The Plant Project's Guide To: What Plants Are Pet Friendly?

A Plant Shop Owner’s Guide to Pet-Friendly Plants for Homes With Cats and Dogs

As the owner of The Plant Project, with locations in Houston and Dallas, I talk to pet owners every single day who want the same thing: a home filled with beautiful plants that’s also safe for their pets. I’ve lived this question personally, too.

I’ve owned plants alongside pets, watched cats test leaves with their teeth, and helped countless customers navigate conflicting advice they’ve found online.

So when someone asks me:

“What plants are actually pet friendly?”

The internet is full of conflicting answers, long toxic-plant lists, and advice that can feel overwhelming or fear-based. My goal with this guide is to simplify things, offer clarity, and help you make confident plant choices for a home that includes both plants and pets.

What Does “Pet-Friendly” Really Mean?

When people search for pet-friendly plants, they’re usually trying to answer one core concern: Will this plant hurt my pet if it’s eaten?

In this post, pet-friendly means non-toxic if ingested. That’s it. A few important clarifications: Non-toxic does not mean a plant is meant to be eaten

Eating large amounts of any plant can still cause mild stomach upset - Individual pets behave—and react—differently.

This definition reflects how we guide customers every day at The Plant Project. It’s realistic, practical, and rooted in real-world experience—not panic.

Why Pet-Safe Plant Advice Can Be So Confusing

If you’ve ever Googled “Are plants safe for pets?” and felt overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Many online lists lump plants into “toxic” or “safe” without explaining dose, behavior, or context.

Some plants are labeled dangerous based on mild irritation, while others are genuinely toxic—yet they’re often treated the same online.

Add in social media misinformation and fear-based headlines, and it’s easy to feel like every plant is a risk. 1 That’s why we focus on non-toxic plants, intentional placement, and real-world experience instead of blanket rules

Cats and dogs interact with plants very differently.

Cats are more sensitive to toxins and more likely to nibble leaves Dogs are less sensitive overall but more likely to chew larger amounts.

That’s why this list is evenly split: five plants that are cat-safe, five that are dog-safe, with some overlap where appropriate.

🌿 Cat-Safe & Easy Care

1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) An easy-care, pet-friendly indoor plant that thrives in bright to medium indirect light. Hardy and forgiving, it’s one of the most well-known non-toxic plants for cats. (Yes, cats are often drawn to it— placement matters.)

2. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans) A classic indoor palm that’s non-toxic for cats and does well in low to medium indirect light. It stays manageable in size and works beautifully in living rooms and bedrooms.

3. Calathea / Prayer Plant Family Known for their patterned leaves, these pet-safe indoor plants prefer medium indirect light and consistent watering. Non-toxic for cats, but best for owners comfortable with a bit of routine care

Dog-Safe & Easy Care

4. Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata) A sculptural indoor plant that tolerates bright indirect light and missed waterings. Non-toxic for dogs and a great option for busy households.

5. Peperomia Varieties Compact, stylish, and well-suited for indoor shelves and desks, peperomias thrive in medium to bright indirect light. Many varieties are non-toxic for both cats and dogs.

Higher-Maintenance, Pet-Friendly Plants

These plants are still non-toxic for pets, but they benefit from more attentive care and thoughtful placement.

These plants may require more attention, but they’re still safe choices for pet homes.

🌿 Cat-Safe, Higher Maintenance

6. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens) A lush pet-friendly indoor palm that prefers bright, indirect light and consistent watering. Safe for cats, but happiest with regular care.

7. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) A classic cat-safe indoor plant that thrives in bright, indirect light and higher humidity. Ideal for bathrooms or kitchens with good light.

🐶Dog-Safe, Higher Maintenance

8. Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya)

A colorful pet-safe indoor plant that prefers bright indirect light. It benefits from regular pruning and consistent watering.

9. Friendship Plant (Pilea involucrata)

A textured, non-toxic indoor plant for dogs that grows best in medium indirect light. A little particular about watering, but very rewarding.

🌿🐶🐱Safe for Both (With Intentional placement)

10. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)

A statement indoor palm that’s non-toxic for both cats and dogs. It prefers bright to medium indirect light and works well in larger pet-friendly spaces.

Plant Placement Matters More Than you Think…

Choosing pet-safe plants is only part of the equation. Where and how you place your plants often matters more than the plant itself.

A Simple Pet-Friendly Plant Placement Checklist Use this as a quick guide when styling your space:

• Know your pet’s habits: Leaf nibblers need different setups than pets who ignore plants entirely

• Use height intentionally: Elevate plants with sturdy plant stands or tall planters

• Shelving is your friend: Wall shelves work well for compact or trailing indoor plants.

• Hang with care: Hanging plants should be fully out of reach—not just barely.

• Choose rooms wisely: Offices, guest rooms, and bedrooms often see less pet traffic

• Avoid temptation zones: Keep plants away from favorite nap spots, litter boxes, and food areas

• Observe and adjust: Even non-toxic plants may need to be moved based on behavior.

Plants We Recommend at The Plant Project

At The Plant Project, we curate our inventory with real homes in mind—including homes with pets.

The plants listed above are staples in our shops because they balance style, ease of care, and pet safety without feeling overly precious or intimidating.

If you’re shopping for pet-friendly indoor plants, we recommend starting with: Spider plants and peperomia varieties for shelves and desktops. Palms like parlor palm or bamboo palm for floor plants Calatheas and prayer plants for pet owners who want visual interest Our team is always happy to help you choose plants that fit your light, lifestyle, and pets—whether you’re just starting out or adding to a growing collection.

Ask Us In our botanical boutique

Still unsure what will work in your space?

Bring your questions (and even photos of your home) into The Plant Project. Our team helps pet owners make plant choices every day, and we’re always happy to talk through light, placement, and pet behavior before you buy.

Your Creative Grower

Bree Iman Clarke

4 Things to Do for Your Houseplants in March

Spring is just around the corner, and your houseplants are starting to stir from their winter slumber! 🌿

March marks a pivotal time for indoor greenery as the days grow longer, temperatures rise, and fresh growth begins to emerge. To ensure your leafy companions flourish, here are 4️⃣ key steps to take for your houseplants this March.

Repotting:

Check if your plants are root-bound (roots growing out of the drainage holes or circling the pot). If so, it’s time to repot them into a slightly larger container with fresh potting soil. This provides more space for root growth and replenish. Remember your plants have been sitting in the same soil all winter.

Pruning & Cleaning:

Trim away any dead or yellowing leaves to promote new growth. Pruning can encourage bushier growth and improve air circulation. Additionally, wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust, which allows the plant to photosynthesize more effectively.

Fertilizing:

As plants begin to grow more actively in spring, they will benefit from additional nutrients. Most houseplants slow down their growth during winter, so you may not be feeding them as much. Use a balanced, gentle, water-soluble fertilizer to provide essential nutrients. We love organic fertilizer. Follow the package instructions for dilution and frequency to avoid over-fertilizing.

Light & Watering:

As the sun shifts and temperatures rise, your houseplants will have different needs. Gradually increase watering…As your plants grow, they’ll need more water. Check the soil regularly, but avoid overwatering! Also Reposition for more light. With stronger sunlight, you can move your plants closer to bright areas to help them absorb more natural light. And as always make sure to keep your plants from from drafty windows and doors. So monitor those temperature changes at night.

Happy Planting Plant Besties

xoxo

Bree Iman Clarke

Love is in the Air “Plant”

February is a month that highlights the beauty & joy in L O V E. Hello Valentine’s & Galentine’s Day. Here at The Plant Project we are slightly partial to giving Plants for Love Day rather than Flowers. What’s even cooler is that we love that you can give Plants that are Flowers to that special someone.

Plants vs. Flowers

So why Team Plants over here for Valentine’s Day? Well for one Plants last longer. Let face it, that special someone wants their Valentine’s gifts to last…just like that LOVE for their lover.

Two, Plant Care is Self Care. When you give a Plant as a gift. It’s the gift that keeps giving. It’s something your loved one can nurture, nourish & watch grow. It’s true PLANT JOY

We have a few Plants that sure to make your heart skip a beat

Dianthus “Carnation”

Dianthus requires minimal to moderate care. Although the type commonly known as carnations dislikes heat, the flowers still need ample sunlight to help them stand tall. They Love water…and they are my favorite.

Anthurium

What’s sexy about this plant is that it comes in so many colors.You may even see this beauty in bouquets. Anthurium plants can tolerate all levels of indirect light, but anthuriums growing in low light will have fewer flowers and will grow slower. These plants cannot tolerate direct light, however, as this can burn the leaves. They grow best in bright, indirect light.

Bromeliad

Bromeliad plants provide an exotic touch to the home and bring a sense of the tropics and sun-kissed climates. Growing a bromeliad as a houseplant is easy and brings interesting texture and color to the interior garden
Provide bright, indirect light unless you know your bromeliad prefers a different light level. Generally, varieties with soft, flexible, spineless leaves usually prefer lower light levels, while those with stiff, hard leaves prefer bright indirect light. But in general, it's enough to water these plants very sparingly through the soil weekly during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter rest period.

Which one do you Love?

Tips for Caring for Houseplants in the Winter…

As the seasons change outside, your plant care routine should change inside. At first we were just sharing 3 Easy Tips & Tricks but we get this question often. So Buckle Plant Bestie…we will have you on the road to Plant Parenthood in no time.

Increase Light

If it feels like we rarely see the sun in the winter, that’s because it sets earlier, is lower in the sky, and is often covered with clouds. Make sure your houseplants are getting enough light during this time. Most plants will adjust to the seasonal change in their current spot, while others might need to be moved closer to their light source, the window, to receive more light. If plants are visibly leaning towards the window, gradually rotate them every few days to help them straighten out. If plants have spindly new growth, move them closer to the sill.

Adjust Your Watering Routine

It might sound counterintuitive, but most indoor plants need less water during the winter. While it's true that winter air is drier, plants experience a slower rate of growth during colder months; some even go completely dormant. Therefore, plants need less water to keep hydrated, and overwatering can lead to root rot. Keep in mind that different plants have different water needs—drought-tolerant cacti and other succulents might not need watering at all, while some tropicals might still require more regular watering.

Be Mindful of Temperature

An extreme change in temperature, or draft of cold or warm air, can cause indoor plants, used to somewhat stable conditions, to stress out. Keep your plants away from open windows and front doors, as well as heating units and radiators (which can quickly dry them out). Some plants are more sensitive to the cold than others but if you’re feeling the chill, chances are, your plants are too. Most common varieties of houseplants prefer temps around 75°F.

Embrace Dormancy

Feel sleepy in winter? Plants do too—thanks to shorter days and less sun. Many plants even go into a state of dormancy or semi-dormancy in the winter months.This is ok Friends. You can also wait for visible signs of thirst to show, like wrinkling leaves for succulents or drooping stems for tropicals, paired with dry soil.

Dust Off Leaves

Closed windows during the cold winter months can increase dust and indoor pollution. When dust and dirt build up on your plants’ leaves, it can reduce the amount of light getting to your houseplants. Considering how short the days are—it is even more important than usual that your plants get as much light as possible. Help by gently dusting off leaves every few weeks with a soft, damp cloth. You can also add a drop or two of lemon juice or household soap.

We are Empowering all people to be plant people.We want to inspire confidence in the next generation of plant parents. There are no brown or black thumbs here at The Plant Project. Only Plant Joy… we are rooting for you Plant Besties

Never Stop Growing 🌱

The Plant Project

The Best way to Decorate with Summer Florals

Let me tell you a little secret….You don’t need a special occasion to receive or play with flowers.

I promise you.

Recently I had the pleasure of chatting with Maggie Rodriguez of Daytime TV Show and shared the latest tips and tricks on how to transform the look of a space with florals. While also chatting about how to create that cute & simple Summer Style Tablescape.

So often we wait to birthdays, bridal showers, baby showers & other joyous occasions to focus on blooms.

Next time you are in your local grocery store- grab some flowers as well. Doesn’t have to be much. Just a little something…and feel the smile that takes over when playing with them at home.

Ever wonder why flowers are always placed in the front of the grocery store? I answer this during our segment. Check out the segment & pics below.🌸 Let us know what you think.

Never stop Blooming Friends🌱

Just Breathe….A week of Wellness

I think it is safe to say. Each one of us is in major need of unplugging. In need of a wellness retreat. A space were we wish to unwind, search within ourselves and most importantly heal.

Gratitude can transform any situation. It alters your vibration, moving you from negative energy to positive. It’s the quickest, easiest most powerful way to effect change in your life-this I know for sure.”

Oprah

I recently had the beautiful pleasure of visiting Miraval Austin Resort. An invitation I did not take lightly. Just a few weeks before I went to Miraval. I realized I needed to unplug in a major way. I took a social media break, because honestly I was drowning. I was not putting myself first. I was pouring so much in to the community. That I forgot to pour into myself. I was on the verge of a breakdown.

This has been a very hard year for everyone. 2020 has shown the worlds true colors, while at the same time forcing us to sit down, shut-up and see. Not just look, but really see and take it all in. Ive said it before and I will say it again. This is a year each one of us needed. No matter how hard, uncomfortable or what losses we faced.

Miraval was that peace I needed. It was that reset. We arrived Tuesday Morning…and although the weather wasn’t the best it was so serene. Carlos & I were greeted at the top of the hill where we were immediately escorted by a golf cart to our room. We had the Austin Suite which was perfect. It had a parlor like setup with an attached King room. It offered more space, upgraded amenities (guys we had an outdoor shower…so sexy)

After we were settled in our room we jump right into our pre-planned itinerary. We had a pretty packed one. But the beautiful thing about Miraval you can do as much as you want…or as little as you want. Of course with our visit being something to show my followers I wanted to experience as much as possible.

life in balance

The best place to start of course is the spa. Miraval Spa is more then just the spa, it is a complete retreat for the mind, body, and soul. Carlos & I signed up for Signature Petal Pecan Facial, Blood Orange Pedicure/Manicure, Ginger Healer & Shamana-Karma. My favorite was the Ginger Healer This was a deep tissue massage that included wrapping my body in pure ginger rosemary oil. Followed by a Ginger Salt Glaze scrub and a hot steam shower.

The Facial was amazing as well, I fell asleep though lol, but my skin was glowing at the end. Carlos said the Blood Orange Pedicure was the best pedicure he had ever had in his life. The Spa also mentioned that more men have been signing up for pedicures & manicures ever since spas reopened.

Did you know they offer Day Packages as well for the Spa?

Culinary & Nutrition

I will be honest when I saw the words Conscious Cooking. I thought oh brother, we are about to eat rabbit food. And Carlos is going to be giving me the stank eye. But I was W R O N G. The intention of Conscious Cooking at Miraval is to do more than please the palate: It is to shape how food is viewed. The Preparation, consumption, the relationship. We were able to experience all of the above through Fresh Smoothies, Hands-on Demonstrations, Restaurant Dining, Room Services, Afternoon Snacks.

The Life in Balance Culinary Kitchen allowed us to meet Culinary Specialist Lexie Ruse. Who shared her story, passion & purpose through culinary. She hosted an amazing cocktail workshop (which we attended two) As well as the Just Cook For Me Experience which allowed us to leave with our hearts & bellies full.

The food in the Dining Room as amazing as well. The views spectacular, overlooking Lake Travis. Oh did I mention it was complimentary. YES! It is included in your stay. And I will tell you, I was not modest? I order 2—3 appetizers, 2 entrees and all the desserts. The food was A M A Z I N G, so fresh and as if you were dining at a 5 star restaurant. Every recipe harnesses the skills of Miraval’s chefs.

wellbeing….

This is the part I didn’t know how I was going to feel about. I have always been taught to stay clear of meditation and searching deep within yourself. So I will be honest I was hesitate. On our first day we jumped right into Wellness Counseling. Remember I said, you can do as much as you want or as little as you want. Miraval always give you the choice. Carlos & I took part in the LIFE, LOSS & LETTING GO. As well as Digital Mindfulness, Stress Solutions, Living a Life in Balance. Its something I believe we truly needed. It was a space where we could share our experiences, transitions and a lot of my feelings towards 2020.

There were truly so many amazing experiences. All with the goal to not necessarily forget what was going on outside of Miraval but how to deal with it properly and in a healthy manner. They had experts that guided you to create your own lasting blend of balance -- emotionally, physically, spiritually, and intellectually.

cleansing ceremony with courtney

On our very last day. We headed to a section of the resort we had not visited our entire stay. I believe we were saving the best for last. Solidago was a beautiful temple where we had the chance to experience Courtney Parnell

This ceremony was all about energetic cleansing. Where Courtney shared the story of the temple, the property. As well purifying properties of ancient plants such a Palo Santo and Sage. Which created a safe and sacred space of protection and clarity. Courtney taught me the importance of letting go to energy that no longer served me. With her custom playlist in the background.

She taught me the art of breathing, inhaling and when I let it go…to do so not lightly. But loudly with great force. At the end I was provided a take-home note-card to write to my future self. And it was powerful.

Miraval was magical. There was so much that we did. So much that you can do as well. We learned the art of archery (which made me feel like Katniss Everdeen . Sustainable Living by visiting Cypress Creek Farm where I learned the birth of a Loofa. As well as met the hens that provide the farm-to-table restaurant with fresh eggs and wander the farm. Along with Chicken Keeping & Beekeeping.

At the end of the night I laid my head down on the most magical bedding I have ever slept on in my life. I would describe it as a cloud-like sanctuary.

I could keep talking about Miraval Austin, because it is truly a magical place that each of us must experience at least once in our life. No matter what your intent—getaway with the girls, solo retreat, or escape with your soul mate it is for you. So as my gift to you. I am offering with your next stay $225 DAILY resort credits that can be used toward spa treatments or private session when visiting Miraval Austin.

CLICK HERE TO RECEIVE

Not only does Miraval Austin committed to your emotional, spiritual & physical well being. But they are VERY committed to your safety.

Miraval Austin is taking advance and extensive cleaning protocols prior to arrival. Guestrooms are disinfected, sanitized and sealed, not to be reopened until the next guest arrives. They offer contactless delivery of guest request items and enter your guest room for housekeeping service upon request. All wellness activities will require advance sign up to ensure physical distancing and proper sanitation between classes. Masks will be required in certain areas. I love that the property is large and open, ensuring social distancing is forefront.

A Note from Bree

Friends I know this has not been a easy year. I know that 2020 has shown many of us, what we were not ready to see, feel, or even deal with. But we made it through it. We are strong and I want each and every one of you to remember this. This was a season we needed in our life. Its a season we will never forget. Its a season that will require much healing from. Just know each of us are capable of healing, of growing of glowing. Experience Miraval Austin Resort, and let it be part of your healing journey.

BudhaGirl + The Iman Project

Budha Girl Bangles has been something I have yearned for, for a long time. I would always say to Carlos that I wanted a pair when I would see them out. It was just something that we couldn't spend our money on. But Carlos reminded me that we work so hard. We work too hard not to get the things that make us happy. I purchased my first pair of Budha Girl Bangles November 2019. It was during a rough patch for me mentally, spiritually and emotionally. My mindset & intentions changed right when I slipped them on and 9 months later I am here.... Take a peek of the BTS of something magical happening with Budha Girl.

Calming Enso Circle Art with Color Snack

During these COVID-19 times, we want to give our community positive, creative and helpful outlets to keep your mindset right and your creative juices flowing. That’s why we were so excited to partner with Color Snack with this dope tutorial on Enso Circle Art. Have fun with this one and stay well!!!

Enso Circle Art

Step 1. Gather your supplies. You’ll need paints, paper, the largest brush you have and some water. Any paints will work with this mindfulness exercise. I’ll be using watercolors.

Step 2. Load up your brush with plenty of water and paint. 

Take a deep breath in.

Apply pressure on the page as you begin to paint your circle.

Step 3. Continue to breathe out deeply, as you finish the circle, and connect your line to the beginning point.

Step 4. 

Deep breath in. 

Load up your brush with a different color from the palette. 

As you begin to slowly breathe out, paint a second, smaller circle inside the first one.

Step 5. Complete your circles as you finish your deep breath out.

Step 6. 

Write a one word affirmation. Any word that brings you peace and comfort, as a small reminder to breathe in/breathe out with mindfulness.

For more info and background on enso art, visit: https://www.colorsnack.com/color-snacks/enso-art-with-watercolors/

Or IG TV video: https://www.instagram.com/tv/B-P4rh1HanG/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet

Plant Parenthood

Plant Care is Self Care…

Plants make people happy… I think right now, we all need a little more happiness. Studies show that plants can reduce mental fatigue and stress, while increasing relaxation — it’s that little piece of nature that can make a difference in your day. For a while I have been wanting a plant bar in my house. I had this barcart forever from Target but never used it as an actual bar. So it just set in my garage. I would walk past it and be like, “I can definitely use it for something else.”

Growing up my mom had a lot of plants. I would remember misting & watering them all the time. At first it was a chore. Then it became something I loved. Little did I know they would become my oasis.

Your Home is your sanctuary

Our lifestyle studios, Little House on Routh & Little House of Bishop Arts are filled with Plants. But my own home…nada. And as we know we are all spending a lot more time at home.

So all plants came to my “actual” house instead of the “Little Houses” As you can see some got a little loving in the sink, this morning. P.S The sink & the tub is the best place to give your plants all the watering love.

Iam constantly getting text messages & DMs asking me about my plants. As well as where you should buy them. Also questions about which plants would be best for your home.

Above you will find 10 plants for all our new plant parents out there. Fall in love with them, because they are your friends. Ok now to the cool part. Well I mean cooler part. I want a plant, where should I go. Right now due to COVID-19 we are experiencing Shelter in Place. So we love the fact we can get our plants in the mail. Oh you didn’t know? This is totally a thing. Duh. Forget CBD oil & crystals. These plant shops offer something more mundane: the delight of growing things delivered to your door.

The plant chica

Meet the Sandra Adis the girl behind all things green. The Plant Chica is our fav. We first learned about The Plant Chica last year when she hosted her Adopt-A-Plant event in California. P.S This event included margaritas #TotalWin Sandra knows that’s plants make people happy. And she is making sure everyone is getting a little happiness in their life. Located in Los Angelas we love the fact that she can ship everywhere. And you will too. 🌱

Let the Plant Chica Plantify your life.

Sol Planted

Sol Planted, is on a mission to bring more easy care indoor plants to Dallas! Through a white glove delivery service, Sol Planted brings your new plants right to your front door, ensuring all of your questions are answered as you begin your journey. Their selection includes air purifying plants, low light plants, and even pet friendly plants. We love, that they love sustainability and have a selection of pots made of 80% recycled plastic and we’ve partnered with onetreeplanted to plant a tree for every plant purchased 🌱

Bloomscape

Life gathers around plants. And Bloomscape is making sure plants from their greenhouse is coming to your home for this reason. We love that Bloomscape believes everyone should live a little more green. They are here to help strengthen your relationship with plants. Bloomscape makes buying plants easy by delivering healthy, ready-to-go plants to your door and setting you up with the tips and tricks you need to help your plants thrive. Plants make life better. Bloomscape make plants easy.🌿

The sill

Their motto is plants make people happy. The simple idea was the seed for what would become The Sill: a modern plant destination for the modern plant lover.Plants make us happier, healthier, more efficient and boost our creativity. They even clean the air we breathe. The Sill thinks everyone deserves to have their own personal plant oasis. Every plant from The Sill comes with simple care instructions, direct access to our team of houseplant experts, and our guarantee to be there every step of the way. Remember Plant Care is Self Care 🌱

The Plant Shoppe

The Plant Shoppe is more than just a plant shop. Its the place to find a curated selection of indoor plants, pots and accessories.  Its the place to call when you need to send that pal a pick-me-up. Its the place you go to dirty them hands-on date night.  Its the place you gather at to celebrate life's moments. 🌿

Grow Plant Shop

Grow Plant Shop was created in 2018 by Bobby & Emily because, quite simply, they love plants. They wanted to create a space that felt warm and welcoming to all, from plant admirers to expert growers. Another cool thing about Grow Plant Shop is their storefront is located in Fort Worth, Texas and operated out of a 1978 Airstream Sovereign, that they renovated ourselves in their backyard.You can also purchase a selection of their products online and have them shipped directly to your door. They use expedited shipping and package plants in protective layers to ensure their safe arrival. So make sure you check them out🌱

I love plants.

Plants remind me of the happy moments that I had with my mom when I was a little girl. Moments that I don’t see as much as I like now. But when I am surrounded by plants I smile. Plants truly do heal friends…I promise you. Talk to them, love on them and watch them G R O W. Remember Plant Care…is Self Care. If you would like a little plant sent to your home during these uncertain times. Let us know. For the first 4 readers we are sending a FREE small. Email us info@theimanproject.com to receive yours today. Put SELF CARE in the subject line.

p is for nonproductive

Productive does’t Equal your worth…

“I’m overwhelmed.... I don’t know where to start? I feel like I have so much in my head and so many ideas. And I’m always complaining about not having time and now I have all the time in the world.“

Words I texted Katie this past Friday. Just moments after I scrolled my To-Do List in my notes that seems to get longer & longer each day. 

To Do List

1. Date Night Blog

2. Plant Blog Post 

3. Work on Plant Cart 

4. Next Weeks Newsletter

5. Podcast To-Do List

6. Letter for Vendors

7. Coping with Coronavirus

8. #WFH With Kids Blog

9. Home School Reality 

10. Shop Small Blog List

11. Edit Stickers

12. Send Letters 

13. Work on Cookbook

14. Where is the Book Bree? 
    

Hell Friday’s newsletter just went out 2 hours ago and I was already talking about being behind for next weeks newsletter. Why in the heck is my To-Do List so long? (I didn’t list everything) Oh & my fav, where is the book Bree. LMAO

Like I am really looking myself in the mirror saying, “Get your shit together, you are slacking Bree.” On top of the “To-Do List” you don’t see the DIY things. Home Cooked Meals that are being made for a family of 5. Yes 5 because my father lives with us too.

The“Homeschooling” that I’m two seconds away from saying “What about that rap career Kai & Kael” Don’t worry about school

All you see.....all you hear is STAY BUSY, BE PRODUCTIVE. 

Well I’m going to say it…

STOP TRYING TO BE PRODUCTIVE

Yep I said it! Whew! Dang that feels good. Oh I know there are some reading this right now that are probably like “Wow she is so Lazy.” 

Well #SorryNotSorry I’m not. 

Honestly there is so much noise around us. So many people & things telling us what to do. Social Media, The Internet, TV etc constantly giving us

• TO-Do’s

• How-To’s

• Challenges 

And telling us we have ALL the time in the world right now. So do more, be more. I mean you have the time right?!?

Let’s see I need to Marie Kondo my entire home. Join a Peloton group or make sure I take a virtual workout class to stay in shape. Make sure I am sitting at the computer to watch a Live Q & A, about how I need to do more and cope with everything. Which 80% of the time takes place when I’m suppose to home-school my twins. One with Autism & one with Dyslexia. 

Which is a whole different topic. That I will touch on. Wait, actually I will touch on a bit right now. Just had the first week of the boys school and yeah....NO. The amount of emails 40+ in one day. Notifications average of 60 and the zoom calls. It was a shit show- and we officially skipped a couple of days 

Long story short, it was tough enough to be productive when times were good. Let alone during a GLOBAL crisis. So if you feel like you are not being productive.

Stop beating yourself up about it.

I read this recently from Chris Bailey, Author “Hyperfocus: How to Manage Your Attention in a World of Distraction.” “The idea that we have so much time available during the day now is fantastic, but these days it’s the opposite of a luxury. We’re home because we have to be home, and we have much less attention because we’re living through so much.

Guys we are going through a lot. A LOT. 

And it’s stuff that isn’t normal. We feel as though every minute of our life has to be productive. Even during these times. And honestly this just adds more stress to our life. 

Lives that have not adjusted to the new normal. 

We are dealing with a lot right now. Accept that. We are loosing Jobs, loosing money. Trying to figure out how to be keep food on our tables. Care for our children & other loved ones. Trying to be a good companion or spouse. Making sure we are being a good friend. Trying to keep up with all the news. Wear a mask don’t wear a mask. Stay in the house to April 30....wait I mean May 20th. 

Gosh! It’s all so much. 

Be kind……

More then ever that cute “IG Post” that’s trendy, colorful and that states BE KIND is needed.

But not only to others....to ourselves. Each one of us dealing with these uncertain times differently. And each one of us have no experience to deal with these times. Remember some may cope with these times entirely different from you. Productive may be their middle name. But this doesn’t mean you are less, because unproductive is yours. 

And if you are very productive and you can do all the challenges, do all the IG Lives & the How-To’s & To-Do’s. Me writing this blog is not to diminish the work you do, or even have to do. It’s simply to remind myself and others. It’s still OK to not have it all figured out. Even with all the time in the world.

““Challenges are gifts that force us to search for a new center of gravity. Don’t fight them. Just find a new way to stand.” -OPRAH”

Illustrations by Charly Clements