Are you trying to squeeze more and more into your days? Do you ever feel overwhelmed or stressed out? Have you lost touch with the things that you value the most? We are constantly rushing around, hooked to our cell phones, trying to be more productive, and pulling ourselves in every direction. We have all been caught up in this crazy pace, but I am trying to improve and embrace a more simply routine to be less stressful and more at peace, enjoying all the moments life has to offer. Here are 10 ways to simplify your life, and spend more time with the people you love, doing things that you value and enjoy.
Ways to Live more Simply
Evaluate your Commitments
Creating some boundaries and saying no to more things really does help when trying to simplify your life. Be clear on what you want in life and learn to say no to always being available. Take time to think things through before deciding to say yes. Will it add value to your life? Will you enjoy doing it? It’s time to scale back so you don’t take on more than you can handle.
Eliminate Clutter
The less you have, the easier it is. Take your time to simply get rid of things that don’t serve a purpose and streamline slowly. Clean up one area at a time and consider giving the things you are eliminating to a local charity if they could serve someone else.
Simplify your Wardrobe
When was the last time you went through your clothes and cleaned out your wardrobe? Consider keeping a collection of timeless pieces that can be worn for multiple occasions and create a capsule wardrobe. Simplify your wardrobe, get rid of anything that you don’t wear, and make it easier to choose what to wear each day.
Think before you Shop
Before making a purchase, take time to consider if you really need to purchase this item. Create new shopping habits which will help you cut back on clutter while valuing the things you already own.
Limit Media
Media can take over our lives. A lot of time is spent watching tv, listening to the radio and on the internet. Lots of time can also be wasted scrolling through your social media feeds. By limiting time on media, you have more time to focus and invest in real connections. You could ever try a media fast, just don’t let it dominate your life.
Turn off Notifications
The notifications of a new message or post on Facebook or Instagram can be distracting or even wake you up, so switch them off. Prioritise the ones you want to see, from your family or such, and check the rest later, at a time that works for you.
Me Time
When you are constantly tending to the needs of others, the kids, spouse, or work, you will start to feel drained. It is important to take time to slow down, and recharge. Go for a walk, out for a meal or to the movies, visit the gym or have a spa day, something that you enjoy that will help you relax and recharge.
Finding Joy and Being Grateful
Stop taking things for granted and start enjoying life. When was the last time you took a long walk in the fresh air, quietly watched as the rain patted against the window or sat and watched the sunset. Maybe you enjoy writing, reading or camping. Take the time to enjoy the simple pleasures in life.
Simplify Your Tasks
Do you constantly have an endless list of tasks that need to be done? Look at your to-do-list and think about all that needs to be done. Sit down and focus on the essential or most important tasks for each day and complete them. Find ways to eliminate other tasks. You could delegate, hire help, or automate them.
Be Present
Do you ever find yourself going through the motions, running on autopilot. Take time to focus on the present moment, to live in the here and now. Pause, take a few deep breaths and take a look at what is going on around you.
There are many benefits of having a simpler life. Having more time and money are two valuable resources that will rise as a result of making the choice to have a simpler life. The great thing with this list, is that you can start slowly, working your way to having a simpler and stress free life.
Mother of 3
I found saying no to many outside commitments made such a big difference in feeling stressed. #HomeMattersParty