If you’re like many people, your days are so full that you feel like there’s no time to do what truly matters to you. Taking a moment to stop and smell the roses
may feel impossible, but simplifying your life can make it easier than you think.
Take my friend Michelle, for example. Michelle’s a classic over-scheduler—always juggling work, social events, errands, and keeping up with everyone on social media. She was constantly running from one thing to the next, with barely any time to
breathe.
One day, she realized she was missing out on the things that truly brought her joy, like spending time with her family, reading a good book, or even just taking a quiet walk. That’s when she decided something had to change.
Simplifying her life wasn’t just a desire; it became a necessity for her well-being.
Here’s how you can make your life
simpler, too.
1) Disconnect with intention. We’re connected to so much technology that it can get overwhelming. Disconnecting doesn’t mean ditching your phone or email—it’s about setting boundaries. Use caller ID to screen calls and let your voicemail handle the rest.
Designate specific times to check email and return messages. Turn off notifications and avoid using your phone for mindless scrolling.
Michelle found that by turning off notifications for non-essential apps, she was able to focus more on her family and less on the constant pinging of her phone.
2) Tame information overload. We’re constantly bombarded by information. To avoid overwhelming
yourself, limit your sources. Instead of subscribing to multiple newsletters or following countless websites, focus on just a few trusted sources. Also, set a daily time limit for consuming news or social media.
Michelle had been reading every piece of news
she could find, thinking it was keeping her informed, but all it did was make her anxious and distracted. Once she cut back to a few reliable sources, her stress levels dropped.
3) Be selective with screen time. Consider how much time you and your family spend in front of the TV or on devices. Instead of mindlessly
watching, choose specific shows or movies and turn off the TV once they’re done. You could also swap some screen time for family activities like board games, walks, or creative projects.
Michelle replaced her late-night TV binge sessions with reading before bed,
which helped her sleep better and feel more rested the next day.
4) Create a personal sanctuary. Find a space that’s just for you—whether it’s a cozy corner, a room, or a spot in your yard. Spend a few minutes there each day to relax, reflect, or meditate. This small retreat can help you unwind and
recharge.
Michelle set up a small corner in her bedroom with a comfy chair and a candle. She spends 10 minutes there every morning to just sit, sip her coffee, and enjoy a little peace before her busy day starts.
5) Tackle the toughest task first. Start your day by tackling the hardest or most dreaded task on your list. Once it’s out of the way, you’ll feel lighter and more productive for the rest of the day.
Michelle used to procrastinate on the hardest things, which only made them loom larger in her mind. Now, she tackles them first and gets them off her plate.
6) Cut down on paper clutter. We all deal with a lot of paperwork, but much of it can be reduced.
Opt for digital versions of magazines and catalogs, unsubscribe from mailing lists, and sign up for electronic billing. Use online services to stop junk mail and pre-approved credit card offers to keep your mailbox clutter-free.
Michelle noticed that her kitchen
counter was constantly covered in mail. After switching to paperless billing and opting out of junk mail, her space felt clearer and more manageable.
7) Declutter your space. Too much stuff creates stress. Let go of items that no longer serve you. Donate, sell, or recycle them. You’ll feel more at peace and less
weighed down by your possessions.
After a weekend spent decluttering her closets, Michelle felt like she could finally breathe in her own home again.
8) Simplify your debt. Debt can be a major source of stress. If possible, consolidate into one manageable payment, create a budget, and focus on paying it down. Avoid using credit cards for non-essentials, and if you’re unsure where to start, seek advice from a certified financial planner.
Michelle had been overwhelmed by cc bills until she sat down, created a plan, and made a commitment to get her finances under control.
9) Automate your bills. Save time and stress by automating your bill
payments. Set up auto-pay for recurring expenses like utilities, rent, or mortgage payments, so you won’t have to worry about writing checks or missing due dates.
10) Allow room for spontaneity. Shake up your routine every now and then by doing something unplanned and fun. Go for a spontaneous hike, grab coffee with a
friend, or explore a new hobby. A little spontaneity can boost your mood and make life feel more exciting.
Michelle realized she was so caught up in her to-do lists that she never had time for fun. Now, she makes room in her schedule for impromptu outings with
friends or family.
11) Make a joy list. Create two columns: one for activities you enjoy and one for those you don’t. Then, brainstorm how you can add more of the enjoyable things to your life and minimize the others. This exercise can help you align your time with what truly makes you happy.
Michelle’s joy list reminded her of all the things she was missing out on—time with loved ones, her favorite hobbies, and simply relaxing.
Simplifying your life is an ongoing process, but the benefits are immediate.
Michelle learned that by letting go of the things that complicated her life, she was able to focus on what truly mattered—time with her family, a sense of calm,
and space to breathe.
You can do it too—one small step at a time.
