The theme of Anything but Plain is all about living intentionally. And the first step (for Lydie Stoltzfus, and for all of us) is this simple one: SLOW DOWN.

I’ve always said that you don’t have to go Amish to incorporate some aspects of their lifestyle…and slowing down might be the most beneficial one of all.

Why? You will enjoy your life more, you’ll feel less stress, less fatigue, make fewer mistakes, have fewer regrets. It sounds so simple, doesn’t it? Ironically, slowing down takes work.

So this month, I’m kicking off a “Live an Amish-y Day” challenge to encourage you to take some simple steps toward slowing down. And you’ll get rewarded, too! Some of the more difficult challenges are worth more entry points. Don’t put any pressure on yourself to do everything on the list all at once. You’ve got all month to try the “Live an Amish-y Day” challenges.

Hopefully, over time, the intention to slow down will become engrained in your daily routines and rhythms. I have a hunch you’re going to get hooked on the slower life!