You’re at work. You’re on fire. Then emergency strikes! Okay, not like a real emergency, but the kind of emergency that’s going to be embarrassing. For example…I know three people who have split their pants at work. Nope. No thank you.

What can you do to avoid the embarrassing mishap? You can have a desk kit ready. Here’s what you need.

1. A total change of clothes.

   • You know why. You split those pants or have coffee down your front and have a presentation in a few minutes. You need a quick change into something for after work after a hot and sticky day. Whatever it is, keep a full extra outfit at the office, just in case.

2. Tampons (or whatever you use)

   • You know why.

3. Forks or spoons

   • Every once in a while, you’ll need some forks or spoons for someone's birthday, or you’ll forget something to eat lunch with. Toss a few in your desk.

4. Tylenol or Advil

   • It’s 2 pm and you can already feel the headache coming. Or the sore throat, or the cramps. Cut it off right now.

5. Cash

   • I will occasionally run into a situation that requires cash only…like throwing some cash in for lunch, or loaning someone five bucks. Keeping a few small bills is always helpful.

6. Blank-inside cards

   • Quick thank you notes, just thinking of you notes, birthday, whatever! You have it covered.

7. Benedryl, and Immodium

   • Stop the eyes from dripping or…plug up…a leak. Again, crucial for cranking through a day when you just can’t go home for the day sick.

8. Nail Clippers

   • I use this way more than I thought I would. Pulled threads or hangnails are no match!

9. Nail Glue

   • This is just a tiny bottle of superglue. You’ll need this someday, and it’s super helpful to have it around!

10. Cheap and Comfy Shoes

    • I keep a very cheap pair of black flats from Target in my desk. If I get ambitious and am wearing cute but inconvenient shoes, this can be a nice break. They are also helpful if I suddenly need to walk a long distance when I came wearing heels. I pull these out a lot, and I’m always happy to have them, even if it’s just for a few minutes of a break.

What are your desk must-haves? Let me know!