With the hustle and bustle of our everyday
lives, we can often find ourselves yearning for a quieter, simpler way of
living, perhaps dreaming of that chance to return to that period of time in our
lives when things didn’t have to be so complicated. If your life has come to resemble an endless
race to the finish line, take a look at the few suggestions below to bring a
greater sense of calm and simplicity back into your life.
1. Less is more.
It’s amazing how much “stuff” we can accumulate in our homes because we
think they’ll contribute to our lives.
It’s true that we gain enjoyment from material possessions, but the more
we accumulate the more burdened we often feel.
Eventually we find ourselves living under a constant cloud of confusion,
scattered thoughts and stress.
We are constantly seeking to gain more and
improved “things.” But these “things”
will never truly bring happiness into our lives. If we are not worrying about “getting” these “things.” We are worrying about how we are going to
keep them or “is someone going to take them from us.” Begin immediately to clear out the material
possessions you no longer need or want, and donate them to a local charitable
organization. This will accomplish two
things: first, you’ll feel lighter and
less cramped in your home; and you’ll also feel good about giving these items
to people who can actually use them.
2. Reduce your activities. An active life is good for you, but not if it
leaves you feeling stressed and fatigued!
Most of us take on much more than necessary as far as obligations and
even recreational activities are concerned.
Take
a few minutes to think about the things you do on a daily, weekly and monthly
basis. Do you really need to do all of
them? Have you taken on responsibilities
that really aren’t yours? Are you
spending time on activities you no longer enjoy? Make a list of at least a few activities or
obligations that you can eliminate, and then go ahead and do so – even if you
have to pare them down gradually. It’s
no disgrace to tell others “no” when you truly are not able to take on another
responsibility. Learn your personal
limits and stay within them. This will
also be a great help within the workplace.
3. Spend time in silence. A deceptively simple way to live a life of
simplicity and ease is to shut out the mental and physical “noise” of your busy
life on a regular basis. Sitting in
silence for just a few minutes can drastically reduce your stress levels and
leave you feeling calm, centered and happy.
Find that “special” place for you.
That place where for a specific period of time you can be alone with
yourself and your thoughts.
If
you live near a park or natural setting, you can even boost the effectiveness
of this activity by spending time in nature.
While not completely silent, natural settings have soothing sounds like
running water, singing birds, and wind sighing through the trees – which
automatically will trigger feelings of peace and well-being.
You may also enjoy some additional points on
simplifying your life by visiting: https://www.becomingminimalist.com/simpler/ This article “7 Ways to Live Simpler in a
Modern World” has several interesting points to consider.
When it comes right down to it, living a
simpler life is about learning how to slow down and connect more deeply with
your inner self. Whether you do that by
simplifying your surroundings, calming your schedule, or enjoying a quiet
respite each day, the result is the same – a happier and more peaceful you! I urge you however, keep a tight mental grip
on that always lurking enemy to your peace of mind --- YOU! Because we’re only human!
QUOTE TO CONSIDER
"To enjoy the rose,
you must endure the thorn."
No comments:
Post a Comment