Starting Something Small

This winter felt long. You would think after more than 5 years in Sweden, I would be used to it. But we had record snowfalls and week of cold temperatures and bittering wind that lingered far beyond what seemed tolerable. I find myself longing for spring even more than usual: for later sunsets, the daffodils sprouting, and for spotting the magnolia tree of our neighbours starting to bud.

It made me wonder: how can I make sure I will enjoy every single moment of it when it finally arrives? How can I treat it like a precious treasure and not rush through it? Sometimes we just need to know what to look for.

That’s where the idea started to take shape ; a small object arriving every quarter, following the seasons, inviting a pause. A reminder to slow down, notice the shift and appreciate the small things.

The Spring pack comes in a nice A5 envelope. I hope it feels a little like receiving a gift.

Inside you will find:

  • a bright, colorful A6 postcard, with a seasonal message
  • a sensory card with a small snack and drink you can prepare
  • a field guide with small prompts and a mini project (this time: plant and grow something -of course!)
  • a couple of high quality stickers
  • a press card to use as keep stake for your spring memories

It’s simple by design. Minimalist and with a soft touch.

I have been keen to start a side project for a while. Something that brings me growth, and offer a creative outlet. But I didn’t want it to turn into another obligation.

Over time I’ve learned that my natural cadence for project is about 90 days. Three months is short enough to stay focus, but long enough to see progress if you commit.

Maybe not coincidentally, this also follows the seasonal rhythm.

I also drew a line in the sand: this should remain a small, fun project. No pressure to build a content machine. No obligation to be constantly visible. I chose to dedicated the energy to the object itself.

Will this resonate with people? I am not sure.

I do think many of us look for some whispers when it feels the all world is shouting and feels very loud. Some of us are drawn to small, even slightly imperfect objects that connect us back to the physical world.

Success for me won’t be defined by numbers.

Success will be to release the Spring pack – and then a Summer, Autumn and Winter pack. Each time, learning, refining, building a small collection I can feel proud of.

Success will be that I tried, success will be that I dared.

I am glad it’s out there.

If you are curious, you can find the Spring pack here.

Share your thoughts!