Merriam Webster has a definition for “keep it simple” 1- to make something easy to understand or do and 2. to not do something in a complex or fancy way.
In some 12 step programs “keep it simple” is a slogan that helps members to take a step back, notice how they might be complicating something or making it harder than it needs to be. Simplifying- it brings up so much for me. I wonder what comes up for you when you think about keeping things simple.
“The ability to simplify means to eliminate the unnecessary so that the necessary may speak.” Hans Hofmann
-Where are you making things harder, more complicated than they have to be- for others and for yourself?
-How can you communicate more simply?
-How can you clear out your schedule, simplifying where you need to be an go, giving yourself space to breathe?
-What did you already commit to that you truly don’t have a passion for, or truly don’t have time for it? How can you gracefully bow out? (Hint, on your end you can always gracefully bow out, you are only responsible for what you do.)
The angle of how am I stopping myself from moving forward because I am making up how complicated and challenging it is. In these times if we remember to break the thing down into pieces- what is the first logical step- if that still seems too big, break it down further. Most of the time we are looking at a project or a duty or whatever it is in its entirety and that is too much for our brains to handle!
-What’s the first right step I can take to make any amount of progress?
I like the word unnecessary from the quote above. It is an enlightening exercise to sit and think about what is really necessary. I was reminded of a great exercise to do every so often as I was teaching a leadership class this morning. Think about what you are committed to in this season of your life. What is MOST important? So many things are important, but in the spirit of keep it simple, what is most important? Write them all down from ways you want to feel, who you want to spend time with, things you want to do with your time at work and personally, and every other part of life.
What happens when you simplify, when you keep it simple, you cultivate space in your life. You are intentional with the things you are committed to and the results are good because you are not overcomplicated. The space in your life is for you to create with things that you love. Or it is simply space to just be.
Go on a journey of discovery this week to see how you are doing with keeping it simple in your life. Seize the opportunities vs judge and beat up on yourself. Start to make small steps. Keep going!
Lastly, as for help. Sometimes we overcomplicate things trying it our way, trying to go it alone- reach out and ask for help this week. Maybe even think of delegating something to someone else. Enjoy the process of simplifying your life.