5 Steps to Simple Living

January 5th, 2023

5 Steps to Simple Living

We have all felt the pull to do more and do it faster. Sometimes the completion of one task is merely an invitation to start another. Some days feel like a run on of checking one box after the next and by the end of the week we are exhausted: mentally, physically, and emotionally. In this article I lay out my 5 steps to a simple life. These changes in physical and mental habits take time. Choose one to work on at a time and don’t expect drastic changes overnight. The most lasting change is made with a reasonable amount of effort, over a reasonable amount of time. 

1. Learn to say no

There is simply not enough time to say yes to everything and everyone. Prioritize things that are most valuable for you. Does this enhance my life? Is it aligned with and bringing me closer to my goals? If the answer is yes, then go for it. I have found it helpful if I am unsure, then it's a no. Learning to exercise a healthy “No” allows us to set boundaries. No excuses or explanations needed. Also reflect on why we sometimes say “Yes” when we are thinking “No.” Avoiding confrontation? Pleasing others? Breaking the cycle of compulsively saying yes builds our confidence in making decisions for ourselves. It also thins out the commitments so we become more reliable with our yes’s, and more empowered with our no’s. This also enables us to be more honest in our conversations. When we speak honestly it creates an environment that encourages those around us to also be honest. Reflect on what your limits are and value your time and your word.

2. Declutter your home

Objects should serve their purpose. If there are things laying around your home that haven’t served a purpose in years, donate them so someone else may get good use out of them. Some empty space is ok and is actually a good thing. Objects not only take up physical space but also mental space by spending time thinking about them, cleaning them, moving them around. A very important step in decluttering your home, is to not fill it up again. This involves reflecting on what your true needs are and adapting your spending habits. When you are shopping, before you purchase something ask yourself “Do I really need this?”, “Do I already have something similar that can serve the same purpose?” This goes for clothes, appliances, gadgets, furniture, etc. Review each room in your home in this way. If you need even more inspiration on this one, visit your local transfer station or “dump.” There are literally piles of functional, unwanted appliances, furniture, etc. Do some research on where our trash actually ends up. Find a way to make this step personal and it becomes much more powerful. 

3. Be intentional about internet time

It can be easy to fall into a social media loop (it’s designed that way). How many more studies do we need linking depression with time spent on social media? Often we end up comparing ourselves to people and situations we see in media. Their life is not better than yours, they are not having more fun than you, and no, they did not wake up like that. You are beautiful, talented, and worthy. Why subject ourselves to a possibly endless onslaught of news, ads, and social pressure. Surround yourself with people who inspire and uplift you. Be intentional about how and when you use the internet. Ask yourself “Do I have a purpose checking this?” If the answer is yes, then complete your task and get off. And if it is just for entertainment, set healthy time limits. Remember these devices, programs and apps are just tools. Use these tools in a positive and productive way. Take back control of your free time and emotional wellbeing. 

4. Meal-Prep

Each week make a simple menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. When you go grocery shopping, buy only those items on the list. Once or twice a week set aside 30 minutes to 1 hour for meal prep. Trust me it’s a good investment of your time and effort. This will save time cleaning prep surfaces, doing dishes and also save money by not wasting food. For breakfast my husband and I always make oatmeal. We add fruit and nuts. It’s quick and healthy. Lunch is a simple salad and dinner is usually a “bowl.” Making bowls is an easy way to ensure proper nutrition and a meal in a crunch. Pre chop vegetables, cook a big pot of grain (quinoa, rice, couscous, etc) and precook your protein (beans, tofu, chicken, salmon, etc). This way you have all the ingredients you need prepped and ready to put together. 

5. Start a morning routine

Our lives are busy and fast paced. Taking time for ourselves needs to be scheduled just like anything else to ensure it happens. How you start your morning influences the rest of your day. A consistent morning ritual can help you to feel more clear and focused, emotionally balanced, stronger and energized, and improve your overall mood. Set aside time to care for yourself and align with the potential the new day holds for you. Simple morning routines are the most successful. Sit with your morning cup of tea or coffee and read a few pages of an inspirational book. Do a few minutes of your favorite movement practice: a few stretches, a simple workout routine, dance, yoga, breathwork or meditation. Or use these 10 minutes to do nothing at all. Stand in the sunshine for a minute and take a few deep breaths of fresh air. It doesn’t have to be complicated. Finding small ways to reconnect to ourselves throughout the day can greatly enhance the amount of attention, gratitude, and presence we bring into our lives. 

Choose one of these options that resonates with you and plan a start date for when you will implement the change. Mentally prepare in advance by repeating your intentions to yourself. Discipline, interest, and will power may ebb and flow. Congratulate yourself on days you follow through, be compassionate with yourself on days that you weren’t able to maintain the new habit, and start anew each day!