“I learned long ago that living as simply as possible is the key not only to happiness, but also to survival.” Michael Palmer
The number of people who want simplicity in the complexity of modern life is increasing day by day. These people, who desire to consume less and live more deeply, find it more valuable to live simply in the chaos of life. This lifestyle, which is an alternative to today’s “disposable” consumption frenzy, has become a necessity beyond being an option, perhaps for everyone.
“Don’t spend money on things… spend money on experiences. You’ll enjoy life a lot more!” Ziad K. Abdelnour
Living simply and simply is a valuable way of life that has become quite common in the vast majority of contemporary societies, although it is not widely adopted in today’s Turkish society. This lifestyle is not just a behavior about using or consuming less items, it is a lifestyle that includes an intellectual revolution, a philosophy of life… We find it appropriate to bring a solution-oriented approach without going into the social, economic or philosophical foundations of this issue. With the basic steps we share in this article, you will have a practical guide by getting information on the way to the richness of simple living.
“You have succeeded in life when all you really want is all you really need.” Vernon Howard
STEP 1: You must first believe in this way of life yourself.
First of all, it should be noted that this way of life is not cool at all. At least for society as a whole. You should stand strong in dealing with environmental pressure and first convince yourself that what you are doing is right. This is a difficult journey that requires an inner transformation. live simply; It’s not about living without money, not spending at all, or waging war on consumerism. To live simply is to live richly with awareness and wisdom.
“You want peace? Little things, few people.” Franz Kafka
STEP 2: Prepare a list of needs and get rid of unnecessary burdens.
Start by listing what you really need in your life. Items you don’t use, clothes, etc. Determine the situation by making a list. Try to get rid of these items within the plan you set every day. Although it is customary to attribute spiritual meanings to things, you will feel lighter and more relaxed after this process. You will also realize that this life is much less costly. In this way, you will have the chance to direct your resources to your dreams and experiences as much as possible.
“A man is rich in proportion to the number of things which he can afford to let alone.” Henry D Thoreau
STEP 3: Surround yourself with like-minded people.
While adopting this life, the people around you will also get their share of change. It is inevitable to include them in the simplification. Try to spend more time with people who think like you. This social solidarity will give you an important power to accept yourself and your way of life. People who adopt this life prefer to use bicycles instead of motor vehicles, bookshelves instead of big televisions, and products that they make instead of expensive items. This includes the richest people in the world.
“Rich people have small TVs and big libraries, and poor people have small libraries and big TVs” Zig Ziglar
STEP 4: Do what you love, produce happiness.
Many people go on with their lives by buying happiness. This is a method no different than carrying water to the mill. One of the greatest happiness providers in your life is your profession. It is almost impossible to substitute the happiness you can’t find there. If you keep busy with the things you love, you will already be happy and you won’t have to spend extra on happiness. This will make the biggest contribution to you on the road to simplicity. This lifestyle will allow you to consume less and be happier while producing.
“To be happy in life, you must have a job that you love as much as you can do for free.” John Verdon
STEP 5: Keep growing and learning with courage.
Keep in mind that living simply is a virtue and, like all virtues, it comes with courage. While adopting this lifestyle, you may find yourself in some difficulties. To stay strong in times like these, keep improving yourself. Observe the lives of like-minded people, strengthen your financial acumen, and keep learning. Here are some resources to support you at this point: Captain Fantastic, Larry Crowne, The Tree Planter, The Serene Warrior
“Rich people stay rich by living as if they were broke. Penniless people live as if they were rich and remain penniless.” Anonymous
That’s all… This 5-step guide we’ve listed will sooner or later bring you the simplicity and simplicity you desire in life. Start right away with the first step and enjoy this magical change in your life. In the words of Bruce Lee; simplicity is the key to brilliance.
