How to lead a simple lifestyle that makes you happy

These days, we hear a lot about minimalistic living and lifestyle trends, but do you really know how to embrace a simple lifestyle?

In today’s hectic world, simplicity often feels like a distant dream. The constant buzz of notifications, the pressure to keep up with trends, and the endless to-do lists can make life feel overwhelming.

But what if the key to true happiness lies not in adding more to our lives, but in taking things away? What if a simple lifestyle could unlock the joy and contentment we’ve been searching for?

If you’re ready to simplify your life, you’ve made a great choice! In a world where we’re constantly bombarded with the message that more is better, it’s refreshing to take a step back and say, “Nah, I’m good with less.”

But what does it actually mean to live simple life? Well, It doesn’t mean living like a monk (unless that’s your thing, of course). It’s about finding what truly makes you happy and letting go of the rest.

Personally, I wouldn’t call myself a full-on minimalist, but I’ve been making small changes in my life and I’ve definitely noticed the difference.

Why Simplicity Matters

The Complexity Trap: More Isn’t Always Better

We live in a culture that celebrates excess. More possessions, more achievements, more activities—it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that more is always better. But this mindset often leads to stress, burnout, and a constant feeling of dissatisfaction.

Simplicity, on the other hand, offers a different path. By focusing on what truly matters and letting go of the rest, you can create space for joy, peace, and contentment. It’s about stripping away the non-essentials to make room for what brings genuine happiness.

The Science Behind Simplicity and Happiness

Studies have shown that people who lead simpler lives often report higher levels of happiness. This isn’t just a coincidence. When we reduce the clutter in our lives—whether it’s physical, mental, or emotional—we free ourselves from the constant distractions that prevent us from truly enjoying the present moment.

A simple lifestyle helps us focus on our relationships, health, and personal growth, all of which are key components of a happy life. By minimizing the noise, we can tune into what really makes us feel fulfilled.

Easy Lifestyle Changes You Can Make Right Now

Declutter Your physical Space

One of the quickest ways to start simplifying your life is by decluttering. Our physical environment has a significant impact on our mental state. Start with a single room or even a drawer. Get rid of items that no longer serve you or bring joy. Ask yourself, “Do I need this?” or “Does this make me happy?” If the answer is no, it’s time to let it go.

Pro Tips:

• Start Small: Declutter one area at a time. No need to tackle the whole house in one go.
• One year rule: Haven’t used it in the past year? Say goodbye.
• Donate: Someone else might love that dress you never wear. Donate it!

Simplify Your Daily Routine

Imagine starting your day without the chaos. Sounds dreamy, right? A simple routine is your key to less stress and more “me time.” It’s like streamlining your day—keep what brings you joy, and let go of the rest.

Pro tips:

• Morning Joy: Begin your day with something that makes you smile—maybe it’s a cup of coffee, a quick stretch, or just a moment to breathe.

• Evening Wind-Down: Create a relaxing evening routine. Whether it’s reading, a warm bath, or watching a favorite show, end your day on a calm note.

Think Before You Buy: Mindful Shopping

We’ve all been there: You see something nice and trendy, and the next thing you know, you’re at the checkout. But before you reach for your wallet, ask yourself, “Do I really need this?” If the answer isn’t a resounding yes, put it back and walk away. Your future self will thank you.

Pro Tips:

• Sleep on It: If you see something you want, give it 24 hours. Still thinking about it the next day? Then maybe it’s worth it.

• Invest Wisely: Go for quality over quantity. A few good things are better than a pile of meh stuff.

I remember coming across a Hindi quote that has lingered in my mind ever since:

“बेहिसाब हसरते न पालिए जो मिला है, उसे सम्भालिये”

“Don’t get lost in endless desires—take care of what you already have.”

This quote really hits home. In our rush to chase after more—whether it’s success, things, or recognition—we often forget to appreciate what’s already in our hands. It’s a reminder to slow down, value the present, and cherish the moments and relationships we have right now. Instead of always reaching for the next big thing, let’s focus on nurturing what we already have.

Suggestions for immediate changes you can make to your lifestyle

It’s not just material things that influence our lifestyle, but also emotional things that affect our peace of mind. If the emotional baggage you carry affects your well-being, this is the first adjustment you need to make.

The first changes I made were personal, and I want to emphasize that these small adjustments truly brought me happiness and made me feel good.

It’s important to see if they make you feel good and change things to fit what makes you happy.

Clothes (The Magic of a Capsule Wardrobe)

Having fewer clothes has actually made it easier for me to avoid spending too much time deciding what to wear in the mornings. Accessories and basic items like tops, belts, and scarves help me create different outfits without it being obvious that my wardrobe is smaller.

Pro Tips:

• Stick to Neutrals: Choose colors that mix and match easily.

• Seasonal Switch: Update your capsule wardrobe with each season to keep things fresh.

By sticking to a few timeless, versatile pieces, you’ll save time and always look stylish. Plus, you’ll avoid those “I have nothing to wear” moments.

Remember, there’s no exact number of clothing items you need in your wardrobe; just focus on functional pieces that fit your daily activities.

Shoes

Okay, let’s talk shoes. We all love them, but do you really need 10 pairs of black heels? Probably not. Simplify your shoe collection by keeping only the pairs that are comfy, versatile, and make you feel like a rockstar. Less really is more here.

Pro Tips:

• Versatile Pairs: Choose shoes that work for multiple occasions—think a great pair of sneakers or classic flats.

• Comfort First: Don’t suffer for style. Find shoes that look good and feel good.

Purses

We’ve all been guilty of carrying around a purse that could double as a small suitcase. But do you really need all that stuff? Simplify your purse by keeping only the essentials. Trust me, your shoulder will thank you.

Pro Tips:

• Essentials Only: Phone, wallet, keys, lip balm—keep it simple.

• Regular Purges: Go through your purse weekly and ditch anything you don’t need.

Makeup:

I only keep the makeup I need. I’ve stopped buying endless eyeshadow palettes and lipsticks in every color, sticking to just the essentials.

Makeup doesn’t have to be a chore. Simplify your routine by focusing on a few key products that enhance your natural beauty.

Pro Tips:

• Multi-Use Products: Go for makeup that does double duty, like a lip and cheek tint.

• Focus on Skin: Healthy, glowing skin means less makeup is needed. Invest in good skincare!

Perfumes (The Power of a Signature Scent)

I always buy one itr and one perfume. For my birthday or Mother’s Day, I’d always receive another as a gift. The truth is, I ended up tossing many of them because I either didn’t use them or they expired.

Yes, Perfume is like the cherry on top of your outfit. But instead of collecting a dozen different bottles, find one or two scents that you absolutely love. A signature scent can be your secret weapon for feeling confident and put-together.

Pro tips:

• Signature Scent: Find a fragrance that feels like you and stick with it.

• Less is More: A couple of sprays are all you need. No one wants to be that person who leaves a trail of perfume behind.

Home Decoration (Cozy, Not Cluttered)

Do you really need vases in every corner and wall hangings on every inch of your walls? Your home should be your happy place, not a source of stress. Think cozy, not cluttered. Your space should reflect you, not the latest design trends.

That’s exactly what I did in my home—I got rid of a bunch of unnecessary decorations and went for a simpler look.

The best part? Less time cleaning and reorganizing, and now the space feels more comfortable for everyone.

Materialistic Detachment: Happiness Isn’t in Your Stuff

Alright, this is a big one. We all like nice things, but happiness doesn’t come from stuff. True happiness comes from experiences, relationships, and peace of mind. When you detach from the need to have more, you open yourself up to real joy.

Pro Tips:

• Practice Gratitude: Focus on what you have, not what you don’t.

• Choose Experiences: Spend money on experiences rather than things. Memories last longer than the latest gadget.

People

People who bring negativity and add no value to your life aren’t the best company, especially when you have the choice to distance yourself. I chose to keep my distance, and whenever they tried to share gossip or negative thoughts, I simply avoided engaging with them.

Wrap Up:

So there you have it—your guide to living simply and being happy. It’s all about making small, intentional changes that bring you more peace and joy. Start with your space, then move on to your routine, and pretty soon, you’ll find that less truly is more.

Remember, you don’t need to overhaul your life overnight. Take it one step at a time, and enjoy the process of simplifying. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s happiness. And with a little less clutter and a lot more intention, you’ll be well on your way to a simpler, happier life.

Now, go declutter that closet and get ready to embrace the joy of less!

Hope you enjoyed the post and found it helpful! Drop a comment and let us know what changes you’ve made in your life that bring you happiness!

This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla  in collaboration with Dr. Preeti Chauhan.