Why simple is best
Honestly, writing blog posts is very hard for me. I overthink, then under-think (if that’s even a thing) and it always feels like I got “the right words” out rather than the authentic ones. So, thanks for sticking with me as I work through the tough beginnings of blogging. Today I wanted to share why I think Simple is Best and how it is likely best for you too.
Ah, see? I’m already overthinking. I don’t want to ever come across as a know-it-all, because I don’t know everything. I’m just trying a lot of things in hopes to find more peace and harmony in my life. And with our ever-growing family, I gotta do everything I can to keep all of us sane. It’s not easy out there and I doubt it’s ever been. As we all know, history likes to repeat itself. But the busyness, pressures, and never-ending tasks as a working mother in the 21st century are insane. No, like literal insanity.
Keep the house clean and tidy.
Raise well-behaved children.
Absolutely no excess screen time.
Oh and feed your children healthy foods that they don’t want.
Also, look lovely!
Have a wonderful relationship with your spouse *pretty pictures for Instagram are a bonus.
Sleep soundly for 9 hours every night.
Run a side gig and be successful.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Is the house clean and tidy?
Read your daily scripture.
Don’t forget to make time for YOU.
And that laundry needs folding.
I’m stressed just typing that out.
Honestly, I feel all of those. But at the same time, I don’t. How does that make sense? Let me explain.
A few years ago, I started my journey toward simple living and I’ve learned a lot. It exposed a lot of sinful desires, that’s for sure: greed, jealousy, and discontentment, just to name a few. But fast-forward 3 years and I feel freer than I’ve ever been.
“Going back to a simpler life is not a step backward.”
I’m choosing my to-do’s rather than acting as a slave to them. I’m choosing how I spend my time, rather than rushing around in constant chaos and catch up. I’m okay with saying no, and as a recovering people pleaser, that’s a big one.
I’m sharing this because I want you to be in control of your life, rather than it controlling you. Trust me, I know what it feels like to wake up with dread, stress and exhaustion before the day even starts. But I’ve since made some big shifts and that’s why I feel okay with saying something like “simple is best”. It is. period.
IT’S OKAY TO HAVE FEARS
What if I miss that item? What it I get bored? Can I still shop? Where do I even start? Will they be upset if I give their gift away? What will people think? Will it actually change me?
Let them out. Write them out if to you need to. It’s okay to be nervous as you consider making these big shifts in your life. But what I want you to remember is:
How you feel right now: overwhelmed, stressed, tired, longing for joy, connection and vibrance
Your stuff does not make you happier.
What matters most to you…that’s what were making room for
These three thoughts kept me going when I felt crazy loading bags, and bags, and bags of things out of my home and off to the resale shop. These thoughts gave me confidence when I fell into the trap of “wanting what she had” rather than longing for contentment.
Want to know something else? It’s your THOUGHTS that actually change your life. The actions follow, of course, but it’s your mindset that leads the way.
That’s when you will feel the freedom you’ve been looking for.
MAKING THE SHIFT
I don’t want any of this to overwhelm you. For that reason, I’m going to give you al list of small shifts I made that have led me here: a more content, slow, thoughtful, resilient and joyful version of Margaret.
Gratitude list: 5 things, every single day. Use a napkin if needed!
Asking the Lord to change my heart: I didn’t do any of this on my own, he has graciously guided me this entire way.
Talking positively to yourself and to others: Find the good! Talk about the things you love and how you’re making more room for them. It’s powerful, my friends.
Start decluttering: start with your closet. That decluttering session changed my life.
Drop off the excess at a resale shop and think about the families that will benefit from your items.
Light candles and sit down to dinner: it’s a slow and simple task that really does make big shifts in the home
Listen and read inspiring, simple and slow-living content. What you consume has a huge impact on how you live and think! Our culture, life and social media are full of enticing offers to “add more”, “do more”, “be more”. Trudge the other way, my friends. It feels so d*** good.
Simple is best. I know it. Honestly, you know it too. I’m here(and this is the fastest I’ve ever written a blog post, so yay) to encourage you and be a voice that tells you: “YOU CAN DO IT!” You can live a peaceful, calm, vibrant and purposeful life.
More encouragement coming your way soon.
Sending love,
Marge