Well hi there Reader! 🖤
I talk about simplicity....a lot. It’s a key guiding principle - not just in my designs - but in how I intentionally run my business. And one of the reasons for that may surprise you: It’s a form of rebellion.
The world’s getting louder by the day. Between the 24hr cycle of (depressing) news, new trends, shiny tools, and endless online advice from 'experts' it can feel like standing in the middle of a very loud crowd. And I don’t know about you, but I’d rather be in a cabin in the woods listening to the wind in the trees with a good book and a glass of wine. 😊
Simplicity, for me, is how I stay focussed and rebel against how I 'should' do thing. It’s what keeps me from falling into the trap of buying every new tool, downloading every “must-have” application, or signing up for every “this-will-automate-your-whole-life” subscription. Not because those things are bad - but because I’ve learnt (the hard way) that more doesn’t always mean better. And often it is just a distraction from what I really need to be doing to move my business forward.
'More' seems to mean busy. More means overwhelm. And often often means disconnection from the very people you WANT to be growing a relationship with.
In the online business world, we’re constantly fed this idea that growth = more and bigger. More funnels, more content channels, more products, more systems (you see where I'm going with this...😜)
But I don’t necessarily want more for the sake of it. I want deeper connections, and more impact. I want better. I want honest, human interactions - not a hundred micro-automations that make my business feel like a vending machine.
That’s why I’m intentionally building my business (and creating content) in a way that feels spacious TO ME - simple...but human.
It’s not about having less for the sake of being minimal. It’s about making space to do a few things really well - and not losing my soul or my sanity in the process of growing.
I think people are starting to really crave connection – not in a heavy, over-sharing kind of way, but in a grounded, relatable, human way. And as AI continues to grow and evolve, I believe it’s only going to highlight that need. The more we’re surrounded by automated and fake content, the more valuable trust, personality, and human expression will become. If we don't see ourselves reflected in people's communication and visuals, we will just stop listening.
If anything, simplicity can amplify what matters. Imperfect but genuine is way more memorable (and valuable) in the long-term than slick and easy.
And of course in design, simplicity is one of the most powerful tools we’ve got. Strip away the clutter, and suddenly your REAL message shines. You’re not shouting anymore - you’re speaking clearly. And that’s a fresh breeze in a world full of hot air. Quiet confidence is worth so much more than bravado. (Geez SOME people should take note!! 🫤)
So here's your gentle prompt this week:
Take a breath, and step back and ask yourself…
- Do I really need all these tools, automations, offers, and tactics?
- Where can I simplify - to create more space to do the things I want to do, and do them well?
- How can I show up for my audience in a way that feels more honest and human - and less like I’m performing for an algorithm?
Sometimes the most radical thing you can do is make things simpler. 🖤
Meaningful Creations
I could never be accused of being 'fashionable', but I do often WISH I was! 😁 In reality I get my fashion fix by following creators I discover who immediately stand out for me. And it's usually a combination of their style, content quality - and (ALWAYS!) personality that sets them apart from the run-of-the-mill fashionistas that are a-dime-a-dozen.
This week's Meaningful Creator knocks ALL of those balls out the park. "Batt Maillie" (as he goes by) is a fashion creator that I so admire. Not only do I find him handsome and charming, but I LOVE that his content has such a brilliant cheekiness and humour to it. THAT'S what really what got me hooked, even though his style is also impeccable! 🤣
His videos are like masterclasses in short-form storytelling - and the quality 👌🏽! I can only imagine how much work it takes to create them, but honestly some of them are BAFTA worthy!
And his fashion is SO interesting. It's retro with strong references, but at the same time feels so 'now'. I'll leave the fashion review to those more knowledgable, but all I know is that I thoroughly enjoy his content, and I think you will too.
Check out his instagram, and please do tell him I sent ya. 😉
Right you glorious humans, that's it for this week. Next week I am off to celebrate my birthday and attend my god-daughter/niece's wedding, but I will be back the week after.
In the meantime please take good care of each other, be kind and remember to keep causing good trouble. 🖤
