As professionals, our bags are an extension of our work identity. They house the items we need to succeed and thrive in our respective fields, and they also provide a glimpse into our personal styles and values. However, beyond aesthetics and functionality, our choices can also have an impact on the environment and society. By choosing sustainable and conscious options, we can contribute to a better future while showcasing our personal values and style.

A Brief Story About My Work Bag

My working bag is the Dua bag from Sarjaa, a brand based in India that focuses on sustainability and conscious production. Dua means "blessing" in India, and it's an appropriate name for this bag made of cactus leather and produced in a sustainable and environmentally cautious manner. The buttery soft texture and sturdy construction of the bag are impressive. It's roomy enough to accommodate all my essential work items, but compact enough to easily carry around.

Why Sarjaa is a Sustainable and Conscious Choice

Sarjaa is a brand that is dedicated to sustainability and conscious production. They don't use any animal leathers or plant-based materials in their products, and they produce in small unique amounts, making each bag one of a kind. The brand also employs local artisans and craftspeople, providing them with fair wages and working conditions.

Sarjaa is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and uses eco-friendly packaging materials, such as recycled paper and biodegradable bags. Their entire collection is available on their website, and they ship internationally. Choosing to purchase consciously and sustainably is essential, and Sarjaa makes it easy to do so while also being stylish and functional.

What's In My Bag: Essential Items for Work and Life

1. MacBook Air

My MacBook Air is the most crucial item in my bag, which I've had for many years and can't seem to replace since it houses everything I need for work. From emails to presentations, to project management, it's my go-to device for productivity.

2. Paperback Book

I also always carry a paperback book with me, as I prefer the feel of physical books and enjoy underlining and highlighting important points. Reading a physical book also helps me disconnect from screens and relax my eyes, which is important for my overall well-being.

3. Hermes Notebook/Planner

Next, I have my Hermes notebook/planner, which is in a flexible leather that's easy to carry and fits into any bag. I love to write things down and prefer it to online notes, as it helps me remember important information better and allows me to brainstorm ideas more freely.

4. Pen of Choice

My pen of choice is a simple but elegant design that writes smoothly on paper. It's a joy to use and adds a touch of sophistication to my note-taking routine.

5. Phone and Wallet

Of course, I also carry my phone and wallet with me. While technology has made it possible to access our homes without a wallet, I still prefer to carry one for emergencies and the convenience of having cash on hand. My phone, on the other hand, is essential for staying connected with colleagues and clients on the go. Apart from the convenience of having cash on hand, a wallet also provides a sense of preparedness in case of emergencies. It's a small but essential item that can make a big difference when needed.

6. Little Notes from My Daughter

Finally, I keep two little notes from my daughter in my wallet, which always cheer me up when I'm feeling demotivated or down. They remind me of what truly matters in life and give me the inspiration to keep going even in challenging times.

7. Wet Wipes

As a mom, hygiene is a top priority for me. That's why wet wipes are a must-have in my bag. They're great for cleaning hands, mouths, and even clothes when you're out and about with kids. I always carry unscented wet wipes, as they're gentle on the skin and can be used for a variety of purposes. I also like to carry dry wipes, which are essentially small, compressed towels that expand when you add water. These are great for cleaning up messes or refreshing yourself on hot days.

8. Sunglasses

Sunglasses are not just for sunny days. They also protect your eyes from the cold wind, which is a common occurrence in Baku where I live. Plus, they add a stylish touch to any outfit. That's why I always carry a few different pairs of sunglasses with me, depending on the occasion.

My current favourite pair is the Saint Laurent cat-eye sunglasses, which are perfect for a chic and stylish look. But I also have aviator sunglasses for a more classic look and oversized sunglasses for a bit of drama. To keep my sunglasses clean and scratch-free, I always carry a small microfiber cloth or glass wipes.

9. Perfume and Privacy

I love trying out new scents and switching things up depending on my mood or the occasion. That's why I always carry my perfume bottle with me. However, I prefer to keep it private and carry it in a small brochure or pouch. I don't believe in disclosing everything about myself to make others like me. Some things are meant to be kept private.

10. Hairbrush

A compact hairbrush is essential for me, especially when I'm out and about with my daughter. It's perfect for brushing through even the most tangled hair, and it's easy to fit into any size bag. I use it to detangle my hair, as well as my daughter's hair when needed. It's also great for smoothing down flyaways and taming frizz.

11. Jewellery Pouch

I always carry a small, zippered pouch to keep my earrings, bracelets, and other small items organised. It's made from durable material that can be easily washed, and it's the perfect size for fitting into my bag without taking up too much space. I use it to keep my jewellery from getting tangled or lost in the depths of my bag.

12. Wired Earphones

I prefer to be more conservative when it comes to technology, which is why I always carry my old-school wired earphones with me. They've been working for many years, and I never have to worry about losing them. They're perfect for listening to music or taking calls on the go.

13. Keychain

My keychain is a small and simple item, but it carries a lot of meaning for me. It's a reminder of my recent trip to Shusha, Azerbaijan, and the struggles that my country has faced and overcome. It's a sentimental item that I always carry with me.

14. Makeup Bag

In addition to my essentials, I also carry a makeup bag in my working bag. It contains all my daily beauty essentials, from my lip balm to my mascara. It's essential for touch-ups throughout the day and helps me look and feel my best. I also carry a brush for my eyelashes and eyebrows to keep them tamed throughout the day.

For makeup, I use NYX under eye concealer to cover up black under eyes and little marks. And for eyeliner, I prefer a dry brown eyeliner from NYX that comes with a little brush to smudge it for a more eyeshadow look. I also always carry lip liners, and my favourites are from number seven Precision and Pillow Talk Lip Cheat. I like to mix and match them to create my own unique lip colour. For lips, I have a Chanel clear lip balm for a shiny look and a Laneige lip mask to moisturise my lips throughout the day.

15. Hair Essentials

Another item I carry in my work bag are hair essentials ranging from hair clips to bobby pins. One of my favourite hair clips is the crab clip. It's so easy to fix your hair with it - whether you want to put it up in an updo or just clip it back. I also carry bobby pins for any hair emergencies that may arise. And when I need to tie my hair up, I use a plastic hair tie that won't break my hair.

16. Health and Wellness Products

I always have band-aids with me because I'm very conscious about keeping cuts clean and covered. Chewing gum is also a must-have for me, especially when I'm meeting clients. But remember to discard it before going into a meeting because it can be a distraction. I also carry vitamin C and Oscillococcinum for when I'm feeling under the weather. And for any fevers or aches, I have Panadol and children's Claritin.

17. Other Essentials

Lastly, I carry two items that are very dear to me. The first is a little quartz heart that I got when I was pregnant with my son. It calms me down whenever I'm feeling down or unmotivated. The second is a small toy lamb that's very cute and always makes me smile. I also keep a few cotton swabs with me for any makeup touch-ups throughout the day.

That's what's inside my bag! I hope this blog post gave you some insight into what a busy mom and entrepreneur carries around on a daily basis. These items help me feel confident and prepared for whatever the day may bring. What are the items you can't leave home without? Let me know in the comments!