INTERVIEW NO 31
Joshua
GOOD SLEEP
“First, I make a list of things I want to accomplish that day. It helps me to focus on specific goals because I tend to go on creative tangents if I don't have a solid plan.”
Joshua is a Brooklyn-based creative and runs On Sunday – a journal about Sunday rituals. With On Sunday he attempts to redefine what it means to come home—through products, hand-on experiences, and soon, through hospitality. In the present day On Sunday lives through The Sunday Journal; a weekly round up of topical articles and editorials relevant to travel and a slow lifestyle. Check it out here.
JANUARY 2018
BROOKLYN, NEW YORK
INTERVIEW: VM
PHOTOS: JOSH MCLEOD
“Coming home to a made bed everyday almost feels like living in a hotel.“
My name is Joshua McLeod (pronounced Mc
) I work on Brand Partnerships for an influencer marketing agency called Collectively. We’re a full service agency that connects brands with the most creative and influential voices on social media. Primary, I work on new business, the brands that haven't worked with us before. It’s a fun job that I’m so fortunate to have.
WHAT TIME DO YOU GET UP?
I usually wake up around 6ish. I am very much an early bird. I find getting out of bed early and getting the day started while the sun rises really sets me up for a successful day. There are some days, specifically weekends, where I will spend a few extra minutes in bed.
HOW DOES YOUR ALARM SOUND?
Like a 2 year old puppy named Louie. And I think the snooze button is broken.
THINGS YOU DO IN THE MORNING?
I normally get out of bed and go straight into the shower to really wake myself up. Then back into the bedroom to make my bed. When I lived with my best friend during college, she would make her bed every morning and I never understood why. But since moving to NY, I picked up the habit and it’s changed my life. Coming home to a made bed everyday almost feels like living in a hotel.
BREAKFAST?
I do have breakfast — but as a luxury reserved for weekends. Saturday and Sunday mornings are usually spent being playful in the kitchen, from savory crepes, to cardamom waffles, to chocolate smoothies. If you want something filling and delicious I’d recommend Milk & Pull Bed Stuy, a cool coffee shop on Malcolm X Blvd. They have a bagel sandwich called The Roasted Bush with turkey, avocado, tomato, and chipotle mayo on an everything bagel — need I say more? For more of a traditional brunch spot, Chez Oskar across the street has refreshing grapefruit Crème brûlée and french toast that’ll have you licking the plate clean.
WHAT TIME ARE YOU MOST CREATIVE?
I think my productivity depends less on the time of day and more on the time of year. I find myself less productive and creative in the Winter months, versus Summer. With more hours in the day I feel I get more done and have loads more energy to pursue creative endeavours.
ARE YOU GETTING ENOUGH SLEEP?
Yes. I value sleep—so much that I set reminders and alarms for bed time. I would rather sacrifice sleeping in, than not going to bed at a reasonable time.
I have found it easier to fall asleep since moving to New York. When I lived in Savannah I found that my mind was always racing once I laid down to sleep. On the contrary living in New York a lot of those thoughts are processed while riding the subway. I’ve found that public transportation provides ample time to make to-do lists, brainstorms, and general thinking. Silly, I know, but it’s honestly helped me sleep more soundly.
WHERE DO YOU SLEEP BEST?
My sister's guest bedroom. I’m not sure where the mattress is from, but it will almost instantaneously transport you to the best dreams you’ve ever had. It’s the perfect balance of firm and soft, and remains cool throughout the night.
ANY RITUALS BEFORE GOING TO BED?
No, not at the moment. But I’m looking into a greater nighttime skincare routine. Any recommendations out there?
DO YOU REMEMBER YOUR DREAMS?
I find that I never remember my dreams, but always remember the nightmares—too dark to share.
ARE YOUR DREAMS INSPIRING YOU TO REAL LIFE PROJECTS?
Actually, yes! About two and a half years ago I dreamt of a store offering products to create the perfect Sunday. There were robes, bedding, and face masks, and so much reading material. The space covered all five senses, sight, touch, smell, taste, and sound. I recently brought that dream to life.
DO YOU CARE WHAT YOU WEAR FOR SLEEPING?
I am susceptible to overheating, so I usually opt for just my briefs. I love the idea of wearing a cotton pajama set to bed, but it’s just not practical for me.
YOUR BED IN THREE WORDS.
Hotel at Home.
WEIRDEST OR MOST SPECIAL SPOT YOU EVER SLEPT IN?
I spent some time in Hong Kong during university, and I once went on a hike to a spot known for cliff diving. It was was about an hour drive to the trail, then a three hour hike through villages, a beach, followed by a bit of rock climbing. Once my friends and I reached the top it was so serene and quiet. All we could hear were our heart beats. I laid down to re-catch my breath and instantly fell asleep.
WHAT HAPPENS WHILE WE SLEEP?
Our souls rest, while our minds run wild.
HOW MANY SHEEP DO YOU COUNT?
I’m never able to remember.
WHAT DO YOU WANT TO DREAM ABOUT TONIGHT?
My life in 6 years.
“About two and a half years ago I dreamt of a store offering products to create the perfect Sunday. There were robes, bedding, and face masks, and so much reading material. The space covered all five senses, sight, touch, smell, taste, and sound. I recently brought that dream to life.“
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