Embrace our manifesto for living a life that’s not perfect but ‘good enough’
The word ‘perfect’ is banned from The Simple Things. It’s hard to live a slower, more fulfilled life when we are surrounded by unrealistic examples of a flawless existence. So, cakes are wonky, suggestions are could-do, not should do, food is slow, not for show. Yes, we make things look pretty and choose the most beautiful pictures because there’s a pleasure in that, but our weekend projects are ‘proudly homemade’ and we’re never striving to ‘impress our guests’ in our Gathering recipe ideas. Belongings are often more treasured because they’re imperfect and many of our favourite memories stem from things that went awry. When we talk to people about their plots, jobs, homes or cities, we ask about their mistakes, failures, problems and life lessons, as well as the good stuff.
After a decade of advocating the simple things, we figured it was time to speak out for ‘good enough’ and urge everyone to experiment with a little bit of slapdash. So here is our Slapdash Manifesto. Stick it on your fridge or add it haphazardly to your pinboard, maybe order one of our patches and stitch it badly to something that you’ll wear with pride.
PRACTISE
Become a dabbler. Feel the joy in ‘having a go’ Just begin.
BE PRAGMATIC
Enjoy the journey. It’s the doing it, not the result, that matters.
FIND PERSPECTIVE
Everyone loves a trier. It’s the spirit of it that counts. You are your own worst critic.
LEARN TO PLAY
Relish it. Enjoy rather than endeavour. Make your own rules.
PAUSE
Stop for cake. Embrace no-dash slapdash. Go slow.