The phrase towards simplicity has been circling in my mind for months. I wrote it on a post-it, stuck it above my desk. I see it every day. And, I keep coming back to what it means; grappling with the concept. Is it a goal, an aspiration? Or, is it more than that: a need?
I’m not given to making resolutions. Setting such specific goals, then failing to meet them, is a sure fire way to make you feel bad.
As the new year has begun though, I have seen several people write about choosing a word to live their year by.
I like this. I feel comfortable, and hopeful, about doing this.
Choosing a word to shape my thoughts, influence my choices. Guide me towards the life I wish to lead.
Regular readers will be not be surprised to learn that I have chosen the word simplify.
I have not chosen simplicity, because I recognise that much of my life, by necessity and want, will remain complex.
I have not chosen simple, because I know that many of life’s complications are in fact enjoyable, exciting and essential.
But, I do need to simplify.
Ultimately, this isn’t about changing my life; it’s about redefining it.
Reevaluating, streamlining and clarifying.
I have books to read, ideas to try and decisions to make! Some things will work, others won’t.
I truly believe that simplifying; my surroundings, my goals, my obligations; will lead me to a happier and calmer place. By ridding myself of the unnecessary, I will create space for creativity, productivity and achievement.
It won’t be simple, and the irony of that does make me smile, or rather, grimace. It will be challenging and frustrating. Banishing my inner hoarder will take some time. Letting go of my innate need to do everything by myself will be hard. Decluttering, both physically and mentally, will be difficult.
But, life is short. Too short to be overwhelmed by unimportant stuff. It’s time to take control and make space for what is important.
Space for my family, space for me. And, space to write.
Sharing this post with What I’m Writing and The Truth About.
Love your word, love the simplified nature of the post and the message it’s sending out… love love love! You are already halfway there hon, because you are truly changing your mindset (which is always the hardest part). Very excited about following your journey xx
Thank you Renee, I’m already finding that my word is influencing my choices, so I’m hopeful that will continue…
That sounds like the perfect word to me – I feel that I am doing something very similar this year :) x
The word has been circling in head for months, so it feels like the right thing to be focusing on x
That is a perfect word! Life gets so hectic and wanting to simplify your life and your year is a great goal :)
Thank you Julie, I’m very hopeful x
Absolutely yes to this. This is just how I feel, too, going into this year. Great word to choose and to act upon, and you’re spot on with the nuances of the other similar words, too. Hope it works out! x
Thank you Jocelyn, I’m hopeful at the moment…!
Yup, I’ve decided to take a similar approach this year too! Need to get rid of that “stuff” and concentrate on what’s important. #truthabout
It’s going to take me all year to declutter (home and mind) but it will be worth it!
I also loved the idea of finding a word to follow this year… but I still haven’t worked one out! I LOVE your word though and i love this post. I think you’re right about getting rid of the unnecessary stuff -I have far too much of it – so much that I have a hard time distinguishing the necessary clutter from the unnecessary. I’ve decided to target social media as a major drain though – it takes too much time, energy and, if I’m honest, happiness away from me. I look forward to following you on your journey this year. Thanks for linking to #whatImWriting
Yes, for me, the unnecessary stuff extends beyond the physical clutter. Social media is definitely in there too!
That is such a beautiful and inspiring quote, Sara. i wish I could declutter and simplify my life too, and find more time to do the things I really want to #whatimwriting
That’s the key isn’t it, finding more time to do the things you love x
I LOVE that quote. And have been quite inspired by your post… So much of what you write here (as always) resonates with me, and I too am yearning after a more streamlined existence so that I can focus on the important things! It’s easier said than done though… Looking forward to following your journey this year – and I think I might be bookmarking this post to come back to! xx
I am pleased that it resonated. I still have to work our exactly what shape it will all take, but I’m feeling very positive x
So true Sara, sometimes I do things out of habit then wonder why do I put all that effort into that tsk, its the little thing that sometimes need re thinking x
You’re right, it is often the little habits that we fall into that need to be rethought x
Your reflective posts are always so considered Sara. I think ‘simplify’ is something we could all take more care to do but I also agree that some of the more complicated bits are necessary to keep us stimulated and provide the colour and richness in our lives. I hope 2016 allows you to adjust your pattern for the best! Thanks for linking up to #thetruthabout Xx
Thank you Sam. It’s a tricky balance, isn’t it!
Gosh I need to banish my inner hoarder this year! I have loads of plans and goals for 2016 and all of them could be wrapped up in this word: ‘simplify’. Thanks for sharing sara, really interesting thoughts :) x
My inner hoarder is strong! I think simplify is a really powerful word, and I am very hopeful that it will see me through 2016 x
This is the perfect word for you as its something you’ve been thinking about for some time post Britmums. But this is clearly a considered and thoughtful approach to your new year, and an approach that I hope is going to make you happier in 2016
xx
Thank you Tracey, I hope so too. I have been thinking about it a lot!
It’s fascinating how a little idea will germinate in your brain and grow into an amazing sense of direction isn’t it? Simplify is a word I am trying to apply to my own life although its hard work I think I am getting there. It is so satisfying to know that I am tackling the things in life that I really care about. It will be worth it. xx
It is, I’ve been thinking about it all for quite a while now. I think I know where I’m going, but I still need to get some shape to it all x
That is a fabulous quote about Simplify and really sums up why it is such a good choice. Good luck with the changes that are needed. Mich x
Thank you, I am feeling very hopeful x
“Simplify.” Yep. That about sums up my word for the current year.
It’s a good word, a positive one!
This post has really resonated with me. My main goal for 2016 is to stop taking on too many things – both physically and figuratively, so I guess you could say my goal is also to simplify, but I didn’t put it in such a simple way (which probably shows how far I have to work towards simplicity…!). I certainly believe that by clearing out the clutter in your life, you are making room for more positivity, creativity and, ultimately, more opportunities which will make you thrive. x
Lots of luck with your goals Jenny. I completely agree and I really do believe that clearing out the clutter will leave room for so much more x