simple • intentional • minimal


photo by Christoph Soeder

Welcome to the notorious notes

Hi there, my name is Ioanna Gkiza-Soeder, and this blog is my passion. I created this website during my pregnancy and launched it soon after the birth of my son.

I write essays about everything that matters to me- minimalism, goal-setting, passions, relationships, work and life as seen through the lens of simplicity and intentionality. I aspire to lead a purposeful life where visual, emotional and psychological clutter occupies the least space so I can focus on the essence of life. I hope that alongside this journey, you will accompany me by finding courage and inspiration through the essays I write and share with you. Oh! I forgot to mention how much I love coffee, and these essays would not be possible without a cup of hot coffee by my side!

Books play a pivotal role in my life, and I always find my way to a bookstore. In fact, there is always a book escorting my daily life adventures. I appreciate book suggestions, and therefore, through this website, I share with you the books I have relished reading or currently cherish leafing through in case you are looking for a good book to read.

Enjoy!


Latest Essays

  • Why do we work?
    Belonging to a community enhances the feeling of purpose and fulfilment brought about by social contributions, which are also achieved through work.
  • The stress of the holidays
    The stress of the holidays is a common experience. I remember hearing about it when I was younger and finding it puzzling.
  • Guilt-free parenting 
    Guilt-free parenting means embracing the idea that you’re doing the best you can with what you know and have. It’s about acknowledging your mistakes compassionately and using them as teachable moments to show your child how to learn, reflect, and bounce back with grace. After all, parenting is a journey, not just for your child, but for you too.
  • Minimalist Parenting
    And while my son is only two years old, I can confirm that minimalist parenting exists and is less perplexing than one may think.
  • New year, better me
    Potential, skills, passions, and determination for bettering are encapsulated in every single one of us. I don’t need a new me. I wager all my money on a better me.
  • Minimal Christmas
    Minimal Christmas means directing our focus on the important, essential, and purposeful things in life while taming the impulses triggered by the high consumerism of these days.