Can simplicity, as Thoreau and Epictetus might suggest, really lead to greater freedom, purpose, and joy? What if Will Rogers was right—are we spending money we don’t have on things we don’t need to impress people we don’t like? From decluttering kids' rooms to crafting purpose statements, and even conquering debt, this is your roadmap to a simpler, richer life.

Organized Simplicity: The Clutter-Free Approach to Intentional Living

Will Rogers once quipped that people spend money they haven't earned on things they don't want to impress people they don't like. This sentiment captures the essence of modern living where simplicity often gets lost amidst the chaos of schedules, debts, and possessions. Simple living isn't about relinquishing comfort but about aligning life with values and purpose. It's about savoring what truly matters and letting go of what doesn't.

Take, for example, a young mom who, alongside her husband and kids, made simplicity a priority. Living in a small apartment abroad, they meticulously evaluate their belongings to ensure they align with their values. Their intentional decisions, like working from home and minimizing TV, allow them to lead a fulfilling life on a modest income without sacrificing family outings or quality coffee.

The journey to simplicity can be daunting, as seen in their story of purging belongings before moving abroad. Despite the emotional challenge of parting with cherished items, they embraced this change, trusting they could rebuild a home that reflects their purpose.

Simple living is not about extreme sacrifice but about mindful choices that enhance life rather than complicate it. It's about redefining what luxury truly means and understanding that much of what we consider necessities are extravagant in the global context.

Studies show inflated homes and workloads don't necessarily lead to happiness. Instead, they often result in strained relationships and stress. But a simplified life offers more than just peace; it brings improved health, financial well-being, and a step towards ecological responsibility.

Simple living is a buzzword, yet its premise is timeless: living holistically with purpose. It's about integrating spiritual, emotional, and physical aspects into a life that thrives as a whole. Each family’s definition of simplicity is unique, but at its core, it’s about aligning life’s choices with its true purpose, creating harmony at home, and freeing space and time for genuine relationships.

Is Simple Living the Secret to Happiness in Our Chaotic World?

Epictetus once said, "First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do." This wisdom underscores the reality that none of us can do everything. Life ebbs and flows, and with it, our capabilities and free time. Instead of chasing the impossible dream of doing it all, what if we focused on what truly matters?

Elisabeth Elliot advises, "When you don’t know what to do next, just do the thing in front of you." But to choose wisely, we need clarity about what's truly important. Charles E. Hummel's 1967 essay, "Tyranny of the Urgent," warns us against letting urgent tasks overshadow important ones. In today's fast-paced world, urgent distractions often hijack our attention, sidelining our values.

The key to living simply is having a clear purpose. A purpose statement can help us prioritize, make decisions, and resist the tyranny of urgency. It's not about crafting a cliché mission statement but a real, personal declaration of what you and your family stand for. Whether detailed or simple, it should reflect your priorities and be timeless.

Consider these real-life examples: Kara Fleck's family focuses on peace, while Lisa Delzer's family prioritizes creativity and love. These statements guide their decisions, allowing them to say "no" confidently and focus on what's important.

Creating a purpose statement involves introspection. Ask yourselves questions about strengths, aspirations, and values. Discuss these with family members, finding themes and descriptive words that encapsulate your collective purpose. Craft a statement that's simple, timeless, and specific enough to inspire action but flexible enough to adapt as life changes.

Once your statement is set, use it as a tool for decision-making. It can help you prioritize activities that align with your values and let go of those that don't. Display it as a reminder of your family's purpose, encouraging you to live against the grain of modern-day culture.

Time, like money, is a finite resource, yet we often waste it on unimportant things. We all have the same 24 hours daily, but how we spend them varies. To reclaim your time, identify the culprits: excessive screen time, over-scheduled kids, and long work hours. Make intentional choices and set boundaries to protect your family's time.

Change habits by cutting down on screen time and unnecessary activities. Create a family calendar that reflects your priorities. Schedule downtime for meaningful activities that recharge you. Consider work-life balance and explore options like home-based businesses to free up time.

Above all, align your time with your purpose statement. Let it guide your decisions and help you say "no" to what's incongruent with your values. Use time wisely, enjoying it thoroughly, and living a life that truly reflects who you are and what matters most.

From Epictetus to Elliot: Crafting Purposeful Living in a World of Urgency

As Calvin Coolidge once said, "There is no dignity quite so impressive as living within your means." Yet, simplifying life often feels like it comes with a hefty price tag, thanks to the billion-dollar organizing industry. But living simply is about making conscious choices, especially when it comes to your finances. 

It's not about selling everything and living like a hermit; it's about planning your spending to enjoy life's little pleasures without letting whims dictate your wallet. A family that practices simple living controls their money, savoring planned indulgences like the occasional coffee or dinner out.

Debt, on the other hand, is a chain to the past, hindering your ability to live freely in the present. Tackling debt is crucial for the simple life. The author and her husband used the "snowballing" method, paying off debts from smallest to largest, and it worked wonders. Now, they're debt-free, and it was liberating for them. 

Budgeting is all about choices—telling your money where to go. It’s not about stripping away pleasures but allocating funds thoughtfully for essentials and extras. A zero-based budget is effective, ensuring every dollar is accounted for, even savings.

Saving is the key to staying debt-free and living simply. With intentional saving, you can enjoy vacations, buy cars, or build homes without loans. It requires sacrifice, but it's worth it. Emergency funds are vital, too—when unexpected events occur, cash is king. Save at least three to six months of living expenses for peace of mind. Long-term savings, like retirement and education, are equally important. Retirement is your priority; don’t sacrifice it for anything.

Being debt-free also means saving for wants—dreams like a European vacation or a new car. Set aside funds for these desires, ensuring they’re fully paid before enjoying them. Living simply isn’t about deprivation; it's about making choices that align with your values. 

The author's own journey from struggling with money management to embracing financial freedom proves that anyone can start anywhere and succeed. Living simply is a choice—make your money work for you, not the other way around. Take the slower route of paying off debt, and you’ll find freedom waiting at the journey’s end. It’s worth it.

Can Calvin Coolidge's Wisdom Guide Us to Financial Freedom in a World Dominated by Debt?

"Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things." This sentiment captures the essence of simple living, where life's richness stems from savoring everyday moments. Think back to your childhood—what stands out? Chasing fireflies, getting lost in a book, or sharing hot chocolate by the fire. These memories, though seemingly ordinary, are the ones that linger in our hearts.

Yet, many of us struggle to pause and appreciate these moments, tangled in a web of busyness and clutter. The solution lies in redefining priorities and transforming our homes into havens that embrace simplicity. Imagine a home where chores don't dominate your day, freeing you to craft, play, and truly live. This shift allows us to learn skills we've longed for, whether it's sewing, woodworking, or cooking from scratch.

Amanda Soule, a passionate creator, emphasizes the joy and connection found in crafting by hand. It's not just about the products we make but the richness it adds to our lives. Similarly, cooking from scratch fosters health and environmental stewardship, reconnecting us with the rhythms of the seasons.

Decluttering isn't just about removing items; it's about valuing what remains, fostering a home where treasured possessions shine. Every choice carries an opportunity cost—your home should reflect what you truly value, not just accumulate objects.

Creating a peaceful home requires effort—a commitment to prioritize people and experiences over things. Visualizing your goals and aligning your living space with your family’s purpose can transform your home into a sanctuary for growth and connection. It's not about waiting for the perfect home; it's about making the most of what you have now.

Life is too short to be overwhelmed by clutter. Plant a stake in the ground and consciously choose a simpler, more meaningful life. Embrace the journey of decluttering and organizing your home, and watch as it becomes a reflection of your family's values and dreams. Start today, and let your home be a testament to the beauty of simple living.

Crafting Simplicity: Amanda Soule's Guide to a Clutter-Free Life

Welcome to Day 1 of transforming your home into a simpler, more organized haven. Inspired by Thoreau’s call for simplicity, we're embarking on a ten-day journey to declutter, clean, and organize each area of your home. Today, we’re focusing on the easy stuff – the visible clutter that you know needs to go.

Armed with your purpose statement and a ruthless spirit, grab your boxes labeled "give," "sell," and "maybe," and start tossing out trash and recycling old newspapers and magazines. Remember William Morris’s wisdom: keep only what is useful or beautiful.

As you decide what stays, involve your family in the process. What might seem like clutter to you could hold sentimental value for someone else. For those hard-to-decide items, the "maybe" box is your friend; revisit it in three months to see if you really need those things.

Plan a yard sale in the next two months. It's not just about making some cash; it's a psychological win – seeing all your unwanted clutter in one place is humbling and motivating. Plus, it’s a lesson in value for the kids, teaching them money management and teamwork.

As we move to Days 2 and 3, the focus shifts to the living room, the heart of the home. It should be clutter-free and welcoming, a true haven for your family. Decide its purpose collectively – whether it’s reading, playing games, or watching movies, ensure there’s room for these activities. Consider the focal point of the room: does it need to be the TV, or could it be something that embodies your family’s spirit, like a fireplace or a library?

Declutter in detail over the next two days. Remove everything but the furniture, clean thoroughly, and then reassess what belongs back in the room. Embrace simplicity, and only return items that are either useful or beautiful. This process is about showcasing your life’s purpose, not your stuff.

Organize with creativity. Repurpose items for storage and keep your space functional and visually pleasing. Whether you favor a cozy cottage feel or a minimalist vibe, ensure the room reflects your style and supports your family’s goals.

Finally, step back and evaluate your work. Does your living room reflect a simple life and serve its purpose as a central family haven? Celebrate your progress, knowing that you’re one step closer to a home that truly represents who you are.

Is Thoreau's Simplicity the Key to Transforming Your Home into an Organized Haven?

The kitchen can be a hub of activity — cooking, dining, organizing family schedules, and more. Yet, it often becomes a clutter trap. It's time to simplify and make this space work efficiently for you. Start by decluttering countertops, removing everything visible, and then tackle the fridge, freezer, and pantry. 

Aimée Wimbush-Bourque, a former chef, shares essential kitchen tools: a quality knife, sturdy mixing bowls, versatile tongs, durable frying pans, and an immersion blender. These basics can transform your cooking experience without overcrowding your space. 

Clean thoroughly, using homemade cleaners for a cost-effective and eco-friendly approach. Organize logically — keep utensils near the stove and mugs close to the fridge. Declutter gadgets and appliances that haven't been used in months, freeing up valuable space. Celebrate your hard work with a glass of wine!

Moving to the bathrooms, they often accumulate clutter like travel-sized shampoo bottles. Focus on essentials: bathing, grooming, and using the toilet. Start by clearing countertops and sorting cosmetics and toiletries. Toss expired items, and donate unused, sealed products to local shelters. Simplify your toiletry routine with homemade products for healthier, cost-effective solutions. Evaluate your linens; keep only what you need and donate extras.

Clean thoroughly, from counters to mirrors, using natural cleaning agents like vinegar and baking soda. Organize with labeled containers under the counter and hooks for towels. Refold linens neatly and store them logically. Reflect on the ambience you desire — whether a spa-like retreat or a playful vibe for kids — and let this guide your decluttering decisions. Simplify, declutter, and create spaces that truly serve your family’s needs!

Days 4-6: Wimbush-Bourque's Kitchen and Bathroom Transformation Tips

Children's rooms are worlds of wonder, filled with treasures adults often overlook. Rocks on window sills, scribbles on doors, and wildflowers in glasses symbolize a child's unique perspective. Creating spaces that nurture these treasures without encouraging hoarding is a delicate balance. It's about environments that reflect family values, allowing kids to grow, seek solitude, and appreciate what they have.

When revamping kids' spaces, involve them in the process. Play their favorite tunes and keep tasks lighthearted. Consider room setups: should siblings share or have individual spaces? Ensure accessibility to shared toys and art supplies, fostering cooperation rather than conflict.

Thrift shopping can be a lifesaver for growing children. Go with a plan but stay open to unexpected finds. Prioritize quality over quantity, and don't shy away from new brands. Frequent visits can yield great discoveries, and cash encourages smart decision-making.

Cleaning and organizing transform spaces. Dust, vacuum, and create accessible storage systems. Teach kids independence by lowering rods or providing stools for easy access. Decluttering toys might lead to emotional battles, but focus on what is truly loved and useful. Rotate toys to keep them fresh and donate unused ones, nurturing compassion.

Books are treasures, too. Sort through them with a discerning eye, keeping quality literature over twaddle. Repair beloved books and sell or donate the rest. Involve children in decisions, fostering a love for reading.

Simple living is a continuous journey. It's about embracing less and cherishing relationships. Create spaces that reflect family unity, inspire creativity, and promote calmness. The process is collective, and family unity is key. Embrace the journey, nurture relationships, and find joy in simplicity.

Days 7-10: How Can Parents Transform Kids' Rooms Into Magical Spaces?

Modern living often makes us lose sight of simplicity amidst the chaos of schedules, debts, and possessions. Embracing a simpler lifestyle isn't about giving up comfort, but about realigning life with values and purpose. 

It's about enjoying what truly matters and letting go of unnecessary distractions. This concept of simplicity is about making mindful choices that enhance life without complicating it. It's a journey that involves redefining luxury, understanding what true necessities are, and focusing on holistic living that integrates spiritual, emotional, and physical aspects. 

A clear sense of purpose is crucial for living simply, guiding decisions and prioritizing what aligns with personal values. This involves creating a purpose statement that reflects priorities and helps resist the tyranny of urgency in everyday life. Time management is another key aspect, where intentional choices reclaim wasted time and align it with one's purpose. Financial simplicity involves conscious spending and managing money wisely, ensuring it serves the family's values and dreams without succumbing to debt.

Simple living is about cherishing everyday moments and transforming homes into havens that reflect family values and purpose. Decluttering, organizing, and prioritizing meaningful experiences over material possessions can create a peaceful home environment. It's a journey that requires effort and commitment, but ultimately leads to a life that truly represents who we are and what matters most.

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Organized Simplicity: The Clutter-Free Approach to Intentional Living

Tsh Oxenreider

8 Key ideas

18 MINS

4.4 (470)

Can simplicity, as Thoreau and Epictetus might suggest, really lead to greater freedom, purpose, and joy?

What if Will Rogers was right—are we spending money we don’t have on things we don’t need to impress people we don’t like?

From decluttering kids' rooms to crafting purpose statements, and even conquering debt, this is your roadmap to a simpler, richer life.