We all want more free time, right? But too often our complicated lives prevent us from doing what we want. It's so easy to get caught up in the vicious cycle of chaos and urgency. What's the answer? That's simple - it's simplifying. Here are four easy to implement steps to simplify your life.

Yes, you have probably read, heard or thought about these steps at some point in the past. That's because they are tried and true. If you haven't implemented them, there's no time like the present!

Give them a try and let me know how it feels to have more freedom.

Simplify Your Life in Four Steps

Great tips, Kelly Jayne. I need to organize and declutter a bit and this is a great time of year to get that done. Nothing like starting the year off on the right foot! Thanks for sharing this with us.

Kelly Jayne

I just read your article. It has stimulated my thinking somewhat.

I do disagree with you a lot on your statement "It's so easy to get caught up in the vicious cycle of chaos and urgency. What's the answer? That's simple - it's simplifying." No, it's NOT simple. If it was that simple to simplify then we wouldn't be looking for help to do it!

I've been battling with a minor case of Hoarding for many, many years! I constantly save stuff because I just KNOW I'm going to need it at some future point. Of course all this stuff I've been saving crowds my house, stresses me, costs money to store it, and generally complicates my life and everything I do. I am overwhelmed with the thought of trying to simplify this mess. Anyway, I'm working on it.

Sandra,

Thanks for your feedback - I can hear, and totally appreciate your frustration. Based on your self description it's clear you are dealing with more than the average person is. I have worked extensively with people with hoarding tendencies, as well as diagnosed hoarders, so I understand the challenges you are facing. And you are right, in your situation there is not a simple fix. The article wasn't written for someone in your position, so I apologize if it came across as flip. Clearing out clutter takes time, energy, and most importantly the right mindset. That part, the mental preparation, is not easy. It actually can be quite involved. So many underlying issues can play a role, and the 'stuff' is just a manifestation of what's going on under the hood.

I wanted to respond to let you know I empathize with you and agree with your assessment of things not always being simple. I would be happy to make some suggestions that may help you and point out some resources that may be relevant. Let me know if that would be of interest and I will get on it.