At the Core of Simplicity

Simplicity means something different to everyone.  For some, it might mean a clean, organized home, free of excess and full of peace and joy.  For others, it is a life with space on their calendar to find rest and relaxation between intentionally planned activities.  And yet others define it as living light while traveling and exploring.

What’s at the core of simplicity is a story.  Your story.

Simplifying your life involves peeling away the layers of accumulated excess.  Excess that has become a burden.  The goal is to uncover what matters.  What brings you joy and what you’re choosing to take with on the journey ahead.   It’s about creating an intentional story of you.

When simplifying your life, especially sentimental items, you must carefully handle each of the “things” that were either loving passed down to you or that you, yourself have accumulated.   It’s a process of reflecting on memories and reliving your story then deciding how the stories of the past fit into the stories you have yet to create.

Then you must decide whether it is time to part ways with each item, letting that memory live on in your heart or whether it will remain as a physical item in your carefully curated story of you. 

I encourage you to keep the items that tell the story you want to remember.  Keep these carefully chosen items “in the mix” of your daily life, whether it be showcasing great grandpa’s military medals in a shadowbox on the wall, using great aunt’s china regularly, or digitally displaying your travel photos.  Having these items out where they can be seen and enjoyed in your daily life keeps you filled with memories of the people and experiences that have impacted your story. Find solace in knowing that some things are just meant to be part of your past and can be let go.

It’s important to remember that, “Simplifying IS NOT about seeing how much you can get rid of or how little you can live with.  IT IS about removing what has become a burden and filling your life with what brings you joy.”

At the core, “It’s about understanding, enjoying and sharing your story thus far and intentionally creating your story going forward.” 

Whether it’s with a carefully curated collection of physical items, or an organized collection of photos, it’s the story of you.  Where you came from, where you’ve been and where you’re headed.  By simplifying your home and life, you are in control of your story.  Make it a good one.

Blessings,

Lisa