10 Steps to Simpler Living

By Kevin Stevens, Networx

When chatting with some friends or clients, it’s not uncommon to hear them say that they are envious of my “simpler life.” My response is generally that what is perceived as “simple” has a lot to do with my attitude; while some days are simple, others are not. Being a small business owner and trying to coordinate multiple clients, projects and schedules can be pretty draining and hectic. I have made some great steps to make my life simpler but there are still days when it can be a bit overwhelming.

I recently completed some custom bookcases for a client. During that project, a typical day might involve making the 30 second walking commute to my basement workshop for the “work” portion of my day. I must admit that building custom furniture is pretty much an ideal gig and I’m often in the best state of mind. But like many folks, this portion of my life is just a slice of what a week or month may bring. On a less than ideal day, I might have to commute 4 hours between 3 or 4 job sites, finish up a punch list, spec out some new project and fit in a few materials runs to the lumber yard or home center.

Given the fact that my life can actually get quite hectic, I have found these practices to be very helpful. They work for me; they could work for you.

1. Work is work and home is home. For most folks this is one of the first steps to simpler living. Being able to punch out at the end of the day and leave the work baggage behind is one way to make your life feel less stressful. Granted some jobs and career choices can influence this ability to disconnect your work life from “living,” the sooner you can remove this overlap, change can start.

2. Less is more. I feel that one of the biggest burdens to happiness comes from too much stuff in your life, whether these are material things or activities. Having more is not always better. Consumerism is contagious and a hard habit to break. People often equate “things” with happiness, but a life-long pursuit of more and more only leads to less happiness. Working 60 hours a week to pay for a too-big house filled with stuff you don’t need or use is a trap.

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Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

Aoife O.

9:14AM PST on Dec 19, 2011

everything so true... thanks

December 19
send a green star

Kathy T.

5:49PM PST on Dec 12, 2011

There are a lot of good hints here to help you to better manage you time and your possessions.

December 12
send a green star

Sarah M.

7:59PM PST on Dec 7, 2011

thanks

December 7
send a green star

Emily G.

6:52PM PST on Dec 3, 2011

Great advice

December 3
send a green star

Emma S.

9:49AM PST on Dec 3, 2011

Thanks you - these are all good reminders. It's interesting to see where you're doing well, and where not - I work sometimes from home, and my work's mostly absorbing, so I find it hard to switch off. I'm also very untidy! I think my new year's resolution will be to declutter my life.

Duane B.

9:24AM PST on Dec 3, 2011

In order to create a simpler life for myself, I'm going to have to get rid of my computer! ;-)

Nancy A.

9:18AM PST on Dec 3, 2011

Especially during the holiday season, keeping things in perpective helps me. What are my priorities? Love, peace, and serenity!
Nan

Amber B.

8:08AM PST on Dec 3, 2011

awesome!

John S.

6:40AM PST on Dec 3, 2011

Thanks, good to know.

Kitty A.

12:24PM PST on Dec 2, 2011

Great ideas. People watch way too much television and then don't have time to walk or jog outside which gives a much greater sense of wellbeing and accomplishment.