“The secret of happiness, you see, is not found in seeking more, but in developing the capacity to enjoy less.” ~ Socrates
Would you agree most people feel the need to do more rather than less? I imagine your answer is yes! Most people are doers with strong beliefs about taking action. Do you think it is possible to do less to gain more?
I certainly do. What happens often is constant doing gets crazy and is overwhelming. But, the truth is, do less to gain clarity. When you do less, you find more time than you thought you had. Doing less helps to manage your energy. You are calm and peaceful. When you do less, you slow down, breathe and feel happier.
Why do we resist something which reaps so many wonderful benefits? I believe we resist doing less because it seems too good to be true. Really, do less, gain more? That seems too easy, doesn’t it? We are conditioned to work hard constantly. And, the thought of simplicity and doing less in our lives seems hard to do and feels like it won’t accomplish much at all.
The reality is, the more we simplify, the healthier we become and the more satisfied we are with life in general. Below are doable ways to simplify your life you can begin to use today:
• Make a short list – write down 4-5 things that are important to you. What do you value? When you
know what you value and what is most important, your priorities become simplified. Focus on
what matters first.
• Organize your living space and work space – get rid of stuff you don’t use.
• Get enough sleep – we are more productive when well rested.
• Drop 1 commitment – review your list of priorities and then think of all the things you are committed to doing. Look for something you are not looking forward to and let it go. You will feel better.
• Be clear in your communication – Don’t try to read another person’s mind and don’t make others read your mind.
• Your health is everything – be diligent about self-care. Your health is your life.
• Slow Down – we are used to moving at a fast pace from one task to another. Simplify by doing less
and focusing on your 4 or 5 most important priorities and do them slowly. Stay present. Breathe.
This may be difficult at first but try it. Eat slower, walk slower, drive slower. As the saying
goes, “stop and smell the roses” – you will be glad you did.
• Say “I Love You” – to everyone you care about as often as possible.
What I would like to stress about these suggestions is, they are simple. A small drop in the bucket of daily action to create momentum. More importantly, it is the little things we do that mean the most and are so effective. Sometimes, getting back to basics can result in profound change. Your life can improve dramatically in a short period of time by doing less. I hope you will consider these doable action steps. You might be pleasantly surprised how much more you are able to get done!
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