Nan Philip

📍New York City | Interior Design Publicist & Occasional Blogger

📝 Editor’s Note

I hesitate to say I had a ‘lightbulb’ moment last week because I know this, I just don’t practice it — Focus.

The moment came about when I was describing my friend and former co-worker, Rob W. After knowing him for just a few weeks, I knew that he was laser focused on one thing; moving to China to make his own video game. I found this to be an interesting focus coming from a guy who grew up in Indiana and attended the Naval academy. However, as you dig deeper you learn that he speaks fluent Mandarin and used his laser focus when at Activision to start cultivating relationships and opportunities in China. Spoiler alert, Rob has left Activision to co-found a studio, raise a bunch of money, and now has a team in China working on his video game. I think this is so cool.

I really like this Steve Jobs quote, recently shared in the James Clear newsletter: “People think focus means saying yes to the thing you've got to focus on. But that's not what it means at all. It means saying no to the hundred other good ideas that there are. You have to pick carefully. I'm actually as proud of the things we haven't done as the things I have done. Innovation is saying no to 1,000 things.”

Who else is bad at saying, “no”?

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Without further ado….

Why Nan?

Nan came highly recommended from Julia Lynch a/k/a “@Smarterinasec”. Nan curates a great Instagram account that is filled with useful tips and advice across a wide spectrum of topics. Furthermore, as you’ll see below, we both love a good book and her latest recommendation is The Only One Left by Riley Sager - “This is one of my favorite reads so far this year, a good mystery that keeps you on the edge of your seat.”

Follow Nan on Instagram @nan.philip

Self-Description

A 30 year old gal living in New York City. I spend too much money on skincare and clothing (but make my self feel better about it by sharing my favorite finds on my blog & instagram.) I am a new dog mom(!), I love to travel and try new restaurants but I am also a total homebody.

Nan’s Recommendations

Written in her own words…

Content

Libby

I usually read a few books per month but only this year did I realize I could save some money by getting a library card (duh!) I think the last time I had a library card was in elementary school but I went online and easily signed up a New York Public library card and I now read ebooks and listen to audio books (for free) via the Libby app. Sometimes you have to wait a few weeks to 'borrow' a new book but that is really the only possible downside.

Brand

The Perfect Pant, Kick Flare from Spanx

(Sorry, this recommendation is just for the gals)

I swear by these black, cropped, kick flare pants from Spanx. They are simply the best; they are so versatile, flattering on all body types and also extremely comfortable! They work for a day at the office, a nice dinner out, weekend brunch or to wear while traveling. I own multiple pairs and end up wearing them at least 1-2x a week (basically anytime I don't wear jeans or leggings.) I feel like every woman needs a pair of these pants!!

Digital Tools

Toggl

For my day job (I am publicist for interior designers and lifestyle brands) I need to keep track of my hours and how much time I spend on each client (both for my billing but I also for my time management.) To do this, I use an app called Toggl on my phone and computer. It allows me to track my time throughout the day and easily 'toggle' between projects and clients. Then at the end of the month I can see a report of how much time I spent on each client.

Food & Drink

Jalapeño Hex Simple Syrup - Gris Gris Cocktail Magic

If you like a spicy margarita, you will love this Jalapeño infused simple syrup! It is the perfect way to elevate your home-made margarita or really any spicy cocktail. I always have a bottle or two of this on hand (it also makes a great gift!)

Gift

The Rounds

One of my go-to gifts are these sweet and savory treats from The Rounds; I find that most people have never tried them but quickly fall in love with the yummy treats. They are made by hand in Brooklyn, NY and shipped nationwide (or delivered in NYC/Brooklyn.) My go-to flavors are the Gruyere Date, Cheddar Chive and then some of their colorful sugar cookies.

Amazon

Thermal Shipping Label Printer

I shop too often (oops!) but I also am super picky so I return things a lot and this label printer has made mailing back returns so much easier! You can easily print out any shipping label from your phone and because it is a thermal printer, you never need to buy new ink, just restock the labels.

Plug

I hope you will follow me on Instagram @Nan.Philip or over on my blog Nan-Philip.com where I share all my favorite finds (from skincare to home decor and fashion.) I always say that I hope my little corner of the internet can be a place to celebrate small moments of joy in everyday life!

Want to get in touch with Nan? Email: Nan@Nan-Philip.com or DM her on Instagram

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P.S. Tying this back to my James Clear fans who are habit stacking their way into Type A nirvana. For that crew and for anyone else that appreciates a good accountability buddy, check out the Atoms app. Beautiful UI and recent winner of “best new app” on the Apple app store.