Each new year there are millions of resolutions made. The question is: how many are really kept as the year progresses?
Well, here are my five for 2024. I feel confident that I can keep all of them, but #4 will be challenging due to shipping logistics. The other four are just a question of upping my game, which also means finally hiring some help.
I am hesitant to hire, but also know that this very labor-intensive venture means one person cannot possibly do more if one wants to grow. Also, employing others will be a way to generate fair wages for piece work that will be a great help to many.
Already there are two women who are asking for work. Itza is a tiny young mother who has helped me to find jean jackets in the massive clothing piles and has also helped me to unpick seams and hems.
The second woman, Emeling, is very adept at hand stitching, especially sashiko. She attended a workshop years ago and this is an easy way for her to make an income in a small fishing village where employment is scarce.
Both of them have proved to be honest, hardworking and anxious for more work. Their payments are based on completed pieces at an established price per inch. The beauty of this is that they are very well paid in cash (fair wages), they work at their own pace and locations and are under no pressure to complete within any time frame.
So, let’s have an accountability check in one year! May my resolutions and yours be achieved! Happy, productive, healthy and prosperous 2024 to you.