Samantha Zabell Samantha is a writer, runner, and avid plan-canceler living in Manhattan. In between Netflix binges, she’s working her calligraphy side hustle at @samzawrites. About Real Simple Real Simple, a Dotdash Meredith Brand, is an award-winning, trusted online resource for smart, authentic solutions to simplify your life. We reach 11 million readers a month. Our content is written by experienced journalists and fact-checked for accuracy. Learn more about us and our editorial guidelines.