In today’s fast-paced world, many of us are yearning for a simpler, more intentional way of life. But what exactly does that mean?
Over a lovely dinner with a friend this week, we discussed ‘what is simple living.’ Then I realized that I haven’t done a blog post on this question yet, so here are my thoughts on this rather perplexing question. (On a side note, dinner with a friend happens to be an activity on my “Things That I Love list”)
Simple living can be defined in countless ways, depending on personal values and life circumstances. Here, I’ll explore what simple living is all about, what it means to me personally, and some aspects that can potentially help make life a bit simpler.
1. What is Commonly Considered Simple Living?
At its core, simple living is about minimizing the clutter—both physical and mental—that complicates life. It often involves reducing consumption, focusing on sustainability, and prioritizing experiences over material possessions. Some people practice it by decluttering their homes, while others simplify by downsizing, living more eco-consciously, or finding joy in small, daily activities.
Minimalism is a concept often intertwined with simple living, although they’re not exactly the same. Minimalism typically focuses on reducing possessions and commitments to the bare essentials, while simple living can be broader, encompassing a variety of lifestyle choices centered around intentionality, mindfulness, and gratitude.
2. What is Simple Living to Me?
Firstly, what does the word “simple” mean to me: Simple means something that is straightforward, uncomplicated, and free from unnecessary details or complexity.
For me, simple living is about creating space—both physically and mentally—for the things that truly matter. I’m drawn to the idea of eliminating the excess, so I have more time for relationships, creativity, and less hurry. It means letting go of unnecessary obligations, saying “no” more often, and focusing on things that bring me genuine joy and fulfilment.
It’s also about living in harmony with my values, such as prioritizing family time, things that I love, and finding financial freedom through mindful spending. Simple living allows me to step off the consumerism treadmill and find happiness in the little moments that make life beautiful.
At the core, simple living to me is having a peaceful, clean, affordable, unhurried, and joyful day—every day.
3. What Are Some Common Aspects to Get a Simple Life?
While the specifics of simple living will vary from person to person, there are a few common aspects that people may find helpful in achieving a simpler life:
- Decluttering: Removing physical clutter from your surroundings helps create a sense of calm and order. It can also mean reducing mental clutter by setting boundaries and eliminating unnecessary commitments.
- Mindful Consumption: Simple living often involves a shift in focus from acquiring more to appreciating what you already have. This might mean buying less, choosing quality over quantity, and being conscious of how your spending aligns with your values.
- Intentional Living: Simple living is rooted in the idea of intentionality. This means making thoughtful choices about how you spend your time, money, and energy, and prioritizing activities that align with your goals and values.
- Connection with Nature: Some people who pursue simple living find joy in nature. It could be through gardening, walking, or simply spending time outside, which may help to reduce stress and enhance well-being.
- Financial Freedom: Part of simplifying may involve reducing financial stress by cutting unnecessary expenses, paying down debt, and saving for the future.
4. Final Thoughts
Simple living is not a one-size-fits-all approach. What matters most is finding what works for you and makes you feel content, grounded, and aligned with your values. It’s about letting go of what doesn’t serve you and creating space for the things that bring you joy and peace. Whether you’re looking to declutter, reduce stress, or live more intentionally, I hope this post inspires you to start your own path toward a simpler, more meaningful life.
Disclaimer: I’m just starting out on my own simple living journey, so please consider this blog post as a starting point. Be sure to do your own research and find what resonates best with you.