The power of keeping things simple

To be clear simplicity isn’t the absence of depth, it is the clarity through which true depth can be seen. In many ways it is the quiet space where we can allow beauty to breathe and discover what really matters to us.

We live in a world that constantly pushes against simplicity, making it incredibly challenging to maintain a simple life. The modern world promotes a culture that can lead to an overwhelming accumulation of “stuff” and we may run the risk of becoming “stuffocated” both mentally and physically. Through the choices we make we can make our lives overly complicated which will have a negative impact on our stress levels and overall wellbeing.

Keeping life simple in the modern world is a wonderful goal, and it’s achievable for everyone. It’s all about making intentional choices that align with what truly brings us peace and joy, rather than getting caught in the cycle of constant accumulation, clutter, distractions and general busyness.

So here are three ‘simple’ tips for creating more clarity and simplicity in your life so you will have more space to focus on what really matters:

1.Reduce multi-taskings

We may believe that multitasking makes us more productive. Numerous studies have shown that it actually reduces overall productivity, and it can take us longer to complete things. The time lost in task-switching, recovering focus, and correcting errors can add up significantly. A simpler approach of single-tasking often leads to faster, higher-quality completion of individual tasks.

2. Declutter your physical space

Our brains are constantly processing visual information so when we are surrounded by clutter, there are more stimuli competing for our attention. This “visual noise” can lead to cognitive overload and this constant mental effort can be exhausting and lead to elevated stress levels.

Also aim to keep flat surfaces around you as clear as possible because this can instantly makes a space feel calmer and less cluttered.

3. Simplify your digital life

Digital clutter can build so easily so here are a few ways to simplify things:

Pick one device or area to focus on first

Go through your apps and delete any that you don’t use or need

Organise your files and create folders for your files and organise them by topic or date

Clean up your inbox and delete or archive old emails

Unsubscribe from any mailing lists that you don’t want to be on

Clear your browsing history and cookies

Review your social media accounts and unfollow any accounts that don’t add value to your life

In essence, simplicity is about consciously choosing what truly matters and letting go of the excess that clutters and distracts our lives and minds. This fundamental shift in perspective allows us to be more adaptable, calmer, less stressed, and satisfied. Who doesn’t want a bit more of that?

About the Author

Liggy Webb is an award-winning and best-selling author, presenter, and international consultant. She is also the founding director of LWL, an international consortium of behavioural skills specialists. Liggy is recognised as a thought leader on human resilience and wellbeing, working with a wide range of global organisations across the sector.