Sophie Hartley

Sophie Hartley

Sophie Hartley is an editor at Women's Economic Brief, covering work, careers, money, business, leadership and the economic issues that shape everyday life. Her writing explores how changes in workplaces, households and the wider economy influence decisions, opportunities and long-term financial wellbeing.

How Pressure Narrows Your Thinking

How Pressure Narrows Your Thinking

After enough years working in environments where decisions matter and time doesn’t stretch, you notice patterns. The way people think changes when pressure arrives. It’s not dramatic or sudden. It’s more like watching someone’s field of vision narrow. They stop…

How Planning Reduces Financial Stress

How Planning Reduces Financial Stress

I’ve worked with enough people facing financial pressure to notice a pattern that has nothing to do with income level. The stress rarely comes from the actual numbers. It comes from not knowing what those numbers are. Someone earning $40,000…

Work-Life Boundaries That Actually Hold

Work-Life Boundaries That Actually Hold

After years of watching people struggle with work-life balance, I’ve noticed something consistent: the problem is rarely about wanting boundaries. It’s about what happens after you set them. Most people establish a boundary with genuine intention – no email after…