SOFT LIFE: LIKE A SMART WOMAN
The rise and fall of the girl boss movement should be studied in the years to come in our history books. Over the past few years there had been incredible PR effort behind women building empires for themselves. Granted, we were in the middle of a global pandemic and as a result of an economic downturn, most people used this time to stress the importance of social safety nets, especially with financial institutions like Goldman Sachs (One million black women grant) and the government supporting female entrepreneurship
The girl boss movement stressed the emphasis on individual success and entrepreneurship by hustling and grinding. Women found empowerment in having to constantly work hard and achieve their goals, even at the expense of their mental and physical health. While the connection between the girl boss movement and the soft life trend is not necessarily a linear pipeline, there are some ways in which they are related.
However, the soft life trend can be seen as a response to this culture, promoting a more relaxed and balanced lifestyle that prioritizes self-care and leisure.
Soft life? The term originated in Nigeria — and due to increasing visibility of African culture globally in the recent years , its meaning entirely shifted as a result of a westernized semantic definition which promotes overconsumption and a slight inclination to a parvenu lifestyle therefore it provides no nuance without objectivity. The use of the term has become so widespread that its meaning has become muddled. Many people go as far as saying it’s repackaged s*x work.
To be honest, a soft life encompasses much more than the narrow and materialistic definition often portrayed in the US. Arguably, living in luxury can certainly be considered a form of soft life, it also includes a life of comfort and ease where one need not worry about financial obligations or forgo enjoyable experiences due to financial constraints. A soft life allows for indulgence, such as taking a nice vacation, while also providing the ability to make simple purchases without having to sacrifice other necessities.
Now that we have a better understanding of what a soft life is not, we can delve into what it actually entails and how the widespread experience of post-pandemic burnout has led many to consider adopting slow living practices in their daily lives.Soft life or Hygge? A life well lived…
Hygge:
At its core, hygge is a Danish word that refers to a feeling of coziness, and contentment in everyday life. It's all about creating a sense of warmth and intimacy, whether you're alone or with others. It's about embracing the small pleasures of life, like a warm cup of tea, a good book, or a soft blanket.
Hygge is about slowing down and savoring these moments, allowing yourself to fully immerse in the present and appreciate the beauty of everyday life.
One of the best things about hygge is that it's accessible to everyone. You don't need to have a lot of money or live in a fancy home to experience it.
I
n fact, some of the most hygge moments are the simplest ones. A cozy night in with friends, a home-cooked meal, or a walk in the park on a crisp fall day can all be incredibly hygge experiences.
Imagine yourself sitting on a terrace overlooking the stunning coastline of Taormina. The sun is shining down on you, and a gentle breeze is blowing through the palm trees that surround you. The sound of waves crashing against the rocky shore below fills the air. You are wrapped in a cozy blanket, sipping on a warm cup of coffee or tea, and enjoying a freshly baked pastry or a slice of Sicilian granita.The terrace is decorated with rustic wooden furniture, soft cushions, and warm blankets, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. There are colorful flowers and plants placed around the area, adding a touch of nature and beauty to the scene.As you sit there, you can take in the magnificent view of the sea and the charming town of Taormina. You feel a sense of calm and relaxation wash over you, as you let yourself be fully immersed in this idyllic setting. It's the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, a moment of pure hygge.A smart woman schedules her peace.
One of the best ways to live a soft life is by embracing slow living. This means slowing down, savoring the moment, and being present in your everyday experiences. It also means prioritizing self-care and taking time to recharge and rest.
Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness is all about being aware of the present moment and focusing on the here and now. It's a great way to cultivate a sense of calm and well-being in your daily life. You can practice mindfulness through meditation, yoga, or simply taking a few deep breaths throughout the day.
Prioritize sustainability: Living a soft life the smart way means being mindful of your impact on the environment. You can do this by making sustainable choices, such as reducing your use of single-use plastics, buying secondhand or sustainable products, and recycling.
Build community: Connection and community are essential for a happy and fulfilling life. Building relationships and fostering a sense of community can be as simple as getting to know your neighbors, volunteering in your community, or joining a local club or organization.
Cultivate gratitude: Gratitude is a powerful tool for cultivating a sense of happiness and contentment in your life. Take time each day to reflect on the things you're grateful for, whether it's a beautiful sunset, a good meal, or a supportive friend.
A FEW WAYS TO LIVE OUT YOUR EVERYDAY SOFTLY
Bring in soft lighting: Use candles, fairy lights, and lamps to create a warm and cozy ambiance in your home.
Add soft textures: Use blankets, fluffy pillows, and rugs to create a sense of comfort.
Incorporate natural elements: Bring in plants, flowers, and natural materials like wood and stone to add a touch of nature and serenity to your home.
Embrace simplicity: Remove clutter and keep your space clean and organized to create a sense of calm and order.
Use warm colors: Use warm and earthy colors like browns, grays, and creams to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Create a cozy reading nook: Set up a comfortable chair or daybed with blankets and pillows where you can curl up with a good book.
Make your space smell good: Use essential oils, scented candles, or incense to create a pleasant and soothing scent in your home.
Emphasize comfort: Invest in comfortable furniture and add cushions to create a relaxing and welcoming environment.
Enjoy simple pleasures: Savor a warm cup of tea or coffee, listen to soothing music, and spend time with loved ones to create a sense of contentment and joy in your home.
PRACTICAL SELF INDULGENCE :
Invest in high-quality, organic bedding and linens that will make you feel comfortable and luxurious in your own home.
Choose colors and textures that make you feel relaxed and cozy, like warm neutral tones or soft fabrics like cotton and linen. Mix them!
Treat yourself to new throws or blankets to snuggle up with on the couch, or add some plush cushions to your bed for added comfort.
Big Girl Luxury Purchases:
Choose items that will bring you fulfillment. Invest in collectors items such as quality handbags, jewelries or a stylish pair of shoes.
Invest in a piece of fine jewelry that you can wear for special occasions or pass down to future generations.
Treat yourself to a spa day or a massage to relax and rejuvenate.
Fancy Vacations:
Choose a vacation getaway that allows you to unwind and relax, whether it's a tropical beach getaway or a quiet countryside retreat.
Stay at a luxury hotel or resort that offers all the amenities you desire, like a pool, spa, or gourmet dining.
Plan activities that bring you joy and allow you to explore a new place, like gardening, pottery, taking a cooking class or going on a scenic hike.
Investing in your future :
Consider investing in yourself, like taking a course or class to learn a new skill or hobby.
Invest in your health and wellness, like hiring a personal trainer or nutritionist to help you reach your fitness goals.
Invest in experiences that will create lasting memories, like a concert or a weekend getaway with loved ones.
Invest in a financial advisor to help you set long term financial goal towards retirement and educate you about money. Delegating aspects of your life where you’re not an expert is a long term future investment. We all look forward to retirement and the sooner we prepare for it, the better.
