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A Better Life: Slowing Down to Get Ahead
The founder of Better Life Bags, Rebecca Smith, teaches us how to take little steps, say yes when God calls, and follow the passion He has given us.
Let love stretch you. As the founder of one of the most popular custom handbag companies in the country, Rebecca Smith knows a thing or two about business. A highly successful entrepreneur in a world where the focus is on scalability, brand strategy, and global marketing, Rebecca Smith also knows the truth: that every success she's experienced at Better Life Bags has been the result of very small, very ordinary, very obedient steps of faith.
Moving from Savannah, Georgia, to Hamtramck, Michigan, was culture shock enough for Rebecca. But trying to feel at home in a city where twenty-six different languages were spoken and most of the inhabitants were immigrants seemed downright impossible. It was only when Rebecca recognized that God had called her to this specific neighborhood at this particular moment in time that his plans began to unfold for her. Stepping forward into the place God had called her - a place that seemed messy and uncomfortable and unfamiliar - Rebecca discovered the true secret to success: when we slow down, pay attention, and trust that still, small voice of God to guide us, we just might change the world.
Though Rebecca never set out to build a brand or create an empire, God saw Rebecca's heart for others, and began to multiply her efforts in ways she could have never imagined, creating a company where women from different cultures, faiths, and backgrounds work together for the good of others - for a better life.
As you read this inspiring story, you will discover how to hear and follow God's voice for yourself as you slow down, take one small step at a time, and make a difference in the world right where you are.
Let love stretch you. As the founder of one of the most popular custom handbag companies in the country, Rebecca Smith knows a thing or two about business. A highly successful entrepreneur in a world where the focus is on scalability, brand strategy, and global marketing, Rebecca Smith also knows the truth: that every success she's experienced at Better Life Bags has been the result of very small, very ordinary, very obedient steps of faith.
Moving from Savannah, Georgia, to Hamtramck, Michigan, was culture shock enough for Rebecca. But trying to feel at home in a city where twenty-six different languages were spoken and most of the inhabitants were immigrants seemed downright impossible. It was only when Rebecca recognized that God had called her to this specific neighborhood at this particular moment in time that his plans began to unfold for her. Stepping forward into the place God had called her - a place that seemed messy and uncomfortable and unfamiliar - Rebecca discovered the true secret to success: when we slow down, pay attention, and trust that still, small voice of God to guide us, we just might change the world.
Though Rebecca never set out to build a brand or create an empire, God saw Rebecca's heart for others, and began to multiply her efforts in ways she could have never imagined, creating a company where women from different cultures, faiths, and backgrounds work together for the good of others - for a better life.
As you read this inspiring story, you will discover how to hear and follow God's voice for yourself as you slow down, take one small step at a time, and make a difference in the world right where you are.
224 pages, Paperback
First published May 19, 2020
30 people are currently reading
1330 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Smith
1 book19 followersRebecca Smith is the founder of Better Life Bags, a custom handbag company whose workforce is made up of local women with barriers to employment.
Rebecca loves to encourage and coach young entrepreneurs who desire to use their businesses for good. She is passionate about reminding women that when it comes to pursuing dreams, waiting on God’s nudges always beats hustling hard. It’s okay being the turtle; life is better when it’s slow.
Rebecca and her husband, Neil, live in Hamtramck, MI where they run Better Life Bags together. They have four amazing kids: Jonah, Clara, Corbin, and Gavin.
Follow Rebecca on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/rebeccasmit....
Rebecca loves to encourage and coach young entrepreneurs who desire to use their businesses for good. She is passionate about reminding women that when it comes to pursuing dreams, waiting on God’s nudges always beats hustling hard. It’s okay being the turtle; life is better when it’s slow.
Rebecca and her husband, Neil, live in Hamtramck, MI where they run Better Life Bags together. They have four amazing kids: Jonah, Clara, Corbin, and Gavin.
Follow Rebecca on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/rebeccasmit....
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
May 20, 2020
I LOVED this book. It was like getting coffee with a sister. I started it with the goal of getting through 4 chapters and ended up reading it all in one sitting. It was beautifully conversation balancing advice with encouragement. I felt seen and Rebecca’s experience was relatable even in places I haven’t been myself. NOT a step by step or a how-to, but rather “permission” to be. Her words were simultaneous challenging and comforting and just the encouragement I need right now.
May 26, 2020
“Stop striving for bigger and start seeing the small as sacred.” This book was an easy read. But don’t let that fool you. It’s packed FULL of wisdom on how to run a business, but more specifically: your life.
February 15, 2021
I adored this book!
It was exactly the message that I needed to hear as a young Mom in my 20s. So much of culture tells me to hustle harder and if I work hard enough, my pursuits will be multiplied and blessed. But the message of this book is different. Instead of hustling hard to achieve and get ahead, Rebecca reminds us that we can work hard- and leave the rest up to God. And that does not mean we will have overnight success. Instead, it means that we will probably go at a pace that seems painfully slow and unexplainable. But THAT, in the center of God's will, with Him leading the way- is exactly what "a better life" truly is.
Loved this.
It was exactly the message that I needed to hear as a young Mom in my 20s. So much of culture tells me to hustle harder and if I work hard enough, my pursuits will be multiplied and blessed. But the message of this book is different. Instead of hustling hard to achieve and get ahead, Rebecca reminds us that we can work hard- and leave the rest up to God. And that does not mean we will have overnight success. Instead, it means that we will probably go at a pace that seems painfully slow and unexplainable. But THAT, in the center of God's will, with Him leading the way- is exactly what "a better life" truly is.
Loved this.
July 25, 2020
Religious based finding your purpose and achieving your goals. This uplifting memoir will encourage Christian readers to slow down and appreciate life in the moment.
The founder of Better Life Bags, Rebecca Smith, teaches us how to take little steps, say yes when God calls, and follow the passion He has given us.
Let love stretch you. As the founder of one of the most popular custom handbag companies in the country, Rebecca Smith knows a thing or two about business. A highly successful entrepreneur in a world where the focus is on scalability, brand strategy, and global marketing, Rebecca Smith also knows the truth: that every success she's experienced at Better Life Bags has been the result of very small, very ordinary, very obedient steps of faith.
Moving from Savannah, Georgia, to Hamtramck, Michigan, was culture shock enough for Rebecca. But trying to feel at home in a city where twenty-six different languages were spoken and most of the inhabitants were immigrants seemed downright impossible. It was only when Rebecca recognized that God had called her to this specific neighborhood at this particular moment in time that his plans began to unfold for her. Stepping forward into the place God had called her - a place that seemed messy and uncomfortable and unfamiliar - Rebecca discovered the true secret to success: when we slow down, pay attention, and trust that still, small voice of God to guide us, we just might change the world.
Though Rebecca never set out to build a brand or create an empire, God saw Rebecca's heart for others, and began to multiply her efforts in ways she could have never imagined, creating a company where women from different cultures, faiths, and backgrounds work together for the good of others - for a better life.
As you read this inspiring story, you will discover how to hear and follow God's voice for yourself as you slow down, take one small step at a time, and make a difference in the world right where you are.
The founder of Better Life Bags, Rebecca Smith, teaches us how to take little steps, say yes when God calls, and follow the passion He has given us.
Let love stretch you. As the founder of one of the most popular custom handbag companies in the country, Rebecca Smith knows a thing or two about business. A highly successful entrepreneur in a world where the focus is on scalability, brand strategy, and global marketing, Rebecca Smith also knows the truth: that every success she's experienced at Better Life Bags has been the result of very small, very ordinary, very obedient steps of faith.
Moving from Savannah, Georgia, to Hamtramck, Michigan, was culture shock enough for Rebecca. But trying to feel at home in a city where twenty-six different languages were spoken and most of the inhabitants were immigrants seemed downright impossible. It was only when Rebecca recognized that God had called her to this specific neighborhood at this particular moment in time that his plans began to unfold for her. Stepping forward into the place God had called her - a place that seemed messy and uncomfortable and unfamiliar - Rebecca discovered the true secret to success: when we slow down, pay attention, and trust that still, small voice of God to guide us, we just might change the world.
Though Rebecca never set out to build a brand or create an empire, God saw Rebecca's heart for others, and began to multiply her efforts in ways she could have never imagined, creating a company where women from different cultures, faiths, and backgrounds work together for the good of others - for a better life.
As you read this inspiring story, you will discover how to hear and follow God's voice for yourself as you slow down, take one small step at a time, and make a difference in the world right where you are.
September 5, 2023
Full disclosure: I’m not an overly religious person so I was really skeptical to read this since it falls under the Christianity category. With that said, I wasn’t sure if I was going to finish the book with all the references to trusting His plan either, but I reminded myself why o bought the book to begin with, which was to have a better understanding of the Better Life Bags company and it’s origin.
LIFE Spoiler: the book references hardships the company faced and questioned how long the journey may go. Unfortunately, BLB did make the tough decision to close its doors earlier this spring.
Overall, I really did enjoy this book. It absolutely tells the story of the company, and it actually just makes me sad I let price point deter me for so long from buying more bags.
A few things I really appreciated that Rebecca touched upon is this “you can be a hero without telling everyone.” THIS, THIS, THIS!!! So often with social media, there’s this unspoken peer pressure to not only share the highlights of life, but to ALSO tell people your opinions in the form of virtue signaling. This one gets under my skin so much. If you can’t post about it, then it’s not real, right? At one point, she mentions the sacredness of not sharing every detail, that silence doesn’t mean you don’t care, etc.
Another thing I loved was the reminder that comparison is the thief of joy. I will probably always struggle with this one, but there’s still so much truth to it.
I’m glad I bought the book. It’s not my usual style (in fact, it’s a complete 180), but it’s insightful.
LIFE Spoiler: the book references hardships the company faced and questioned how long the journey may go. Unfortunately, BLB did make the tough decision to close its doors earlier this spring.
Overall, I really did enjoy this book. It absolutely tells the story of the company, and it actually just makes me sad I let price point deter me for so long from buying more bags.
A few things I really appreciated that Rebecca touched upon is this “you can be a hero without telling everyone.” THIS, THIS, THIS!!! So often with social media, there’s this unspoken peer pressure to not only share the highlights of life, but to ALSO tell people your opinions in the form of virtue signaling. This one gets under my skin so much. If you can’t post about it, then it’s not real, right? At one point, she mentions the sacredness of not sharing every detail, that silence doesn’t mean you don’t care, etc.
Another thing I loved was the reminder that comparison is the thief of joy. I will probably always struggle with this one, but there’s still so much truth to it.
I’m glad I bought the book. It’s not my usual style (in fact, it’s a complete 180), but it’s insightful.
May 26, 2020
Rebecca Smith has something to say, and she says it very well in "a better life". She shares her life experiences in a very friendly way and it's like talking with a good fiend. It is hard to believe this is her first book, because it is very well written and very well done. This easy reading book has lots of gems and nuggets of truth for people of all ages about how to get out of the rat race and live the life God has intended for you personally. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
August 17, 2020
Rebecca writes about the path God has called her on - making custom-made bags and employing women who otherwise had barriers to employment. Pretty cool story - with trusting God and leaning on Him and following His lead being strong themes throughout.
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May 27, 2020I have followed Rebecca on Instagram for the last 7 years. I was originally drawn to her transparency and vulnerability. She is one of those people you feel like you are friends with even though you know she has no idea who you are. Her book is no different. It's like sitting down with a wise friend who speaks hard truths into your life while at the same time encouraging you and equipping you to do what's right.
I'll be honest, I pre-ordered this book in August of last year, a full 9 months before it came out, and was very excited to dig in. The book details not only her business over the last 10 years but also her journey trusting God and following His leading. There were so many things I loved it's hard to choose but I think her chapter about not looking at other people's work and staying in your lane was my favorite. I often forget that other people's story is not my story and while my path might look different it doesn't mean it isn't valuable. I also resonated with her transparency when she first moved to Hamtramck, MI. I think we need more transparency like this especially in the church when it comes to loving our neighbors and racial and economic divides. I so value her voice in this conversation. She is honest and kind while at the same time encouraging us to love our neighbors better.
It made me want to chase (in a slow turtle like fashion) my dreams but not for the sake of my dreams but for the sake of the God who gave them to me and if they are actually what He wants me to do with my life She encouraged me to trust Him to work out the details. It's really a book about freedom: freedom to love people well, freedom to do what you were created for, freedom from hustle, freedom from guilt, freedom from insecurity, and freedom in Christ. I'm grateful for her voice. I think we really need it.
I'll be honest, I pre-ordered this book in August of last year, a full 9 months before it came out, and was very excited to dig in. The book details not only her business over the last 10 years but also her journey trusting God and following His leading. There were so many things I loved it's hard to choose but I think her chapter about not looking at other people's work and staying in your lane was my favorite. I often forget that other people's story is not my story and while my path might look different it doesn't mean it isn't valuable. I also resonated with her transparency when she first moved to Hamtramck, MI. I think we need more transparency like this especially in the church when it comes to loving our neighbors and racial and economic divides. I so value her voice in this conversation. She is honest and kind while at the same time encouraging us to love our neighbors better.
It made me want to chase (in a slow turtle like fashion) my dreams but not for the sake of my dreams but for the sake of the God who gave them to me and if they are actually what He wants me to do with my life She encouraged me to trust Him to work out the details. It's really a book about freedom: freedom to love people well, freedom to do what you were created for, freedom from hustle, freedom from guilt, freedom from insecurity, and freedom in Christ. I'm grateful for her voice. I think we really need it.
May 13, 2020
Rebecca's book exceeded my expectations. Her voice can be heard, felt, in her writing. Authentic, honest, vulnerable- real. It's like sharing with a friend over a cup of coffee. Every chapter has something for every woman, in whatever stage of life, out there trying to make a better life. Rebecca shares a biblical, God-centered, path for navigating and enjoying this life. Her turtle approach, though antithetical to the full-on hustle life tends to call us to, makes sense, brings comfort, peace and even joy. Rebecca speaks to the struggle I face to control my life. Her words about God " My obedience is what I'm in charge of. Not anything else." and "He sees. He sees your tears at night when no one else is awake. He cares. He cares for the deepest desires of your heart- the ones you've never shared with a single soul. And he acts. He acts on behalf and for our good." speak to the deepest part of me. I'm gifting her story to a former student of mine graduating high school, seeking God's special sticker about what college to attend, and a first time grandmother who's grandson lives in Hamtramck. I'm reading it again, there's so much in there just for me! Rebecca shares wisdom, community and hope in A Better Life. As my Kinders would tell you, her book "Gets Two-Thumbs Up! You should read it!"
January 15, 2026
I wasn't really sure what this book was going to be about, but I thought it would be about slow living. It really wasn't at all. It was about the creator of a small Etsy shop that ended up booming for quite a while. Better Life Bags was the name of the company (I checked, and it went out of business in 2023, but started in 2009ish).
Rebecca Smith talks about how she met her husband, their early marriage, and the goals they had together to be a missionary couple (and family). What they turned out finding was their calling, was going to Illinois in a district mainly of Yemeni people and how an uncomfortable time hanging out with a Yemeni woman became their business and the start of a great friendship.
It was a very inspiring story and after a time, Rebecca stated how her business was declining when she started writing the book. It was sad, but I enjoyed hearing her thoughts about how it was okay for her to not want the next big, best thing all the time, and to have a chance to have things slow down.
Rebecca Smith talks about how she met her husband, their early marriage, and the goals they had together to be a missionary couple (and family). What they turned out finding was their calling, was going to Illinois in a district mainly of Yemeni people and how an uncomfortable time hanging out with a Yemeni woman became their business and the start of a great friendship.
It was a very inspiring story and after a time, Rebecca stated how her business was declining when she started writing the book. It was sad, but I enjoyed hearing her thoughts about how it was okay for her to not want the next big, best thing all the time, and to have a chance to have things slow down.
May 16, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed reading A Better Life.
I've followed Rebecca Smith on Instagram for a couple years now and was thrilled when she shared that she was writing a book. I preordered long again and read an advance electronic copy. Her balance of life and faith and business and online presence is admirable.
I love reading other people's stories, and while I do like a go-getter telling me I can take on the world, what I truly appreciated about Rebecca's story is that it's not all about digging in and getting ahead to build a business and keep all the plates spinning. Her encouragement is to keep after the path God lays out for you, even if it means some false starts or U-turns, not running ahead or dragging our feet.
The book is a quick read, like sitting on her couch and visiting while she tells her story. I will probably reference it again and again once I have it in my hands.
I've followed Rebecca Smith on Instagram for a couple years now and was thrilled when she shared that she was writing a book. I preordered long again and read an advance electronic copy. Her balance of life and faith and business and online presence is admirable.
I love reading other people's stories, and while I do like a go-getter telling me I can take on the world, what I truly appreciated about Rebecca's story is that it's not all about digging in and getting ahead to build a business and keep all the plates spinning. Her encouragement is to keep after the path God lays out for you, even if it means some false starts or U-turns, not running ahead or dragging our feet.
The book is a quick read, like sitting on her couch and visiting while she tells her story. I will probably reference it again and again once I have it in my hands.
May 19, 2020
Only read this book if you want to be encouraged and have your eyes opened to all the little, deeply personal ways God shows He cares and loves you. I cried through pretty much the whole book. It is written by my dear friend and beloved employer who brings out the very best in me and every single person she employs. I might be a bit biased as she has written about a company I dearly love, friends I consider family, and from a perspective that just resonates with my soul. I have bought multiple copies and will be distributing it to everyone I know because I truly believe it is a life changing book.
May 20, 2020
Slowing down to get ahead" is the tagline of this book and it rings true! We don't have to wear ourselves out by chasing after big, lofty goals, but when we slow down and allow God to show his love and grace, we can accomplish big things! Rebecca has a way of writing that made me feel like she was telling me a story in person. The book left me with a desire to look for God in the "small" things, bloom where I'm planted, and take time to love others! I think people in all stages of life will read this book and be inspired to take their next steps of faith!
May 23, 2020
First off Rebecca writes in such a way I can't and don't want to stop reading! "A Better Life" is part memoir, part how to, part Christian living, and a whole lot of love for God! It was a reminder I didn't know I needed. In sharing her story, she reminded me that I am on my own path and it doesn't have to make sense to everyone. I am responsible for my reactions, actions, and obedience. Simple or small steps or forward movement, and taking the next step is just as important as my destination. All the steps matter and sometimes you have to reroute. I am thankful for vulnerable honesty.
June 2, 2020
I love a good story, and the book contains many stories of Smith’s life and business. The tone is conversational and encouraging, making it an easy, fun read. However, there are also many wonderful lessons and insights that invite the reader to learn and grow! I so appreciated the message to slow down, appreciate life right now, and be obedient to God in His timing. I really think there is something for almost everyone here, from student, to stay-at-home-mom, to career woman, to retiree. I really enjoyed this book!
May 11, 2020
Rebecca Smith is the owner of Better Life Bags; having been a supporter of this business and following Rebecca personally online, I was excited to read this as an advance copy. Rebecca's voice feels genuine and authentically hers; it is like sitting with her reminiscing about old stories while learning new tidbits. She offers thoughtful and poignant advice and life lessons.
May 28, 2020
A wonderful story!
Rebecca, I loved your book! All the trials and tribulations that you went through to make Better Life Bags what it is are amazing. I just love the entire process of how BLB started, your mission and the business you’ve built. I follow you on Facebook and watch the excitement of everyone building their bags, and I admire you so much.
Rebecca, I loved your book! All the trials and tribulations that you went through to make Better Life Bags what it is are amazing. I just love the entire process of how BLB started, your mission and the business you’ve built. I follow you on Facebook and watch the excitement of everyone building their bags, and I admire you so much.
August 4, 2020
I really enjoyed reading this book, I think by time I got through it , I started thinking and re examining my thoughts and finding out where my true heart and prayers was for. Its a easy book to read, I finished it in less than a day but reread it. This book will definitely stay on my bookshelf to read again and share with others.
August 23, 2020
I so enjoyed this book! I love how Rebecca was so relatable with the stories she shared. I appreciated her vulnerability and honesty. She inspires others to slow down, to focus on being in our own lane God has assigned for us, to invest in others, there is a gift in being slow and steady (like the turtle), and so many more insights! I highly recommend A Better Life!
August 31, 2020
This book was such a great memoir of a truly brave and beautiful follower of God. I really enjoyed the lessons she taught for an up and coming leader of a ministry myself. I think all people interested in following the life God has planned for them could benefit from reading this book! It was like getting advice from a friend over coffee.
June 20, 2020
Very inspiring ! Living life on mission!
I enjoyed this book because it was more than just how to start and grow a successful business,it was about loving others along the way and using the talents that God gives us to help others provide for their families.
I enjoyed this book because it was more than just how to start and grow a successful business,it was about loving others along the way and using the talents that God gives us to help others provide for their families.
November 11, 2020
I love the purpose and products of the Detroit-based business, Better Life Bags! This book is a simple account of the founder’s process of contentedly, diligently working in and living the life she has been given.
March 2, 2021
I loved this book! Maybe because Rebecca already feels like a friend from following her on Instagram. This book brought me to laughter and tears at different times. The work Rebecca has been doing is inspiring to say the least. She’s truly one of the good ones.
May 19, 2020
I absolutely love Rebecca and couldn’t wait for this book to come out! It was the perfect encouragement that I needed and was devoured in one day.
June 1, 2020
Rebecca helps guide us to follow God's direction. When we are following his plan it is always successful. She is truly an inspiration in how she helps others.
June 1, 2020
A nice conversation with a friend that has a heart for change.
July 18, 2020
One of my favorite Instagram influencers. Loved reading her testimony ❤️
December 10, 2020
I devoured this book on audible. Hearing Rebecca read her story that I've followed on instagram was a special experience.
April 22, 2023
Really more like 3.5 I wish we could do half stars.
May 20, 2020
A beautiful story that will encourage and inspire! Rebecca’s writing style makes you feel like your having a conversation with a friend. As a fan and customer of Better Life Bag for several years, I now love the mission and heart behind the company even more! A great book that will encourage you to live right where you are and to notice the “special stickers” God has placed in your path.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews