August 24, 2016
One of the benefits of simplifying my life is more time. I now have more time to pursue my favorite hobbies and interests. More time to sit back and relax with my children, husband and dog. More time to pray/meditate. More time for myself and for others.
I used to think there never seemed to be enough time in a day. Some days still feel like that. Raising a family with several young children is hard, but mostly I am better scheduling my time. Taking advice from a friend, I have started asking myself the question, “Is this a good use of my time?”
I have donated or sold most of my material possessions so there is less for me to clean, pick up or maintain. Less housework during the day allows more time for me to play with my children and enjoy the moment. I try to stay healthy by cooking simple nutritious meals and schedule time to exercise each day. I set limits to how often I use the Internet and do not have email or social media apps on my phone. If there is something I want to make a priority, I find an area in my life to minimize to make room for it.
My life is not rigidly structured nor is it easy. A minimalist lifestyle is one that anyone can adopt. It is a continuous evaluation of how I want to live by clearing the clutter of life to make room for what matters most to me. There is never an end point as life changes. However, all the work spent making these changes has allowed me to feel more content by living intentionally.