Simplifying life has become a very popular topic these days – and it makes sense. The world never stops, and neither do those with the perseverance to excel. But in getting so wrapped up in doing things, we forget to stop and smell the roses.
In an age of constant stimulation, people often get the idea that life gets more complicated and demanding the higher the ladder that we climb.
More to-do’s, more meetings, more presentations and more deadlines to meet.
We stress out, sometimes take it out on people we care about and generally forget about the simple things that truly give us pleasure in life.
Robin Sharma often says that the best move in the opposite direction:
“They try and make their business models leaner and more focused. They do fewer but smarter things. They get wildly focused and wonderfully lean. And they most definitely run from trying to be all things to all people. Because real genius lives in simplicity. ” ~Robin Sharma
Here’s five ways to simplify your life to remember what’s really important:
1. Reflect on your life
At least once a week sit down and just think. Turn off the TV, get off Facebook and put your phone where you can’t see it. Think about where you are, what has gotten you there and where you want to go. Really think about it. Often you’ll have revelations about the way things are and what you would like to be doing more of – and by maintaining our awareness of our present state we take ourselves off of the “auto-pilot” track and start meaning to live instead of living for means.
2. Say “no” more often
Sometimes we try to be all things to all people – it’s human nature for many of us. This leads to disastrous consequences. To simplify your life, learn to say no more often. Say no to buying new things you don’t really need, say no to bad habits and say no to anything that complicates your life with no lasting value. Really figure out what is important to you – and what will make you happier in the long run.
3. Declutter
Grab a few boxes and start throwing the unnecessary away. This is easier for some people than others. We tend to hang on to things that really don’t serve much of a purpose for us. Have a garage sale, sell some things at the flea market to make some extra cash at the same time. You’ll be amazed at how much better it feels to not have so much clutter surrounding you.
4. Be more efficient
We all have to do things that we consider time-wasters. Chores, cleaning or errands just to name a few. Time spent on tasks that could be done more efficiently is time lost forever. When you prioritize your tasks think about how to be most efficient while you’re doing them. Try to find ways to be more efficient in anything that you are doing.
5. Be driven by what you desire
Instead of reaching for the status of someone that has the things we want in life, shift your focus to why you want those things. If we’re constantly competing with others, or trying to achieve the success of another we’re not living in the truth of who we are and who we want to become. Focus in on you, on your potential and on your goals – and use those who are where you want to be as motivation that it can be done – on your own terms.
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