Practical Ways I'm Implementing "Less But Better" In My Life

Simple ways to feel good

For the past 10 years, I’ve been applying the idea of “less but better” into my life. But this year, I’ve taken it to a new level.

I first discovered the concept when I read Essentialism by Greg McKeown while researching my first book, This is Home: The Art of Simple Living.

It resonated deeply.

After all, we all have a finite amount of time — so how we spend it really matters.

This idea has never felt more important…

How I’m Simplifying My Life (And Ideas You Might Want To Try Too)

Nothing is forever. Our lives ebb and flow through seasons. And it is our responsibility to respond to the changing currents.

For me, this season is about letting go of what’s unnecessary to make way for what’s most meaningful.

It’s not always easy.

Sometimes these decisions are hard.

But when we break through the inertia, decision-making becomes easier.

It’s like decluttering your home. The first few objects are hard to let go. But then you get into a flow, and you find yourself wanting to get rid of everything.

1. Archive Your Inbox

One of the first ways I simplified my life this year was within my inbox. After years of allowing emails to accumulate, I decided January was a good time to establish a new habit.

Instead of spending hours filing thousands of emails (9125, to be exact!), I archived everything prior to December 31st.

The emails are still accessible if I ever need them — but seven months on, I haven’t looked back. More importantly, I now feel in control of my inbox, not the other way around.

I’ve also unsubscribed from newsletters I no longer want or need — especially from shopping sites — and created filters for emails I prefer to check on my own schedule, such as Substack newsletters.

2. Say “No” To The News

This might sound controversial, but I stopped reading the news at the end of last year just before my family went on its summer holiday.

And I haven’t felt the need to start again.

The truth is: if somethings’ truly important, you’ll hear about it.

Most of the news isn’t that important.

I say this as someone who has a Masters of Journalism, and worked as a journalist for over a decade. I know how and why the news is created. Most of what is published in traditional media channels, we don’t need to know.

3. Cut Your Hair

Okay, if you have a beautiful mane this might not be for you.

But as a woman with fine hair in peri menopause, I decided it was time to let go of a look that was no longer serving me.

A short, sharp cut (courtesy of my husband) was the solution. And it has felt incredibly freeing — to stop worrying about my hair, and focus on living instead.

4. Stop Shopping

I can’t remember the last time I bought something.

Recently, I went to Sydney and this would normally be an occasion to “treat” myself.

But I realised there was nothing that I wanted.

And it felt good.

5. Borrow Books From The Library

My children LOVE borrowing books from the local library.

We live in a small country village, so we don’t actually have a physical building to visit, but a library bus that arrives once a week.

Instead of buying books (including cookbooks), we’ve been borrowing them instead.

It feels good to not add to our bookshelves, which are ready for a good edit.

There are many other ways I’ve been simplifying, including pressing pause on my podcast Imprint. You can learn more about that here.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION
Are you feeling the pull to simplify your life? What steps are you taking — big or small?
I’d love to hear — share in the comments below. I read every single one.

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