Eight small things that could make a BIG difference in your life…
Some of you may remember the Pampered Chef (people would have parties akin to Tupperware parties and buy kitchen goods! Very rock ‘n roll!). Anyway, a good friend of mine came to a Pampered Chef ‘party’ at my house (this friend often reads this newsletter so “hello” – you know who you are!) and declared that one of the utensils she bought was “literally going to change my life”. This chat caused great hilarity at the time but now, a good decade later, I totally understand where she was coming from. I was reminded of the conversation recently and it got me thinking about the small things in life that can really deliver big results! So I made a list…
OK, physically it’s quite large but in the grand scheme of things, not a big thing to change – a quality mattress. We got a Tempur mattress a couple of years ago and I can’t even begin to describe how comfortable it is, and how well I sleep.
A good accounting package – we use Xero as our accounting software and, compared to the spreadsheets we used to use back in the day, Xero saves me so many hours of labour a month. More time to spend with the kids, more time to ride my horse….(who am I kidding, I usually just end up at my desk – but I can dream!)
A virtual assistant – yes, Jan, that’s you! I don’t think you necessarily give yourself that title but you are a superstar and the business would be in trouble without you! If you are on the lookout, another VA who comes highly recommended is Karen Ritchie – www.karenritchieva.com
A cold water swim – depending on where exactly you live, you may only need 15 minutes to make this a reality. It’s totally free and yet the physical and mental benefits are enormous (don’t knock it until you’ve tried it!)
A quality bath oil – my favourite is the range of bath oils from East Lothian business Raven Botanicals (www.ravenbotanicals.co.uk) and a good hot bath always makes me feel more relaxed.
The occasional massage – I had a REALLY great one not so long ago from local spa Garleton Lodge (www.garletonlodge.co.uk/spa/ ) and when someone asked me lately what a measure of success might look like for me, one of the things I listed was a monthly massage. Maybe one day!
Pre-chopped frozen onions – a bit of a curveball suggestion but, thanks to famous cook The Batch Lady, these have become a habit in my house and they save so much time, hassle and tears! They are available from most of the main supermarkets.
The OnFARM Academy. This is our online training platform which delivers courses, mostly on the topics of communication, PR and social media. You can learn about, for example, how to perfect Instagram Reels and broaden the reach of your business in only 45 minutes, online in the comfort of your own home or office, and for only £35!
Can you add anything to this list? I LOVE a good time-saving hack, money-saving tip or an idea to add luxury to my life without spending a fortune, so I’d love some more ideas. Drop me an email!
