I recently returned from a 3 week vacation in Ireland and Scotland. During that time, I changed the ordinary flow of my days. I felt like I had taken charge of my life again. Simplify, Simplify, Simplify were the words that kept ringing in my head. I checked email only once a week in order to follow an important project I'm involved in. I ignored clocks and ate when I was hungry and slept when I was tired. The result? I came back rested, calm and a few pounds lighter (despite the daily Guinness and whiskey!).
What does simply simplifying mean to you? How can you focus on what you actually want and need to be happy and secure? I've always wanted to live in a small town where I could walk to get most of the services I need -and now I am here and loving it. I walk to get groceries, to the farmers market, to my hairdresser and dentist and to several great restaurants. I combine car trips so I'm rarely on the road more than 1 day every 2-3 weeks.
Sometimes small changes in the way you spend your time and money are enough to simplify your life to your greatest satisfaction. Other times, it requires a bigger move like relocating.
To simplify your life, you'll probably need to take a look at your thoughts about money. I'm all for having plenty to do the things that delight your heart along with enough to save and share with your spiritual community and/or charities. But exactly how much is enough for you? It's going to vary a lot depending on what part of the country you live in, what your hobbies are, how many children you have....well you get the picture.
When I took stock of what I really needed to be happy while living a simplified life, I was pleasantly surprised. It's quite doable and I've been able to create work that supports a lifestyle I love. What is of high value to me is time to pay attention to my "inner life" because I firmly believe that our inner life creates our outer life. Without quiet time, my life feels chaotic. Other high values for me are spending time with people I love and enjoy, reading, learning, and traveling. That's about all I need!
So take some time today to list out what would make you happiest. What would an immensely satisfying life look like for you? Chances are you'll be wanting to simplify, simplify, simplify too!
Ann Ronan, Ph.D. is an author, speaker, certified career coach and self employment expert, and vision generator.
Ann delivers smart, simple ways for people to acknowledge what they love to do and do more of it. Her articles, products, and books have motivated and inspired readers in numerous print and online publications. She regularly leads coaching programs, tele-seminars and live retreats, bringing the message to audiences internationally that living a passion-based life will bring prosperity and success.
She was recently selected from a nationwide search to be featured in Discover Your Inner Strength. The book features best-selling authors Stephen R. Covey (Seven Habits of Highly Effective People), Brian Tracy (Million Dollar Habits), and Ken Blanchard (One Minute Manager).
Post new comment
Please Register or Login to post new comment.