The Slow Living Guide's

Snail Mail

1 June 2021

Dear ,

Years ago, when I still had a 9-5 job, I remember seeing this prompt: 'When is the last time you did something for the first time?' and thinking that it was actually a very good prompt to act on when days go by and you're living somewhat on autopilot. Trying something new brings energy, opens up new perspectives, gets you to meet new people, makes you grow.

I don't think I've ever not learned or tried new things, but ever since I started working for myself, it's definitely taken on a whole new dimension. I've never encountered so many firsts as I have since I started my business.

May has been a month full of firsts in both work and life. It was the first time I sent out personal invitations asking small brands that I love to join the directory and receiving both rejections and sign ups. I hosted an online workshop for directory members which required promoting it, being on camera, dealing with technical issues, editing the replay and creating a page on my website where members can watch it (all firsts). I changed mailing platforms and had to learn how to work a new system, transfer all subscribers, recreate my newsletters and hoping all the inboxes of my subscribers would still welcome them. To name a few that are top of mind.

At home it was the first time experiencing the preparation, anticipation and stress that came with my daughter taking her final school exams. And right when life was opening up again and we thought we managed to keep covid out the door, my daughter got the virus and we had to deal with quarantine and make a plan B for finishing said exams.

I love learning and growing, but I must admit that sometimes I really long for some autopilot moments! To just know what to do and not having to figure it all out. But I've also been guilty of using most weekends to catch up on work (I mean, the weather wasn't really inviting to go out...) which of course is not a good strategy if you're already navigating those energy consuming firsts.

Last weekend felt like Summer and it was glorious. I just sat in the garden for two days and did nothing but read my book and soak up the warmth. It filled my cup to the brim, all kinds of new ideas popped up and I feel ready to take on the firsts of this new month. It was a simple but very necessary lesson that taking time to relax is vital in order to recharge and allow creativity to flow (and that in itself is a great reminder that we can also learn from doing nothing...)!

I hope you're safe and well and wish you a lovely month with plenty of you-time!

Every day you can find a new slow living themed day on the homepage. A few lovely days to look forward to this month:

01 Jun ~ Say Something Nice Day
09 Jun ~ Knit In Public Day
15 Jun ~ Smile Power Day
21 Jun ~ Daylight Appreciation Day
26 Jun ~ Forgiveness Day

Homebird Craft
Anna is passionate about passing on the craft of crochet and offers lovely kits, patterns and inspiration for both beginner and more experienced crocheters. She also offers 1:1 tuition online. 

'When I teach someone to crochet I know that I'm passing on a gift that they can cherish for years to come. Maybe they will pass it on to their children or friends or make gifts for their loved ones. I always hope it will enhance their lives in some way. This is why I feel so passionately about what I do', says Anna. 

Whether you are a complete beginner and don’t know where to start, or you need help understanding a pattern or choosing your next project, Anna can help you out. Find her lovely collection of patterns & kits or book your tuition session on www.homebirdcraft.com.

TSLG offer: Anna is kindly offering you a 10% discount on all online purchases (except the Emergency Crochet Kit) using the code SLOW10 at checkout on www.homebirdcraft.com - valid until 01/07/2021

Every month you can find new small independent brands in the directory that offer beautiful products and services and advocate a slower & more sustainable lifestyle.

Do you run a small business and do you feel your values align with The Slow Living Guide's? Then consider becoming a member! Here's why:

To be the change
You’ll be part of a movement that advocates a slower and more sustainable lifestyle, that redefines success, helps people make better choices and champions small ethical brands.

To bundle forces
You’ll no longer have to do it all alone, but you’ll bundle forces with brands that share your values. This makes it easier to get your message across and for the right people to find you.

To amplify your marketing
A listing in the directory is an easy way to establish an extra online touchpoint for your potential customers, the links to your site automatically help with your own SEO and drive traffic to your website. You’ll also profit from regular shares on TSLG social channels. Being part of TSLG amplifies your marketing with minimal extra effort from you.

To get practical tools & inspiration
As a member of TSLG you’ll have access to a quarterly online workshop with selected speakers on a variety of business topics and a library with other tools and resources to inspire you and help you move your business forward.

You can find out more about values, membership and pricing by clicking the button below.