Ever feel like the day slips away before you’ve even had a chance to catch up? You’re not alone. Life can feel like a constant race, and sometimes it seems there just aren’t enough hours to get it all done.
But what if the key isn’t doing more, but doing what matters most — in a way that actually fits your life?
In this post, I’m sharing practical ways to reclaim your time and find focus, even when hours are scarce. You’ll see how small, intentional actions can make a huge difference.
Focus On What Truly Matters.
When your to-do list feels endless, the trick is not to tackle everything at once. Instead, identify your top priorities.
Ask yourself:
What absolutely needs to get done today?
Which task, if completed, would make everything else feel lighter?
This helps you stop spinning your wheels on low-impact tasks and instead channel your energy where it counts.
Top Tip:
I love to write my list the night before so I have a clear Mission of what I need to prioritise first in the mornings. Itclears my brain ready for a good nights sleep.
Don’t worry, take a breathe. Let’s remove the overwhelm.
Nothing is particularly hard if you divide it into small jobs”
Henry Ford
I’m a firm believer that if we look after the small things, then bigger things, which might seem impossible, take care of themselves…
Mini Power Hours: When You Don’t Have An Hour
Sometimes a full hour isn’t possible. That’s okay! Even 20–30 minutes of focused effort can move mountains.
Set a timer for a mini session.
Eliminate distractions — no phone, no notifications.
Focus on just one small but meaningful task.
You’ll be surprised how much you can accomplish in short, intentional bursts.
Turn Mundane Missions Into LittleWins:
Even chores or routine tasks can become productive “Power Moments”:
Fold laundry while listening to a favourite podcast.
Prep ingredients for meals while catching up on news or messages.
Tidy one zone of your home at a time instead of the whole house.
Breaking larger tasks into bite-sized pieces keeps overwhelm at bay and gives a sense of progress.
Prioritise Yourself Too
Your Power of an Hour isn’t just for productivity — it can also be for self-care.
Enjoy a quiet coffee and a few pages of a book.
Go for a brisk 20-minute walk outside.
Try a short meditation to reset your mind.
Even small breaks refresh your focus and make the rest of your day more manageable.
Your Next Step.
Start small. Pick one task, block 20–60 minutes, and see what you can achieve.
The Power of an Hour isn’t magic. it’s simply making the most of the time you have, with focus, intention, and a little planning.
I’d love to know how it works for you! Tag me on Instagram or Facebook with your #powerofanhour stories, and let’s celebrate the small wins together.
A walk along the coast in the fresh can be super powerful.
What You Can Achieve In An Hour
Even a single hour can make a big difference when it’s focused with intention. Whether it’s boosting your wellbeing, shifting your mindset, or tackling a small but meaningful task, an hour is more powerful than it seems.
Below are five ideas and posts to inspire how you can make the most of just 60 minutes, simple, practical, and life-changing ways to use your time wisely.
The Power of an Hour is a great way to inject intention into your day or evening. I’ve shared free daily planner (and more) in the Organisation tools.
It really helps keep me focused and find it invaluable for my Power of an Hour.
What will you do with your next Power of an Hour? I’d love to know, join in the conversation on my Instagram or comment below. Feel free to tag me into your #powerofanhour and use the hashtag!
Here’s to feeling more in control and less overwhelmed!
I was first invited to Nkuku Totnes Totnes in 2022 to explore their newly extended barn and refurbished café, a space that perfectly reflects the brand’s ethos of thoughtful craftsmanship, calm design, and conscious living. Visiting Nkuku Totnes again, I was struck by the seamless blend of sustainability and style, from the hand-thrown ceramics to the seasonal dishes served with quiet elegance.
Since that visit, Nkuku has continued to grow, most recently opening a beautiful new venue in Redbrick, Leeds. Revisiting this inspiring destination feels like the perfect way to celebrate timeless design, sustainable style, and the spaces that make us feel truly at home.
From the Totnes barn to the new Leeds venue, Nkuku’s journey reflects a beautiful balance of evolution and ethos , staying true to its roots while expanding its reach.
Nkuku based just outside Totnes in the glorious South Hams countryside in Devon. Originally a farmyard of barns housing cattle and was derelict for over 20 years before Nkuku discovered them and worked their magic. There is free parking, wifi and well behaved dogs are very welcome. There’s even a little treat waiting for them by the door. I might have to make this my new place to sit and write, it’s so lovely.
The barns are filled with collections styled so beautifully, it’s impossible not to imagine these serene, curated corners in your own home
Inspired Collections From Nkuku Totnes For Every Home
I’ve created three mood boards showcasing my favourite pieces from Nkuku’s latest collection. The designs span a variety of styles and price points, making them easy to adapt to your own home. With their light, tactile and natural materials, each piece adds effortless warmth, texture, and character to any living space, whatever its size or location. I hope these boards spark ideas to bring a touch of Nkuku’s timeless style into your own home!
The Garden Room
Inspired by nature and natural surroundings, the garden room or conservatory is a perfect place for relaxing, reading and entertaining. I love candles and the braided hemp designs to bring the outside in and all the pieces together.
The Ondal Round Braided Hemp Side Table
Adds a sturdy, neutral layer to living rooms or garden rooms. (top left)
The appealing braided pattern is expertly crafted by hand using the warm, golden fibres of hemp. This attractive side table feels solid and sturdy and works well as a neutral layer in a living room, garden room or snug area.. This table would also work well as a footstool or an occasional seat.
Planters
Bring greenery indoors for a refreshing touch.
Planters (centre) are a fabulous way to add green and a refresh to your garden or garden room, complementing other textured, tactile pieces.
Sia Lantern
Elegant lanterns to create a warm and striking ambience.
These lanterns are enhanced with an antique black metal finish, holding tall glass panels for the perfect silhouette for a church candle or tealight. Easily transported from home to the garden, creating a beautiful setting wherever they are. (top right and bottom centre )
Halali Fire Pit
Halali Fire Pit Kadai with Surround
A statement piece to anchor your outdoor living space.
Generously proportioned and crafted from solid iron, this traditional fire bowl is surrounded by a practical table edge, perfect for warming plates or drinks. (bottom right)
Alwar Outdoor Wall Light
Adds grace and a soft warm glow to any outdoor setting.
The antique brass patina of the stylish swan neck and lamp head pairs elegantly with the clear glass shade. This iconic design works well in traditional and contemporary homes alike. (bottom left of the mood board)
The Sitting Room
Inspired by shades of white, neutrals, wood, touches of greenery and of course, living by the Devon coast a touch of blue. Cosy, comfortable and light is the feel of our room; perfect for cosying up in front of the fire and a good book in the winter and light and airy in the summer months too.
Muturi Glass Floor Lamp – Antique Brass
Adds warmth and elegance to neutral or bold interiors.
I love the combination of warm antique brass and elegant clear glass. The striking mix of materials makes this a standout piece in any home.
The Deni Collection
Generous, comfortable seating in timeless design.
The Grand combines soft contours, luxurious comfort, and timeless design, in a stylish UK-crafted solid wood framework with pure Brera Linen upholstery and solid wood legs. Available in six muted shades, you can order a free swatch pack to see the fabric choices. (middle centre and bottom left)
Braided Hemp Rug
Adds tactile, understated style to any room.
Hand-braided from hemp in a traditional pattern, the warm gold hues make it perfect for any living space, conservatory, or family room. (bottom right of the above mood board)
Chara Hammered Bottles
Simple yet elegant styling for your home.
These bottles are decorated with a hammered glass finish and etched detail, skilfully created by blowing glass through a brass ring. Perfect styled alone or with fairy lights. (above right)
Kajala Cotton Cushion Cover
Soft, versatile cushions with subtle geometric design.
Crafted in monochrome with black thread running through the fabric in a softly broken line, these covers are calming and adaptable to a variety of interiors. (above left and top centre of the mood board)
The Kitchen
The heart of the home. The busiest space of the house. With two teens, this room needs to be practical, effective and with Nkuku’s styling storage jars and accessories, the new collection ticks many boxes. A place for everything and everything in it’s place! See my pantry makeover for more inspiration.
Kamtha Water Hyacinth Tray
Adds texture and warmth to side tables or kitchen counters.
These round trays are woven from water hyacinth, a plant that grows in abundance in the waterways of Vietnam. The warm, golden tones and attractive braiding work make them a great accessory to add texture and a natural touch to your interior. I keep mine on a side table in the garden room/conservatory. (Above centre)
Recycled Glass Dome Cake Stand
Stylish display for cakes, cheeses, and other treats.
These elegant recycled glass domes slot neatly into a mango wood base, providing a polished yet practical way to store culinary delights.
Charal Storage Jars
Keep ingredients fresh while adding natural elegance to your kitchen.
The simple clear glass body and mango wood top of this Charai storage jar makes it the perfect everyday organisational accessory. Finished with a silicone seal to ensure that its contents remain fresh. Perfect for pulses, grains, herbs, and spices.
The Dura White Marble Wine Cooler
A tactile, luxury accessory for entertaining.
With striking variegated tones and a smooth finish, this marble cooler looks stunning on any kitchen island or table. (above left)
The Nkuku Café, Totnes was fully refurbished and extended in 2022 and is a haven of calm, perfectly complementing the curated collections. Opening out onto the courtyard, there’s a serene space to enjoy a coffee, iced tea, or a light meal.
There is plenty of room both inside and outside for dining, relaxing, or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
The menu celebrates the very best of local and seasonal produce, working closely with artisan bakers, farmers, and cheesemakers throughout the South West of England. Nkuku’s suppliers are carefully handpicked to ensure they share the brand’s commitment to sustainability and supporting independent producers.
I can confirm lunch was indeed delicious! I did manage to refrain from the scrumptious looking bakes though!Full range of delicious homemade treats available in the new Lifestyle CafeChara Hammered bottle in my Laundry Room.
Whether you’re local or visiting Devon, you’ll be greeted with a truly warm welcome. A heartfelt thank you to Helen and the entire Nkuku team for a wonderful visit, it’s always such a delight to see you and experience your beautiful spaces. I could happily spend the entire day here!
I hope this post has given you a glimpse into the beauty and charm of Nkuku Totnes, a truly inspiring lifestyle store right on my doorstep, and that the mood boards have sparked ideas to bring a touch of its timeless style into your own home.
I’d love to hear your thoughts and any inspiration you’ve taken from it in the comments below.
Love
* This post was originally published in 2022 and has been updated in 2025 to include the latest collection and insights.
I’ve been keeping a little secret, well actually it’s quite a big one. I’m going to be running The Paris Marathon next April.
Oh my goodness, it all sounds a bit real now!
I’ve spent much of my working life as an Oncology nurse and have I’ve lost too many people close to me including my father and good friends to cancer.
More recently, my much loved and very much missed Mother in Law, Wendy to Ovarian Cancer.
On 13th April 2025, I’m running the Paris Marathon in Wendy’s honour, to raise funds and awareness for the Ovarian Cancer charity, Ovarian Cancer Action and the Blood Cancer charity, DKMS of which I’ve been an Ambassador for almost 6 years.
It won’t be easy, it’s been quite some time since I ran anywhere but I’m going to give it my best! That’s a promise xx
I’d love your support. Every penny donated, every conversation started to support my Mission is very much welcomed.
I have two fundraising pages, one for each charity Ovarian Cancer Action and DKMS, the blood cancer charity so any support would be amazing. Be sure to check out both pages for additional information on each charity.
You may know that over the last few of years, I’ve been taking part in little Missions to raise funds and awareness for the Blood Cancer charity DKMS. It all started with one crazy idea, if you’d like to find out more click here: I’ve comitted to raising at least £600 for DKMS with for this Marathon.
Please do follow me on Instagram to keep updated with what’s happening with the #roadtoparis Mission and more! If you are part of a corporate company or your friends, family and colleagues would like to get involved, I’d love to hear from them too.
Strava is where my training is uploaded (you’ll be able to see just how slow I am!)
Finally, if you’d like to join me on a training run or would like to chat about my Mission, I’d LOVE to hear from you.
Thank you…
…for not thinking I’m crazy and for your support. I am honestly so nervous about this one. hopefully, with a big dollop of grit and determination, I’ll be able to conquer the Paris Marathon and do Wendy and the charities proud.
28th May is super important.. It’s World Blood Cancer Day. As a former Oncology Nursing Sister and proud Ambassador for DKMS, the Blood Cancer Charity, this weeks Blog is totally focused on sharing with you MORE about this very special day.
As always, I’d love you to grab a cuppa and find a comfy spot to read more about why it’s important, how you can get involved and much more.. Here we go..
Every 27 seconds, someone somewhere in the world is diagnosed with blood cancer.
DKMS
Shocking isn’t it?
So in the time it’s taken you to start reading this blog, someone has just received simply devastating news that they have Blood Cancer. It creates a huge ripple, affecting not just themselves, but their family, friends, collagues and so on..
On this day, every day and especially on World Blood Cancer Day on Sunday 28th May, I’m asking for your help: to help me spread awareness and support for DKMS and the incredible work they do – Every. Single. Day.
“A blood cancer diagnosis is a shock and often marks the start of a race against time. For many patients, their only chance of survival is to find a matching blood stem cell donor, as fast as possible.”
DKMS
What do you need to know?
The term “blood cancer” is a general description of various hematopoietic cancers; such as
Leukaemia; a type of blood cancer that affects blood cells in your bone marrow.
Lymphomas: constitute a large and diverse group of neoplasms originating from the lymphoid system. Depending on which cells in the lymphatic system the cancer originates from, it can cause different symptoms and affect different organs. Among lymphomas there are non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and Hodgkin lymphoma (HL).
Multiple myeloma: Plasma cell myeloma, also known as multiple myeloma, is a cancer of the bone marrow.
This must watch two minute video from DKMS explains what blood cancer is and how the blood cancer develops:
What is DKMS?
DKMS is an international nonprofit organisation dedicated to the fight against blood cancer and blood disorders. They are constantly working to convince as many people as possible to join the blood stem cell register. The best way to share with you just how important DKMS is by showing you this 3 minute video –
“My big dream is that every patient will be saved from blood cancer and other blood disorders.
When they get sick, we have a solution for them; whether it’s a donor, improving therapies through research, or simply helping to provide access to transplantation.
In this approach, we see no borders, believing that everyone, everywhere, deserves a second chance at life. We will keep fighting for them and keep spreading the word, recruiting donors, raising money.
Whatever it takes to make this dream a reality.”
Katharina Harf, daughter of the founder of DKMS and Vice Chairwoman of the DKMS Foundation Board
How you can help…?
There are so many ways you can help make your mark against Blood Cancer. You could help me to raise awareness, join the register, or take on a fundraising challenge. Anything you can do to help really does make a difference – even simply sharing this blog….
Order a swab kit online:Answer a few simple questions about yourself to make sure you’ll be able to safely donate if needed. If it’s a yes, then you’ll be directed to a page where you can request your swab kit online.
Swab your cheeks and return your kit: Swab the inside of your cheeks and send the swabs back to DKMS (there are instructions on the pack that you’ll be sent).
The swabs will then be analysed in the lab to determine your HLA (tissue) characteristics – this is how donors and patients are matched.
You’ll be added to the register: Once your samples have been analysed, you’ll be added to the register and you will be available for patients all around the world who are searching for a donor. Isn’t that amazing!
You are a match: If you come up as a potential match for someone, the donation process can begin. The DKMS team will be in touch as soon as possible.
They will ask you for a blood sample to confirm that you are the best possible match for the person in need of a transplant.
Peripheral blood stem cell donation: In 90% of cases, stem cells are collected peripherally (apheresis). This involves taking stem cells directly from the bloodstream. You’ll be able to have this done as an outpatient and it does not require surgery.
Bone marrow donation. In 10% of cases, the stem cells are collected from the back of your pelvic bone. This is carried out under general anaesthetic.
The patient receives your blood stem cells. The collected blood stem cells are transplanted to the patient, in a procedure similar to a blood transfusion.
A second chance at life. Your job is done and your incredible donation will help to give someone a second chance at life.
World Blood Cancer Day is Sunday 28th May
“We celebrate life every day”
DKMS Motto
How else can I help?
Make It Red
This year DKMS have launched the #makeitred theme. If you decide to make a red cake, turn your social media red, don a red jumper, put on red shoes or apply red lipstick. It’s totally fine by us. whatever you choose, let’s make it red!
Blood Cancer Patients needs our help more than ever after the pandemic. We are in urgent need of new potential lifesavers to sign up, so why not consider sharing a selfie wearing something red using the hashtag #MakeItRed.
Nominate a family member or friend to do the same and make sure they order a home swab kit.
You’ll be in good company, because you’ll be joined by some of our amazing celebrity supporters, as well as some much appreciated political support from MP’s, who will all be making it red to support DKMS.
“4 out of 10 people looking for an unrelated matching donor worldwide are not able to find a match. But you can help us change this.”
DKMS
Make a donation or get involved in my Mission 50!
It costs DKMS £40 to register just one potential blood stem cell donor. Not everyone who signs up is able to contribute towards this cost, so they need our help. As DKMS say ” you provide the hope and they will cover the rest!”
There are many ways you can support and raise valuable funds – including using give as you shop, via easy fundraising.which means you can raise FREE donations for Mission 50 and DKMS, every time you shop online. Over 4,000 shops and sites will donate to this page when you use easyfundraising to shop with them – at no extra cost to yourself!
These donations really mount up and make a BIG difference to me and the Charity, so we’d really appreciate it if you could take a moment to sign up and support @DKMS_UK and I. It’s completely FREE and only takes a moment.
“The aftermath of the pandemic means blood cancer patients need our help more than ever, and we are in urgent need of new potential lifesavers to sign up to join our register.”
DKMS
Join me in the 5km virtual run, jog or walk. This is our second year hosting the event and I’d love you to take part.
Buy a Perfect Touch Collection, a stunning collection of products to treat your hands. For every collection sold, £5 is donated to Mission 50 for DKMS. Find out more
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to read this blog. I’m passionate about doing what I can, to help DKMS do what they can, in their Mission. I’m a firm believer that, we can all do a little something to support others – TODAY I’ve love you to show your support for DKMS.
I’d be so grateful if you can please share this post – we need to get the important information to as many people as possible and YOU can help that.. Click the little arrow and share away.
Imagine relaxing here! Image credit: The Garden Company
A Little Mission – Refresh your Garden for spring so that you can enjoy your outdoor space as much as you would any room in your home.
Funny how we convince ourselves there isn’t much to do to get the garden ready for entertaining! I spent plenty of time in the garden last year, but revisiting it this week, my “to-do” list turned out longer than expected. Like in previous blogs in this mini series, I was seeing things with fresh eyes, and my creative brain started whirring.
Discovery consists not in seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes
Marcel Proust
I’m not an expert gardener by any stretch of the imagination, but I hope that by sharing what has worked for me from an organisational point of view, might help you too. I’m learning every day and enjoying that process. A good Mission never goes astray!
There’s something quite special about bringing flowers into the home straight from the garden.
Plan First, Enjoy Later
We have a little family joke that looking after the garden is like outdoor housework and in many ways it is!
Just like a spring refresh in your home, a plan is essential. Remember, you don’t need to do everything in one day. We often overwhelm ourselves by imagining jobs as big, time-consuming, or expensive, and then procrastinate.
With any project, home, garden, work or life; break it down into bite size chunks. Knowing the tasks ahead of you means you can plan a Power of an Hour or two to get started on your Spring Refresh – Garden Style!
Adding a seating area where you can enjoy a morning coffee or a glass of some chilled in the evening, need not break the bank.
First Things First!
Grab a notebook and take a wander around your garden, noting:
Paintwork: fences, garden furniture, sheds, gates
Repairs: loose paving, latches, or any small fixes
Pots and tubs: any cracks or surfaces needing a lick of paint before planting seedlings
Paving and walls: clean, repair, or paint as needed
Grass: that first cut makes an instant difference, as does redefining edges
Tools & equipment: give the lawnmower, strimmer, and garden tools some TLC
This list isn’t exhaustive — we’re talking a Spring Refresh, not a full redesign. But creating it helps you plan what needs doing and when to fit it into your diary.
Spring is nature’s way of saying, ‘Let’s party!’
Robin Williams
Mission Spring Clean!
I was introduced to a product a couple of years ago now which I love. Wet and Forget If you have delicate areas that can’t withstand a power washer, or don’t have one, this is perfect. Spray patios, driveways, walls — and forget it. Within days, areas start to brighten. Brush with a hard brush to loosen moss and weeds. Quick, simple, and cost-effective!
Before and After Shots Here:
Before: wall to the left vs the wall & the step 3 days laterWet and Forget, magical powers! This is the “before” and “after” just a couple of days.
Mission – Refresh Your Paintwork
“Paintwork, especially fences, decking, and garden furniture, will benefit from a little freshen-up. There are lots of paints and treatments available, many with preservative properties to help your furniture last longer.
.
Top tips from Cuprinol:
Preparation: Clean and dry surfaces. Strip loose or flaking paint. Test a small area first.
Colour: Final shade varies with surface and number of coats. Sand lightly if adhesion is poor. Pre-treat with wood preservative if needed.
Apply: Dry conditions, above 5°C, 2+ coats. Brush along the grain or use a sprayer following instructions.
Dry: Touch dry in 1 hour; allow a few days before heavy use.
Even a small space can have a big inpact. The planters are from The Basket Company
Spring Refresh your Entertaining Space.
No matter the size of your garden, carve out a little spot for a morning coffee or evening wine. Even a small seating area can feel magical. Connection, relaxation and the simple joy of being outside are priceless.
There’s something quite special about enjoying a cuppa and conversation outside.
Inspiration And Ideas
Google, Pinterest and Instagram are a great place to start when looking for inspiration but be warned – it’s so easy to get sidetracked! There’s a variety depending on budget or you may be inspired to make your own! I hope they inspire you.
Our garden furniture was a gift when we moved into our first home together. It really is hanging on by a thread or maybe the many layers of paint we’ve used to get “just another year” from it, for both sentimental reasons and also financial. Anyone slowly but surely renovating their home will know, there is a list of priorities!
Some of my favourite finds for seating, planters and decor:
Garden Trading CompanyCox and CoxPinterestPinterestNeptune Cox and Cox
The Little Touches!
Even simple touches like plants, lighting, and soft furnishings can turn your garden into a sanctuary. Adding warmth and personality is the fun part. Think fairy lights, cosy cushions, scented blooms, or a small water feature. These small details make your garden feel like a true extension of your home.
Even small, thoughtful actions in your garden can transform your space and lift your mood. Start with one task, enjoy the process, and let your outdoor sanctuary take shape naturally.
I’d love to know: what garden projects are on your spring mission list? Share in the comments, and check out The Dartmoor Village Garden board on Instagram for inspiration from my White Garden ideas.
Now it’s your turn! Pick one small area of your garden to refresh this week ~ a pot, a patch of lawn, or a corner seating spot. Take a photo before and after and share your Spring Refresh with me in the comments or on Instagram. I can’t wait to see your garden transformations!
I’m the creator of Woman on a Mission, a lifestyle space dedicated to helping women bring more calm, confidence and balance into everyday life. Born from my own journey to slow down and live with greater intention, it offers inspiration around wellbeing, organisation, home and mindset, one meaningful mission at a time
I have two fundraising pages, one for each charity 
