to suffer through the new manager’s learning curve: Individual contributors have been rewarded for a host of behaviors that they’ll eventually have to let go of to be a great manager. That transition can be difficult (hello, micromanagement!) and means that their teams have to be patient.”

Karpiak suggests that it also boils down to a misguided retention and growth strategy: If you give a high performer a higher spot in the organizational chart, it makes them feel good about their place in the company, prolonging tenure. But as the data shows, this causes a retention problem elsewhere in the organization, with employees leaving to flee bad managers.

How to create a culture of good people management

One solution to this problem came up over and over again: Coach and train people on what good management looks like. This has been an ongoing ask from American workers, 57% of whom think their managers could do with more training on people management.

“People want to feel seen, heard, and appreciated. This requires that managers develop mindsets and behaviors such as self-awareness, self-efficacy, authenticity, empathy, and encouraging participation,” Waters says. In their research, BetterUp noticed a 160% increase in self-awareness and a 60% increase in authenticity through personalized coaching for managers, tailored based on factors like skill needs or upcoming career transitions.

Waters offers that development and “show and tell” of good management can take various forms: training programs for those interested in management; mentoring from experienced people leaders; or volunteer assignments that help employees learn while doing. “Managers can also help create opportunities for employees to learn on the job with special projects. For example, managing a project team is a good way to start building the alignment, delegation, and collaborative skills that will be important as a people manager,” she says.

Not everyone wants to manage people. That’s a good thing

An under-examined facet of this conversation is that not everyone wants to manage people, even in cultures where models for good leadership exist. “The problem is, in the past, companies didn’t always have established growth tracks for individual contributors and just pushed them into management. But often, people like their job and just want to have greater reach, greater budgets to play with, and greater pay,” Karpiak says.

Waters suggests people be allowed to opt-out of management if it’s not what they want to do. “Some organizations have found great success with realistic job previews, interim assignments, or shadowing opportunities,” she says. “Giving ICs a realistic sense of what people management entails lets them decide it’s not for them before learning the hard way.”

Bad people managers can be a cultural and operational liability, but good managers can be a nurturing and stabilizing influence on teams— especially during uncertain times. The stakes in this role are high: People managers impact the company’s bottomline but, just as crucially, if not more, they influence employee happiness and development, all of which may affect other parts of employees’ lives. Only employees with the intent, desire, and potential for people management should be offered these positions, but equally, they should be equipped with the tools required to succeed at this work.

Photo by Microsoft 365 on Unsplash.

FEBRUARY MUSIC

Fall in love with new music this February as we take a look into some of the greatest hits to be released over the past month!

Title: Flowers

Artist: Miley Cyrus

Album: Endless Summer Vacation

The world was waiting and the world got what they were waiting for! Miley Cyrus has released “Flowers”, an EP from her upcoming album, “Endless Summer Vacation” which is expected to be released in March. It’s already getting all the hype that you would expect from a Miley Cyrus new release and there’s already a video released for it as well.

Title: Pointless (Piano Version)

Artist: Lewis Capaldi

Album: Broken by Desire to be Heavenly Sent

Lewis Capaldi is currently in the process of finalizing his second studio album (it’s crazy that he only has one album out considering his deserved meteoric rise!) and after releasing “Pointless”, he decided to give many fans what they were looking for: a stripped down piano version. It’s exactly what you would expect from Lewis Capaldi; big vocals and lyrics that feeds your soul.

Title: Lay Low

Artist: Tiësto

Album: N/A

Can you ever have enough Tiësto? For many, the answer is a solid no. His new single “Lay Low” has a wider reach than some of his more recent upbeat music. This is definitely upbeat as well, but a little easier for those who want something a little more mellow as opposed to his more recent tracks that have been released.

Title: C’est Comme Ça

Artist: Paramore

Album: This Is Why

It’s safe to say that many of us want more Paramore. With the new album, “This is Why” being released on February 10, “C’est Comme Ça” is a very all-over-the-place song that is quite perfect for getting you up and energized and ready to take on whatever’s ahead like most songs by Paramore are, really.

Title: One of Us

Artist: Ava Max

Album: Diamonds & Dancefloors

If you want to have a vague idea about Ava Max’s music, then look no further than her most recent album name, “Diamonds & Dancefloors”. Great for a night out, a upbeat car drive, or even something to listen to while staying positive and getting some work done!

Title: The Lows

Artist: Quinn XCII

Album: The People’s Champ

Quinn XCII decided to make a point with this song, which is to value “The Lows” in our lives as opposed to just the highs. This is another great track by him and you can really see him focusing on the value that you can gain if you learn from the lows just as much as the high moments in your life.

Sources: wikipedia.com

CAPPY.AI

With Cappy.AI, you’ll never be at a loss for words. Whether you’re sharing a candid shot or a breathtaking landscape, our AI-powered captions will help you say it all.

PIXELER

Pixeler is a pong game in a fresh pixel art version! The game includes three modes: - Endless with power-ups - Against the computer - Two players As you play, you collect coins which you can spend on different skins or unlock new modes!

PUMPED MOTIVATION

Create vision board slide shows that help you get motivated for the task at hand. Set notifications that remind you to watch a slideshow at a certain time, helping you achieve your goals. A lucky few will be able to pair with Spotify Premium as well.

ULTI PLANNER

Full featured iPhone and iPad calendar planner with 8 powerful views and advanced features like reminders, custom filters, tags, icons, calendar text, weather, templates, and beautiful widgets, all in a modern and completely customizable card interface.

TICO

An app for creating collages on your phone. Use the iOS16’s cutout function to cut out images from the “Photos” App.

BEBIGGER

BeBigger is the easiest way to track your physique progres and share your gainz with your friends! Once a day, take a pre and post-pump photo and either share it with your friends or keep it private. Then, look back at your physique progress over time!

play.google.com

itunes.apple.com

LIVE YOUR LIFE IN COLOR

Jothen Cosmetic’s new rebrand to My Colors is an ode to the diverse colors in beauty

By bazaar staff

If you are a woman living in Kuwait, it is likely that you have been a regular customer of Jothen Cosmetics. Recently, the brand has undergone a transformation, a makeover if you may, and rebranded as My Colors. We have been seeing the rebrand everywhere, and we caught up with the team behind the change to learn more!

The My Colors rebrand comes as part of the brand’s desire to focus on holistic beauty and bringing a wide range of beauty products and consultation services that help customers look and feel their best from head to toe. My Colors builds on the 30 years of experience that Jothen Cosmetics has in the beauty retail industry and brings all things beauty under one roof.

The brand identity focuses on an inclusive message regarding all things beauty. The My Colors team shares that “the process of rebranding was a collaborative effort between our team and branding experts. We wanted to come up with a name and identity that would reflect our holistic approach to beauty and our passion for helping our customers feel confident and beautiful in every way. After much discussion and experimentation with different options, we ultimately decided on the name My Colors, which is an ode to the diverse representation of colors across the wide assortments of products in all our beauty categories, including hair care, nail care, skin care, and more. It represents the idea of beauty personalization and adding color to one’s appearance and life. Overall, the rebranding process was a thorough and thoughtful one, and we are very excited to introduce the new My Colors brand to the world.”

You can just tell how excited the My Colors team is about this bold rebrand, and how strongly they believe in the new name and what it represents to the brand. They tell us that they have plans for growth. The rollout of the rebrand coincided with giving the stores a noticeable facelift which communicates and presents the upgraded identity. If you haven’t stepped inside a My Colors store yet, we strongly urge you to do so now! It is a gorgeous retail space that celebrates all things beauty.

Ultimately, the aim of the rebrand to My Colors is to enhance the customer experience. The team speaks to us about how they “hope customers feel excited, confident, and well-informed when interacting with our products. Our ultimate goal is to make our customers more self-aware, give them an educational edge and empower them to become product conscious, so they can understand the “why” behind using a product.” My Colors is passionate about helping customers feel confident and beautiful in every way, and they strive to provide them with the best and most innovative beauty products and services.

The brand ethos focuses on educating their audience so that they are empowered to make informed choices about their beauty routine and ultimately enhance their overall well-being. Additionally, My Colors will be adding many new products to their range to deliver on their renewed brand promise of delivering the best beauty experience possible. The team consider this to be the most delightful part of the rebranding process, since they carefully curate our product selection to ensure that they offer the best and most innovative products. With the rebrand, there is a renewed vigor to bring the world’s most reputable and well-known brands, as well as upand-coming independent labels, as well as pro-grade beauty to consumers in Kuwait, as well as share knowledge regarding beauty.

The range that My Colors already has is impressive, but we know all you beauty mavens will want to stay current with the latest products that the brand is curating to enhance your beauty regime. Follow them on Instagram @MyColors.

bazaar books I HAVE SOME QUESTIONS FOR YOU

by Rebecca Makkai, Mystery

When Bodie Kane, a film producer and podcaster, is invited back to teach a two-week course at her high school boarding school, she is reluctant to accept. Bodie has mostly tried to forget her miserable four years and the murder of a classmate. Yet, when she returns, Bodie can’t seem to wonder if the police actually arrested the correct person … or if the killer is still out there.

SOMEONE ELSE’S SHOES

by Jojo Moyes, Fiction

Nisha Cantor lives the globetrotting life of the seriously wealthy, until her husband announces a divorce and cuts her off. Nisha is determined to hang onto her glamorous life. But in the meantime, she must scramble to cope--she doesn’t even have the shoes she was, until a moment ago, standing in. That’s because Sam Kemp – in the bleakest point of her life – has accidentally taken Nisha’s gym bag. But Sam hardly has time to worry about a lost gym bag--she’s struggling to keep herself and her family afloat. When she tries on Nisha’s six-inch high Christian Louboutin red crocodile shoes, the resulting jolt of confidence that makes her realize something must change—and that thing is herself.

THE PORCELAIN MOON

by Janie Chang, Fiction

France, 1918. In the final days of the First World War, a young Chinese woman, Pauline Deng, runs away from her uncle’s home in Paris to evade a marriage being arranged for her in Shanghai. To prevent the union, she needs the help of her cousin Theo, who is working as a translator for the Chinese Labour Corps in the French countryside. In the town of Noyelles-sur-Mer, Camille Roussel is planning her escape from an abusive marriage, and to end a love affair that can no longer continue. When Camille offers Pauline a room for her stay, the two women become friends. But it’s not long before Pauline uncovers a perilous secret that Camille has been hiding from her. As their dangerous situation escalates, the two women are forced to make a terrible decision that will bind them together for the rest of their lives.

THE LIVES WE ACTUALLY HAVE

by Kate Bowler, Non-Fiction

We live in a world that demands relentless perfection. Happy marriages and easy friendships. Bucket list–level adventures and matching family photos. But what if our actual lives don’t feel very #blessed? Might our everyday existence be worthy of a blessing too? Even an average Tuesday? Kate Bowler and Jessica Richie offer creative, faith-based blessings that center gratitude and hope while acknowledging our real, messy lives. These heartfelt blessings are a chance to exhale when we feel everything from careworn to restless, devastated to bored. Let’s have a reminder that we don’t need to wait for perfect lives when we can bless the lives we actually have.

CULTURE: THE STORY OF US

by Martin Puchner, Non-Fiction

What good are the arts? Why should we care about the past? For millennia, humanity has sought to understand and transmit to future generations not just the “know-how” of life, but the “know-why”—the meaning and purpose of our existence, as expressed in art, architecture, religion, and philosophy. This crucial passing down of knowledge has required the radical integration of insights from the past and from other cultures. In Culture, acclaimed author, professor, and public intellectual Martin Puchner takes us on a breakneck tour through pivotal moments in world history, providing a global introduction to the arts and humanities in one engaging volume.

SINK: A MEMOIR

by Joseph Earl Thomas, Memoir

Stranded within an ever-shifting family’s desperate but volatile attempts to love, saddled with a mercurial mother mired in crack addiction, and demeaned daily for his perceived weakness, Joseph Earl Thomas grew up feeling he was under constant threat. Roaches fell from the ceiling, colonizing bowls of noodles and cereal boxes. Fists and palms pounded down at school and at home, leaving welts that ached long after they disappeared. An inescapable hunger gnawed at his frequently empty stomach, and requests for food were often met with indifference if not open hostility. Deemed too unlike the other boys to ever gain the acceptance he so desperately desired, he began to escape into fantasy and virtual worlds, wells of happiness in a childhood assailed on all sides.

Wowwee Dog-E Robot Dog

This robot dog goes through a “minting” process that reveals features and personality traits unique to each model. This can include different play styles, behaviors, and LED light combinations. You can also feed it and train it through the connected app. It’s worth noting that it does have a microphone and speakers, so we recommend checking the privacy policies before preordering one.

RING CAR CAM

You can now add a Ring camera to your home and car. The first of its kind for the company, the Car Cam has an HD dual-facing camera (controlled using the Ring app) that records activity when your car is in motion the way a standard dash cam does. When parked, it uses sensors to detect any activity inside or around the vehicle—including if someone breaks into your car (with the ability to talk to whoever is in there).

NUWA PEN

Nuwa says its pen works with any paper—no special notebook required. The onboard Trident camera system consists of three cameras and infrared light that track your pen strokes in both high and low light. It uses this data to digitally record your pen strokes. You can upload your notes and sketches to the companion app on your phone. And for $3 a month, it’ll automatically convert handwritten notes to text.

ATMOS GEAR ELECTRIC SKATES

These roller skates are extremely expensive for a reason—they’re the world’s first pair of electric in-line skates. Equipped with a motor and remote, you can control both the speed and brakes. You’ll have to wear a fanny-pack type accessory to hold the battery, which looks slightly ridiculous—but hey, those are back in style anyway.

OWC Thunderbolt Go Dock

Docks are often bulky, particularly because they require a power cable and a bulky power block. OWC’s Thunderbolt Go, however, packs all the power supply junk inside the dock itself. That way you can just plug the silver box directly into the wall. That’s a huge boon for portability. It also comes with five USB ports (three USB-C and two USB-A), an HDMI port (that can support up to an 8K display), an Ethernet port, and SD card slots. It’s currently available for preorder.

Victrola Stream Onyx Works with Sonos Wireless Turntable

If you’re looking for a record player to accompany your Sonos system at home, look no further. As part of the Works with Sonos program, Victrola’s Stream Onyx turntable wirelessly connects and casts music to your Sonos devices. It’s also a more affordable alternative to Victrola’s Stream Carbon for $800 (which launched in November), but that does mean it comes with a slightly cheaper Audio Technica VM-95 cartridge. It performs nearly as well, though. It’s currently available for preorder and will ship in February.

Source: bestproducts.com

BANDIT

Release Date: 2 February

Genre: Action, Thriller

Cast: Mel Gibson, Josh Duhamel

Synopsis: After escaping a Michigan prison, a charming career criminal assumes a new identity in Canada and goes on to rob a record 59 banks and jewelry stores while being hunted by a police task force. Based on the story of The Flying Bandit.

BLOOD

Release Date: 2 February

Genre: Horror, Thriller

Cast: Michelle Monaghan, Skeet Ulrich, Skylar

Morgan Jones

Synopsis: Jess, a separated and nurse who moves with her daughter and young son Owen back into her old farmhouse. Shortly after settling in, Owen is bitten by the dog, resulting in a mysterious infection from the bite.

THE PRICE WE PAY

Release Date: 2 February

Genre: Action, Thriller

Cast: Stephen Dorff, Emile Hirsch

Synopsis: After a pawn shop robbery goes askew, two criminals take refuge at a remote farmhouse to try to let the heat die down, but find something much more menacing.

WHAT’S LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT?

Release Date: 2 February

Genre: Comedy, Romance

Cast: Lily James, Emma Thompson, Shazad Latif

Synopsis: A witty yet deep cross-cultural Romantic Comedy about love & Marriage, set between London & Lahore.

PARADISE CITY

Release Date: 9 February

Genre: Action, Thriller

Cast: Bruce Willis, John Travolta

Synopsis: When bounty hunter Ian Swan is shot and presumed dead after disappearing in Maui waters, Swan’s son, Ryan, his ex-partner, and a local detective set out to find his killers.

ANT-MAN AND THE WASP: QUANTUMANIA

Release Date: 16 February

Genre: Comedy, Action

Cast: Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, Jonathan Majors

Synopsis: Scott Lang and Hope Van Dyne, along with Hank Pym and Janet Van Dyne, explore the Quantum Realm, where they interact with strange creatures and embark on an adventure that goes beyond the limits of what they thought was possible.

Source: cinescape.com.kw

GIFT YOURSELF AND LOVED ONES WITH XCITE

By bazaar staff

This February, take advantage of the great products on offer at all Xcite stores and online and buy yourself and your loved ones the perfect gift.

iPhone 14 Plus

An Apple a day keeps the doctor away, right? With a wide variety of exciting colors, the iPhone 14 Plus has proven itself to be the perfect gift for all Apple users. Pick your favorite between Midnight, Starlight, Purple, Red and Blue and treat yourself or your loved ones to a smartphone that absolutely does it all. Cinematic mode in 4K Dolby Vision, Action mode in videos, super fast 5G cellular industry leading durability features, 26-hour battery life, A15 Bionic Chip with 5-Core GPU, an advanced dual camera and so much more all packed in a perfectly priced package.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Film Camera

Capture your memories with this incredible instant film camera from Fujifilm. With a range of colors to choose from with Purple, Pink, Blue, Black and White all available, this is the perfect companion to have whether it be on trips or just a night out with family and friends, especially when you have the option of taking selfies and close-up shooter modes in a product that runs on batteries so you’ll never have to worry about it running out of charge. Get this incredible gift today from Xcite.

Digital Cards

With so many new games, applications, TV shows and movies being released this month, a gift card could be the perfect choice, especially for that person who is so difficult to shop for! Subscription cards to Shahid and Amazon Prime enable you to watch some of the greatest shows on TV while you can also get cards for their favorite consoles such as the Xbox or the PlayStation. If that isn’t enough, get your music-loving friends the gift of all the new music released with Apple Music, Anghami or Spotify.

Perfumes for Him & Her

The perfect perfume or cologne has always proven to be one of the greatest gifts and you can get your favorites at Xcite today! Choose your favorite scent from a range of exclusive perfumes available on xcite.com & the Xcite application and have it delivered to your doorstep. Whether you choose to get one for yourself or your loved ones (or both!), you can’t go wrong with a great perfume.

OTO Macho Foot Massager MF-1000

We have all been there; when you come home from a long day, your feet hurt and you need the perfect relaxation product. Well, the OTO Macho Foot Massager is available for you to order right away. Get rid of those pains with an incredible gift that features a unique heel massage, triple airbags massage or partial air massage on your foot, heel or arch. With a total of 72 massage knuckles, this will help you get rid of all the stress of the day while also keeping your feet ready to go again in no time!

Apple Watch Series and Samsung Watch 5 Pro

The age of the smartwatch has taken over. It has helped in so many ways over the last few years and just like any other technology, it continues to improve and of course, no one does it better than Apple and Samsung. The Apple Watch Series has taken the world by storm as you can measure your blood oxygen, take an ECG at any time, and even get high and low heart rate notifications. You are also able to track your daily activity and connect with friends in the Fitness App to compare. Of course, Apple Pay can be used directly from your watch as well.

Never miss a beat with the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro, which includes a slick design and can also help in tracking your sleep for you to make any necessary adjustments and have a full night rest. With a long battery life, fitness tracking, blood pressure tracking, GPS and Samsung Pay, you cannot go wrong with this beautiful watch for yourself or your loved ones.

Stay updated on the latest events, monthly promotions and offers by subscribing to the monthly newsletter on xcite.com, follow Xcite’s social media channels on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and Snapchat, @xcitealghanim or Facebook at XcitebyAlghanim and win prizes with contests, or visit the online store at www.xcite.com.

AQUARIUS JAN 20 – FEB 18

You may feel the need for change in many areas of your life this month, but you may also feel drained and tired. You may be feeling burnt out from work and unfulfilled in your personal relationships. It’s okay to want some solitude and time to recharge your batteries. Financially, you may have some luck at the beginning of the month, but be careful not to overspend on whims.

PISCES FEB 19 – MAR 19

Pisces, you may have a slow start to the month. It may be best to go with the flow and not waste extra effort on new projects. It is a good time to reassess your connections, identify true friends and enemies, and free yourself from past obligations and debts. There may be some restrictions and delays in your current affairs. Still, these will gradually be overcome, and you will receive more support from those around you. Emotionally, it’s vital to practice diplomacy and compromise in your relationships.

ARIES MAR 20 – APR 19

It’s time for Aries to shine! Per the monthly horoscope, this month is shaping up to be a great month for love, career, health, and financial success. It’s the perfect time for introspection and getting your priorities in order, so you can make the most of the unlimited possibilities coming your way. Get ready to feel energy and motivation and let your potential creative shine through your professional endeavors.

TAURUS APR 20 – MAY 20

With a surge of ambition driving you forward, you may be tempted to focus solely on your professional growth. However, remember the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life. Embrace new opportunities to learn and explore, and don’t be afraid to take some bold steps forward. Your relationships with colleagues and loved ones will be key to your success, so nurture and appreciate these connections.

GEMINI MAY 21 – JUN 21

Whether it’s in your love life, career, or finances, you’ll want to shake things up and try something new. Take some time for introspection and consider what areas of your life could use a fresh approach. Keep an eye on foreign opportunities, as there may be some exciting possibilities for business or travel. Just be aware that these endeavors may come with their own challenges, so be cautious and seek expert advice if necessary.

CANCER JUN 22 – JUL 22

It’s time to turn inward and focus on self-improvement. This is a great opportunity for learning, creativity, and getting in shape. Just be sure to take care of your health and manage your energy levels, as chronic fatigue and immune system issues may arise. Emotionally, singles may be in for a treat as someone special catches their eye. Just be sure to proceed with caution and patience to avoid scaring off your potential partner.

LEO JUL 23 – AUG 22

Be prepared for some challenges in your relationships and partnerships this month. It may be necessary to work on finding common ground and understanding with others and remember that it’s not always someone else’s fault. Just be careful with your paperwork to avoid any negative financial consequences. Finally, pay attention to your physical health and don’t neglect any symptoms that may arise. Remember that exercise can help keep you feeling toned and energized.

VIRGO AUG 23 – SEP 22

Prepare for a busy month as you focus on your career and education. Be mindful not to take on too much, as excessive demands may lead to discomfort and tension. Feel free to prioritize your own learning or your children’s education, as the knowledge you acquire could be helpful in both your professional and personal lives.

LIBRA SEP 23 – OCT 22

It looks like this is a month where hard work and effort may pay off. However, staying caught up in the desire for relaxation and fun is essential, as duties at home and work will require your attention. The hectic pace of the month may make it difficult to get your priorities in order, so be sure to set clear goals and plans at the beginning of the month to help keep you on track.

SCORPIO OCT 23 – NOV 22

You may be feeling the need for some financial changes this month. While it’s great to desire to earn more, have a clear plan to make it happen. This may involve seeking additional resources or considering career growth. By the end of the month, you should have a good idea of your next steps. There may be tensions or worries within the family and damage to your home. Remember that running away from responsibility isn’t the answer, and try to handle everything with a level head.

SAGITTARIUS NOV 23 - DEC 21

You’ll need to stay informed and on top of things to succeed. In your career, there may be business transformations, staff changes, or new responsibilities to handle. The beginning of the month may feel chaotic. Still, by the end, it will become clear that everything is happening for a reason, and you’ll have the opportunity to bring some order to your life. Just be mindful of your tendency to rush and act impulsively, as these habits may irritate others.

CAPRICORN DEC 22 – JAN 19

This is an excellent time to take precautions, save money, and hoard resources to ensure financial security. These efforts will allow you to showcase your talents, knowledge, and skills, which may attract investments, sponsorships, and lucrative contracts. Don’t be afraid to ask for support and advice from others, as relevant information can be crucial to your prosperity.