Every year, my church
asks us a to pick a word. The word I picked this year was “simple.”
Here’s 5
ways you can start today to enjoy a simpler life.
Please add your ideas and comments
below.
1. Is every commitment
necessary? Take a look at your daily schedule and let go of commitments that no
longer bring you happiness.
2. Spend more time in
nature by taking a walk around your neighborhood. If weather permits, enjoy a meal
outside.
3. Savor a hot cup of coffee or tea. In my sweet romance, Oh Danny Boy, the hero owns a chain of coffee shops in Ireland, and I learned a LOT about making coffee!
4. Visualize yourself
feeling calm. Clear out some of your material goods for a sense of serenity and
peace.
5. Get more sleep. Close
your eyes and leave the worries of the day behind.
A perfect read for
St. Patrick’s Day, my Contemporary Sweet Romance novel, Oh Danny Boy, is available
in ebook, paperback, and audiobook.
“This pot of gold
could hold more than they bargained for…”
One key thing for me was to have a place to decompress. Remove clutter from that area, clean lines etc. just sit and breathe and enjoy that cup of tea or coffee there.
ReplyDeleteSandy,
DeleteYou are so right! A cup of tea or coffee, a neat place to sit and relax, makes such a difference.
I spend a day with family or friends to forget all my problems. Then I can go back and feel energized.
ReplyDeleteJudy,
DeleteMe too! Something about spending time with family and friends really helps.
I need to do all these things, to be honest, although the first commitment I thought to get rid of was work! And I even like my jobs.
ReplyDeleteLOL,...life would be so much better if we didn't work...or would it? :)
DeleteGreat post, Josie! Such simple ways to simplify. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks, Shanna. It's all about the simple things.:)
DeleteGreat reminders! It's so hard to get over-committed and then feel stressed! Keeping things simple is good!
ReplyDeleteDefinitely, Melanie. Keep things simple.
DeleteI always start the day with God to help me center my life.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful, Margaret, and oh so true.
DeleteI'll have to try to remember these!
ReplyDeleteIt's all about keeping things simple, Nancy.
DeleteDecluttering your home. I go through my closet, my magazines, and drawers to get rid of stuff I don't wear or no longer need on a monthly basis.
ReplyDeleteMelissa,
DeleteSuch a good idea to declutter on a monthly basis. Everything feels so fresh and new afterwards.
Always make time for yourself and things you enjoy doing. You don't have to spend a lot of money or leave your family for a weekend but ca be out time to go and mentally decompress for yourself. When you are happy those around you see it.
ReplyDeleteStephanie,
DeleteSo true. Make time for yourself and do things you love, then spread the happiness. It's not about the money.
Surround yourself with people that are uplifting. Stay away from anything and anyone that are negative.
ReplyDeleteAnna M Cabrera
Anna,
DeleteExcellent. We need a "tribe" around us who lift us up. :)
These are great reminders of ways to enjoy life.I have been having some issues with depression.Nature,music and books can be very soothing.☺
ReplyDeleteYes,
DeleteSurround yourself with nature, music, books, and good people. You're doing great!
When life seems overwhelming, take an hour and go serve someone else. It always puts a smile on your face and you can face your own tasks easier. Also, if you have more stick-to-it-ness than me, go to bed with a clean kitchen. When I do and then get up in the morning, the cleanliness and order put me in the right mood to tackle anything else. I just don't manage it often enough!
ReplyDeleteJen,
DeleteYour suggestions are right on. I especially love the one about volunteering. So good!
Your second point about getting outside for a walk or meal is great!
ReplyDeleteMartha T.
Thanks, Martha. Yes, spending time outdoors enjoying nature is so important.
DeleteTake time for yourself, nurture yourself.
ReplyDeleteSo true!
DeleteThank you, everyone, for your excellent and helpful comments. Martha T., you're the winner of my sweet romance "Irish" audiobook, Oh Danny Boy! Please email me at josieriviera@aol.com for details and your coupon code.
ReplyDeleteGreat suggestions, Josie, and everyone to commented. Thank you for sharing what works for you!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Magdalena. I drew my inspiration from you. :)
Delete