What I Wish Someone Had Told Me Before Beginning My Simplicity Journey
Five nuggets of wisdom found by experience
I’ve been on a journey for simplicity for the last six years. It’s been a process of learning, experimenting with what works and finding myself feeling happier and more fulfilled because I know my true purpose. Simplicity has given me a lot of peace and happiness. Throughout my journey there’s been many realizations, most of which have been positive.
I don’t have to emmulate the influencers but their ideas will help me find my path
Running a quick search on simplicity or minimalism will give you a lot of ideas to experiment with and try. However, these ideas are not gospel. Some of them will work for you and some of them will fall short in your experience. For example, I’ve never done a packing party but I have played the minimalist game where you discard the corresponding number of items per day of the month. I have never done another declutter since. The idea of taking a sabbatical from my phone is something I still practice on an as needed basis.
There is a lot of joy found in contentment
When we stop looking to add the next accolade, the next fashion item, or the next possession, we can find contentment. When we feel gratitude for what we have and don’t feel like we need to add more, it’s when contement manifests in our hearts. There’s a lot of joy that comes from contentment. It’s a feeling of peace instead of constantly striving. Contentment doesn’t mean mediocrity, it just means that we can feel joy and free up energy to work on what matters.
Slow and Steady Is Still Progress
When we begin any journey we want fast results and to see change overnight. Simplicity is not always like that. It’s a lifestyle that allows time for change. Not rushing yourself or feeling bad if things don’t change overnight. Choosing to show patience and to let your journey unfold.
Single Focus Beats Multi Focus
Single focus beats multi-focus in almost every area. Focusing on a single goal or project at a time helps with focus, drive and determination. Focusing on a single task allows that task to be given full attention which will lead to better results.
Self Care is a Priority of the Simple Life
From choosing things that lower stress to prioritizing our time based on what fuels us, simplicity allows for a greater sense of self care. From narrowing down time in the morning needed to choose an outfit that can be spent practicing our craft or routine. By choosing to work on one goal at a time, we allow ourselves more time to practice self care and go at a pace that feels comfortable.
Conclusion
When I first began my minimalism journey, I felt that this journey would be all about getting ready. I focused on the physical for at least one year. I kept reading blogs and following social media when I realized that there was more to simplicity than just narrowing down our possessions. After six years, these are the most important things that simplicity has taught me.
