It seems like our lives are busier than ever these days. We have more commitments, more activities and more stuff cluttering our lives. Instead of being happier because of it, we’re more stressed. Stress makes us snappy, impatient, and often angry. And if we’re looking to these things to bring us happiness and a sense of purpose, we will be unfulfilled.
On the other hand, simplicity is about contentment. It’s recognizing the abundance we have in our lives. Simplicity goes hand-in-hand with self-esteem, because when we derive our worth from within us – when we recognize our core worth and believe it down to our toes, we gain fulfillment from the right things. We don’t need material things or overly-hectic schedules to give us value.
Simplicity is not minimalism, per se. It’s related, but it’s not the same thing. Minimalism is having the bare minimum to get by (for example, why have 10 pairs of shoes when two will do?).
Simplicity, on the other hand, is about recognizing and enjoying the abundance in our lives. It’s having enough, and knowing that an abundant universe and a loving God will provide everything I need.
Simplicity is a little counter-culture. The world teaches us to consume. Advertising agencies are paid big bucks to get us to believe the lie that we never have enough, that we’ll be fulfilled if only we drive this car or wear this watch.
The truth is, your worth doesn’t derive from how many toys you have or the number of committees on which you serve. Having the craziest schedule does not win you the Worthiness of the Year award. It just drives you crazy, stresses you out, and makes everyone tired and grouchy.
Simplicity is being able to let go of the commitments that no longer serve you and your family. It’s also letting go of the things you never use, but hold onto anyway because you “might need it someday.” It’s knowing that if “someday” ever comes (which it usually doesn’t, by the way), you’ll be able to replace that item if you truly do need it.
When you know you are fundamentally worthy, you gain self-esteem and security through God and not through material things or excessive busyness. You’re free to practice a life of simplicity (or move in that direction). Simplicity frees our minds to focus on what’s truly important. It reduces stress from the financial pressures of keeping up with the Joneses. It frees us from the pressure to constantly do, just because everyone else is doing it. It frees us to make decisions about our time and our homes that serve our families.
How does self-esteem transform lives? Click here.
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