Lovin' Lately no. 34
A look at my week (with photos), and the "touch it once" theory
Hi! Danielle Wraith here! The Second Act is the weekly newsletter I always wanted in my inbox, packed with obsessively-curated recommendations, thoughtful reflections on books, feelings, parenting wins (and fails), and the art of making room for more. Whether you're seeking inspiration or connection. The Second Act offers a warm, inviting space for all.
Imagine we’re catching up over coffee and I’m gushing over what I’ve been Lovin’ Lately…
Enjoyed a lake trip with girl friends to Bass Lake
Started the book Atmosphere by Taylor Reid Jenkins. It’s a bit different than her older stuff but I’ll read anything by TRJ!
Made bbq chicken and sides for sunday supper with my guy.
First week of summer break! We all survived week one!
I celebrated 1 year on substack and a milestone of 100 subscribers! Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU! I’m just so grateful. '
A double date, trivia night. We came in 4th place! Also, our team name was Dani DiVito’s Dream Team lol
Pretended I was at Erewhon and made the Hailey Bieber Strawberry Glaze Skin Smoothie. It was amazing!
Got some awesome book mail from Simon Kids and a cute tote bag that my daughter immediately claimed as hers.
Reminder to make your dermatology appointment and get your skin checked! Had my 6 month check this week.
Many moons ago (read: 2018), I was at a brunch with some local creatives I had met through Tuesdays Together. Between mimosas and small talk, one of the women handed out copies or her soon to be released planner that also had organizational tips specific for creatives. I went home and devoured mine, soaking up every bit of wisdom on how to maintain a “strategic, stylish, and organized business” like the eager little sponge I was.
One gem that stuck with me? The “Touch It Once” principle. The idea is simple: When a task lands in your lap, whether it’s an email, a household chore, or that fun little pile of paperwork, deal with it right then and there. Don’t overthink it, don’t punt it to future you, and don’t let it haunt your to-do list like a ghost of procrastination past. For example: if an email needs a reply, respond now instead of marking it unread and pretending it doesn’t exist. If you’re sorting mail, make a decision: toss, file, or handle. The goal? Fewer lingering tasks, less mental clutter, and way less decision fatigue.
Now, fast forward to the post-pandemic, great-resignation era. The rules of work, email etiquette, mental health, and personal boundaries have shifted, so let’s toss out the pressure to immediately respond to an email if that doesn’t work for you (feel that!). The principle still holds up in many other ways. It’s like having a tiny, annoying-yet-wise Jiminy Cricket on my shoulder, gently whispering, “Girl, just do it already,” every time I hesitate to unload the dishwasher or tackle a project. Over the years, "Touch It Once" has helped remind me to procrastinate less and check boxes more quickly. The payoff? Less physical, mental, and digital chaos. More bliss.
Now, don’t get me wrong, this isn’t me telling you to ditch slow wellness, lean into the grind, and be wildly productive 24/7. That’s exhausting. It’s more about lightening your mental load by cutting down on unnecessary procrastination and repetitive thoughts of "should do's." Take it or leave it, but if you try it, you might just find yourself less overwhelmed and more on top of life’s little annoyances.
The Second Act is an entirely reader-supported publication written and created by Danielle Wraith. Click here to subscribe or gift a friend a subscription here (if a friend sent you this —tell them thanks!). Anything you want covered? Questions? Reply with a comment below! You can also find me on Instagram. Please come say hi!
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Congrats on 100 subs! I love the touch it once rule.