A big thank you to Holstee for sponsoring this post about mastering the art of mindful living. I learned about the company in 2015 and love what they stand for. Today, I am so excited to be sharing their wonderful monthly subscription that has been impacting me in a big way.
As someone who is in constant pursuit of self improvement, I’ve had the joy of discovering some truly awesome companies + individuals who have inspired me on my journey. You’ve heard me mention several podcasts, books, and experiences that have helped elevate my business. But most lack advice on improving as a person and practicing mindful living.
Mastering the Art of Mindful Living as an entrepreneur
When you are a solopreneur, it’s easy to let the lines blur between business and life. I’ve poured so much of my energy into my career and have come to realize that my work-life balance scale is tipped a bit too much in one direction. Can you guess which way?
Becoming conscious of this was a good first step, but I still have far to go. Over the last month, I’ve been seeking out new ways to nurture myself, including the discovery of an awesome subscription product that has been revolutionizing my self growth. Here’s what’s been working for me:
Waking up just a half hour earlier every day
I’ve tried waking up super early in the past, but it always resulted in falling asleep too early in the evening, which meant less time that I got to hang out with my husband. After much experimentation, waking up at 7 o’clock has proven to be the perfect time for me. I get some time to myself before the craziness of the day begins, and still get to keep my nights.
I realize that when you have kids, or work a traditional 9-5, that this can be even more challenging, so I encourage you to experiment. Sometimes making a small, thirty minute adjustment can make a big impact on your day. You may actually benefit from a half hour more of sleep instead!
Dedicating time to reading and prayer
This is what I’ve been doing with my extra half hour each day. Not answering emails, or studying up on the latest Pinterest strategy. Reading, just for me. I’ve even weaned myself of consuming business books during my morning reading time and save them to listen to in audiobook form during the work day instead. Prayer is an equally important part of my morning, as it gives me the opportunity to check in, practice gratitude, ask for forgiveness and for blessings on all the special people in my life.
This mini morning routine is a derivative of “The Miracle Morning,” a practice I started last fall. If you haven’t had the chance to check out this philosophy, I highly recommend it, even if you don’t follow it to a T.
As with waking up earlier every day, I’ve experimented with and adapted some of these principles to fit into my life during this season. I keep an open mind that next month, I might be trying something different.
Plugging in to positive influences
Podcasts have been my favorite way to consume business-related content for years now. I’ve recently discovered a new (to me) podcast that does touch on entrepreneurial topics, but has much more to do with personal growth and discovery. The Lively Show has already had a profound impact on my life, especially in identifying my purpose.
I would definitely suggest this show to anyone looking for a unique perspective and enlightening discussions on living life with intention.
Unplugging
This is one is hard for me. I love technology and being able to connect with my readers, family and friends. I also love the euphoric rush of feeling loved every time I see those hearts pop up in my Instagram feed, or when I receive an awesome message from a reader on Facebook. These experiences are great, but they also take away from the “real life” time that I spend with my loved ones.
The small acts of leaving my phone in my bag, or keeping it face down on the table during mealtimes have slowly started to make me more present and focused on the awesome people I’m with in person. That being said, this is an area that I am still working on and I’m so happy that I found just the thing to help me overcome my dependency on technology.
Treating myself to the gift of mindfulness
I was so excited that Holstee, a design company I discovered last year at the National Stationery Show, had begun offering a monthly subscription product. I formed a connection to their brand the second I walked into their booth. After reading their manifesto, I was hooked. They stand for everything I believe in and are the ultimate models of living a well balanced and fulfilling life.
Their subscription includes beautiful, handcrafted, original artwork, letterpress printed on archival paper. Swoon. Each month, the artwork ties into a specific theme that challenges you to live fully. I kept June’s print on display, using one of Holstee’s reclaimed wood stands, as a reminder of the month’s challenges, which comes in the form of an action list.
This booklet encouraged me to explore, step outside my comfort zone and define my values. June’s prompts included trying a new food, exploring your home city and spending some quality time in the great outdoors.
The challenges were further refined by Holstee-designed digital wallpaper (which is a great visual reminder to keep my phone down, when I go to reach for it at the wrong times)!
If you want to go deeper, a collection of articles, books and videos are also yours for the taking. It kind of feels like going on a retreat without the expensive price tag.
Your monthly journey ends with the opportunity to share your newfound wisdom and spark inspiration in a loved one. I decided to pay my artwork forward at the end of the month to my baby sister, Laura. Even though she’s ten years younger than me, I look up to her and her adventurous spirit. I wrote her a sweet little note and sent it off using the awesome origami-styled envelope that came with my subscription.
If you sign up for your own subscription, you’ll be delighted to learn that you receive the added benefit of 20% off everything in Holstee shop. What a perfect place to shop for all the people you want to inspire in your life! Click here to sign up for your own subscription. Pricing is $12/month.
Building a successful business is fulfilling, but not at the expense of your personal happiness. I encourage you to find your own ways to redefine your values or to use some of my ideas as a springboard. Time to start exploring!
