In the early 90s, before the popular trend of decluttering and simplifying life with Marie Kondo, Elaine St. James wrote a bestseller called “Simplify Your Life.” In this book, St. James shares 100 ways to embrace simplicity and focus on what truly matters. Her advice emphasizes living with less and reducing complexity in various aspects of life. Even though the book was published in 1994, the themes and suggestions remain relevant for achieving wellness and contentment today.
One key aspect of simplifying life that St. James suggests is downsizing where you can. By decluttering and getting rid of unused items, you can reduce costs and maximize the space in your home. She also recommends moving to a smaller, more manageable house and driving a simpler car to simplify your life further. By downsizing and minimizing material possessions, you can create a more comfortable and convenient living environment.
Another suggestion from St. James is to consider having a staycation, even if you love to travel. Taking time to relax and explore your local community can be just as enjoyable as a traditional vacation. St. James shares her experiences of exploring art galleries, museums, and local parks during staycations, fostering a sense of pride and familiarity with her town. This practice can also help you appreciate the simple pleasures close to home.
St. James also encourages the idea of turning a hobby into a side hustle, even before the term gained popularity. By pursuing activities you enjoy outside of your main job, you can find fulfillment and potentially generate additional income. St. James shares the story of her friend Sandra, who started selling her sculptures at local art shows after taking up sculpting as a hobby. This can be a rewarding way to balance work and personal passions.
Practicing mindfulness is another key recommendation from St. James for simplifying life. She suggests spending one day a month in solitude to realign with what truly matters and reduce everyday tensions. St. James also emphasizes the importance of focusing on one task at a time and taking moments to appreciate simple pleasures like watching the sunset. Cultivating mindfulness can help individuals slow down, appreciate the present moment, and reduce stress in their daily lives.
Overall, St. James’ advice on simplifying life and focusing on what truly matters continues to resonate with readers today. By downsizing, embracing staycations, pursuing side hustles, and practicing mindfulness, individuals can create a more balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. These timeless principles remind us to prioritize quality over quantity, appreciate the simple joys in life, and find contentment in moments of quiet reflection and connection.
