Guest Author - Lori Phillips
Confusion exists about the definition of the simple life. Often we think of the slow-paced country life as the hallmark of simple living. But if anyone knows what it takes to live off the land or run a farm, she knows that country living is not necessarily simple or easy living. It can require continuous labor to live without technology or modern conveniences!
To me, simple living is to live without stress. It doesn’t mean living without any effort or labor. But to live a life devoid of the kind of complications that rob you of peace and enjoyment is to live a simple life. It is a mindset, really. A complicated life is filled with fretful thoughts and anxious activities as one tries to keep up a frantic pace, so much so that there is no time to enjoy the act of living. Sadly, many people have become so accustomed to their manic lifestyles that they don’t know the true peace and fulfillment that they are missing. They are addicted to stress like they are addicted to their morning caffeine fix, text messaging, Web surfing, email chasing, to-do list planning and worrying, worrying, worrying about tomorrow.
A simple life is rich with satisfaction and rife with contentment and appreciation. Regardless of the balance in your bank account or the type of car in your garage. Or your professional or social status.
Beyond that, you define what is simple. For some of you, living without a car creates more complications and stress while for others, not having a car eliminates the costs, both financial and environmental, that weigh heavily on their conscience. Is it easier for you to buy your jam or make your own to avoid the preservatives? Those are strictly individual choices you must make for yourself.
But simple living means, no matter what your lifestyle, there is time to feel peaceful moments. Nearly every act in your life should allow for enjoyment of the process. If you are in panic mode, rushing from one activity to the next, worried about falling behind, you aren’t living a simple life. If your mind is spinning from the endless onslaught of chaotic thoughts, if you can’t sleep at night due to fearful concerns, if you have to spend hours strategizing to manipulate the outcomes in your personal and professional lives, then your life could use some simplifying.
Life is easier than you think. Let’s discover some simple ways to uncomplicate your life to make room for more peace and more joy. It is one of the most important matters in life to master because it is my personal belief that if you missed the joy, you’ve missed it all.
