“’Tis the gift to be simple, ’tis the gift to be free,’” proclaims the old Shaker hymn, “Simple Gifts.” And who wouldn’t like a little more simplicity? You can have it now by clearing out things that complicate your life. Start with these:
Tune Out
Media saturates our lives and can over-stimulate or even depress us. Hit the “off” button sooner; set limits for the TV, smartphone and computer; and use your found time to hang out with friends or do outdoor activities.
Let Go of Toxic People
As Mandy Hale, author of The Single Woman: Life, Love, and a Dash of Sass, writes, “Toxic people will pollute everything around them. Don’t hesitate. Fumigate.” Tell the person why you’re breaking off the relationship — it might help them detox, as well.
Take Out the Garbage
“Garbage in, garbage out” is computer-ese for getting bad results from inputting bad data. Eliminate some of the garbage in your life. Clean out your pantry and replace all the junk food with fruits and veggies. If you smoke, toss those cigarettes.
Trim Your To-do List
If your to-do list looks like (or is) a spreadsheet, you’re overbooked. Figure out the most time-consuming things you do, then axe at least one of them. Delegate or minimize some of the other demands on your time, and limit new commitments to things that really excite you.
Say “Enough” to Stuff
Most of us have too many things — and keep adding more. Instead of buying new stuff, ?nd ways to re-use what you have. Clean out closets and give away things you don’t use. Borrow or rent items you use only occasionally.