Emily Hecht- McGowan

Los Angeles

Editorial Director at The Good Trade

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Articles

What Is 'Healthy' Self-Sufficiency?

3 weeks ago | thegoodtrade.com | Emily Hecht- McGowan

When I found myself once again living alone in my 30s, I re-imagined myself as the quintessential independent woman — meticulously organizing my home and my schedule, mending my clothing, and assembling new furniture without so much as a glance at the instruction manual. I imagined making all my meals from scratch (dry beans and all), and even growing a large portion of my leafy greens on my patio. Basically, I envisioned my life as a montage of productivity and self-sufficiency.
How To Wander (And Why You Should)

1 month ago | thegoodtrade.com | Emily Hecht- McGowan

Under a distant arch, a single violin played I Have A Dream by ABBA, one of my long-favorie songs. The melody resonated out over the Plaza De España as I stood quietly by the water. It was a sign, I was sure — but of what? “Dreams and music,”an angel card reader had told me the previous year. “Those will be important in your life, pay attention to them.” I was on my first-ever international trip, alone, and nursing an illness on day 9 of my travels.
Why I’m Writing Letters To My Future Self To Help Me Live In The Present

2 months ago | thegoodtrade.com | Emily Hecht- McGowan

“Hello, future Emily! I’m sure you are much more mature than I am now,” starts a journal entry from 2017, when I was deep into the existential question of what I was doing with my life. I continued: “Do you remember me? Still tender and learning how to not let people hurt me.” Feeling like I had few options left, I had decided to ask my future self if she had any advice on handling the last few years of my 20s. Of course, it was just a projection I had created.
I Review Avocado's Heirloom-Quality Home Furniture (2025)

Feb 6, 2025 | thegoodtrade.com | Emily Hecht- McGowan

Summary: Not many furniture makers are keeping the craft alive in the USA these days, and Avocado’s timeless pieces prove that quality is still paramount to the brand. I tested two styles of chairs and two tables, and found them to be sturdy, comfortable, and gorgeous additions to my home. There’s no offgassing and each piece carries the same certifications you’ve come to know and love from the Avocado brand.
Why I'm Building Sticky Habits This Year

Jan 17, 2025 | thegoodtrade.com | Emily Hecht- McGowan

Ever since I left the structured world of school, where I had clearly defined syllabi and my time was evenly distributed throughout class periods, quarters, and semesters, I’ve had a nearly impossible time managing my goals. Resolutions come and go, habits are started and abandoned, and I often end up feeling like I’m spinning my wheels without moving forward.
How To Write A Letter In Our Digital Age

Nov 5, 2024 | thegoodtrade.com | Emily Hecht- McGowan

How long has it been since you pulled a hand-addressed envelope out of your mailbox? I’m assuming it’s been forever, if you’re anything like me — the little lock box outside my apartment has been mostly coupons I’ll never use and (of course) an avalanche of election-related flyers. My correspondence with friends relies instead on little red notification dots and scheduling snafus that have us waiting weeks or months before we can connect on a phone call.
How To Take Things One Day At A Time (When You Can't Imagine The Future)

Oct 24, 2024 | thegoodtrade.com | Emily Hecht- McGowan

“This would all be easier if I had a five-year plan,” my friend confides in me. I nod along knowingly, as if my daily life would be somehow better if I knew specifically what I wanted in five years. We both agree — if we knew where we were going, we’d know more about how to handle ourselves where we’re at. But since we don’t know our destination, daily life can feel…well, aimless.
Rethinking Boredom: What To Do When You Feel Bored

Oct 16, 2024 | thegoodtrade.com | Emily Hecht- McGowan

“Whaddayouwannado?,” you ask like you’re five years old, fresh out of the summer sun, laying on the floor in the form of a tantrum. “I—am—bored!” The whine escapes your lips. “Anything,” you plead, perhaps to a friend or roommate. “Even if it means vacuuming!”When the kitchen is clean, homework is done, and Instagram’s dreaded “You’re all caught up!” notification hits, the nothing-left-ness can be overwhelming.
How To Find Peace When You Live In A Big City

Oct 16, 2024 | thegoodtrade.com | Emily Hecht- McGowan

I think we’re all feeling the same thing lately — time has become distorted ever since 2020. The days stretch into one another like an infinite musical tie; so much sound, so little rest. Each time I scale the stairs from my apartment I’m greeted by all the noise of Los Angeles. Not that indoors is any better; sirens scream by at all hours, and no swath of noise-dampening curtains could soften their howls.
9 Questions To Ask When You’re Ring Shopping (For Yourself Or Someone Else)

Oct 11, 2024 | thegoodtrade.com | Emily Hecht- McGowan

The Good Trade editors endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and genuinely love. Learn more about our methodology and business model here. “I think you’ll like it, it’s vintage-y floral,” read a text message from my now-husband. He was engagement ring shopping, and neither of us quite knew how to approach it—should we have gone together? Should it be a surprise?