reload. refresh. reimagine.

Do you remember the movie Sliding Doors, starring Gwyneth Paltrow, that came out seemingly a million years ago? It was about how different life might look if even the smallest detail were to change (the key moment in the movie being when the train doors slide shut before the main character can enter). The film raises the question, “What would happen if you could see the various trajectories your life might take depending on the circumstances — would you wish for something different?” Well, two and a half years ago, the pandemic closed the proverbial doors in our faces. Many of us were kept home at once because of a global phenomenon that shifted everyone’s plans and realities in both small and huge ways. Unlike in the movie, we’ll never know where we’d be now had we not been through this surreal time together, but it seems like an almost universal experience that the difficulties, hardships and lessons of the recent past have changed us. And our interests and wishes may have shifted too! Many of us have already taken some big swings — and others of us are thinking maybe it’s our turn to experiment with something new. We invite you to explore this issue, packed with ways to make over your life — and get caught up in the possibility and the fun of a Great Reimagination!

I asked the team to share how the past couple of years have changed their lives and nourished their bigger dreams. Here’s what some of them said:

Big Changes

In April 2020, I became a homeowner for the first time! It’s been a huge transition from a big city to the suburbs (during a pandemic, no less!), and I’m learning about all the upkeep involved with a home and a yard. But it’s been a fun ride so far! —Lauren Matthews Ide

The past few years have reminded me that time is precious, so I only create space for people and experiences that add value to my life. Sometimes this means saying no, but being true to myself fills me with a contentment that I’m unwilling to give up. Monique Valeris

At the onset of the pandemic lockdown, I made a daunting mental to-do list—declutter/ donate/recycle, redecorate, reorganize, renovate. Chipping away at the projects eased my anxiety. —Sue Kakstys

We welcomed our beautiful baby girl, Stella, into the world last year. Nothing could have prepared me for the incredible love my husband and I have for our daughter. She is our greatest joy. —Stefani Sassos

My husband and I bought an apartment in Brooklyn! I have felt a huge range of emotions through the process, but in the end I am so proud of us. —Alex Mata

I’ve always attended to the needs of other people (and pets!) before my own, as if I were the host of a party responsible for all the “guests.” Now I try to focus on my needs unless it’s an emergency. I don’t think anyone has even noticed—and I’m happier! —Stephanie Dolgoff

BIG DREAMS

If I could leave everything behind tomorrow, I would book a flight to Rome and spend a month traveling around Italy, eating my weight in pasta! —Samantha MacAvoy

I want to learn how to fly. The idea of seeing the country from the air in a small plane is appealing on so many levels. —Kate Merker

I have a fantasy of packing everything up, selling my house and moving into an RV with my family. My younger daughter is 13, and I know she will be off to college in the blink of an eye. It would be a great way to maximize the time we have left together. —Kim Cheney

THIS JOURNAL CAN HELP WITH THAT. Use its simple practices to find meaning, overcome negativity, and experience true happiness.

Top Fall Trends — at Drugstore Prices

+NAILS Cocoa Tips

+EYES Bright Eye Accents

what’s now: Not all cool-weather makeup has to be deep and dark — designers showcased surprising eye looks on the season’s runways with pops of bright color.

HERE’S HOW: Try dotting a shiny silver or even a pale blue eyeshadow or eyeliner on the inner corners of eyes or along the waterlines to illuminate.

Sporty Buns

what’s now: So not ballerina, the most coveted buns right now are slicked back and functional when on the go, from day to night.

HERE’S HOW: Get the look by twisting hair into a secure knot at or just above the nape of the neck, smoothing the top and sides with a dab of shine-enhancing cream or a lightweight hair gel for textured or coarse strands.

+HAIR