How the Discipline of Simplicity Can Change Your Life

“Simplicity is about subtracting the obvious and adding the meaningful.” – John Maeda

(Photo taken of Zen-like koi pond in Chinese Swimming Club, Singapore)

Editor’s Note: Guest article submitted by Rita Schulte.

Stop for a moment and take a good look at your life. It’s a mess. You’re over- committed; don’t know how to say no, you have way too much stuff, too little time, and no idea how to organize all the things that are complicating your life. If that sounds like you, take heart, you’re not alone.

The problem isn’t that you don’t want to simplify your life. You do, you just don’t know what next steps to take. The truth is, most of us don’t know much about the whole concept of simplicity. Here’s why:

* We live in a culture where people always want more;
* We are never satisfied;
* We have an insane attachment to “stuff”;
* We worship affluence.

What can we do about it? A couple things: first, learn about the discipline of simplicity, and second, learn some next steps to de-clutter your life.

Simplicity is an attitude or mindset that begins inwardly and is reflected in an outward life-style. We can say we want a simpler life, but unless we experience a heart change, cultivating a more simplistic life will elude us. We’ll find ourselves following a bunch of rules and resenting them, or we’ll become prideful that we’re better than others that chase after wealth and prestige.

A simple life is a free life. It set’s possessions in the proper place with the proper perspective. It keeps “things,” or the drive for worldly pursuits from ruling over us. It enlarges our capacity for gratefulness and sharing.

How can we begin the practice of simplicity? Here are a few ideas that may change your life:

Develop a habit of giving things away

When you give, give your best. It’s easy to give away things we don’t have much use for anymore, but try giving away something you value to someone in need. It will make you feel awesome

Recognize the difference between a need and a want

Needs are essential for life, but wants and desires aren’t. Recognize the difference and see if you can do with less

De-Clutter

The more you have the more you have to maintain. Things complicate life. Most of us could get rid of half the stuff we have hanging around without missing a beat. Simply being aware can help you. Find your incentives for change

Learn to say no

We all want to help others, but sometimes it’s at our own expense. We worry about what others will think of us and so we over extend ourselves. Weigh your decisions to commit carefully. Count the cost to yourself and those closest to you before you agree to add something to your plate

Set boundaries with your time and be intentional about protecting it

Time is the most precious thing we have and most of us are trying to do way too much. Learn to be intentional about how much time you will work, and how much time you need for refreshment. Then stick to it

Set aside time each week to be refreshed

A simple life is a peaceful life. In order to reduce stress, set aside time to personally rejuvenate yourself

Cultivate a grateful spirit

Gratitude is a gift worth cultivating. Stop comparing yourself to others who have more, and focus on the blessings you do have. Start by making a list of three things each day you are grateful for and see what happens

Cultivating a simpler life can remind us of how much we really have. We can become so absorbed in comparing ourselves to those who have more than we do, that we forget about others who have so much less. We forget to be grateful.

How about you, what are your thoughts on living a simpler life and what steps have you taken to clear out the clutter in your life?

About the Author

Rita A Schulte is a licensed professional counselor, author and host of Heartline Podcast. Follow her at http://www.ritaschulte.com.

Editor’s Note: Share Your Thoughts

Let’s take Rita’s cue. What are your thoughts on living simply? Do you see it as a form of discipline? Share your steps and tips in the comments below.

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