Do you feel overwhelmed? You are not the only one. In our fast-paced world, where we have so many choices, possibilities and contacts it can be a challenge to find inner peace. We have a never-ending to-do-list and are constantly distracted by notifications, news and social media. We are always busy with being busy, but this is not healthy and it also doesn’t make us happy.
But I have good news. There is a way to create space, reduce stress and focus on what truly matters. The key is to simplify your life. In a world where we have so many choices, you need to learn to choose. By choosing and reducing, you make things easier for yourself. Hereby I share some steps for a simpler life:
- Declutter your space. A cluttered environment leads to a cluttered mind. Spend time each week to declutter your office, home or wherever you spend the most of your time. Donate, sell or recycle what you don’t need. Keep everything clean and organised.
- Stop buying things that you don’t need. It’s easy to buy new clothes or other things, but if your closet is already full with stuff, you can’t buy more. Start with organising and using the things you already have. So when you want to buy something new, ask yourself if you really need it.
- Set healthy boundaries. If you say ‘no’ to others, you have more time to do your own things. Learn to say ‘no’ to commitments that drain your energy and don’t align with your priorities.
- Set clear goals. What do you want to achieve and what is important to you? Knowing your priorities can help you to schedule your time in an effective way.
- Learn to choose. There are many possibilities, but you can’t do everything. Read two different books at the same time instead of five, choose to learn one language instead of three and choose a few hobbies that you have time for.
- Batch tasks. Stop with multitasking, as that is a myth. By focusing on one thing at a time you will be more productive.
- Plan your meals. Make healthy choices to plan your meals in advance. It also saves time, as you only have to think about it once in the week instead of every day.
- Disconnect from technology. Take time offline. Turn off your phone and schedule a time that nobody can contact you. Enjoy a walk in nature, take a relaxing bath or meditate.
- Schedule time for yourself. It’s so important to have some time for yourself. To read a book, go for a walk or just do nothing. Block this in your agenda.
- Create a morning and evening routine. In the morning it sets the tone for your day and in the evening it will help you to fall asleep in a relaxing way. By creating routines, you will minimise decision fatigue.
- Limit negativity. Plan specific times to check your emails and social media. Constantly checking news and social media updates will only drain you. Evaluate the people and media you consume. Surround yourself with positive influences that uplift and inspire you.
To simplify your life, you can live more deeply. You will enjoy and appreciate the small moments more. And you will realise that you don’t need so many things to be happy.
Jane Regina Sauer 