Looking, Listening #3
Less is more?
Looking, Listening is my monthly(ish) newsletter telling you about the things that caught my attention this month. It might be just one thing, or a few if I’m feeling extra inspired. But I won’t share anything that I haven’t actually consumed, digested and thought about multiple times since. Less is more - right?
This week I’ve been battling with the idea of keeping newsletters shorter to meet peoples decreasing attention spans. We hear it everywhere. Get to the point. Keep it concise. No one has time to read long form anymore.
But I don’t feel comfortable with that. I enjoy reading longer form writing particularly from writers I care about and am inspired by what they have to say. It takes time to dig into the nuances of complex subjects and changing realities.
And I like the feeling of consuming less, with more attention and more meaning. If I read one single newsletter in the morning rather than flicking through 10-30 different posts I feel calmer, considered and like a can actually process what I’ve consumed rather than my mind spinning on overdrive before I’ve even begun the day.
So, defying the trend and hoping others feel similarly, I will continue with the longer form writing but I’m going to keep these Looking, Listening emails short and snappy.
Hopefully that way there’s something to sit down and muse over when you’ve got time for a longer coffee break – but also a quick click for when you’re craving that hit of inspiration.
So here goes. Your monthly snack.
I’m passing on this one from the beautifully curated (and oh so concise!) Francli newsletter. Thank you Ali (there’s another recomendation for you).
It hit all the spots. Community, making, connection, purpose and belonging. All through the power of craft.
And men making things. Not just with hammers and chisels but with needle and thread. In the most unexpected of places, a maximum-security prison.
Happy watching
With care
Ellie