Small shop revival.

It’s easy to feel like you’re all alone.

Running a small shop often means feeling small. You’re doing things in isolation or with a select few. And there’s so much pressure to do more. Post more, grow more.

Where are the messages that tell us that serving a few (and serving them well) is enough? Why is it that huge numbers, huge followers, huge growth is what we call success?

But what if it’s not one or the other? What if you’re not really alone at all? That’s what I love about the small shop revival.

It’s not really about any one of us. It’s about where we can go together.

It’s not just about one person’s work and profit, it’s about an ecosystem of thoughtful small shops that put beautiful options into the marketplace, slowly steering attention and income away from the greedy, corrupting kingpins of the old economy. 

Your existence is important. We couldn’t do it without you. But you also don’t have to carry the entire load yourself. Your daily work makes a difference because you are a part of a bigger fight. You are not alone.

You get up, do your work, serve your mission. Taking heart in the knowledge that across the globe, others are doing the same.

Alone we are each small. But together we are a force to be reckoned with. A force that can change how money is spent and what we prioritize as a society. How we define success, even. You’re a part of that conversation because you’re in business and you care. Genuinely care. That’s it. No other qualifiers necessary.

I believe there is an invisible middle. And the small shop revival is about making the unseen seen. A revolution of kindness and creativity and remembering our own power.

And a part of reclaiming our power is reclaiming our days. Work doesn’t have to mean up at 4am and never seeing your family. That’s what you do when you’re alone. But you’re not alone, remember. We are all along side you.

Work and life don’t have to be mutually exclusive.

Don’t forget to enjoy sunrises and sunsets. Make food and actually sit down to enjoy it. Put away your phone and go for a walk. And chances are, your work will be better for it too.

Welcome to the small shop revival. I’m so glad you’re here.

xx — Jo