Simply simplify

Simplify…

“In order to seek one’s own direction, one must simplify the mechanics of ordinary, everyday life.” — Plato

Overwhelm is so much a part of our daily experience. We are inundated with information and distracted by social media. Expectations in productivity across all areas of life require so much more of us. Can we do it all? Can we be it all? The ever increasing to do list is contrasted by an ever-decreasing sense of time.

“Life is complicated and it’s getting harder and harder to appreciate the essential concepts of life.”

It’s time we got back to what is essential…the basics.

Breathe...

I know this sounds silly. We are breathing. But how often have you told yourself, “I need to slow down and just breathe.”? When we say this, we are talking about performing a simple stress hack for our minds and bodies. Breathing affects our mental state by relaxing the mind. It has the ability to relieve stress, anxiety, and depression creating an opportunity for clarity, creativity, and igniting passion. Taking the time to breathe can release muscle tension and increase energy. The best part, it only takes a few minutes to do. Take a moment to sit, take a deep breath, hold for just a few seconds, release and repeat. It may help if you close your eyes. It will definitely help if you can do this in a space of minimal distractions.

Listen...

To be present and listen, to be curious and discerning, to acknowledge and understand, to rediscover who you are and what you are about is an internal conversation. One that requires that we slow down and listen. Those things we’ve lost in the grind, that have been buried under the trivial, will surface and the vital will once again regain its proper place…when we slow down and listen. Most of us have no problem hearing. We all have difficulty listening. Creating the space to listen is an art that is developed over time. The ancients knew this and we still stand in awe of their accomplishments. Perhaps your key to experiencing a fulfilling life begins by simply slowing down enough to listen.

Simplify

Too often we just jump into a task without the consideration of the effort we are exerting to accomplish it. We end up tired, and in some cases, even frustrated asking ourselves the age-old question, “There must be a better way,” and usually there is.

Begin your next task with the question around the idea of simplicity. What’s the simplest way to approach this? What’s the easiest way to accomplish this? And then proceed with confidence and joy!

Let me know how this works for you.