While I may not technically be on a first-name basis with Janelle Monáe or Dolly Parton, I feel like I know them well enough to imagine the advice they would give me if I could text them in a moment of panic. Sometimes that perspective is all you need.
Book Review & Takeaways: Do Nothing by Celeste Headlee
Relaxing is not my strong suit. Of course, I always feel better after taking a break. But I'm constantly catching myself trying to squeeze in one more thing (or twenty) before I call it quits for the day.
I recently turned to Do Nothing: How to Break Away from Overworking, Overdoing, and Underliving by Celeste Headlee for a much-needed CTFO pep-talk.
Making Time to Do Nothing
I find myself continually reading books and listening to podcasts about rest. It turns out I need lots of reminders not to be working all the time. This helps shake me out of my "mindlessly busy" habits. (Hurry Slowly, a podcast about slowing down, is one of my other favorites along the same vein.)
Headlee summarizes her favorite “life-backs” (a play on the term, “life-hacks”) to help us break our addictions to “efficiency without purpose and productivity without production.” I’ve included a short description when the tips are less self-explanatory:
- Schedule leisure.
- Schedule social time.
- Create your ideal schedule.
- Work in teams. “We have evolved to think in groups and bounce ideas off others. Analysis of data from diverse industries going back decades shows that even the most experienced expert reaches better conclusions when their recommendations are merged with the advice of less-knowledgeable people,” she says. Another tip from Headlee: Brainstorm alone, but evaluate your ideas as a group.
- Work fewer hours.
- Commit small, selfless acts. Add this to your daily to-do list!
- Stop comparing at a distance.
- Focus on ends, not means. Be wary of “means goals” like getting a promotion or losing a certain amount of weight. Instead, focus on “end goals” like creating better products or living longer. For most of us, our end goal is “living a good life.” “End goals often provide a direction—going west—instead of a specific destination.
- Increase time perception. This means becoming more aware of what you do between waking and sleeping.
I also love this quote she cited: "Charity is really self-interest masquerading under the form of altruism." -Anthony de Mello
Are you also in need of a CTFO pep-talk? Check out the book here or at your local library! You can also read or listen to an interview with the author on NPR.
Browse other books I’ve been enjoying:
Big Dreams, Daily Joys by Elise Blaha Cripe
How to Make a Fresh Start Anytime
[Don't miss a few free phone wallpapers at the bottom of this post!]
A new year is a clean slate. It’s the perfect time to set new goals and start new habits. While the new year is one kind of fresh start, the next 365 days are filled with chances to begin again and again. You just have to know where to look.
The Science of Fresh Starts
Behavioral scientist Katy Milkman is all about fresh starts. You can check out her book, How to Change: The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be, or listen to her discuss this topic on the NPR podcast Life Kit.
So, what is a fresh start? It’s a chance to begin again. In fact, research shows that people are more likely to achieve their goals or stick with habits if they start them on an important date. Milkman calls these “temporal landmarks.”
According to Milkman, scientists invited a group of people to start saving money in a 401K. They asked half the people to start setting aside money three months from now. The other half were asked to begin saving on their next birthday. The people who were invited to start saving on their birthday ended up putting aside 30% more!
Yup. Fresh starts make a difference. Adopting a new behavior on a milestone date can encourage you to rethink your life. You have extra motivation to pursue change and take your goals and aspirations seriously. More seriously than you would on a random Tuesday, that is.
Waking Up to a Fresh Start
New Year’s Day is one kind of fresh start. That’s why we’re really into making new year’s resolutions. A new year is a chance to start a new chapter. Last year was the old me. This year? It’s time for the new me to bust out and shine. It’s super freeing.
Of course, we also love breaking our new year’s resolutions. So, what do we do when that happens? Milkman says it’s essential to realize the new year is only one kind of fresh start. There are lots of chances to start over again and again.
Every Monday is a fresh start. Your birthday is a fresh start. There’s always a chance to start a new chapter and begin again.
Want to begin a new habit or create a new goal? Here are 10 great times to make a fresh start:
- Monday morning
- Tomorrow morning
- First of the month
- New Year’s Day
- Your birthday
- An anniversary
- First day of school
- Start of a new season
- First day back from vacation
- After lunch
Once you choose your own “temporal landmark,” you may want help tracking your new habit or goal. Try starting a gratitude habit with the Calendar for Good. Or keeping track of your daily routines with the Habit Calendar. Let your creativity flow to visualize goals with the Vision Board Book.
If you miss a day? No need to feel pressured or overwhelmed. Remember: you can start again tomorrow. Next week. Or even after lunch.
Two free phone wallpapers for you!
35 Self-Care Stocking Stuffer Ideas for Everyone on Your List
Stocking stuffers are a great way to give a little self-care after a hectic holiday season.
It can be tough to find a gift that’s tiny enough to fit inside a stocking but is still unique, thoughtful, and budget-friendly. Not to fear! We put together this guide with lots of amazing stocking stuffer ideas for everyone on your list.
- Washi tape
- Distractables: A Super Cute Very Nice Coloring Book
- Colored pencils
- You Got This: A Mantra Coloring Book
- Monogrammed coffee mug
- Grow-your-own-garden kit
- Look Back Plan Ahead Workbook to reflect on the past year and set some new goals
- A journal
- Fruit-infusing water bottle
- Self-Care Master Plan
- Shower steamers
- Manicure set
- Fidget toys or silly putty
- Self Care Index: A Pocket Guide for Remembering the Things You Like to Do
- Cocoa mix
- Animal slippers
- Beard care tools
- Skincare kit
- Self-care stickers
- Lip balm
- Herbal tea
- Bath bomb
- Unplugged: A Digital Detox Workbook
- Fluffy mittens
- Scrunchie ponytail holders
- Sleep mask
- Creative Creatures: An Animal Coloring Book
- Chenille socks
- Soothing body wash
- Essential oils
- Booklight
- Progress Tracker Poster
- Tiny fairy lights
- Scented candles
- Face mask
8 Tips to Help You Practice Self-Care During the Holidays
It’s the most wonderful time of the year… and the most stressful. Of course, lots of us spend the holidays with the people we love. But we also spend tons of time fulfilling obligations, shopping, and traveling.
All this busyness can make it really hard to care for one really important person—you. So here are a few ideas to help you slow down and practice self-care during the holiday season.
1. Set boundaries with family and friends
Sometimes, the people closest to us can stress us out the most. While we want to build relationships with loved ones, we also don’t have to set aside our own feelings. Before gathering with family or friends, think about how much you want to share. If a conversation feels uncomfortable—it’s okay to follow your instincts.
2. Notice how you're feeling
It’s always a good idea to be aware of your emotions. Are you feeling stressed out? It might be time to take a break and go for a walk. Filled with the joy of the season? Then pour another round of eggnog. By understanding how you’re feeling, you can change your response to help manage your emotions.
3. Practice gratitude
What are you thankful for? Taking a few moments to write down your thoughts in a gratitude journal can give you a positive mental boost. If you appreciate the people in your life, it never hurts to reach out and tell them, too.
4. Understand it's okay to say "no"
No, you do not have to attend every holiday party you’re invited to. And, no, you do not have to buy a present for your uncle’s boss’s new girlfriend. Saying “no” can be uncomfortable, but it can also be empowering. It’s also an amazing way to prioritize the people and events that are most important to you.
5. Focus on the here and now
Stay present when you’re opening those presents! Keeping your attention on what’s going on around you, gives you a chance to enjoy the sights and sounds of the season. This way, you’re not thinking longingly of holidays past or stressing about the coming new year.
6. Make time to rest and relax
It’s easy to get run down with all the hustle and bustle of the holidays. That’s why it’s essential to get enough sleep. Winter is also an ideal time to work on your relaxation skills and set aside moments for self-care habits like meditation, yoga, journaling, or reading.
7. Reflect on your values
Christmas goes hand in hand with commercialization. Set aside time to think about who you are and what you value. If creating handmade gifts matters to you, don’t stress when you see others exchanging expensive store-bought presents. Just stay true to yourself.
8. Enjoy the good times
Don’t get us wrong! The holidays aren’t all about drama. When you come across one of those magical moments that make the season bright, there’s only one thing to do—savor it!
Looking for some self-care gift ideas? We got you covered!
Yay! It’s the Free Period Press 2021 Holiday Gift Guide!
Is there anything better than a self-care gift? A present that makes you feel like you can slow down, turn inward, and take some time for yourself? Let’s face it—after the hustle and bustle of the holidays, we all need a little extra TLC.
Our 2021 Holiday Gift Guide is all about presents that help your friends and family focus on what matters. Whether that’s being more creative, more productive, or just more relaxed.
As always, we offer free shipping on orders over $35. So, get something for everyone on your list. And a little something for yourself while you’re at it!
1. The Vision Board Book
With over 700 inspirational images, the Vision Board Book can help anyone create a visual reminder of their hopes, dreams, and goals in 2022.
Gift it to: An artistic soul.
2. The Calendar of Good
Good stuff is happening all the time. Really! Write it down on the Calendar of Good and keep all those joyful moments top of mind.
Gift it to: A family who wants to start a gratitude habit.
3. Schedule Magic To-Do List Notebook
The Schedule Magic time-blocking system helps you organize your life by planning the hardest (and most important) tasks first.
Gift it to: A busy student or co-worker.
4. The Habit Calendar
Small habits make a big difference. Use the Habit Calendar to meet all your goals—both big and small—and stay on top of your life.
Gift it to: Your most productive friend.
5. You Got This: A Mantra Coloring Book
Meditate. Motivate. Or color outside the lines. Getting creative with the You Got This: Mantra Coloring Book is what being an adult is all about.
Gift it to: Your sibling who will never grow up.
6. Self-Care Master Plan
It’s always a good time to take care of you. The Self-Care Master Plan helps you create lists that make you feel grounded and resilient. Enjoy the positive vibes!
Gift it to: Yourself. Because you deserve it, dang it.
7. BONUS: Our adorable stickers
Our stickers are the perfect stocking stuffers or add-on gift when you need an extra somethin'-somethin'.
Gift it to: Anyone that could use a daily pick-me-up.
Thanks so much for supporting this small biz of ours-- it means the world to us!
Cleveland Gift Guide: 10 Ideas from Local Artists
‘Tis the season to shop—and support local businesses! We put together a guide to some of our favorite Northeast Ohio makers with suggestions for some handmade Cleveland gifts perfect for everyone on your list.
1. 2 Odd Birds
Why We Love This: It’s easy to adore a piece of bold, beautiful statement jewelry, but these designs also have an earthy, everyday quality.
What to Gift: Share a winter mood with a pair of brass Pinecone Dangle Earrings.
2. Unibrow Society
Why We Love This: These playful designs 100% spark joy. Illustrated prints, zines, and stickers range from whimsical and sweet to witty and snarky.
What to Gift: Share a smile and score the perfect stocking stuffer with these cute Unibrow Society Stickers.
3. Free Period Press (that’s us)
Why We Love Us: We make cool paper things that help folks slow down, unplug, and live well.
What to Gift: We created the Cleveland Metroparks Map and Cleveland Bookworm Map to encourage people to get out and explore beyond their own neighborhoods. Plus, 5% of sales benefit our partners—Cleveland Metroparks and Literary Cleveland.
4. Ape Made
Why We Love This: All the apparel in this shop is designed, screen-printed, and packed by hand. That makes this one-woman business pretty impressive in our book.
What to Gift: Snuggle up on a chilly day with a Cleveland Made Me Fleece Sweatshirt.
5. Hazelmade
Why We Love This: Anyone’s home will look elevated and artistic with these upscale paper and home goods. Not only are they gorgeous, but they’re also made in the Midwest.
What to Gift: The Dogwood Collection Gift Set features an elegant, hand-drawn floral print native to Ohio.
6. The Bubble Process
Why We Love This: Sean and Rez have a great sense of humor and incredible art skillz. We love their original takes on traditional Cleveland themes.
What to Gift: Mourn the team that might have been with this cool Cleveland Spiders Shirt.
7. Lauren HB Studio
Why We Love This: It’s the best of both worlds. Lauren is a fine artist who creates incredible sculptures—and a maker who sells practical home goods.
What to Gift: Drinking out of the handcrafted Formation Mug can help elevate anyone’s daily ritual.
8. Venus In Aquarius Apothica
Why We Love This: You can feel the care Samantha puts into her skincare products. Everything is made from sustainable sources, which adds to the handcrafted, artisanal feel.
What to Gift: This 100% Organic Facial Elixir is ultra-soothing in harsh Cleveland winters.
9. Amber Esner
Why We Love This: Our beloved Studio Manager, Amber Esner, is also an incredible artist and illustrator. Her poignant prints, postcards, and collage work speak to our Midwestern hearts.
What to Gift: Celebrate the hottest bridge (and baseball team) in town with the Guardian Enamel Pin.
11. So CLE Tees
Why We Love This: This shop focuses on the cultural side of Northeast Ohio. Whether you’re into sports or pierogies, you’ll find a way to celebrate your Cleveland identity.
What to Gift: Show off your Polish pride with the Polka Town Baby onesie.
BONUS: Food! Experiences!
Looking for a gift for the minimalist in your life who doesn't want any more physical things? Our favorite things to donate in those cases are food and experiences.
Cleveland is a foodie town, so there is no shortage of amazing options of restaurant gift cards you could get. A couple of our foodie-favorites are Soho and Felice. Or you could go the coffee and baked goods route with a gift card to Phoenix Coffee or On the Rise! So many good options!
There are also a ton of arts and culture institutions in Cleveland that make for great experiences. Consider gifting a membership to the Cleveland Botanical Garden / Holden Arboretum to help Clevelanders get through a long, gray winter.
Five Finger Breathing: A Relaxing Mindfulness Meditation for Anxiety
Have you heard of Five Finger Breathing? I read about it in the New York Times article Peak Anxiety? Here Are 10 Ways to Calm Down, and it's a super-helpful tool!
Remembering How to Be a Social Human
If you’re feeling overwhelmed with the amount of plans suddenly on your calendar, you’re not alone! Here are a few strategies to help keep some boundaries in place.
Lessons I Learned in My First Year as a Full-Time Business-Owner (The State of Free Period 2021)
It's been a smidge over a year since I've gone full-time with Free Period, so I thought it'd be a good time for a check-in! (Mostly for myself, but happy to share. 🙂)
2020 was quite the roller coaster, but it wasn't all bad. Being forced to stay home made me examine the what, how, and why of my work — and I learned a ton.
