Beginners Guide to Living Simply
Striving to live a simpler life will free up your most important asset – time. You can spend that additional time with those that mean the most to you, improving your relationships. The process helps you learn more about what you value. It can improve your mental and physical health as well as your bank balance.
In 2004 my husband and I restructured our life so I could stay at home with our son. I gave up my income and nest egg to make that possible. Since then, our family went from three to five. Gaining a mindset of simplicity made it possible for me to continue to stay home and homeschool our three children. Being thankful for what I do have helps me put my wants in perspective.
Contents
What is Living Simply?
Simple living is a mindset. It is a life driven by what you value—removing those things that complicate life. They can be activities, people, clutter, or a career change. The idea is that having less gives us more. It is a life at a slower pace with more joy and contentment.
There are some misconceptions about simple living:
- Homesteading, rural living, or living in seclusion is not required. You can slow down. Let go of activities that clutter your time instead of bringing you joy.
- Minimalism is not the same as simple living. Minimalism is more about the number of things, while simplicity is more about the quality. Getting rid of most things doesn’t make living easier for everyone.
- It isn’t anti-technology. I enjoy modern conveniences immensely! Cyber-technology, like sweets, is better in moderation.
Why is living simply important?
A simpler life leads to less worry or stress. There is more time to connect with those you care about, take care of yourself and enjoy life. You will find more time, energy, money, and freedom.
How to get started with living simply
- Turn down down the digital noise by spending less time on social media and watching TV. By unsubscribing to mailing lists, you can reduce the time spent checking email can be reduced as well.
- Consider what your needs are versus your wants. If the phone you have works, you don’t need the next upgrade.
- Declutter your home. It will make maintaining it so much easier.
- Think about this process like it is a marathon, not a sprint. Set realistic goals and work slow and steadily.
- Practice gratitude. Write two things you are grateful for each day.
Tips for success in living simply
- Figure out what your priorities are. What is most important to you? Let this drive your decisions from now on. For me, being a SAHM has influenced what kind of vacations we take, cars we drive, clothes we wear, and what we do for entertainment.
- Build routines or habits to make life easier. Your mornings are a great place to start! Get your day started good with breakfast and your bed made. My laundry would not get done without it being part of my morning routine!
- Start taking time for yourself. Create some healthy habits like moving more, practicing mindfulness through journaling, or just getting more sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions
The last thing you need to know about Living Simply
Don’t make simple living complicated! Take a look at where you spend your time and energy. Is it on what you are genuinely passionate about? If it isn’t, start making minor changes to get back to what is most important to you. Begin by practicing gratitude for what you have that brings you joy. Then learn to distinguish between what you need versus wants.
