Category: Books

  • Not Fearless. But Courageous.

    Not Fearless. But Courageous.

    Fearlessness.
    A MYTH?

    Courage? Is lived.

    “I’m definitely not fearless. But I am courageous. It’s not something I wake up with – I have to choose it. Somedays, more often than others. But I learnt long ago, fear doesn’t go away – I just had to find the courage to keep going in the face of grief, doubt, reinvention.”

    creator of maison 1973, Nic Tierney

    Courage Is Not The ABSENCE Of Fear.

    I’ve felt varying degrees of fear in all sorts of situations – airports, boardrooms, hospitals. I’ve felt it in my bones. I’ve felt it before sending the text, the email. Making the call. Starting again. Walking away. Small things, big things – all sorts of things. Over time, I have been fearful of many things – I am human.

    And I’ve felt fear when things were good, too. When life was full and love was all around and it scared me because…what if I lost it?

    So no – I’m not ‘fearless’. But I try not to let fear ever take over and stop me from doing what I need – or want to do. I also don’t live in a state of fear – something I am incredibly grateful for.

    Fear – it visits me.

    The word, the context, the emotion and the meaning behind it, truly fascinates me – as often it is just thrown around very one dimensionally without thought or care for what it actually means to some people.

    Like you, I have to face things I fear all the time. How do I do that? By finding courage.

    I’ve just stopped pretending that ‘fearlessness’ is the goal. But courage? That’s real. That’s lived. And that’s what midlife is asking of us now as we embark on our next chapter.

    Fear Doesn’t Mean You’re WEAK.

    We’re told from a young age to be brave. To stand tall. To not cry. And often, when we learned how to find the courage and face a fear – we grew as a result. Fear can be one of our greatest teachers. I am not ashamed at all to admit that I have many fears – some I have faced and some that I still have, and continue to face as they arise. There is absolutely no shame or weakness in that whatsoever. In fact, it’s probably saved me in some situations.

    Nowadays, however, that messaging has gotten slicker. More forceful.

    Be fearless.
    Be unstoppable.
    Be more.

    It all seems motivational on the surface. And often, for some (and in the right context) – it can be. But quietly, sometimes it can make us feel like we’re somehow lacking if fear still visits us – if we still second-guess ourselves at 45, or 51, or 62.

    If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve lived through a few lifetimes within your life.

    You’ve done brave things.
    You’ve done hard things.

    You’ve achieved wonderful things.
    You’ve endured times of heartbreak, change, reinvention, caregiving, letting go.

    You’ve had hope and you more than likely, have felt fear – in varying degrees.

    You’ve needed to find and trust your courage – quiet, imperfect, evolving – and that it is more than enough.

    Because it is.

    What COURAGE Has Looked Like in My Life

    It didn’t always look bold. And sometimes it did. Most of the time though, I was vulnerable and had no idea what to do.

    Somedays it looked like crying in the car, pulling it together, and walking into the meeting anyway.

    Other times it was hearing news that you never want to hear and facing something that was indescribable, but there was no other option but to deal with it. Often, it looked like saying “I’m not sure yet.” Or “I’m sorry, I was wrong.”

    Sometimes, it looked like silence. And sometimes, it looked like speaking the truth that made my voice shake. None of that was fearless.

    Point was – I felt the fear and then had to find the courage to face it. Time after time.

    The Courageous MIDDLE

    We’re not in a season of proving. We’re in a season of choosing. And that, takes courage.

    It can be messy and quiet. Hard and rewarding. It’s where we:

    • Reclaim our voice.
    • Make peace with our body.
    • Stop apologising for our ambition – or our rest.
    • Let go of roles – and people – that no longer fit with our life.
    • Begin again, even when it’s not guaranteed to work.
    • Learn to be vulnerable in life, in relationships and in leadership.
    • Stand up for what we believe in.
    • Set boundaries.

    Courage Doesn’t Always SHOUT.

    I believe, one of the great shifts that happens as we age, is the ‘shedding’ of the need of ‘performance’. We’re far more interested in being true.

    And fearlessness? Often, nowadays that’s become a performance. Just a bunch of words thrown at us to make us pretend we are something we are not. Some of the most incredibly strong, courageous people I know – who have faced insane adversities in life – still openly admit that they have fears, to this day. But they lived through it with courage and bravery – and continue to do so.

    Courage is a choice and a practice. It’s often deeply private. It’s often unseen. And it doesn’t demand (or require), applause.

    So now more than ever, I consciously choose to just be present in life. And that means welcoming in the full range of emotions – including fear.

    But it doesn’t sit in the drivers seat – it’s just a passenger in my car of life.

    Rippling waves create a soothing rhythm as the sun dips low on the horizon, casting warm hues over the water’s surface in a captivating display of nature’s artistry.

    Acknowledge the fear.
    Walk anyway.

    maison 1973

    Courage doesn’t have to be loud. Just real.

    Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration

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  • Dogma vs Dialogue vs Opinion — And Why It Matters

    Dogma vs Dialogue vs Opinion — And Why It Matters

    We don’t talk anymore.
    We DECLARE.

    Just because you said it, doesn’t mean you’re right.

    “This is a fascinating topic to me. I feel that dogma is when opinion gets so loud, it forgets how to listen. It’s the moment belief becomes a rulebook, and curiosity gets kicked out of the room. It’s the end of the conversation – not the beginning of one. There is a time and a place for everything. And not everything is dogma. And not every opinion is fact. The art of dialogue is crucial in our everyday lives.”

    creator of maison 1973, Nic Tierney

    Agree to disagree? Is that even a thing anymore?

    Welcome to the age of the mic drop. Where certainty on everything and everyone – is now our currency, and anyone who dares to disagree is instantly dismissed, dissected, or digitally obliterated. We seem to not want to really talk anymore? Instead, it feels as if everything is a declaration. And if you’re not clapping, you’re clearly the enemy.

    Somewhere along the way, we lost the art of respectful disagreement. We lost our appetite for nuance. We became afraid – or even allergic? – to not being right.

    What does this mean and what is going on? Let’s explore.

    It’s Everywhere Now

    It lives in social captions and podcast rants. It masquerades as moral superiority. It seems to punish curiosity and curious people?

    Dogma says, “I’m right. You’re wrong. End of story.” Dialogue, on the other hand, says, “Here’s what I think. What about you?”

    As Gen X women, we remember a different kind of conversation. One where people could sit across from each other with totally opposing views and still share dessert. We weren’t so threatened by contradiction. We knew that opinions didn’t define the person – or at least, they didn’t have to.

    But now? Opinions are treated as identities. And any challenge to your viewpoint is seen as a threat to your entire sense of self.

    But here’s a truth: just because you make a point, doesn’t necessarily make it right. And just because someone doesn’t agree with you, doesn’t make them wrong. It’s a harsh truth for some, but it is a truth nevertheless.

    We’ve confused having a platform with having the last word. We’ve mistaken confidence for correctness. We’ve equated volume with value.

    Here’s a thought to ponder – if your belief system can’t handle being questioned, maybe it’s not a belief system – it’s a performance?

    It takes strength to hold space for views that challenge your own. It takes grace to say, “I see it differently – but I still respect you.” It takes maturity to let the moment pass without needing to win it.

    This is happening everywhere: families divided over dinner, 24/7 with virtual strangers online, some people are just opting out of conversation altogether because it’s just not worth the backlash. People’s general interest in just simply seeking to understand – being stifled by those with louder opinions.

    But silence isn’t the answer. And neither is shouting louder.

    So What is?

    It’s curiosity. It’s emotional maturity. It’s being okay with not being right. It’s knowing when to walk away, not to prove a point but to preserve your peace. It’s understanding that some things in life hold a lot of uncertainty and with that, there needs to be some understanding.

    It’s becoming so rare (particularly online) to find and meet people where you feel completely at ease with sharing a thought, an opinion, a viewpoint, a question – and you know that it will be met with a considered response, not a defensive one. A dialogue. We can remember a time, where this was how we just functioned in life – what happened?

    At maison 1973, we believe in deeper conversations, challenging the ‘status quo’, asking and really listening. There will always be discomfort in our paths to growth – always. We never stop growing and evolving – regardless of our age. We believe you can disagree with someone and still love or respect them (or both). We like to learn and embrace change. And with change comes uncertainty – and that’s part of life. We’ve lived through many decades, we know that change is inevitable.

    You don’t need to shout to be sure of what you believe. You don’t need to be right to be worthy. And you don’t need everyone to agree with you to lead with confidence.

    Let’s bring back nuance. Let’s bring back listening. Let’s bring back the beauty of I see it differently, and that’s okay.

    Because disagreement doesn’t need to mean the end of the conversation. Sometimes, it’s where the real one begins.

    THE maison 1973 Takeaway

    Not every differing opinion is an attack. Sometimes it’s just… another point of view.

    Not every opinion needs a rebuttal. Not every point needs a mic drop. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can say is simply: “I hear you.”

    What do you think?

    Certainty is trending.
    But curiosity? That’s timeless.

    maison 1973

    Your curiosity is waiting.

    Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration

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  • You’re Not Burnt Out. You’re Creatively Underfed.

    You’re Not Burnt Out. You’re Creatively Underfed.

    Midlife isn’t the problem.
    MONOTONY is.

    Creativity is oxygen. You might be holding your breath?

    “I wasn’t exhausted. I was underfed — creatively, emotionally, spiritually. It took me a litle while to realise the difference.”

    creator of maison 1973, Nic Tierney

    Where Has Our CREATIVITY Gone?

    There’s a particular kind of fatigue that doesn’t come from overwork. It comes from underfeeling. Underimagining. Undercreating.

    And if you’re a Gen X woman waking up each day wondering why the spark is gone, wondering why a full night’s sleep still leaves you feeling flat—you might not be burnt out. We spend so much of our time reading, talking thinking and worrying about navigating through all of our midlife hormonal and ‘life shifts’ – but sometimes it’s not about any of that.

    You might just be creatively underfed.

    Let’s dive into this interesting space a little more.

    The Myth of BURNOUT (And Why It’s Not Always True)

    We’ve been sold the idea that burnout means we’ve worked too hard, too long, for too little reward. And sure—that’s part of it. But many women in midlife are doing less than they did ten years ago, and yet feel more emotionally depleted than ever.

    Why? Because what’s missing isn’t capacity. It’s creative nourishment.

    Burnout is collapse. It’s the body saying no. But creative starvation is subtler. It shows up as:

    • Restlessness in rest.
    • Mindless scrolling that leaves you hollow.
    • Emotional flatness.
    • A longing you can’t quite name.

    We’re not broken. Our inner world is hungry. We know the feeling all too well.

    “Midlife didn’t dull my ambition. It just redirected it. Now I crave doing what I do best – creating. Not busyness.”

    creator of maison 1973, Nic Tierney

    Competence Isn’t CREATIVITY

    If you’re a Gen X woman, you were more than likely raised on grit, efficiency, and survival. You’ve spent decades holding everything together, knowing what to do, and doing it well. You’re probably damn good at your job, your calendar, your life…and everything in between.

    But somewhere along the way, being competent became the enemy of being curious. Of being lit up. Of not knowing, and playing anyway.

    And here’s the kicker: a life full of function without imagination becomes… beige. Not bad. Just blunted.

    This isn’t about quitting your job to become an artist (or absolutely it could be if that’s what lights your fire). This is about asking yourself: Where am I letting the spark go dim, because I’ve convinced myself I don’t have time to feel it?

    Whatever it is—your spark can re-ignite.

    maison 1973

    How to Tell if You’re Creatively UNDERFED

    You might not be aware it’s happening. But here are some signs:

    • You’re consuming more than you’re creating (even if creating just means journaling or arranging flowers).
    • You feel uninspired by the things that used to excite you.
    • You crave depth but settle for distraction.
    • You’re always ‘tired’ but rest doesn’t work.
    • You long for something…but can’t name what.

    If any of these sound familiar, you’re not alone. And you’re not failing. You’re just a little creatively underfed.

    What Creative NOURISHMENT Actually Looks Like

    Let’s be clear: this isn’t about being productive. This isn’t about monetising your hobby or learning to paint so you can open an Etsy shop.

    Creative nourishment is about doing something for the sheer joy of it. It’s doing something you don’t need to be good at. It’s about creating energy, not output.

    Here’s what that might look like:

    • Putting on music and dancing alone in the kitchen.
    • Re-reading a novel you loved at 22.
    • Drawing.
    • Doodling
    • Art – in all forms. Admiring it.
    • Start a blog
    • Take beautiful pictures
    • Wander without intent.
    • Daydreaming.
    • Making something – anything.
    • Cooking something new. Or something old and comforting.
    • Wandering in nature.
    • Writing a letter
    • Creating a mood board
    • Playing – with a guitar, an instrument, a new gadget.
    • Rearranging your shelves by colour.
    • Lighting a candle at 3pm, just because.

    Creativity isn’t always grand. Sometimes it’s just giving yourself permission to care and be playful and letting your mind just wander. Get lost in our thoughts.

    Why Midlife Is a Creative PORTAL

    Most people think of creativity as youthful: the domain of 20-somethings and start-ups. But midlife? Midlife is actually one of the richest, most potent portals for creative reinvention—if we choose to walk through it.

    Here’s why:

    • You care less about other people’s opinions.
    • You know yourself better than you ever have.
    • You have been through all life has offered so far – good and bad.
    • You’ve survived enough to know what matters.
    • You’re not here to prove. You’re here to express.

    And creative expression is the exact antidote to the ‘grey fog’ of modern life.

    THE maison 1973 Takeaway

    This isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing different.

    At maison 1973, we believe:

    • Creativity isn’t a luxury—it’s a life source.
    • Midlife isn’t a crisis—it’s a privilege.
    • You don’t need to be good. You just need to be willing.
    • Just start – do, change, repeat

    And when we create (whether it’s a dish, a sentence, a feeling, or a space), we re-enter our world with fresh eyes.

    If you feel like you’re stuck in beige… If you can’t remember the last time something lit you up… If you’re craving something more, but unsure what…

    This is a call back to your creative self.

    It’s not always ‘burnout’ – maybe you just need to feed your inner creative. Sometimes it’s not about the five-year plan. You just need a spark. And maybe it starts with a messy doodle, a walk without your phone, or a playlist you haven’t heard since 1996.

    Whatever it is, let’s find it. Because it’s wonderful.

    Midlife isn’t an ending-
    it’s an invitation.
    You in?

    maison 1973

    Your creativity is waiting.

    Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration

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  • Growing Up Gen X: Why the Mixtape Still Defines Our Lives

    Growing Up Gen X: Why the Mixtape Still Defines Our Lives

    REWIND Worthy

    A Life in Rewind, Replay, and Realness.

    Before Streaming, Scrolling, And Skipping — We LIVED Life Like A Mixtape: On INSTINCT.

    Gen X isn’t a single soundtrack — it’s a whole collection of Side As and Side Bs. Some of us were teens in the thick of the ‘80s, rewinding tapes in our bedrooms and dancing in nightclubs before the internet had a name. Others were still riding bikes at sunset, making friendship bracelets, and growing up just in time for the rise of grunge, girl power, and the late-night music video marathon. We came of age in different ways, at different times — but we all felt it.

    We took photos and waited for the pics to get developed – then we meticulously arranged them in albums. We collected albums like we collected mix tapes – and we knew what every single one meant.

    Because no matter when you were born in that 1965–1980 window, you didn’t just live the culture…you recorded it. And it’s still playing.

    Long live the mixtape of life. Let’s go on a trip down memory lane…

    “When I started writing this, I realised the mixtape isn’t just a memory — it’s a metaphor for Gen X life. We recorded things as they happened, rewound the bits we didn’t quite get, and somehow made chaos feel special, regardless of how simple it was. It wasn’t always pretty, but it was ours.”

    founder of maison 1973, Nic Tierney

    Life Was SIMPLE And We Loved It

    It’s the late 80’s. Your knees are grazed from riding bikes without helmets, your hair smells like Impulse Illusions, and your fingers are covered in melted Paddle Pop. You’re lying on your bedroom floor, rewinding a cassette with a pencil and willing your older sibling to stay off the phone so you can tape the top 10 off the radio.

    Sound familiar? Haha, that’s cause it was our life – our simple, chaotic, crazy Gen X life.

    Welcome to the wild, weird, and wonderful world of growing up Gen X — whether you were dancing at a uni bar or decorating your locker. We all grew up in this special era that only we know all about.

    When phones were attached to walls and they had cords and could be left at home. The original ‘do not disturb’ was simply just leaving it off the hook.

    Cars had no air conditioning – just big windows with hard as hell handles to turn. We drove stick shift, grinding gears and reverse parking like a boss. Nothing was complicated, it was a time that things were built for use. They were necessary and they were useful.

    Playing handball on the road after school, jumping on the trampoline without safety rails or nets.

    This wasn’t just a childhood. It was a mixtape. Recorded in real time. Messy. Curated. Emotional. Full of skips, edits, and songs that made no sense — until they did.

    It was a time of just being yourself and the only thing we were obsessed with recording was music. Not ourselves, no selfies, no idea of what else was going on around us except what was happening in our neighbourhoods, in our friendship groups.

    The Soundtrack of US

    Depending on where you grew up, your soundtrack had its own flavour:

    In Australia, we had Countdown, Rage, Recovery, and the unforgettable Triple J Hottest 100. We knew the pub-rock glory of Cold Chisel and the dream-pop drama of Icehouse. INXS felt like global royalty — but ours.

    In New Zealand, we tuned into RTR Countdown and the magic of Radio With Pictures. Dave Dobbyn, Crowded House, and Shona Laing weren’t just names — they were national treasure status.

    In the UK, it was Top of the Pops, John Peel, Smash Hits, and the explosion of Britpop. We danced in our bedrooms to Bananarama, The Human League, and later, Blur and Oasis, long before the headlines caught up.

    In the US, it was MTV’s golden age — TRL, Yo! MTV Raps, 120 Minutes. Grunge was rising from the garage, hip hop was taking shape, and girl groups like En Vogue were giving us harmony and power.

    And no matter where you were — we all remember hitting ‘record’ and praying no one spoke over the intro.

    Our music wasn’t algorithm-fed. It was handed to us by friends, posters, rage clips, and gut instinct. We stood in record stores debating between Alanis and The Cure. We slow-danced to Roxette and lost our minds at Big Day Out. We screamed lyrics from the backseat with the windows down.

    We felt every word.

    The MIXTAPE As A Metaphor

    We weren’t a playlist. We were a mixtape.

    Side A was the ambition, the firsts, the fire in us.
    Side B was the softness, the reinvention, the stuff we got emotional to and told no one about.

    Some chapters we fast-forwarded through. Others we wore out from replaying.

    There were hidden tracks — the unspoken parts of growing up. There were unplanned overdubs — the noise we didn’t mean to record but still lives in the background.

    Some things were taped over. Some stayed scratched, imperfect, real.

    And yet, we kept recording and listening.

    Every mixtape told a story in biro and smudges. So did we. They were so sacred to us.

    Screens That SHAPED Us

    Then there were the movies and TV – a rite of passage.

    We grew up with The Breakfast Club, Reality Bites, My So-Called Life, and Muriel’s Wedding. We saw ourselves in awkward teens, chaotic women, and girls who were a bit too much (but in the best way).

    There was the all time release of Dirty Dancing and our obsession with Patrick Swayze began. Going to the drive in to watch a movie. Buying actual tickets to things. Keeping them as souvenirs.

    Kirk Cameron and Growing Pains, the original crushes – Michael J Fox, John Stamos, River Phoenix, Rob Lowe, Kurt Cobain, Axl Rose – the list was endless.

    Friday nights meant lining up at Video Ezy or Civic Video. You knew exactly what aisle Empire Records lived in and you always tried to get the last of the new releases – only to be disappointed as they were all gone. You rewound the tape out of respect – and you tried to get it back on time to avoid the fine (oh those fines lol).

    We memorised lines like scripture:

    “How do you like them apples?”
    (Good Will Hunting, 1997)

    We didn’t stream. We stayed up to watch it and feel it happen in real time. We didn’t scroll. We rewound and replayed. Over and over.

    And that’s the difference. We just kept living in the moment of life. We weren’t too bothered about anything else. Gosh, how incredible.

    “Writing this has been such a joy. The list of nuances and memories has been endless. I could keep writing for days and still not capture it all. This is just the tip of the iceberg as a Gen X growing up. This will be the first of many mix tape moments”

    THE Feels

    We didn’t have Pinterest. We had glue sticks and magazine tear-outs. We decorated diaries with Lisa Frank stickers and wrote our crushes’ names in glitter pen. We shopped at Granny Mays, collected erasers and scratch and sniff stickers.

    We made friendship bracelets and mood boards. We roller-skated in bubble skirts, wore cinch belts with Supre singlets, and proudly spritzed ‘CK One‘ before heading out.

    Our icons weren’t influencers. They were Kate Moss, Elle Macpherson, Linda, Christy, Naomi, Madonna, Pat Benatar, Whitney Houston, Belinda Carlisle, Tina Turner — untouchable and magnetic. They weren’t selling to us. They were just being. And we watched, and we learned. We poured through magazines just to see the latest in their lives.

    We played Snake on Nokia phones. We sat on the grass waiting for the Mr Whippy van to play its jingle. We had to be home to catch our favourite show. If you were lucky you had a VHS – if not, too bad. You missed it and you had to wait for next week.

    And the food?

    Apricot chicken. Devilled sausages. Party pies.

    BBQ Shapes and Toobs

    Zooper Doopers and Sunnyboys

    Milo piled four spoons deep in a mug

    Cheese and lettuce sandwiches

    The list is endless. So good. So good in fact, we’ll dedicate a whole other blog to it at another time.

    Why It Still LIVES In Us

    We may live in a digital world now, but our hearts beat analog.

    We remember because these moments weren’t just trends. They were imprints. They taught us rhythm, rebellion, expression, release. We loved every angst ridden moment of it all.

    That’s why certain songs still hit. That’s why certain films still feel like home. That’s why we get goosebumps when the Mr Whippy music plays or Smells Like Teen Spirit starts when you’re stuck in traffic. It’s instinctual to get those windows down and turn that music up full blast. We feel it in our core. It never, ever leaves us. Nor do we want it to.

    We’re not stuck in the past. We just know a good memory is like a great song — it grows with you.

    And like any good mixtape — we’re still curating. Still evolving. Still adding tracks.

    “I grew up rewinding tapes with pencils, eating BBQ Shapes after school, talking on the phone in the kitchen and figuring things out without Google or group chats. It was chaotic, unfiltered, kind of magic — and somehow, we all just made it work. Gen X didn’t just live through it. We recorded it, our way.”

    maison 1973 founder, Nic Tierney.

    The Maison 1973 Takeaway:

    For the rhythm, the memory, and the woman you still are.

    Gen X For Life.

    Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration

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  • Understanding What Matters Most in Midlife

    Understanding What Matters Most in Midlife

    Genuine FULFILMENT

    So, what matters most to you?

    The MIDLIFE Perspective Shift

    There’s a moment—sometimes gradual, sometimes all at once—when you realise that you no longer have the energy for what doesn’t matter. The endless proving, the striving, the worrying about things that once seemed so urgent but now feel insignificant.

    Midlife is not about fading into the background, we like to think it’s about stepping forward with clarity, purpose, and an unshakable sense of self.

    The maison 1973 woman has lived enough to know what truly matters. And, more importantly, what doesn’t.

    She is no longer chasing approval or trends, and she has outgrown the need to justify her choices. Instead, she is focused on

    depth over distraction, quality over quantity, and confidence over comparison.

    But in a world that is constantly pushing for more, faster, louder—it takes intention to slow down, to define success on your own terms, and to prioritise what genuinely brings fulfilment.

    Let’s explore.

    “At the end of the day, it’s pretty simple for me. It’s the love and care I have for the people who matter most, the unwavering companionship of my dog, my health, purpose in my work and being surrounded by nature. Everything else? Nice to have, but not essential now. When I focus on these things, I feel rich.”

    creator of maison 1973, Nic Tierney.

    Living With PURPOSE

    At this stage in life, we are done with doing things just because we should. Purpose is no longer about checking boxes or climbing ladders—we believe it’s about aligning our time, energy, and talents with what feels meaningful.

    For some of us, that might mean pivoting in a career that no longer inspires them. For others, it’s about carving out more time for creativity, for projects that light them up, for work that feels expansive instead of draining.

    We Ask Ourselves: Does how I spend my time reflect what truly matters to me? If so, wonderful. If not, how can we adjust it? It’s an ongoing dialogue we have. Keeps us focussed on the important things in our lives.

    We Like To Make It Actionable: Just start small. Carve out even 10 minutes a day for something that brings you joy—writing, painting, reading, learning. The key is to just start.

    Who Inspires This? Women all over the world and from all walks of life inspire us daily. Women who redefine success on their own terms, at every stage of life. We take our hats off to them. It’s incredibly wonderful to see.

    We’ll Leave You With This Thought: Purpose isn’t always about what you do—it’s about why you do it.

    Cultivating PRESENCE

    With life feeling fuller than ever—career, family, relationships, responsibilities—it’s easy to move through days on autopilot. But being present is a choice, and it’s one that deeply impacts our sense of fulfilment.

    Presence is about slowing down enough to actually experience life instead of rushing through it.

    It’s about truly listening when someone speaks. It’s about engaging with our surroundings instead of always planning the next thing.

    We Ask Ourselves: Am I truly here, or just going through the motions?

    We Like To Make It Actionable: Create small daily rituals—whether it’s making coffee slowly, journaling for five minutes, or simply taking a deep breath before responding to an email. It’s ok to be still and silent – when did we start to believe it wasn’t?

    We’ll Leave You With This Thought: A full life isn’t about doing more—it’s about being fully present for what you’re already doing.

    CONFIDENCE In Style & Self

    One of the most freeing things about midlife? You dress for yourself now. You’re no longer chasing trends or dressing to be seen—you’re dressing because it feels right.

    Style in midlife is about effortless refinement, investment over impulse, and knowing exactly what works for you. It’s about the confidence that comes with experience—the ability to walk into a room and own it, not because you’re the loudest, but because your presence is undeniable.

    We Ask Ourselves: Am I dressing for myself or for external validation?

    We Like To Make It Actionable: Clear out anything from your wardrobe that doesn’t feel like you anymore. Build a collection of timeless, beautifully made pieces that bring ease to your everyday life.

    Who Embodies This For Us? Women like Carine Roitfeld, Cate Blanchett, and Tilda Swinton—style icons who have never needed trends to be relevant.

    We’ll Leave You With This Thought: True style isn’t about what you wear—it’s about how you wear it.

    Taking CARE (Without Guilt)

    We’ve spent years taking care of others—our families, our teams, our communities. But what about us?

    At this stage, prioritising our health and wellbeing is no longer a luxury—it’s essential. And yet, many of us still struggle with the guilt of putting ourselves first. It’s time to let that go.

    We Ask Ourselves: Am I treating my body with the same care I give to others?

    We Like To Make It Actionable: Prioritise movement, sleep, and nourishment—not as punishment, but as a form of self-respect. Find what feels good, not what feels forced.

    Who Embodies This For Us? Off the top of our heads, it’s the likes of Naomi Watts embracing midlife beauty, and Pamela Anderson’s natural self-acceptance. It’s inspiring and it’s refreshing.

    We’ll Leave You With This Thought: Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

    Deep & REAL Connections

    By midlife, we’ve learned that friendships and relationships evolve. Some fade naturally, some require effort, and some deepen in ways we never expected.

    What truly matters now isn’t the number of people in our lives, but the quality of the connections we keep.

    We Ask Ourselves: Which relationships bring me energy, and which ones drain me?

    We Like To Make It Actionable: Nurture the friendships that feel reciprocal and let go of relationships that no longer align with who you are.

    We’ll Leave You With This Thought: Friendship in midlife is about quality over quantity. It’s ok to let go.

    The Luxury of CHOICE

    The greatest luxury in midlife? Choice.

    Choosing where our energy goes. Choosing what we consume. Choosing how we define success. Choosing to say no more often.

    We Ask Ourselves: Am I making choices that align with what I truly want?

    We Like To Make It Actionable: Say no to things that drain you and yes to things that excite you—even if they scare you.

    We’ll Leave You With This Thought: True freedom isn’t having it all—it’s choosing what matters most.

    The Maison 1973 Takeaway:

    Our final thought? The maison 1973 woman isn’t here to live by someone else’s definition of success, beauty, or happiness. She knows what matters—and she builds her life around it.

    Not perfectly. Not always effortlessly. But with intention. With clarity. With a deep understanding that this is her time.

    Prioritise what matters.

    Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration

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  • The Art of Stillness: Cultivating Quiet in a Noisy World

    The Art of Stillness: Cultivating Quiet in a Noisy World

    Finding CALM Within

    In a world that never stops.

    The Power Of PAUSE

    The world is getting louder. The news cycle never sleeps, social media never pauses, and there’s always another notification, another headline, another reason for all of us to stay plugged in. We are constantly told to be on—to react, to engage, to keep up. But at what cost?

    Stillness has become a luxury, yet it is one of the most powerful things we can cultivate.

    In a world addicted to urgency, slowing down is now perceived as a radical act.

    The maison 1973 woman knows that true confidence and presence don’t come from being the loudest voice in the room, but from knowing when to tune out the noise. This is about reclaiming quiet—not in a passive way, but as a deliberate choice to protect our mental space, restore our energy, and live with greater depth and intention.

    Here’s how we aim to do this everyday.

    “Every day, it feels like stillness is getting harder to find. The noise is constant—notifications, opinions, the endless pull of needing to do more. At the end of each day, I often ask myself: Have I taken a deep breath today? Have I sat in silence, even for a moment? Am I choosing calm, or am I just reacting? Finding stillness isn’t effortless, but it’s a choice I try to make—by slowing down, stepping outside, and reminding myself that presence is the greatest luxury of all.”

    creator maison 1973, Nic Tierney

    Protect Your Mental SPACE Like You Protect Your Skin

    We apply SPF religiously to protect ourselves from harmful rays—why don’t we do the same for our minds? We are bombarded with information, opinions, and digital clutter daily, and without boundaries, it drains us.

    Curate What You Consume – Not all information is equal. We seek out slow, intentional media over the constant stream of doom scrolling. It really does help to calm us at the end of a busy day.

    Set Digital Limits – You don’t need to be constantly updated. When did we all become so obsessed with needing to know everything, at all times! Take social media breaks, unsubscribe from noise, and protect your attention span.

    Replace Noise with Intentional Quiet – Spend a morning without your phone, take a walk without a podcast, and enjoy an evening free from news. Decide when and how you connect. This has transformed life at maison 1973; simply enjoying quiet moments is truly wonderful.

    Be Selective About Conversations – Not every debate or topic needs your participation. Choose where you invest your emotional energy.

    Embrace JOMO (Joy of Missing Out) – You don’t need to be at every event, in every discussion, or aware of every trend to live a full, rich life. It’s ok to just say no thanks, not today.

    What we ask ourselves: Am I choosing what enters my mind, or is it being chosen for me?

    “Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.” — Anne Lamott

    The Power of Doing ONE Thing at a Time

    Multitasking has been glorified for years, but in reality, deep presence is a radical act. Instead of scattering your focus, give these techniques a try:

    Single-tasking – Giving your full attention to one thing at a time, whether it’s eating, reading, or simply breathing.

    Savouring Small Rituals – The act of making tea, putting on perfume, folding linen with care—these everyday moments become grounding when we approach them with intention.

    Practicing Micro-Moments of Stillness – Pausing before answering, sitting with silence, taking a deep breath before reacting.

    Create ‘Sacred Spaces’ in Your Home – A reading nook, a candlelit bath, a space free from screens where you can fully unwind.

    Reduce Sensory Overload – Opt for soft lighting, neutral tones, and calming textures in your surroundings to create a sense of peace.

    What we ask ourselves: When was the last time I did nothing—truly nothing?

    “Beware the barrenness of a busy life.” — Socrates

    NATURE as the Ultimate Reset Button

    We spend more time interacting with screens than with the natural world. But in a world that feels increasingly artificial, nature is the antidote – it’s our tonic. Time is nature truly is magical. It absolutely reminds us of what’s important.

    A Daily Touchpoint with Nature – Bare feet on the grass, morning sun on your face, fresh air in your lungs.

    Textural Grounding – The softness of linen against your skin, the weight of a ceramic cup in your hands, the feel of paper under pen.

    Seasonal Living – Aligning your energy with the rhythms of nature instead of the demands of the digital world.

    Slow Travel & Nature Retreats – Instead of fast-paced tourism, consider unplugged weekend escapes where you can reconnect with yourself and the world around you.

    Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku) – A Japanese practice that emphasizes immersing yourself in the natural world to reduce stress and increase well-being.

    What we ask ourselves: How often do I step outside without a destination in mind?

    “Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

    The Luxury of a QUIET Life

    We live in a culture that equates more with better, faster with success, and louder with power. But maison 1973 stands for something different.

    Luxury is not filling your calendar to prove your worth.

    Luxury is choosing who and what gets your energy.

    Luxury is knowing that quiet confidence speaks louder than noise.

    Luxury is Time – Time to think, time to dream, time to be.

    Luxury is Depth Over Distraction – Instead of consuming more, we enjoy what truly matters.

    Luxury is Knowing When to Say No – To commitments, to digital noise, to anything that doesn’t align with your peace.

    Stillness isn’t passive—it’s powerful. In a world addicted to urgency, the ability to slow down, focus, and be intentional is the greatest luxury of all.

    The Role of Art, Music, and Literature in Cultivating STILLNESS

    We like to believe, that stillness isn’t just about the absence of noise—it’s also about what we choose to surround ourselves with. Art, music, and literature can be powerful tools for anchoring ourselves in the present.

    Read Slowly & Intentionally – Reread favourite books. Read poetry.

    Read things that make you think, rather than scroll.

    Surround Yourself with Beauty – Invest in pieces that evoke emotion in you —art, textiles, ceramics—things that bring depth, not just decoration.

    Let Music Be a Portal to Stillness – Classical music, jazz, soft instrumental—sounds that slow your breath and quiet your mind.

    Write Without an Agenda – Journaling, writing letters, or just putting thoughts on paper helps clear your mind. We enjoy taking a big sheet of blank paper and doodling. Just write or draw to express yourself. Much of our time is spent on screens, and picking up a pen to connect with paper feels unusual now. How strange is that?

    What we ask ourselves: What am I surrounding myself with, and how does it make me feel?

    “Without great solitude, no serious work is possible.” — Pablo Picasso

    the maison 1973 takeaway

    We don’t have to subscribe to the belief that success, influence, or relevance require constant motion. The maison 1973 woman chooses stillness—not as an escape, but as a foundation. A way to reclaim her mind, her time, and her energy.

    The world will keep moving at full speed. But you? You can choose to slow down.

    Just breathe.

    maison 1973
  • The Power of Nostalgia: Why We’re Craving the Past (And How It Can Inspire Our Future)

    The Power of Nostalgia: Why We’re Craving the Past (And How It Can Inspire Our Future)

    Vintage REVIVAL

    Harking back to the good old days.

    The PULL Of The Past

    Lately, do you find yourself reminiscing more than usual? This is a topic that we have thought about a lot here at maison 1973. Maybe it’s an old song that instantly transports you back to your teenage bedroom, or a scent that reminds you of summer holidays from decades ago. Perhaps it’s the way flipping through an old magazine or watching a 90s rom-com makes you feel comforted, seen, and somehow more yourself.

    Yes! Well welcome to the beautiful, complex, and deeply emotional experience of nostalgia.

    For the maison 1973 woman, we believe that nostalgia isn’t just about looking back—it’s about reconnecting with the essence of who we are. And in midlife, when so much is shifting, embracing the past can be a powerful way to shape our future, and what lies ahead.

    Let’s explore why we crave nostalgia, what it really means, and how we can use it to create a more joyful, intentional life today. We love this topic, we hope you do too…come with us on a little trip down memory lane.

    “I like to look back sometimes—not because I want to return, but because it reminds me how far I’ve come. Nostalgia isn’t just about the past; it’s about the pieces of ourselves we carry forward. The songs, the scents, the little moments—they make me smile, not just for what they were, but for how they’ve shaped who I am today. They’re never far from me.”

    creator of maison 1973, Nic Tierney.

    Why We’re So DRAWN To Nostalgia In Midlife

    Nostalgia isn’t just sentimental—it’s psychological. Studies show that as we age, we naturally reflect more on our past. But why does it feel so good?

    It’s a Comfort Mechanism – Research from the University of Southampton found that nostalgia helps regulate emotions, reducing stress and making us feel more connected and optimistic about life (Source: Southampton Study).

    It Helps Us Find Meaning – In midlife, we start questioning: Who am I now? What really matters? Nostalgia reminds us of the values, dreams, and joys that have shaped us.

    It Bridges Our Past & Present – It’s not about “wanting to go back.” It’s about bringing the best parts of our past forward—into how we dress, how we live, and what brings us joy today. Not all of our memories are fond ones, but

    Nostalgia is a beautiful thing, but let’s be honest—not every memory is wrapped in a warm glow. Some moments feel heavy, tangled with what-ifs and why-didn’t-Is. Looking back isn’t always about reliving the best days; sometimes, it’s about making peace with the harder ones. But even in those moments—the heartbreaks, the lessons learned—there’s something to honour. They remind us of our resilience, of how much we’ve grown, and of the life we’re choosing to build now. Because nostalgia isn’t just about celebrating the past—it’s about deciding what we carry forward and what we finally set down.

    The Nostalgia Triggers That Hit Us HARD

    Ever wonder why certain things instantly make you feel nostalgic? Here are some of the most powerful triggers:

    Music – That first concert you went to, the song that played at your wedding, the mixtape era—we remember moments through sound.

    Scents – The perfume your mother wore, the smell of an old bookstore, freshly cut grass in summer—scent is one of the strongest memory triggers.

    Fashion – The effortless styles of the 70s, the minimalism of the 90s—nostalgia shows up in how we dress, embracing past aesthetics in modern ways.

    Food – A recipe passed down through generations, the way our childhood favourite dish instantly brings us comfort.

    Old-School Rituals – Handwritten letters, film photography, flipping through a real magazine—things that felt normal then feel luxurious now.

    Nostalgia isn’t about “living in the past.” It’s about reintroducing joy into the present. If something sparks happiness, why not bring it back?

    How We Can Use Our Nostalgia To INSPIRE Our Life

    Nostalgia isn’t just about reminiscing—it’s about taking what we love from the past and using it to enrich our present and future. Here’s how we try to do it:

    Curate a Nostalgic Wardrobe (With a Modern Twist)

    Style is personal history. Instead of chasing trends, think about:

    1. What did you love wearing when you felt most confident?
    2. Which silhouettes, colours, or fabrics feel like you?
    3. Can you bring back effortless vintage elements—a silk scarf, a timeless trench, or classic gold hoops?
    RomanticiSe Your Daily Rituals

    Nostalgia reminds us of a time when life felt more intentional. Before everything became digital and rushed, we savoured experiences.

    Try This:

    • Swap out your phone alarm for a real alarm clock – yes the old fashioned brown and black kind!
    • Write in a physical journal instead of a note on your phone or iPad
    • Play some vinyl!
    • Use the ‘good’ china or glassware on a regular Tuesday—because why not? What are we saving it for? Everyday little luxuries that bring us joy.
    Revisit Hobbies That Once Lit You Up

    As kids and young adults, we created for the joy of it—not for productivity. Somewhere along the way, we forgot how to do things just for fun.

    Loved sketching? Buy a sketchbook. Used to dance? Put on a playlist and move. Miss the days of film photography? Dust off an old camera.

    What we have discovered of late, is that our past interests still hold clues to our current joy. We should listen to them and maybe start to follow them.

    Make Time for People Who Share Your History

    There’s something powerful about reconnecting with friends who knew you before life got complicated. It reminds you of who you’ve always been at your core.

    Write a letter (yes, an actual letter) to someone who meant a lot to you.

    Reach out to an old friend for a coffee date.

    Plan a “nostalgia night” with music, movies, and stories from the past.

    “Nostalgia is a gift – if we use it well.”

    maison 1973 founder, Nic Tierney.

    The Maison 1973 Takeaway:

    Our final thought? The maison 1973 woman isn’t looking back because she wants to go back. She’s looking back because she knows her past holds treasures that can enrich her future.

    So the next time nostalgia strikes, don’t brush it off. Ask yourself: What is this reminding me of? What can I bring back into my life today? Because sometimes, the key to moving forward is found in the beauty of what came before.

    Get nostalgic.

    Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration

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  • Curiosity & Confidence: The Secret to Staying Relevant at Any Age

    Curiosity & Confidence: The Secret to Staying Relevant at Any Age

    Unfiltered CURIOSITY

    AT THE HEART OF EVERYTHING WE DO.

    The Power Of Staying CURIOUS

    This is our most cherished trait here at maison 1973 – everyday we find ourselves intrigued by what is happening in the world around us and curious to explore it more.

    We truly believe that curiosity fuels growth, keeps the mind sharp, and stops us from becoming stagnant. Confidence, on the other hand, pushes us forward, allowing us to step into new experiences with authority. Together, they create an unstoppable force that ensures we’re never sidelined, never outdated, and never irrelevant.

    “Curiosity is the wick in the candle of learning”

    Albert Einstein.

    Why CURIOSITY Matters More Than Ever

    The world constantly evolves, and the women of Gen X—the ones who grew up in a world of mixtapes, and the first taste of digital revolution—are still evolving with it. What keeps us relevant? Curiosity and confidence. These two forces are the lifeblood of reinvention, the secret ingredients to staying ahead, engaged, and thriving at any stage of life.

    Curiosity is what allows us to remain agile, open-minded, and constantly learning. It’s what separates those who get stuck from those who continue to evolve. In a world that moves at lightning speed—where technology, culture, and even the way we communicate is constantly shifting—staying curious is the key to staying engaged.

    “You have to break rules to create new ones.” – Rei Kawakubo (Japan, designer & founder of Comme des Garçons)

    Curiosity leads us to ask better questions. It forces us to explore new industries, fresh perspectives, and innovative ways of thinking. It prevents us from falling into the trap of believing that we already know everything we need to know.

    How to Keep CURIOSITY Alive

    Learn Something New: Whether it’s a new language, a creative skill, or an emerging industry, never stop being a student.


    Engage with Different Generations: Listen to what Gen Z and Millennials are saying, and stay part of the conversation.


    Travel with Purpose: New places and cultures fuel an open mind. It’s not just about the destination; it’s about seeing the world through a fresh lens.


    Ask More Questions: Challenge assumptions, seek out new viewpoints, and never stop wondering “What if?”

    CONFIDENCE: The Ultimate Game-Changer

    Confidence isn’t about knowing all the answers—it’s about trusting yourself enough to step forward even when you don’t. For too long, women—especially those in midlife—have been conditioned to diminish themselves, to make room for others, to be seen but not heard. That era is over.

    Confidence comes from experience, but it also comes from deciding that you deserve to take up space. It’s about stepping into rooms, conversations, and opportunities with the belief that you belong there. And if no one has made space for you? Create it yourself.

    How to Cultivate CONFIDENCE Daily

    Dress for Yourself: What you wear should empower you, not please others. Style is an extension of who you are.
    Speak Up: Your voice is valuable. Make sure it’s heard, whether in the boardroom, in friendships, or in societal conversations.
    Say No Without Guilt: Confidence means knowing what serves you—and unapologetically rejecting what doesn’t.
    Invest in Yourself: Whether it’s personal development, mental wellness, or financial independence, self-investment is the ultimate power move.

    The INTERSECTION of Curiosity & Confidence

    When curiosity and confidence work together, you become unstoppable. You aren’t afraid to explore, experiment, or pivot. You recognise that relevance isn’t about clinging to youth, but about embracing evolution.

    The maison 1973 woman isn’t content to fade into the background—she’s still shaping culture, leading industries, and redefining what it means to be a woman in midlife.

    REINVENTION is a Power Move

    The most dynamic women of our time never stop reinventing themselves.

    Reinvention isn’t about starting over—it’s about building upon what you already know and shaping it into something new. The maison 1973 woman sees reinvention not as a challenge, but as an opportunity.

    Career pivots? Yes. It’s never too late to change direction or launch something new.
    Exploring new industries? Always. The digital world has opened up endless possibilities.
    Living without limits? Absolutely. This phase of life is about expansion, not contraction.

    The Confident ARCHITECTS

    As Gen X women, we are the decisive bridge between tradition and innovation. We’ve witnessed the world transform, and we’ve mastered the art of adaptation every step of the way. Now, we possess the knowledge, experience, and unwavering confidence to define what’s next—on our own terms.

    “I am curious, but never nosy. It’s important to know the difference when it comes to understanding life.

    maison 1973 founder, Nic Tierney.

    The Maison 1973 Takeaway:

    Our final thought? Keep moving forward.

    Get discovering.

    Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration

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