Low-effort ways to simplify your life

photo by twid

There never seem to be enough hours in a day. Sometimes you can’t even remember the last time you laughed or simply enjoyed a moment of doing nothing at all.

Ever in your car at a stoplight and glance over at the car next to you and everyone in the car looks so happy? You know that feeling of heartache when you wonder how you got to the point you’re at — tired, overwhelmed and frustrated? Perhaps you want to slow things down so you can find your center again. Maybe you want to feel energized or as if you matter in some personally fulfilling and validating way. Is your life lacking purpose, authenticity and balance? You can rediscover your anchor and get off the fast track to nowhere. Simplifying your life doesn’t require kickboxing, feng shui, moving off the grid or quitting your job.

It’s inevitable that life is going to happen. There are going to be circumstances beyond your control, but you do have control over many aspects of your life. It’s all about identifying, prioritizing and making choices. You can eliminate the excess to find some time for what matters to you. Many of these choices and decisions take little effort.

SHED A COMMITMENT: Are you buried in obligations that you dread? Take a hard look at your commitments and let go of a single activity that isn’t necessary. Consider whether there are more activities you can limit or relinquish, and decide what obligations are past their useful purpose in your life.

PURGE CLUTTER: Scale down and get rid of what you don’t need. How much time and energy is your “stuff” robbing from you? You don’t have to purge your entire home in a day. Start out with a decluttering project, such as clearing drawers or closets, first. Then set up a plan to remove clutter room by room. Ask yourself which items have true value.

SAY NO MORE OFTEN: Create boundaries for yourself. It’s OK to say no. People are going to take however much you’re willing to give. Don’t apologize for it. Send out a strong message to others that you know your priorities and your time is important.

SAY YES MORE OFTEN:Be spontaneous and remain open to new experiences. Stretch outside your comfort zone.

CONNECT: Make time for friends and family. How long have you been simply too busy? Whether it’s a handwritten note, phone call or lunch, reach out because you need your tribe. Ask for help when you need it, too.

DO SOMETHING YOU LOVE: Learn a new skill, or simply spend time doing activities you enjoy or are passionate about. Simplifying isn’t merely about getting rid of things. It’s about prioritizing your values.

DEVELOP ROUTINES: Routines can help you streamline your day. Managing your time wisely gives you free time for what you value most. Evaluate your current system of doing common tasks. See how you can improve your systems.

LIMIT YOUR PLUGGED-IN TIME: Turn it off. Limit television, cell phones and computers. You don’t have to be plugged in 24/7. You’ll be amazed how much pressure stems from these sources.

BE MINDFUL AND GRATEFUL: Take some time to savor your food, enjoy your own backyard, read a book or just take everything in. Do whatever it takes to be in the moment. Give yourself the luxury of time alone. Appreciate and be thankful for what you have.

Posted by Sara Noel on November 22 2008. Filed under Frugal & simple living.
Sara Noel owns Frugal Village, LLC and is a nationally syndicated columnist with Universal Uclick. Bio, Follow me on Twitter, Join us on Facebook