The first step to simplifying your life is not by simply getting rid of things. Instead, you need to simplify your mind.
First, I want you to take a deep breath; you should be calm and relaxed before trying to make life changes. Then, you need to consider what is taking up the most space in your mind and controlling your anxieties. Once you realized what your problem areas are you can continue to let go of what you cannot control. Too often we let other people´s thoughts or feelings affect what we do or want. You may even find it difficult to commit to a tiny home lifestyle due to these external factors. Therefore, we must allow life to not overwhelm us because the truth is: everyone is focused on themselves. It may sound selfish, but it is true and actually... not that selfish because life is hard, and everyone has their own struggles. When you take that mental step back, you’ll feel a tremendous amount of relief. Remember life is like a marathon, you need to pace yourself and congratulate your victories.
Now you may be wondering how this could relate to living a simpler life. The trick is when we care less about what other people think we start to keep things that have true value to us. We are then able to stay true to our basic wants and needs and really focus on ourselves. I think in this day in age we move so fast and never slow down enough to enjoy the parts that make life great. Once you slowdown from the chaos of life you will have the time and energy to spend time doing things that truly give value: self-care, family time, outdoor activities, etc.
Next is to get back to the basics of what you need to live a happy and healthy life. As in, we all need a place to eat, take a shower and to sleep. You may have noticed in your tiny home adventure that these homes focus on those key values. Tiny homes are structured to focus on your basic needs and to allow yourself to thrive in other aspects of your life. Filling your tiny home should be simple as everything should have a purpose or meaning. Figure out what items you own mean the most to you and find a way to celebrate them in your home. However, you need to also allow yourself to get rid of the things that are taking up space and possibly causing some anxiety. Once you do this you can truly enjoy life to its fullest. I loved the book that came out a few years ago that was all the rage: Life Changing Magic of Tidying by Marie Kondo It begins as a lesson in cleaning your house but aluminates the bigger message to only buy and keep the things you truly love. I think it's a must read for everyone, especially those who want to downsize and live a more simple life.
What suggestions do you have to simplify your mind?
Published on 2/14/2024. Published in Tiny House Living.
