Everyone has a different idea of what a simple life means for them. For some, it means removing all but the necessary, avoiding the chaos, and using your time wisely to do what’s important to you. It can mean getting rid of the many things that take up your time so you can spend time with people who matter most, as well as having the time to do the things you enjoy. It can mean getting rid of the ‘clutter’.
However, getting to this way of life isn’t always as simple as it seems. Minimalism is a journey. Not a destination. There is no right or wrong way of doing this. For those who want to get try this journey, the following are easy tips to help you:
Top tips to help you simplify your life:
Make a list of your top 5 important things
What’s most important to you? What 5 things do you most want to do in your life and cannot live without? Simplifying starts with this list.
Evaluate your time and commitments. Look at everything you’ve got going on in your life and how you spend your day. What things do you do, from the time you wake, to the time you go to sleep? Everything, from work to home to kids’ activities to hobbies to other projects. Think about which ones you love doing and cherish most. Which of these match with the things you listed above? Cut out those that do not match with that list and focus on what’s important. Redesign your day.
Learn to say no. This is one of the key habits for those trying to simplify their lives. Learn to say, “No,” to the things that you don’t truly have time for. This will help reduce stress and free more time for the areas of your life that you most cherish.
Limit your communications. Sometimes our days can be filled up with a load of emails or phone calls to return, and more. It can take up your whole day if you let it. Instead, put a limit on it! For example, limit emails and phone calls to certain times of the day. Same with any other communications. Set a timetable and stick to it.
Limit your media consumption. The media in our lives (TV, radio, Internet, magazines, etc.) can take over our lives. Don’t let it. Simplify your life by limiting the amount you look at.
De-clutter before organizing. Some might make the mistake of trying to organize a cluttered desk or wardrobe or drawer. Instead, simplify the process by getting rid of as much as possible, and then organizing.
Be present. These simple words can make a big impact in simplifying and decluttering your life. Living in the moment keeps you aware of your life, of what is going on around you and within you. Makes you aware of the now.
“Simplicity is the peak of civilization.” – Jessie Sampter
“Be content with what you have, rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you.” – Lao Tzu
