Embracing Simplicity
"Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication."
—Leonardo da Vinci
In a world that seems to pull us every which way, we can quickly find our lives overloaded with complexity.
Our lives often feel cluttered — we own too many things that weigh us down, we’ve scheduled too many social obligations, and our heads become full of too much useless information…
Before we have time to realize what’s happening, we notice a sense of fatigue beginning to set in… We become overwhelmed, overreactive, and anxious.
The wonderful thing is that each and every one of us holds the power to consciously craft our own lives.
This is where embracing simplicity comes into play.
Simplification of our environments, routines, and lifestyles allows us to lead more organized, spacious, and peaceful lives. This sense of outward organization leads to an organized mind, with which we can consciously respond to the happenings of life rather than impulsively react.
Some essential tips for simplification include:
Declutter and organize physical environment.
Let go of the unnecessary — physical items, negative thoughts, draining relationships, excessive commitments…
Consume less — food, media, conversation…
Establish a daily routine.
Prioritize the most important tasks.
Focus fully on one task at a time.
Allow for plenty of time to complete tasks and arrive at places.
Schedule time for rest and reflection.
.
“Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished."
—Lao Tzu
.
Take a moment to pause, take a deep breath, and acknowledge your surroundings...
The leaves on the trees wouldn't exist without the space between them.
The walls of your house define the open space they enclose.
Even a cup is useful because of the empty space it holds inside.
In other words, everything in life is made up of both structure and the space within it, working together.
Our lives should be no different.
Given the fast-paced nature of modern life, it’s easy to get caught up in overemphasizing our work lives. However, to truly enjoy the fruits our labors, we must embrace spaciousness as well.
By intentionally simplifying and creating space in our lives, we begin to feel the weight lift from our shoulders. Our days become more open and less pressured. We can then focus on what truly brings us joy—engaging in meaningful work, spending quality time with loved ones, and savoring moments of leisure.
With this balance, we become able to slow down, notice the beauty around us, and carry a sense of gratitude in every step.
Life again becomes a beautiful adventure.
.
"Heaven is under our feet as well as over our heads."
—Henry David Thoreau
.
May you rediscover the richness and beauty in simplicity.
Max Kristopher Komes
www.MaxKomes.com
Max Komes is a Master’s-level Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern offering supervised in-person counseling services in Pensacola, Florida, as well as statewide.
If you find that these messages resonate with you, take the next step in rediscovering a life of clarity by scheduling a session below:
Connect with our cohort of other free-thinkers at www.ClaritySanctuary.org.
.
This writing is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you have imminent health concerns, please call 1-800-NAMI.
