Yesterday was such a weird and special day. A couple months ago, a lovely artist contacted me with the offer to give me a day off work. I felt like my prayers had been answered, because what else could a busy entrepreneur mum wish for? A day off, all by myself in the middle of the week. A luxury so rare, but oh so wonderful.

The artist Nastja Säde Rönkkö offered to handle all of my work for one day. Not as easy as it sounds of course, since my job includes quite a lot of performing in front of the camera, but I felt like I wanted to give it a try and so I did. I planned her day from the beginning to the end and created a normal” day in my life – day” for her to get through. I haven’t seen the material yet, but I’m super excited and I will of course share it with you as soon as I get it.

So, what did I do? Pretty much absolutely nothing. Or well, I sent a few urgent emails, studied a bit and completed 2 upcoming collaborations, but for at least half of the day I did absolutely nothing. Browsed through the internet, watched YouTube, stared at the ceiling and stayed in bed all day until I picked up the kids from school.

What did I learn? Might sound like it wasn’t that big of a deal to get a few hours off, but it actually really was for me. Therefore, I really want to recommend you to in one way or another give time to someone else. Doing somebody’s work is challenging of course but helping out in other ways is more manageable. Giving time doesn’t come with a price tag but is extremely valuable. I will never forget all the helping hands I had when I was home alone with two small children. One with colic and the other one with very challenging sleeping habits.  I was beat most of the time. Friends who stopped by after work to vacuum my home while entertaining my children to just give me a break is unforgettable and makes me tear up out of gratefulness just thinking about it.

It’s so difficult to ask for help and so much easier to offer. A couple of hours here and there is all it takes but can save someone’s entire week. Just a little realization and tip from me now in the middle of this Christmas shopping bonanza. Some of the best gifts are free.

coat Bruuns Bazaar// jeans Anine Bing// boots Zara// bag Prada

Pictures by Juuli Rönkä