In a crazy digital age, there’s nothing like taking pen to paper. Moleskine is our go-to planner because it combines functionality with a simple and chic design that we love taking around with us. Not to mention, we’re kind of obsessed with Moleskine’s amazing Italian founder, Maria Sebregondi. We chatted with her about her plans for the holidays and why she thinks Moleskine will be your new best friend in 2017 and beyond.
What Moleskine notebooks are you currently using?
Oh, many different ones! First of all, my pocket size red Daily Planner [is] always with me in my bag together with a pocket size purple Volant for quick notes or shopping lists. Also, on my desk [I have] a Moleskine Smart Writing Set, which includes the Paper Tablet and Pen+ for meeting notes and ideas I want to quickly digitize and share.
What’s your philosophy going into the new year?
Curiosity and openness. I naturally enjoy novelties, so to me starting a new year is a reservoir of surprises, new challenges, and achievements. Any specific resolutions? Pledging more time to my loved ones, family, and friends who live far away — at least a weekend a month at their place!
Do you have any suggestions for people who want to be more organized for the new year?
A paper planner is really useful to stay focused and correctly prioritize your tasks and goals. Moleskine has more than 80 different layouts and sizes, and paper holds memory so you can constantly update your lists and notes. If you [don’t love] planning on paper, you can try the Moleskine TimePage calendar app that seamlessly integrates with the physical world and helps you organize your life.
We love featuring female founded companies. How do you think the working world has changed for women since you started Moleskine?
Unfortunately, not as much as it could have! Slowly, we see more women taking on positions higher up the chain, but there’s a long way [to go] and I’m convinced that we shouldn’t stop fighting. Moreover, the reduction of social services and the lack of welfare that we see in many countries isn’t supporting female entrepreneurship. In spite of that, almost everywhere, women are more and more talented and self-confident.
What advice would you give to women who are starting their own business?
Think big, follow your passions, build loyal relationships, and trust them. Don’t be afraid to share your ideas, successes, and failures.
Did you ever expect Moleskine to be this popular, especially because there’s so much technology around us?
When we started the Moleskine adventure, we were totally aware of the upcoming digital tide and being an active part of it. We thought that an inspiring object that was well designed with a legendary story to tell could be the best companion for our nomadic lives: no wires, no battery, no tech standardization.
Are there any holiday traditions you look forward to?
On the evening of December 25, my whole family gathers and we share seafood recipes, a variety of sweets, we exchange gifts, [plus] music, drinks, and a lot of fun. I deeply appreciate these moments.
xx, The FabFitFun Team
P.S. Psst! Have you signed up for the #FabFitFun box yet? Don’t miss out on $200+ in amazing beauty, fitness, fashion, and lifestyle products every season. Join today!
To get the most out of your box products, make sure to check out the Insider page.
