Trying to simplify your life?

It seems to be something many are trying to do with their lives, simplify it and enjoy what is important to them. After doing a lot of reading, I’m noticing that simplifying isn’t a “one size fits all” plan (even though there are plenty of books, websites and experts that say it is). People are different, their lives are different, their goals are different, and what makes them happy is different.

I am no expert, but after a lot of reading and thinking, here are some simple thoughts on simplifying.

• Make a list of what in your life stresses you out, takes time away from what is important to you, or you would simply like to simplify.
• Use that list to create a plan. If books cause you stress because they are stacked everywhere, make a plan that makes you happy and that you can work on when time allows. For me, paper clutter causes a lot of stress, so I’m going to work on a plan to reduce the paper clutter, create a plan to deal with it on a regular basis, and create a sorting system that works for me.
• Don’t rush yourself. It took time to have a cluttered, complicated life, it will take time to make is simpler and less cluttered.
• Don’t compare. Everyone is different and everyone has a different level of simplicity. There are thousands of blogs, experts, and websites devoted to reducing clutter. Use them for inspiration, but don’t compare yourself or feel that those goals should be your goals. Remember the goal of reducing clutter and simplifying your life is to have more time to enjoy what is important to you, stress less, and enjoy your life… comparing yourself and then feeling bad about not matching up, won’t help reach those goals.
• Create a system that works for you. Set goals, but do what feels best for you, for the timeline to reach those goals. For example, I try to work on something every day, but your life may only allow you to work once a week or once a month. I like lists, but maybe a note on your ipod works better for you. Some people like charts or posters to keep on track.
• There is nothing wrong with a “reward” when you accomplish a goal. Make it something that fits within your goals. For example, if your goal is to keep only the books that fit on the bookcases, it probably wouldn’t be a good idea to reward downsizing your books with buying another book. Instead maybe take a book off the shelf and spend the afternoon reading in the park.

I am no expert, but I hope you take away from this list that your goals are important, your successes are important, and nothing anyone else does will take away from your accomplishments!