Learning Moments

A pocket-map for noticing, wondering, and learning from your surroundingsingful pauses

I’m a Street Wisdom guide, but here’s the thing: you don’t need me to do this. That’s exactly why I made this pocket map—so you can try it on your own, whenever you want.

Here’s the map: Download “Wander Into Wonder”: Street Wisdom Pocket-Map by Learning Moments.

It’s simple. Print it, fold it, slip it in your pocket. Then step outside and see what happens when you slow down.

What is Street Wisdom, anyway?

It’s a slow walk through your neighbourhood where you pay attention differently. That’s it. You’re not trying to get anywhere or accomplish anything. You’re just noticing what’s around you and letting the street teach you something.

I do this regularly, and I’m still surprised every time. When I lower my pace, my eyes catch things I’ve walked past a hundred times. My ears pick up sounds I usually tune out. The familiar street becomes new. (See my Amsterdam strolls: asking the street for joy, and for inspiration for a painting.)

It sounds almost too easy. And yes, it can feel awkward at first—we’re so trained to move quickly. But that’s the point.

Why bother walking slowly?

To wake up your attention: Slow down, and your senses switch on. You notice textures, sounds, light, and contrasts. Details you’ve ignored suddenly appear. Your curiosity comes alive, and the ordinary becomes interesting.

To think differently: A slow walk gives your mind the space to work differently. Away from your desk, without forcing anything, insights just arrive. Questions you’ve been carrying find unexpected answers. The street offers what you need—not always what you expect. Be ready to surprise yourself. 

To find fresh perspectives: When you move slowly with intention, you see your situation from a different perspective. A stuck decision loosens. A challenge reveals a new angle. You come back with clarity—not because you escaped, but because you created room to see.

How to use the pocket map

The map walks you through it — in a nutshell:

• Start with a question—something you’re genuinely curious about or working through. What’s my next step? What am I missing? What needs my attention? Hold it lightly, with curiosity and openness.
• Then step outside, slow your pace to about half your normal speed, and wander. Notice what catches your attention. A colour, a sound, a pattern, something odd or beautiful. Follow what draws you.
• When something resonates, pause. Don’t rush past it. Ask yourself: What does this remind me of? How might this connect to my question?
• The map has prompts to guide you, but really—follow your own path. Just slow down and see what emerges.

Ready to try it?

Download your pocket map here. Print it. Take it with you. Wander your street and see what you notice.

I’d love to hear what you discover — feel free to share in the chat!

If you want to go deeper or explore Street Wisdom with others, I guide walks — or you can visit the Street Wisdom website. You can also reach out to me directly.

---

The bit at the end

Exciting events on the horizon to support your exploration:

• Curious to experience Street Wisdom for yourself — inspiring, surprising, and quietly powerful? Reach out, and let’s wander with wonder through the streets, alleys, and bridges of Alkmaar or Amsterdam. Learn more about Street Wisdom here.
• Join the next Unhurried Conversation—a space to slow down, listen, and connect. We meet every 2nd Monday of the month. It’s free, and you’re warmly welcome. Sign up here.
• For more Learning Moments, subscribe to my newsletter and get timely updates straight to your inbox.

Reach out,  I’m always open for a chat.
Creatively,
Nadia

P.S.The paintings featured on the blog are my own.