Simple, Easy, Structured, Fun
My words for 2026
It’s been a while since I’ve sent an email.
Since the new year started, I’ve been deep in reflection and refinement mode. Making changes (for the better!) in my life and work, and I’m finally ready to talk. So here’s the story…
As I reflected on last year and started preparing for this new year, the year of the horse, with forward movement and momentum already building, and added strength and freedom pushing through, one thing became really clear to me.
I had a realization about what I want in my life and in my work, and what my words are for the year.
SIMPLE
EASY
STRUCTURED
FUN! FUN! FUN!
I want life to be simple and easy.
I want things to feel easy and flow more naturally.
I want simplicity and ease so I can spend more time on fun.
I want a structured routine with simple, easy plans in place, so there’s more room for fun, joy, and the things that actually light me up.
I’ve been working on building structure across all aspects of my life, simplifying my mind and my work so things feel easier and flow more naturally.
Because when all of this is in place, it opens up time and space for the other big word of the year: FUN.
I’ve realized I don’t want to overthink anymore. I want my mind to be at ease. I want to slow down in all aspects of my life so I can make decisions that feel simple and positive, and that lead to joy, playfulness, laughter, and fun.
What I’ve actually been doing
So, what have I actually been doing to make these words become my reality?
Well, the truth is, I’m still working on it. It’s only February. But I’m already feeling more at ease with everything to come.
I’ve been creating new routines for myself to live healthier and feel good in my mind and body, along with new schedules for my kids and our family. And while life happens and we’ve had to shift things on some days, having those general routines in place makes it easier for all of us, and for our nervous systems to adapt.
I honestly feel a sense of freedom in this.
Our days and lives are becoming more aligned with this structure, and it’s making all of us feel more regulated and calm. I find myself having 30-second dance parties with my kids just for fun, making them laugh and giggle with ease, and also finding my own personal stillness and solitude when I need it (which is fun for me, haha).
How simplicity applies to my work
I’ve been taking these same words - simple, easy, structured, fun - and applying them to my business, With Heart Marketing.
I’ve been in business for about 17 months now, and it’s been a rollercoaster. I’ve made shifts along the way and learned a lot. But the one thing I’m clear on is what’s working, what’s not working, and where I want to go next.
Here’s what simplicity looks like in my work:
- Simple, clear offerings that focus on the part of my business that truly holds my heart
- Simple, clear communication as I continue building meaningful connections with people
- Simple, clear structure and alignment for how I move through my days and grow with intention
The structure I’m creating, and the simpler I make things, the easier it gets and the more fun I have. Work stops feeling like work. It feels lighter. And growth starts to follow naturally.
Where I’m headed
All of this simplicity and structure has led me to reflect deeply on With Heart Marketing and where I want to go next.
It led me to ask myself a really important question:
How do I simplify my business, make it easier, and focus on the part of this work I love the most?
The answer was very clear: focusing on the part of brand marketing I love most, the deep, strategic work that creates meaningful connections.
Helping businesses dive deep into the heart and soul of who they are, and guiding them through a brand strategy process to uncover or rediscover who they are, who they serve, and how they show up in the world.
I’ve spent several years on my own personal journey into my heart and soul, asking questions like, “Who am I?” What is my purpose? Who do I want to connect with? Where do I fit in the world? What are my values and my essence?
Through that journey, I gained so much clarity and alignment in my own life. And all I want now is to take my passion and expertise in marketing and help businesses feel that same level of authenticity, empowerment, confidence, and connection.
In an effort to simplify everything, I’ve been refining The With Heart Approach™ to focus more clearly on this foundational clarity work.
Helping brands get rooted in who they truly are at their core, and who they are meant to connect with. Revealing that truth in how the brand is expressed in the world. Ultimately, creating clarity and alignment so showing up feels authentic and growth can happen naturally.
At the same time, I’ve been simplifying how I show up and where I show up.
My heart feels really aligned with Substack. It feels like the right place for reflection, clarity, and thoughtful expression. A container that supports the kind of work I want to do right now, and the founders, leaders, and creatives I want to support.
So… what’s next?
I’ve been quietly working on something new. Something simpler, more intentional, and more aligned with my heart and soul.
Next week is a big week. I’ll be sharing new ways to walk through The With Heart Approach™ together.
I just wanted to let you know that something exciting is coming.
Thank you for being here and reading along. I’m really grateful for this space and this community.
More soon.
With 💛,
Talie
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