Everyday living can get chaotic and stressful if we allow it to be. All too often, we are sucked into the whirlwind of trying to do or be too much.
Juggling a lifestyle of “too much” can be detrimental to our mental and physical well-being. It leads to the stress and strain that can compromise our productivity and rob us of enjoying what matters most.
To stay grounded and centered, learn to simplify your life with these helpful steps.
(1) Be mindful of the present.
To simplify your life, focus on the here and now. Be cognizant of what you are currently saying, feeling, and doing. Don’t clutter your mind by worrying or fixating on something you can’t control.
(2) Manage your time.
Evaluate how you are scheduling your time. Structure your day to avoid making it too hectic or activity driven. Factor in the essential tasks but leave the rest for another day.
(3) Learn to say “no” more often.
There is nothing wrong with saying “no” to something that will cause you stress or complicate your life. When your answer is “no”, make it simple and to the point. There is no need to justify something that is not a good fit for you.
(4) Organize your things.
Tidy up your home and workspace and organize your things for convenience and easy access. Toss any stuff that is collecting dust and offers no direct benefit to your everyday living. Less can be better if you want peace of mind.
(5) Tackle unhealthy habits.
Don’t be weighed down by harmful habits such as overeating, drinking, taking illegal drugs, or smoking cigarettes. While it is best not to start, get the help you need to stop before these addictions wreak havoc on your health and relationships with others.
(6) Monitor your thoughts.
Be driven by positive thoughts and actions instead of wasting invaluable time and energy on the negative. Wake up in the morning with a sense of gratitude and optimism and let these thoughts guide you through the day.
(7) Manage your money wisely.
Keep financially fit by spending less, saving more, and staying out of debt. Incorporate a financial plan to consolidate your investments into key holdings and to always be fiscally responsible.
(8) Stay away from toxic relationships.
Whether it’s a friend, co-worker, or family member, negative people can zap you of your energy. To avoid cluttering your mind with their negativity, establish healthy boundaries that won’t take a toll on you.
As you start to embrace the simpler side of life, you will increasingly gain a greater appreciation of what’s most important to you. So, make the effort to toss out the the complex and embrace a more rewarding lifestyle.
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Written by: Patricia K. Flanigan, Smart Strategies for Successful Living
Patricia K. Flanigan has worked in higher education for over 28 years. She holds a doctoral degree in Organizational Leadership from the University of La Verne as well as a M.A. in Latin American Studies and B.A. in Anthropology from the University of California, Los Angeles. Before retiring and moving to Idaho in 2015, she served as the dean of online education and learning resources at Saddleback College, a large community college in Southern California. She currently consults in higher education, volunteers for AARP, writes for a local magazine, and serves as an Affiliate Faculty member at Boise State University and a contributing member to LEARN Idaho. Since February 2017, she has been the founding director for Smart Strategies for Successful Living, a community-based website designed to promote quality aging. As an educator, her focus is to inspire others to live and age well.
Related Resources
How to Practice Mindfulness: 11 Practical Steps and Tips: CLICK HERE
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Source: the balance small businessHow to Simply Say No: CLICK HERE.
Source: Smart Strategies for Successful Living