what is a simple life essay

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What it means to have a simple life, and how to live it.

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Bronwen Sciortino : author & simplicity expert teaching easy ways to tailor-make healthy, happy & highly successful lives. sheIQ Life Pty Ltd

It’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind speed of life, to get swept along by the tide and find yourself chasing your tail trying to fit everything in and not let anyone down. It’s also really common to catch yourself wistfully wishing that life could be simpler.

But if you’re like I used to be, then you probably brush that thought aside and push it to the back corner of your mind—to be looked at another day.

Today’s way of life teaches you that you have to be busy to be seen as successful. And if you’re not stressed, then there must be something wrong with you.

Moreover, you can’t just fill your days to the brim with "stuff"—because there’s the added pressure of having to capture every moment so you can share the images, vision and stories that prove you’re getting ahead.

Living like this feels like you’re constantly dropping all the balls you’re juggling, chasing them in different directions and then finally getting them back in the air... only to add new balls to the mix. And , you have to do that in a way that allows you to smile brightly and show the world that everything is under control.

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There’s no time to connect with what you’re doing or to really stop and wonder why it is you’re doing it. Those are things that go into that same back corner of your mind to keep that wistful "why can’t life be simpler" question company.

I get it. I was just like that. I did all the things, I ticked all the boxes and I achieved all the "stuff." And when I got there, I was left completely underwhelmed by the experience.

So I kept going, because surely it had to get better. Success was only a step away... if I just did that next thing. I pushed through, "soldiered on" and kept working hard because that was what I thought I had to do. Besides, it felt like I’d gone too far down the road to give up everything I’d achieved and start again.

And that’s the crux of the issue right there. Somewhere along the way, I had been taught that life had to be complex before I could get anywhere. And worse, I believed that if I tried to make it simpler then I had to give up everything I had.

It’s the "start again" piece of the puzzle that keeps you locked into the way you’re living your life. Starting again is just too daunting to think about. It takes you straight to overwhelm, at which point everything seems too hard. When you’re in that state, staying where you are—and living life the way you’re already living it—seems to be less painful than walking away and having to begin again.

But what if you’re stuck in your ways because you’ve been misled about what a simple life really is?

You crave a simpler life because you know deep down that there is an easier and kinder way to live.

Living a simple life doesn’t mean you have to move to a cave or dress in cheesecloth or go on a 40-day fast or never speak to anyone or even spend all day, every day meditating. It also doesn’t have to disrupt your entire life, take loads of time or cost lots of money.

The truth is this: A simple life is about finding the things that are important to you and then creating the simplest pathway to have them in your life.

There are no rules about the number of items you are allowed to own, what you’re allowed to do, where you’re allowed to go, how much you can spend, how much you can earn, what sort of car you should drive, where you should live or anything about what you need. There’s also no label that comes with having a simple life either, so you don’t have to pigeonhole yourself in any way.

We’re all unique, extraordinary human beings... so we need unique and extraordinary solutions that provide solutions for our own lives. To help create the solutions that are perfect for me, I use a three-step process that I can apply to any life situation. Let’s use reducing stress as an example:

1. Who are you?

• What are the things that create stress in your life? Make a list.

• What are the top three things on the list?

• Which thing on the list has the greatest impact?

2. What’s important to you?

• Why do I want my stress to be reduced?

• What benefit will I gain from being less stressed?

• If I am less stressed, what will I be able to do more of?

3. What steps can you take to create the simplest pathway to having what you want?

• Choose an item from the list that you’d like to focus on first.

• Write down three things you can do to change the way this impacts your life.

• How and when will you implement the first of these three things?

• What will you do to hold yourself accountable?

Then just "rinse and repeat" for the other items on your list.

You know how you’d like your life to be really simple? Taking small, simple and easily implementable steps can significantly change the way you experience your life. And once you get into the swing of adopting the simplest way of doing things, you’ll begin to see that you no longer have to choose between being happy and healthy or being successful.

You’ll have found your rhythm and you’ll be able to create the perfect balance between them all.

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Living a simple life: 6 science-backed benefits

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Considering escaping the consumer-driven world and living a simpler life? Calvin Holbrook is and he's not alone. Read about the 'voluntary simplicity' movement and discover six benefits of a simplistic lifestyle, including discovering your purpose, better health and increased focus.

Since hitting my 40s, the thought of voluntary choosing to live a simpler life appeals more and more. Living in large and exciting cities has provided great opportunities and entertainment, but what I once found exciting I now find challenging. My brain feels increasingly overwhelmed with noise, excess stimulation, distractions, and ever-increasing crowds, all helping to pump up my anxiety levels.

As a result, I find myself thinking about a quieter, more simplistic way of life, being closer to nature and in a more peaceful setting. However, living the simple life doesn’t have to mean shacking up alone in a log cabin in the middle of nowhere (although, actually, that sounds quite appealing). In fact, there are many practical and not-so-drastic ways to create a more simplistic lifestyle for yourself, and the benefits are proven by science.

More recently, the modern simplicity movement arose from the counterculture movement in the 1960s and 1970s. Then, in 1981, this movement gained a new moniker with the release of Duane Elgin’s book Voluntary Simplicity . In it, he explained the virtues of “a way of life that is outwardly simple, inwardly rich.” During the 90s, the concept of  minimalism , which includes elements of simple living, also became popular.

What does living a simple life involve?

While minimalism is mainly focused on reducing or giving up possessions, living a simple life often includes more elements. Choosing simplification creates a life filled with meaning, a life lived on your own terms. It helps create the time and space to pursue your true interests and passions.  

Simple living flies in the face of the common values of the Western world most of us have grown up with. Living a simple life means stripping away the nonessential stuff to focus your time and energy on the things that matter the most to you.  

How can I simplify my life?

As I mentioned at the start, moving away for a simple, quieter life in the countryside or coast is a dream for me and many others. However, the reality is, many cannot just jump and do that because of work or family commitments. But, in the meantime – and regardless of where you're living – there are many practical steps you can take to simplify your life and feel the benefits.

“Living a simple life doesn’t just mean giving up your possessions. Choosing simplification creates a life filled with meaning, a life lived on your own terms.”

Examples include reducing your possessions, being mindful of new purchases, limiting your time on social media and smartphones, stopping attending social occasions you’re indifferent about and eliminating multitasking.  Doing some or all of these things can bring you great benefits and happiness – so, l et’s take a more detailed look at these six key benefits of simplifying your life, backed up by science.  

1. Simplify your life to learn more about yourself

When you’re not distracting yourself with social media, binging on Netflix series, shopping for another gadget, or filling your diary with must-do events, you’re giving yourself the time and mental space to be grateful for what you already have, plus providing the opportunity to reflect and learn more about yourself.  

In fact, living simply can help us find meaning and grow spiritually, as it shifts the focus away from material possessions and helps us to look inwardly. It helps to create more silence – and even solitude – prime factors for spiritual reflection .

Of course, sometimes reflecting on our lives and who we are can be as uncomfortable as it is rewarding, but ultimately it helps to focus on who we are, what gives our life purpose and meaning, and what we want to do with the rest of our lives. In turn, living with purpose and a meaningful life has been to shown to increase happiness levels.  

2. A simpler lifestyle can improve relationships

Additionally, developing a more simple way of life may mean editing your friendship group. Perhaps you have lots of different friends that you spend time doing different actives with, for example, the 'party' friend, the 'shopping' friend, the 'gym buddy'. By simplifying your life and doing less, it could mean shifting your focus to having fewer, more quality friendships and closer relationships. The interaction between you may also be more sincere, as you will be free of the need to impress.

In turn, there are health benefits attached to simplifying your friendships. Various studies have found that developing strong, solid friendships can reduce your illness risk – from being less likely to get a common cold to having a lower risk of developing obesity or heart disease. A Harvard study also found that keeping close friends could promote brain health as we grow older.

3. Simple living boosts your bank balance

In many developed countries, the disparity between what we buy and what we need leads to huge overconsumption that drains the Earth’s resources and accelerates climate change. Voluntary simplicity is a lifestyle that minimizes consumption and the pursuit of wealth and material goods.

Simplifying your life by reducing consumption means you will spend (and owe) less, and the benefits of financial independence can include less stress and worry, and consequently better sleep . That could benefit a lot of people: according to a UK study from 2018 which questioned 2,000 people, money worries affect 40 per cent of the population.

“Living a simple life means stripping away the non-essential stuff to focus your time and energy on the things that matter the most to you.”

To limit your consumption, firstly, take time to look at your outgoings and consider what you need to spend your money on. Those daily takeaway coffees? Upgrades to the latest iPhone or Samsung? Netflix and apps subscriptions? That gym membership you hardly ever use? There are so many chances to minimize our spending, so cancel what you don’t need and change your habits. Additionally, you may be being charged for subscriptions for things you’ve totally forgotten about, so go through your bank statement and check.  

Secondly, aim to eliminate any existing debt you have and only live within your means. Stop using credit cards and, instead, develop a monthly budget.   Thirdly, if you’ve decided to simplify your belongings, make yourself some extra money by selling unwanted stuff on eBay (or donate it to charity, of course).

Likewise, if you decide to simplify your social life to focus on things such as connecting with nature , walking, meditation , this will also benefit your bank balance – most of these things are free or have little expenditure involved!

4. Living a simple life is great for your health

Living a simplistic lifestyle can also be beneficial to your physical and mental health. A 2014 study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found a link between materialism (valuing possessions and money) – and poor physical health. The team, from Knox College, Illinois, also found an even stronger link between materialism and engagement in risky behaviors that could damage physical health, including drinking alcohol, smoking and drug use. So, it makes sense that the reverse – having a non-materialistic attitude – could be positive for health.

The reasons for this could be due to the fact that developing a more simplistic lifestyle often means less stress and increased rest. This benefits could come from spending more time with friends/family, getting more physical activity, and changing jobs to find something more fulfilling and less money-orientated.  

Additionally, voluntary simplifiers often make a move away from big urban hubs to the countryside or seaside, which also has potential health benefits. A 2012 study from the University of Exeter showed that coastal populations in the UK are healthier than those inland, believed to be party due to the stress relief of living by the sea and greater opportunities for physical activity. The coast also offers cleaner, healthier air which helps to promote better sleep (which we know is essential for good mental health ).

5. Simplistic living means increased focus

Reducing possessions and commitments correlates to a reduction in distractions and therefore less physical – and mental – clutter. As you simplify your life and remove distractions, you create space to breathe and focus more carefully on what remains.

RELATED: The Top 5 benefits of gratitude practice

In fact, the physical reduction of clutter in your home has been proven to boost concentration. Researchers at the Princeton University Neuroscience Institute studied the effects of clutter and published the results in the Journal of Neuroscience. They concluded that clearing clutter from your home and work environments increased the ability to focus and process information effectively. Their research also showed that an uncluttered space led to people feeling less irritable, more productive and distracted less often.

“Living simply can help us find meaning and grow spiritually, as it shifts the focus away from material possessions and helps us to look inwardly.”

Simplifying your life by focusing on one job at a time, rather than multitasking, can also boost concentration. Multitasking used to be championed as effective, but Psychology Today reports that in reality it can decrease productivity levels by up to 40 per cent.  

Many of us are constantly switched on to multiple technologies: on average, we check our mobile phones every 12 minutes , causing further distractions and interruptions which affect our ability to concentrate. Choose to simplify life by limiting these interruptions: remove or reduce social media usage and switch off annoying pop-up notifications.

6. Living a simple life helps the environment

While the benefits of voluntary simplicity described here are clear for the individual, simple living also works for the wider environment. It’s been previously suggested that if everyone on Earth consumed as much as the average US citizen, four Earths would be needed to sustain them. Consuming less and having fewer possessions decreases the amount of waste a person produces.

Humans consume 400 per cent more clothes than they did just two decades ago. About 80 billion pieces of clothing are consumed annually, and the U.S.A alone produces 11 million tons of textile waste each year. So, instead of buying cheap fashions, seek out more durable outfits that will last, and if they no longer fit, place unwanted clothes in a material recycling bin; never just throw them away.  

There are many other ways cutting consumption and waste helps to protect the environment. For example, instead of buying bottled water, buy a reusable flask. Instead of updating to the latest technology, enjoy what you currently have.  

As consumers we rarely consider the context and impact when buying products, for example, considering the workers and factories that made a product, the journey to the store a product made, how the packaging was produced, etc.   Living a simple life means becoming more mindful of what you consume and thinking more about a product’s journey and environmental impact, therefore making more considered purchases.

Conclusions on simple living

According to the Chinese philosopher Confucius, “Life is really simple but we insist on making it complicated.” I would have to agree. For me, it's clear these science-backed benefits of living a simpler life are enormous and can only add to increased happiness too.

Simple living and sustainable living go hand-in-hand, and having a healthier environment will also lead to better health for generations to come. Rather than buying more and more possessions, consider spending more of your time and money on experiences: they leave only memories and nothing in the trash can! ●

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Written by Calvin Holbrook

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Posted August 11, 2021

The article strikes a chord in me and gives me even more ideas on the subject of "simplify my life". For me, this is a process of self-cleansing so that I can focus more on the really important things in life.  A new thought now is that it's not just about owning and buying lots of unnecessary things, but also limiting all these distractions through social media and the ever-so-touted multitasking. Whereby multitasking probably means nothing more than the ability to do several things at the same time not one hundred percent... I think that a return to a reduced life can also counteract burnouts and depression, if only because without distractions and without a consumption hangover, there is more space for one's own self. Thank you for the article and the inspiration!

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Posted February 25, 2021

I found this article looking for minimalistic living and minimalism in general. Such a long time I couldn't throw things away, but now I started a 31 challenge to throw away something every day of it (3 items per day). It gets harder every day, but the simple life feels amazing, too! I have no need for all these things and believe that I will do that for more than 31 days ;) 

Posted December 30, 2020

Great tips. Used to live in a big city and filled my time with as much activity as possible: friends, cinema, shopping, theatre etc., never had a quiet moment to myself. Gave it up a few years ago to move to the south coast here in the UK and now love living a simpler way of life. Enjoy walks, the coast, beach, and feel way calmer. Stopped buying food and expensive coffees out (every now and again is OK) and have more money. This simple living works for me and has also shown me who I am - before I was always busy doing stuff to think about self-fulfilment. 

I think part of living a simplistic lifestyle is also about giving up ego and attainment. :) Take care and all the best for 2021 everyone. 

Posted November 21, 2020

The simple used to survive

on this planet,

hunting or gathering food

or cultivating land.

They needed not read or write

to be terrorized by institutions,

nor wear wrist watches

to be terrorized by time.

They ate no processed food

to clog their arteries

nor had access to couches

to   be 'couch potatoes'.

They had nothing to control

at any distance;

Nature controlled them

from all directions,

and selected the fit

to better their race.

And for that, they respected Nature

and were content with their lot.

Posted September 16, 2020

Funny I stumble across this article at such a pivotal time! We're transitioning to living a more simple life by moving from our 140m² apartment to a 10m² 4x4 expedition truck! I must say it feels AMAZING to get rid of so much stuff  we accumulated throughout the years and thought we needed! So far we've given away most of our books and old clothes and shoes and we're happy there are so many people looking for pre-owned things instead of buying new. What's also good is that we can't buy anything for as long as we're living in our truck as we simply don't have the space! I'm very happy to know that by living a simple life, I'm not only increasing my health and well-being, but I'm also helping the environment.

Posted August 10, 2020

I wholeheartedly agree with this article on living a simple life.

One good example is my wardrobe: I haven't bought anything in years (except good hiking shoes and a high-quality winter jacket). My style is a bit rough but personal and authentic. If a piece has a hole or needs altering it goes on a pile which I work through every couple of months fixing the holes with patches or some embroidery. No of this is very professional, and yet I feel great, and I enjoy the evenings of resourceful creativity.

It's similar with items for the house. We pledged to buy no new things so whenever we "need" something "new" we either build, recycle, reuse, upcycle what we already have, or we look for it on garage sales, flea markets, second-hand websites. It's fun, cheap, sustainable and you aren't even tempted to follow and fashion trends but only your taste.

Posted July 14, 2020

Hey everybody

Calvin77 1,341

Posted March 26, 2020

On 11/27/2019 at 7:35 PM, Guest Ted_R said: Calvin, this is a wonderful article, well written and well researched. Thank You :)

Thank you so much, Ted. I hope it was inspiring for you :)

Posted November 27, 2019

Calvin, this is a wonderful article, well written and well researched. Thank You :)

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Happiness.com » Magazine » PERSONAL GROWTH » Living a simple life: 6 science-backed benefits

Why the simple life is not just beautiful, it’s necessary

Detail from Interior with Two Girls by Peter Ilsted, 1904. Photo courtesy Flickr

by Emrys Westacott   + BIO

The good life is the simple life. Among philosophical ideas about how we should live, this one is a hardy perennial; from Socrates to Thoreau, from the Buddha to Wendell Berry, thinkers have been peddling it for more than two millennia. And it still has plenty of adherents. Magazines such as Real Simple call out to us from the supermarket checkout; Oprah Winfrey regularly interviews fans of simple living such as Jack Kornfield, a teacher of Buddhist mindfulness; the Slow Movement, which advocates a return to pre-industrial basics, attracts followers across continents.

Through much of human history, frugal simplicity was not a choice but a necessity – and since necessary, it was also deemed a moral virtue. But with the advent of industrial capitalism and a consumer society, a system arose that was committed to relentless growth, and with it grew a population (aka ‘the market’) that was enabled and encouraged to buy lots of stuff that, by traditional standards, was surplus to requirements. As a result, there’s a disconnect between the traditional values we have inherited and the consumerist imperatives instilled in us by contemporary culture.

In pre-modern times, the discrepancy between what the philosophers advised and how people lived was not so great. Wealth provided security, but even for the rich wealth was flimsy protection against misfortunes such as war, famine, disease, injustice and the disfavour of tyrants. The Stoic philosopher Seneca, one of the richest men in Rome, still ended up being sentenced to death by Nero. As for the vast majority – slaves, serfs, peasants and labourers – there was virtually no prospect of accumulating even modest wealth.

Before the advent of machine-based agriculture, representative democracy, civil rights, antibiotics and aspirin, just making it through a long life without too much suffering counted as doing pretty well. Today, though, at least in prosperous societies, people want and expect (and can usually have) a good deal more. Living simply now strikes many people as simply boring.

Yet there seems to be growing interest, especially among millennials, in rediscovering the benefits of simple living. Some of this might reflect a kind of nostalgia for the pre-industrial or pre-consumerist world, and also sympathy for the moral argument that says that living in a simple manner makes you a better person, by building desirable traits such as frugality, resilience and independence – or a happier person, by promoting peace of mind and good health, and keeping you close to nature.

These are plausible arguments. Yet in spite of the official respect their teachings command, the sages have proved remarkably unpersuasive. Millions of us continue to rush around getting and spending, buying lottery tickets, working long hours, racking up debt, and striving 24/7 to climb the greasy pole. Why is this?

One obvious answer is good old-fashioned hypocrisy. We applaud the frugal philosophy while ignoring its precepts in our day-to-day lives. We praise the simple lifestyle of, say, Pope Francis, seeing it as a sign of his moral integrity, while also hoping for and cheering on economic growth driven, in large part, by a demand for bigger houses, fancier cars and other luxury goods.

But the problem isn’t just that our practice conflicts with our professed beliefs. Our thinking about simplicity and luxury, frugality and extravagance, is fundamentally inconsistent. We condemn extravagance that is wasteful or tasteless and yet we tout monuments of past extravagance, such as the Forbidden City in Beijing or the palace at Versailles, as highly admirable. The truth is that much of what we call ‘culture’ is fuelled by forms of extravagance.

Somewhat paradoxically, then, the case for living simply was most persuasive when most people had little choice but to live that way. The traditional arguments for simple living in effect rationalise a necessity. But the same arguments have less purchase when the life of frugal simplicity is a choice, one way of living among many. Then the philosophy of frugality becomes a hard sell.

That might be about to change, under the influence of two factors: economics and environmentalism. When recession strikes, as it has done recently (revealing inherent instabilities in an economic system committed to unending growth) millions of people suddenly find themselves in circumstances where frugality once again becomes a necessity, and the value of its associated virtues is rediscovered.

In societies such as the United States, we are currently witnessing a tendency for capitalism to stretch the distance between the ‘have lots’ and the ‘have nots’. These growing inequalities invite a fresh critique of extravagance and waste. When so many people live below the poverty line, there is something unseemly about in-your-face displays of opulence and luxury. Moreover, the lopsided distribution of wealth also represents a lost opportunity. According to Epicurus and the other sages of simplicity, one can live perfectly well, provided certain basic needs are satisfied – a view endorsed in modern times by the psychologist Abraham Maslow’s ‘ hierarchy of needs ’. If correct, it’s an argument for using surplus wealth to ensure that everyone has basics such as food, housing, healthcare, education, utilities and public transport – at low cost, rather than allowing it to be funnelled into a few private pockets.

However wise the sages, it would not have occurred to Socrates or Epicurus to argue for the simple life in terms of environmentalism. Two centuries of industrialisation, population growth and frenzied economic activity has bequeathed us smog; polluted lakes, rivers and oceans; toxic waste; soil erosion; deforestation; extinction of plant and animal species, and global warming. The philosophy of frugal simplicity expresses values and advocates a lifestyle that might be our best hope for reversing these trends and preserving our planet’s fragile ecosystems.

Many people are still unconvinced by this. But if our current methods of making, getting, spending and discarding prove unsustainable, then there could come a time – and it might come quite soon – when we are forced towards simplicity. In which case, a venerable tradition will turn out to contain the philosophy of the future.

The Wisdom of Frugality (2016) by Emrys Westacott is published via Princeton University Press.

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8 Key Lessons for Living a Simple Life

By leo babauta.

For the last dozen years, I’ve been living a (relatively) simple life. At times, the complexity of my life grows, and I renew my commitment to living simply.

Living a simple life is about paring back, so that you have space to breathe. It’s about doing with less, because you realize that having more and doing more doesn’t lead to happiness. It’s about finding joys in the simple things, and being content with solitude, quiet, contemplation and savoring the moment.

I’ve learned some key lessons for living a simple life, and I thought I’d share a few with you.

• We create our own struggles . All the stress, all the frustrations and disappointments, all the busyness and rushing … we create these with attachments in our heads. By letting go, we can relax and live more simply.
• Become mindful of attachments that lead to clutter and complexity . For example, if you are attached to sentimental items, you won’t be able to let go of clutter. If you are attached to living a certain way, you will not be able to let go of a lot of stuff. If you are attached to doing a lot of activities and messaging everyone, your life will be complex.
• Distraction, busyness and constant switching are mental habits . We don’t need any of these habits, but they build up over the years because they comfort us. We can live more simply by letting go of these mental habits. What would life be like without constant switching, distraction and busyness?
• Single-task by putting your life in full-screen mode . Imagine that everything you do – a work task, answering an email or message, washing a dish, reading an article – goes into full-screen mode, so that you don’t do or look at anything else. You just inhabit that task fully, and are fully present as you do it. What would your life be like? In my experience, it’s much less stressful when you work and live this way. Things get your full attention, and you do them much better. And you can even savor them.
• Create space between things . Add padding to everything. Do half of what you imagine you can do. We tend to cram as much as possible into our days. And this becomes stressful, because we always underestimate how long things will take, and we forget about maintenance tasks like putting on clothes and brushing teeth and preparing meals. We never feel like we have enough time because we try to do too much. But what would it be like if we did less? What would it be like if we padded how long things took, so that we have the space to actually do them well, with full attention? What would it be like if we took a few minutes’ pause between tasks, to savor the accomplishment of the last task, to savor the space between things, to savor being alive?
• Find joy in a few simple things . For me, those include writing, reading/learning, walking and doing other active things, eating simple food, meditating, spending quality time with people I care about. Most of that doesn’t cost anything or require any possessions (especially if you use the library for books!). I’m not saying I have zero possessions, nor that I only do these few things. But to the extent that I remember the simple things I love doing, my life suddenly becomes simpler. When I remember, I can let go of everything else my mind has fixated on, and just find the simple joy of doing simple activities.
• Get clear about what you want, and say no to more things . We are rarely very clear on what we want. When we see someone post a photo of something cool, we might all of a sudden get fixed on doing that too, and suddenly the course of our lives veer off in a new direction. Same thing if we read about something cool, or watch a video of a new destination or hobby. When someone invites us to something cool, we instantly want to say yes, because our minds love saying yes to everything, to all the shiny new toys. What if we became crystal clear on what we wanted in life? If we knew what we wanted to create, how we wanted to live … we could say yes to these things, and no to everything else. Saying no to more things would simplify our lives.
• Practice doing nothing, exquisitely . How often do we actually do nothing? OK, technically we’re always “doing something,” but you know what I mean – just sit there and do nothing. No need to plan, no need to read, no need to watch something, no need to do a chore or eat while you do nothing. Just don’t do anything. Don’t accomplish anything, don’t take care of anything. What happens is you will start to notice your brain’s habit of wanting to get something done – it will almost itch to do something. This exposes our mental habits, which is a good thing. However, keep doing nothing. Just sit for awhile, resisting the urge to do something. After some practice, you can get good at doing nothing. And this leads to the mental habit of contentment, gratitude without complaining.

Of course, these are not the only lessons you’ll need for living a simple life. But the best ones are the ones you discover yourself. Try these and see what happens – I think you’ll find out something beautiful about yourself, and about life.

The best kind of simplicity is that which exposes the raw beauty, joy and heartbreak of life as it is.

Posted: 08.02.2018

Previous post: The Three Most Powerful Motivations

Next post: A Challenge: Create a Daily Reading Habit

Essays About Life: Top 5 Examples Plus 7 Prompts

Life envelops various meanings; if you are writing essays about life, discover our comprehensive guide with examples and prompts to help you with your essay.

What is life? You can ask anyone; I assure you, no two people will have the same answer. How we define life relies on our beliefs and priorities. One can say that life is the capacity for growth or the time between birth and death. Others can share that life is the constant pursuit of purpose and fulfillment. Life is a broad topic that inspires scholars, poets, and many others. It stimulates discussions that encourage diverse perspectives and interpretations. 

5 Essay Examples

1. essay on life by anonymous on toppr.com, 2. the theme of life, existence and consciousness by anonymous on gradesfixer.com, 3. compassion can save life by anonymous on papersowl.com, 4. a life of consumption vs. a life of self-realization by anonymous on ivypanda.com, 5. you only live once: a motto for life by anonymous on gradesfixer.com, 1. what is the true meaning of life, 2. my life purpose, 3. what makes life special, 4. how to appreciate life, 5. books about life, 6. how to live a healthy life, 7. my idea of a perfect life.

“…quality of Life carries huge importance. Above all, the ultimate purpose should be to live a meaningful life. A meaningful life is one which allows us to connect with our deeper self.”

The author defines life as something that differentiates man from inorganic matter. It’s an aspect that processes and examines a person’s actions that develop through growth. For some, life is a pain because of failures and struggles, but it’s temporary. For the writer, life’s challenges help us move forward, be strong, and live to the fullest. You can also check out these essays about utopia .

“… Kafka defines the dangers of depending on art for life. The hunger artist expresses his dissatisfaction with the world by using himself and not an external canvas to create his artwork, forcing a lack of separation between the artist and his art. Therefore, instead of the art depending on the audience, the artist depends on the audience, meaning when the audience’s appreciation for work dwindles, their appreciation for the artist diminishes as well, leading to the hunger artist’s death.”

The essay talks about “ A Hunger Artist ” by Franz Kafka, who describes his views on life through art. The author analyzes Kafka’s fictional main character and his anxieties and frustrations about life and the world. This perception shows how much he suffered as an artist and how unhappy he was. Through the essay, the writer effectively explains Kafka’s conclusion that artists’ survival should not depend on their art.

“Compassion is that feeling that we’ve all experienced at some point in our lives. When we know that there is someone that really cares for us. Compassion comes from that moment when we can see the world through another person’s eyes.”

The author is a nurse who believes that to be professional, they need to be compassionate and treat their patients with respect, empathy, and dignity. One can show compassion through small actions such as talking and listening to patients’ grievances. In conclusion, compassion can save a person’s life by accepting everyone regardless of race, gender, etc.

“… A life of self-realization is more preferable and beneficial in comparison with a life on consumption. At the same time, this statement may be objected as person’s consumption leads to his or her happiness.”

The author examines Jon Elster’s theory to find out what makes a person happy and what people should think and feel about their material belongings. The essay mentions a list of common activities that make us feel happy and satisfied, such as buying new things. The writer explains that Elster’s statement about the prevalence of self-realization in consumption will always trigger intense debate.

“Appreciate the moment you’ve been given and appreciate the people you’ve been given to spend it with, because no matter how beautiful or tragic a moment is, it always ends. So hold on a little tighter, smile a little bigger, cry a little harder, laugh a little louder, forgive a little quicker, and love a whole lot deeper because these are the moments you will remember when you’re old and wishing you could rewind time.”

This essay explains that some things and events only happen once in a person’s life. The author encourages teenagers to enjoy the little things in their life and do what they love as much as they can. When they turn into adults, they will no longer have the luxury to do whatever they want.

The author suggests doing something meaningful as a stress reliever, trusting people, refusing to give up on the things that make you happy, and dying with beautiful memories. For help with your essays, check out our round-up of the best essay checkers .

7 Prompts for Essays About Life

Life encompasses many values and depends on one’s perception. For most, life is about reaching achievements to make themselves feel alive. Use this prompt to compile different meanings of life and provide a background on why a person defines life as they do.

Take Joseph Campbell’s, “Life has no meaning. Each of us has meaning, and we bring it to life. It is a waste to be asking the question when you are the answer,” for example. This quote pertains to his belief that an individual is responsible for giving life meaning. 

For this prompt, share with your readers your current purpose in life. It can be as simple as helping your siblings graduate or something grand, such as changing a national law to make a better world. You can ask others about their life purpose to include in your essay and give your opinion on why your answers are different or similar.

Life is a fascinating subject, as each person has a unique concept. How someone lives depends on many factors, such as opportunities, upbringing, and philosophies. All of these elements affect what we consider “special.”

Share what you think makes life special. For instance, talk about your relationships, such as your close-knit family or best friends. Write about the times when you thought life was worth living. You might also be interested in these essays about yourself .

Life in itself is a gift. However, most of us follow a routine of “wake up, work (or study), sleep, repeat.” Our constant need to survive makes us take things for granted. When we endlessly repeat a routine, life becomes mundane. For this prompt, offer tips on how to avoid a monotonous life, such as keeping a gratitude journal or traveling.

Many literary pieces use life as their subject. If you have a favorite book about life, recommend it to your readers by summarizing the content and sharing how the book influenced your outlook on life. You can suggest more than one book and explain why everyone should read them.

For example, Paulo Coelho’s “The Alchemist” reminds its readers to live in the moment and never fear failure.

To be healthy doesn’t only pertain to our physical condition. It also refers to our mental, spiritual, and emotional well-being. To live a happy and full life, individuals must strive to be healthy in all areas. For this prompt, list ways to achieve a healthy life. Section your essay and present activities to improve health, such as eating healthy foods, talking with friends, etc.

No one has a perfect life, but describe what it’ll be like if you do. Start with the material things, such as your house, clothes, etc. Then, move to how you connect with others. In your conclusion, answer whether you’re willing to exchange your current life for the “perfect life” you described and why.  See our essay writing tips to learn more!

Rebi Simple Living

It's time to focus on the simple things in life.

Simplicity in Life: The Value of Simple Living

December 28, 2021

Happiness means different things to different people, but research has shown that simplicity in life is so much more fulfilling than all the material things.  

When simplicity is the goal in life, most of your worries will disappear. You can focus more on what’s really important and be truly happy.

Jump Through Article

What Is Simplicity in Life?

Simplicity in life is a state of mind where simplicity has been achieved. 

Living a simple life does not mean living an impoverished one, though it may seem like that to some at first. It rather means appreciating the little things in life more than the material things.

By little things, I mean more free time, your loved ones, your hobbies, nature, good food, etc. 

Basically, more experiences and less stuff.

When you achieve simplicity in life, you feel calmer in daily situations and simplicity becomes a habit. It shines through every aspect of your life.

Jump to: 10 Ways to Embrace Simplicity

Example of Simplicity in Life

You can apply simplicity to every aspect of your life but for the purpose of exemplifying simplicity let’s take a look at simplicity in nutrition . 

When you eat simple and whole foods you feel lighter and have more energy. Eating simple saves you a lot of time and is also good for your wallet.

Learn how to prepare a number of meals you love to eat and rotate them through the month. 

That way you’ll always know what to cook, you can prepare meals in advance, and you can go in and out of the grocery store exactly knowing what you need to buy.

Simple eating is easy, healthy, and economic. It might sound boring to some, but you can always treat yourself to an exotic meal at a restaurant.

Importance of Simplicity in Life

There are many benefits to simplicity in life. 

One of the most important benefits is that simplicity gives us choices in the way we spend our time, money, and energy. 

With simplicity in life, it can be easier to recognize what is truly important among all the different things fighting for your time and attention.

The biggest benefits of simple living are:

• Lower cost of living
• More free time
• Less stress
• Sustainable (smaller footprint)
• Better concentration
• Better sleep
• Stronger relationships

There are many more benefits of simple living and they are individual to each person, so it’s better to try living simply and see for yourself. 🙂

10 Ways to Embrace Simplicity

Here are ten easy ways to embrace simplicity in your life. Try them out and simplify your living.

1. Be grateful

Practice being intentional about the things you are grateful for. Start a gratitude journal; nothing special just a small notebook, and write 5 things you are thankful for each day. 

Gratitude has many benefits. It makes you more humble, but also increases your long-term happiness, improves sleep and physical health, among others.

2. Notice the small things

Do you rush through life keeping busy and then wonder where the time has passed? 

Take a moment to stop and breathe. Notice the small things in life that make your experience unique. 

Take a look at the birds, flowers, people passing by, and just soak in all the wonderful little things that life has to offer. 

I’m afraid if you don’t you’ll go through life like a zombie and later regret missed adventures.

3. Spend time alone

Being around people is wonderful, but everyone needs some time for themselves. Set aside time to spend alone each day, even if for only 5 minutes.

Spend this time in silence, relaxing, and doing something you enjoy. It can be drinking tea, reading, doing a self-care routine, or something else.

4. Enjoy movement

It’s pretty simple, physical activity makes you feel good. You don’t have to do anything crazy, a nice, long walk will do the trick.

Find what type of exercise you like to do and stick to it. It will keep you healthy for a long time not only physically but also mentally.

5. Sleep enough

Getting enough sleep is crucial for your health. Adults need an average of 7 hours of good sleep every night in order to feel rested and can be fully productive during the day.

Keep off the screens for at least an hour before bed, create a calming atmosphere in your bedroom, and try not to eat late at night.

6. Say I love you more often

Saying I love you more often creates a sense of security not only among couples but also in parent-child and friend relationships. 

Showing your emotions generates stronger bonds. Deeper connections in your life will make you happier and will simplify your relationships overall.

7. Keep your home clean

When your home is clean you can think more straight and relax more easily in your house. 

Take a couple of minutes every day to tidy your home. Keep the surfaces clear, take the trash out regularly, and neaten your living space.

By keeping your home tidy, you’ll spend much less time deep cleaning and you’ll always know where to find what you need. 

8. Eat at the table

When was the last time you have eaten at the table?

Living a simple life means being intentional about different aspects of life.

Try to eat your meals eat the table. You will be much more present, taste the flavor of the meal, and be aware when you’re full. 

You’ll also have the opportunity to talk with your housemates while sharing a meal, isn’t that wonderful?

9. Be present

Being present means focusing on one thing at a time. Multitasking will only exhaust you and in the end, you won’t even be able to tell what you have done.

When you’re doing something, whether in your work or personal life, be present in the moment. Give your undivided attention to the task at hand or a person you’re talking to. 

You’ll appreciate what you did every day much more.

10. Stop comparing yourself 

Your life is yours to live. Set your own rules and stop comparing yourself to others.

You will feel much better when you focus on your own life and stop noticing what others are doing.

Only then you’ll truly be able to enjoy your daily life and be happy.

The Beauty of Simplicity

Simplicity lifestyle enables you to slow down and take it easy. 

The importance of simplicity is the beauty of living. Enjoy your life and the little things you enjoy.

Your life doesn’t have to be extraordinary in order for you to experience a wonderful life.

You can enjoy simple things and still have an amazing life but with less stress and worry.

Posted By: Rebecca · In: Simple Living

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Essay on Life for Students and Children

500+ words essay on life.

First of all, Life refers to an aspect of existence. This aspect processes acts, evaluates, and evolves through growth. Life is what distinguishes humans from inorganic matter. Some individuals certainly enjoy free will in Life. Others like slaves and prisoners don’t have that privilege. However, Life isn’t just about living independently in society. It is certainly much more than that. Hence, quality of Life carries huge importance. Above all, the ultimate purpose should be to live a meaningful life. A meaningful life is one which allows us to connect with our deeper self.

Why is Life Important?

One important aspect of Life is that it keeps going forward. This means nothing is permanent. Hence, there should be a reason to stay in dejection. A happy occasion will come to pass, just like a sad one. Above all, one must be optimistic no matter how bad things get. This is because nothing will stay forever. Every situation, occasion, and event shall pass. This is certainly a beauty of Life.

Many people become very sad because of failures . However, these people certainly fail to see the bright side. The bright side is that there is a reason for every failure. Therefore, every failure teaches us a valuable lesson. This means every failure builds experience. This experience is what improves the skills and efficiency of humans.

Probably a huge number of individuals complain that Life is a pain. Many people believe that the word pain is a synonym for Life. However, it is pain that makes us stronger. Pain is certainly an excellent way of increasing mental resilience. Above all, pain enriches the mind.

The uncertainty of death is what makes life so precious. No one knows the hour of one’s death. This probably is the most important reason to live life to the fullest. Staying in depression or being a workaholic is an utter wastage of Life. One must certainly enjoy the beautiful blessings of Life before death overtakes.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

How to Improve Quality of Life?

Most noteworthy, optimism is the ultimate way of enriching life. Optimism increases job performance, self-confidence, creativity, and skills. An optimistic person certainly can overcome huge hurdles.

Meditation is another useful way of improving Life quality. Meditation probably allows a person to dwell upon his past. This way one can avoid past mistakes. It also gives peace of mind to an individual. Furthermore, meditation reduces stress and tension.

Pursuing a hobby is a perfect way to bring meaning to life. Without a passion or interest, an individual’s life would probably be dull. Following a hobby certainly brings new energy to life. It provides new hope to live and experience Life.

In conclusion, Life is not something that one should take for granted. It’s certainly a shame to see individuals waste away their lives. We should be very thankful for experiencing our lives. Above all, everyone should try to make their life more meaningful.

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ThePlainSimpleLife

Simplify your home. Simplify your mind. Simplify your life.

in Minimalism & Simple Living · February 8, 2023

10 Reasons a Simple Life is a Happy Life & How to Get Started

Have you ever wished your life was just a little more simple? Do you get overwhelmed by the amount of possessions and tasks you have to manage every day?

If this is sounding familiar to you and you feel you’re living a complicated life, then it’s likely that you could benefit from simplifying your life.

Easier said than done, right? But a simple life is actually within reach, and it could be the key to unlocking a happier version of yourself!

In today’s fast-paced world, simplicity can often slip through our fingers as we try to keep up with the latest trends and technologies.

We tend to focus on having everything in our lives — more physical possessions, bigger houses and higher salaries. But are these really the keys to personal happiness?

The answer is a resounding no .

Choosing a simpler life can be one of the best choices you make for your health, wealth and overall happiness.

A simple life is a happy life. But living a simple life doesn’t mean that you have to give up all your possessions or stop engaging with society. Instead it focuses on living life mindfully without too many distractions from external sources.

It also means understanding what brings true happiness and implementing changes to your lifestyle.

This article will explain 10 reasons why having a simple lifestyle helps create inner peace and provide tips on how you can get started.

You might also like:

• A Simple Formula for Living a Meaningful & Happy Life
• 14 Surprising Reasons to Drive Less & Ditch the Keys
• 21 Simple Living Tips To Reduce Everyday Stress
• 9 Reasons You Should Be Choosing Quality Over Quantity
• The Art of Slow Living: Discover How to Live a Happier Life
• 7 Types Of Habits That Will Help You Achieve Your Personal Goals

10. Feel connected to something greater than ourselves

What is simple living.

Before we dive into why a simple life is a happy one, let’s define what it means to live simply.

At its core, simple living means having an intentional approach to spending and consumption . It involves looking at what you already have and focusing on the things that bring joy or add value to your life while reducing or eliminating any unnecessary “stuff”.

It also means reducing your reliance on material possessions and outside influences, such as technology and media, to create a more meaningful life experience.

Simple living isn’t about depriving yourself of what you want – it’s about making intentional choices that will lead to a more fulfilling life in the long-run.

Now that we’ve answered the question, “what is simple living?” let’s look at the reasons why it could be the key to a happier life.

Are you ready to simplify your life?

Why a simple life is a happy life

1. less stress.

The less “stuff” that you have to manage, the less stress you will feel. Simple living allows you to focus on the things that are truly important to you, rather than wasting energy on things that don’t bring value to your life. Simple living allows your stress levels to stay low, which is beneficial for both your physical health and mental health.

2. More time

A simple lifestyle involves letting go of the things that take up too much of your time and energy, and that’s not just possessions. It could be activities, relationships or obligations that are no longer serving you. When we free up this time, we can use it to do things that bring us joy , like spending quality time with friends and family.

3. Spend smartly

Living a simple life also means spending consciously and on things that you truly need or want. This can help you save money in the long-run, which brings us to our next point.

4. Enjoy financial freedom

Having financial freedom is something we all dream of, but it can be hard to achieve if our spending habits are out of control. When you focus on simple living, it helps to create more money-saving opportunities and can lead to greater financial freedom in the long run. No more credit card debt or late night impulse purchases – just more money in the bank!

5. More meaningful connections with people

When we simplify our lives, we free up space for more meaningful relationships with family, friends and community members. These types of healthy relationships are key for creating a more fulfilled and happier life.

6. More self-awareness

As you begin to live a more minimalist lifestyle , it can also help you become more aware of yourself and your needs. This type of self-awareness is key for understanding what truly brings us inner peace and joy.

7. Reduce waste & lessen environmental impact

Simpler living also requires being mindful about what is brought into our homes and how energy is used throughout daily life – choosing reusable items and eco-friendly alternatives to limit the waste produced.

8. More gratitude

When we focus on what we already have, rather than always chasing after more, it can help us appreciate the little things and find joy in life’s simple pleasures. Practicing gratitude can help improve our overall happiness and well-being.

9. Discover who you are without needing things

When we let go of material possessions, it can help us to better understand who we are and what truly matters in our lives. Living with intention leads to a greater appreciation for life and the world around us.

Oftentimes when we simplify our lives, it helps us to feel connected to something greater than ourselves. This can help us to find more meaning and purpose in our lives, which leads to a more fulfilling life experience.

Simple living isn’t for everyone, but if you’re looking for a way to create more peace and joy in your life, it could be the key to achieving this. Whether you choose to downsize your home, reduce your possessions or let go of obligations that no longer serve you, the important thing is to live with intention and focus on what truly matters to you. When you do this, it’s amazing how much happier and fulfilled you can feel.

How to get started simplifying your life

Declutter your home and life.

Cluttered homes can lead to feelings of stress, anxiety, and overwhelm, but that all changes when you create space for clarity and intention in your life.

Decluttering will help you unlock the potential of your home, allowing it to support rather than distract from your goals. Get rid of things you don’t need or use anymore, setting aside items that bring joy or can serve others in need.

The feeling of clearing out the clutter will be liberating — freeing you up to focus on the things that matter most.

Re-evaluate your commitments

If you’re really looking to simplify your life, taking a good look at the commitments on your plate is essential. How much of that busy lifestyle is actually helpful and productive?

When it comes to choosing what’s important in your life, it pays to ask yourself some tough questions: Should I really be involved in that project if I’m not interested in the cause? Do I really need to sign up for six classes this semester?

Following this re-evaluation process helps you figure out what matters most – and what can be jettisoned from your day-to-day life with minimal guilt. 

Set financial goals and create a budget

The process may sound intimidating, especially if you’re new to budgeting , but with some determination and the right tools it’s an easy task. Plus, the freedom that comes from understanding your finances and living within your means is totally worth it!

Start by writing down all sources of income and all necessary expenses. Then identify areas where you can cut back – such as eating out or ordering takeout more than usual – so you can save more money each month.

Budgeting doesn’t have to be boring; on the contrary, creating your own roadmap for financial minimalism can provide a sense of accomplishment and peace of mind.

Make conscious decisions

This is a vital move in order to get your life streamlined and reduce stress.

Whereas, till now you were running around making spur-of-the-moment decisions that aren’t necessarily in line with your goals or bigger picture, taking a step back to reflect on all the choices you make can make a fabulous difference.

Take for example, if you’re about to purchase something or book an expensive holiday, think ahead to the repercussions it might have on your finances. Or maybe even whether it’s something worth spending money on; will it add true value to your life?

No matter how small or large the situation is, being mindful of what impacts it would have on your lifestyle is extremely important and can help you make smarter decisions rather than regretting them later on.

Spend time with yourself

Embracing the simple life requires an adjustment to a slightly slower pace, and spending time with yourself is an important part of that. At first, a lot of people might find this one of the hardest parts, but it’s worth it to make your own mental health a priority.

Set aside some time every day to spend alone – doing whatever brings you peace or joy. It could be reading a book on your porch or meditating in nature – whatever takes you away from the chaos of the world and allows you to reconnect with yourself.

If you can do this consistently, you might even experience the wonder of living more simply.

Practice mindfulness and be present in the moment

When it comes to simple living, one of the best things you can do is practice mindfulness and be present in the moment. This means being aware of your surroundings and being conscious of your actions.

It can be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life and forget to appreciate the little things. But if you take a step back and really focus on the here and now, you’ll find that living a simple life is actually quite beautiful. 

Get off social media

Unplugging from social media apps such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter can help you to focus on being present in your own life and appreciate the experiences you are having in real time instead of staying glued to a device all day long.

Social media has become such an integral part of our lives that it can seem daunting to try to give it up, but if you can manage it, the rewards are immensely worth it.

Reduce your to do list

One simple action to start living simply is to reduce your to do list. It’s easy to keep jotting down tasks here and there on a piece of paper, and soon enough you’ll feel overwhelmed.

Consider taking the time now to clear out a few of those items – prioritising tasks, delegating when you can, or even canceling some of the activities on your plate if feasible.

In immediately lightening this load, you’ll find a positive impact on your mental state, as well as your ability to focus on other life essentials.

Get enough sleep

Your sleep routine can make a huge difference in your overall well-being, and proper rest can have an enormous impact on how you approach the day.

Get plenty of sleep by sticking to a schedule and avoiding late nights out, or overworking yourself during the day. When it comes to your overall level of happiness, getting enough quality sleep is essential.

Living a simpler lifestyle can be a great way to find happiness and contentment , as it allows us to focus on what truly matters most in our lives. By following the simple living tips above, we can free up more time for ourselves and discover who we are without needing anything external from other sources around us.

A simple life is a happy life and it’s worth striving for!

About Vourneen

Vourneen is the founder of The Plain Simple Life and a certified decluttering and organising coach. She has helped thousands of people simplify their lives over the past 3 years through minimalism and simple living and considers it a personal goal to continue to help others do the same.

The Plain Simple Life

Your memories live in your heart and mind, not in things - Vourneen, The Plain Simple Life

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10 Benefits of Living a Simple Life

There are so many benefits of living a simple life. And in today’s post, I’m sharing some of my favourites.

Reading about the benefits of living a simple life is a great way to get and stay motivated to simplify your own life. Reminding you why it matters and what you stand to gain .

What is simple living?

Clearing the clutter from your home is one part of living a simpler life . But fully embracing a simple life goes beyond just simplifying the stuff in your home. It’s about making intentional choices to simplify your life as a whole.

Simplifying your home and your space. But also simplifying your schedule and how you spend your time. Simplifying your routines and how you approach the work and tasks you need to do each day. And finally, it’s about slowing down and embracing a slower, simpler, less busy life in general.

A life where you clear the clutter, distractions and busyness so you have more time, space and attention to enjoy and do the things that matter most to you.

Benefits of living a simple life

When you take this holistic approach to simplify your life, there are a variety of benefits you can start to experience. And that’s what today’s post is all about!

The benefits of living a simple life and how they can impact your life in a positive way.

Keep reading for some great inspiration, motivation and encouragement to embrace a slower, simpler life!

1. More time for what matters most

When you reduce the distractions, the clutter and the busyness in your life, you give yourself more time, space and energy for what matters most to you.

Whether that’s your work, a hobby or activity you love, the relationships that mean the most to you, etc. Whatever it is, simplifying your life gives you more time to focus on what you love and what matters most to you.

2. Less stress

Less to manage, take care of and keep up with all helps to reduce stress in your life. Reducing your workload and mental load.

It’s letting go of what’s less important and keeping what’s most important. And when you do that, you can eliminate a lot of unnecessary stress from your life too.

Choosing to embrace a simpler life means focusing less on the “should dos” and getting clear about what matters most instead. Then choosing to reduce, remove or eliminate the “shoulds” so you have more space in your life to focus on what matters.

In addition, embracing a simpler life often leads to buying less “stuff” and buying more intentionally. Simply because you want to keep your home simplified because of the benefits it brings .

Buying less and being more intentional with your purchases can also lead to less financial stress, another great way to reduce stress levels overall.

3. Less mental clutter

Having less to manage, take care of, keep up with, keep track of, etc. also means you reduce your mental load and reduce mental clutter .

Life can feel less overwhelming and chaotic when you reduce the number of things, commitments, obligations, tasks, etc. that you are required to take care of and keep up with.

And instead, you create a life with fewer things to manage and take care of. Giving yourself more time and space to hear and process your thoughts and feelings. As well as remember, keep track of and keep up with the important things that truly matter in your life.

You’ll like be less distracted as well with less to manage, keep up with and remember. Helping to improve your focus and concentration as well!

4. More clarity about what matters most

One of the greatest benefits of living a simple life is the clarity it gives you .

The more you simplify, the more you clear away the clutter and the distractions (both literal and figurative). And the more you identify and clear the clutter and distractions, the more opportunity you have to clarify what truly matters most to you.

You put less pressure on yourself to do it all, have it all, keep up with it all, etc. And instead, start pinpointing and clarifying for yourself what matters most. Gaining more awareness of who you are, what your values, goals and priorities are and what kind of life you want to live.

And the more awareness you gain of who you are as a person, the more confidence you gain in who you are. As well as confidence in the choices you’re making and the way you’re choosing to live.

You know who you are and what matters most to you. And may find you compare your life less to other people’s simply because you recognize you have different goals, values and priorities.

5. Benefits to your physical health

Simplifying your life also positively impacts your physical health.

Taking steps to reduce the stress you feel in your life is a great way to better support your physical health. As studies show that prolonged exposure to elevated stress levels can impact your health. Including your heart function, your mental health, digestion, memory and more.

But simplifying your life can also impact your health in other ways. For example, a clutter-free bedroom can help you sleep better.

It also gives you more time in your days to focus on things that support your health, like giving you more time to exercise, focus on eating better and do activities to calm your body and mind.

6. Improved relationships

One of the biggest benefits of a simple life is the way it frees up your time for what matters most. And having more time for what matters to you can impact so many areas of your life.

The positive impact simplifying can have on your relationships is another example.

The more time you have for the people you love, the deeper and more meaningful your relationships can become.

7. More gratitude

When you’re less bogged down by clutter, busyness and distractions, you have more time and capacity for gratitude . To appreciate the good already filling your life. Giving you more time and space to notice and appreciate it.

Simplifying is about removing the clutter and distractions, leaving the things that matter most to you. And when you are highlighting what matters most in your life, you often feel more gratitude for the life you’re creating. Simply because you’re creating a life filled with what matters most to you.

8. More focus & creativity

Living a simpler life often focuses on having less to do, rather than getting more done.

Instead of looking for the next productivity hack to let you squeeze it all in, you start looking for what you can remove to make life easier to keep up with. The more you remove, the more time you gain. And the more time you gain, the less rushed and busy you need to be.

You might be able to do less multi-tasking trying to get it all done. And instead, do more focused, single-tasking. Not only making your tasks feel less frantic and stressful but also allowing you to focus more and be more intentional with what you’re doing.

Having more time in your days also gives you more opportunities for creativity, creative problem solving and creative thinking. It’s hard to be creative when you’re too busy or stressed to slow down and pay attention to your creative ideas!

9. Reduces your environmental impact

Living a simpler life can also help reduce your environmental footprint.

As I said earlier, embracing a simpler life often focuses on owning less and buying less to maintain a simpler home and lifestyle. When you own less and buy less, you’re consuming less and producing less waste. Maybe even focusing on maintaining and repairing what you already own, rather than always discarding and buying new.

A great example of this is in your wardrobe. When embracing a simpler life, you might focus less on buying new, trendy clothes and instead focus on wearing what you already own. Reducing your consumption, waste and environmental impact.

10. More happiness

And finally, one of my favourite benefits of living a simple life is the happiness it adds to life.

When living a simpler life there is less rushing, less stress, less busyness and instead more time for what you love and what matters most to you.

There’s time for the people you love. Time for the activities and hobbies you enjoy. Less pressure to keep up with everything and instead choosing to only keep up with the things that matter to you.

It’s a life where you focus on creating a life you love. A life that feels fulfilling and purposeful to you. Not one where you try to keep up with everyone else or live by someone else’s rules. And a life that aligns with what matters most to you and your values, goals and priorities is a life that feels good. A life with more space to be happy!

I hope today’s post will inspire you to create a simpler life that focuses on what matters most to you!

I’d love to know, which of these benefits are your favourite or are the things you’re most looking forward to experiencing as you continue to simplify your life. Leave a comment below and let me know!

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Essay on Simple Life

All our prophets us to lead a simple life as it give more pleasure than the life of rich people. “simple life” saysthe prophet Mohammed, “Set my heart on high thoughts.”

It is a good thing that so many people in Europe, America and elsewhere have, during the recent years, come to see how much more pleasant and sensible is the simple life than one, which is given over to much spending, much show and much vanity. Men and women who have money enough to buy expensive thing will forbear from wasting their riches in this way. They enjoy simple dress and adorn their houses with necessary furniture. People who work hard are the best servants of the humanity live in a quiet frugal manner which keeps them in better health and enable them to take more active part in the world’s work.

I consider it a sin to waste money on personal pleasures. Whoever, spends too much on luxury is wasting stores which might be used for the feeding, clothing and maintaining of his poorer neighbours. We should make our function simple and on all important occasions we should remember the suffering humanity, and allot some part of our treasure to charity. Great people have taught the value of austerity by living a simple life. it would be rather nice to develop courage to lead a simple life and determine to do good work.

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• Essay on ‘Life’ for Students in English

About the Topic

Life is a single word with many different connotations and meanings. Above all, life is about more than just being; it's also about how one defines that existence. As a result, it's vital to think about life from several angles. Philosophers, academics, poets, and authors have written extensively about what it means to live and, more significantly, what are the essential elements that characterize one's existence. This exercise has, of course, been done in a variety of ways. While philosophers sought to understand the meaning and purpose of people's lives, poets and authors recorded the diversity of life at various times. As a result, life is likely to be more than exciting.

Life- Essay- Introduction

The adventure of living in the path of life. We are born, live our lives, and eventually pass away with time. We are attempting to shape our lives in this way. Everyone's life is different. Some people have a lot of problems in life, while others do not. Those who have never faced adversity in their lives have one perspective on life. Those that struggle in life have a different perspective. Life is frequently described as priceless. The various ways in which people seek to save lives reveal this even more clearly.

Every day, doctors and scientists try to discover innovative treatments that will help people live longer lives. Life is full of both joys and disasters. The ups and downs of life are what they're called. Without them, life is just a never-ending war that can be won at any time. To overcome one's grief, it is necessary to find happiness in one's life. Only then does life appear to be lovely? 

Students in Classes 1-6 can utilize this essay for their respective exams.0

FAQs on Essay on ‘Life’ for Students in English

1. What are tips to write a good essay on Life in English for students?

What is the best way to compose an essay? This is quite a difficult and important question asked by many students. For a variety of reasons, many different types of writing are considered "excellent." There is no such thing as a writing formula or programme. For students and expository writing, the traits listed above are very crucial.

Another attribute that isn't on this list yet is extremely significant is inventiveness. The best writing carries part of the author's personality and uniqueness. Follow the rules below, but always strive to make your writing your own.

An essay’s center should concentrate on a single obvious primary theme. Each paragraph should have a different core theme or topic sentence.

The main point of the work should be supported or expanded upon in each paragraph. The essential point of each paragraph should be identified and proven using examples, facts, and descriptions.

Each paragraph in an essay should be related to the main theme. A single point should be the focus of each paragraph.

An essay or paper that is properly organized should flow smoothly and "stick" together. To put it another way, the reader should be able to understand the text.

A paper should be written in whole sentences with few errors in grammatically correct standard English.

2. What is the importance of writing essays on life?

Writing essays helps students develop important abilities and functions in their education, making them more useful. One, writing essays allows students to practise and improve abilities that they can apply throughout their academic careers and into their careers. For example,

One can improve their reading and writing skills, as well as their capacity to think, organize thoughts, and communicate effectively.

Two, it enables students to develop a formal and orderly writing style that reliably conveys information. 

Three, it aids in the organization of your thoughts on what you're learning, the development of vocabulary, and the development of a distinct writing style.

Improving writing skills also aids in the development of the writing skills required to complete additional writing projects.

Writing about life will help students to understand the importance of life and it will lead them to do self retrospection and they can bring positive change in their life.

3. What lesson do students get about the quality of life by writing life essays?

Above all, optimism is the most effective strategy to improve one's quality of life. Job performance, self-confidence, creativity, and abilities all improve when people are optimistic. A positive individual may undoubtedly overcome significant obstacles.

Meditation is another effective approach to improve the quality of one's life. Meditation almost certainly allows a person to reflect on his or her past experiences. This way, one can avoid making the same mistakes as before. It also provides an individual with peace of mind.

Having a hobby is a great way to add meaning to your life. A person's life would be dull if they did not have a passion or interest. A fresh lease on life can be obtained by engaging in a hobby. It gives people fresh reasons to live and experience life.

4. What is the importance of living according to the essay?

One of the most significant aspects of Life is that it continues to move forward. This signifies that nothing is everlasting. As a result, there should be some justification for remaining gloomy. A joyous occasion will pass, just as a sad one will. Above all, no matter how bad things go, one must remain positive. This is so because we all are aware of the fact that nothing lasts forever. Every circumstance, occasion, and event will come to an end. This is unquestionably one of Life's wonders.

Probably a large percentage of people grumble that life is difficult. Many individuals mistakenly feel that pain is a synonym for life. Pain, on the other hand, makes us stronger. Pain is unquestionably a wonderful way to boost mental toughness. Pain, above all, enriches the mind.

5. Why should students consider essays on Life available on Vedantu?

Our English subject specialists wrote the life essay on the Vedantu website. It is grammatically correct, with simple and correct language usage. Because the format of the essay is designed in such a way that students do not find it complex, students will find it extremely easy to recall. Vedantu tries to provide all available assistance to students for them to do well in exams as well as study and understand. The essays on Vedantu are prepared with the goal of piquing students' interest in writing and encouraging them to write more and improve their skills.

"A simple life" - intro to my essay

LatifahH 1 / -   Apr 30, 2010   #1 A simple Life has a different meaning and a different value for everyone. For me, it means to make life less complicated and eliminating the stress. Following the two basic steps can help you with the issue of simplifying; identify what is most important to you, eliminate everything else. This means that to do what we love we have to disregard certain things, to be left with the things we value. It is not an easy process to simplify, but it can be done. You have to reduce what has packed on stress in your life while still being able to maintain the activities that are important to you. You can simplify your life by living within your means, clear clutter and cut out any negative relationships.

kayyao 6 / 20   May 3, 2010   #3 A simple Life has a different meaning s and a different value s for everyone. For me, it means to make life less complicated and stressful . Following the two basic steps can help you to simplify your life . Firstly, figure out what is most important to you, lessen the value of everything else. This means that to do what we love we have to disregard certain things, to be left with the things we value. It is not an easy process to simplify , but it could be accomplished . You have to reduce what stresses you in your life while still being able to maintain the activities that are important to you. You can simplify your life by living within your means, clear clutter and cut out any negative relationships. Good Luck!

Zozy114 - / 1   Jan 8, 2014   #4 My essay about simple life Hi everyone .. Really I need help for my essay I started like that A simple life is a free and easy life which people live in without any complications and don't use modern technology. It is correct as intro ? And I Need conclousion please

Loriww 1 / 2   Jan 10, 2014   #5 A simple life is a free and easy life which people live in without any complications and don't use modern technology. the sentence above is clearly a definition about simple life. you can express your own feelings and unique experience about it. And I Need conclousion please cannot understand what conclusion? more information please

Finding The Purpose: Why Life is Important

• Categories: Meaning of Life Purpose Trust

About this sample

Words: 1987 |

10 min read

Published: Nov 26, 2019

Words: 1987 | Pages: 4 | 10 min read

Table of contents

Introduction, why life is important, works cited.

• Burnet, C. (n.d.). Only I Can Change My Life. [Quote]. Retrieved from Goodreads website: https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/8938229-only-i-can-change-my-life-no-one-can-do
• Keller, H. (n.d.). Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it. [Quote]. Retrieved from Goodreads website: https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/86764-although-the-world-is-full-of-suffering-it-is
• Pele (n.d.). Success is no accident, it is perseverance, learning, sacrifice, and most of all loving what you're doing. [Quote].
• Purpose Guide. (n.d.). The Importance of Finding Purpose in Life.
• Purpose Fairy. (n.d.). 15 Powerful Lessons I've Learned from Life.
• Segerstrom, S. C., & Vohs, K. D. (2009). Managing resources: Dual-task performance and resource allocation in normal adults. Journal of Experimental Psychology: General, 138(1), 101–126.
• Seneca. (n.d.). Life is too important to be taken seriously. [Quote]. Retrieved from AZQuotes website: https://www.azquotes.com/quote/1136886
• Silvia, P. J. (2006). Exploring the Psychology of Interest. Oxford University Press.
• Wong, P. T. P. (2014). The Human Quest for Meaning: Theories, Research, and Applications (2nd ed.). Routledge.

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The Marvels of Everyday Life: what a Wonderful World

This essay is about appreciating the wonders of everyday life and the world around us. It highlights the beauty of nature the marvels of human creativity and technological advancements and the importance of human connections. The essay emphasizes finding joy in simple moments and the power of a positive mindset. It also touches on the value of education and the pursuit of knowledge as ways to enhance our appreciation for life’s wonders. By adopting an outlook that recognizes both the challenges and the beauty of life we can cultivate gratitude and well-being.

How it works

In a world often overshadowed by negativity and challenges it’s essential to take a step back and appreciate the myriad wonders that surround us daily. The phrase “what a wonderful world” is not just a song lyric but a reminder to find beauty and joy in the simple and profound aspects of our existence. From the intricate designs of nature to the complexity of human connections life is filled with moments that deserve our attention and gratitude.

One of the most obvious wonders of the world is nature itself.

The vastness of the oceans the majesty of mountains and the diversity of wildlife all testify to the incredible beauty of our planet. Each sunrise and sunset brings a palette of colors that no artist can truly replicate. The changing seasons each with its own charm offer a continuous display of transformation and renewal. The delicate balance of ecosystems and the interdependence of all living things reveal an intricate web of life that is both fragile and resilient. Observing a simple flower blooming or listening to the symphony of birdsong can evoke a profound sense of wonder and connection to the natural world.

Human creativity is another remarkable aspect of our world. From the earliest cave paintings to modern digital art the ability to create and appreciate art is uniquely human. Music literature and visual arts offer insights into different cultures and eras allowing us to experience the world through diverse perspectives. The innovation and ingenuity displayed in scientific and technological advancements continually push the boundaries of what we thought possible. Consider the marvel of flight the convenience of the internet or the potential of space exploration. These achievements highlight the incredible capabilities of human imagination and determination.

Relationships and human connections also contribute significantly to the wonder of life. The bonds we form with family friends and even strangers can provide immense joy support and a sense of belonging. Acts of kindness and compassion no matter how small can have a profound impact on both the giver and the receiver. These connections remind us that despite our differences we share a common humanity. Stories of resilience love and generosity inspire us and restore our faith in the goodness of people.

The wonders of the world extend to the everyday moments that often go unnoticed. The laughter of a child the warmth of a hug the satisfaction of a good meal or the serenity of a quiet moment alone can all be sources of joy and contentment. These simple pleasures when acknowledged and appreciated can greatly enhance our overall sense of well-being. Mindfulness practices such as meditation or simply being present in the moment can help us become more attuned to these everyday wonders and foster a deeper appreciation for life.

Education and the pursuit of knowledge are other avenues through which we can experience the wonder of the world. The process of learning whether through formal education or personal exploration opens our minds to new ideas and possibilities. Understanding different cultures histories and philosophies can broaden our perspectives and deepen our empathy. The curiosity that drives us to ask questions and seek answers is a powerful force that can lead to personal growth and societal progress.

Ultimately the concept of “what a wonderful world” is a mindset a way of seeing and appreciating the richness of life. It encourages us to focus on the positive aspects and to find beauty in the mundane. This perspective does not ignore the challenges and hardships that exist but rather acknowledges them while also recognizing the goodness and wonder that persist. Cultivating gratitude and practicing positive thinking can help us maintain this outlook even in difficult times.

In conclusion the world is filled with wonders that can enrich our lives and uplift our spirits. By taking the time to observe and appreciate the beauty of nature the creativity of humanity the depth of our connections and the simple joys of everyday life we can foster a greater sense of gratitude and contentment. Embracing the mindset of “what a wonderful world” allows us to navigate life’s challenges with a more positive and resilient attitude enhancing our overall well-being and appreciation for the world around us.

Remember this essay is a starting point for inspiration and further research. For more personalized assistance and to ensure your essay meets all academic standards consider reaching out to professionals at EduBirdie .

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Reality TV Longs for a Simpler Life

Twenty years after the premiere of The Simple Life , today’s reality television is channeling a time when being a viewer was less complicated

The Simple Life turns 20 years old this week. It might seem like a fundamentally silly reality show about two pioneering nepo babies being dragged out of their fancy lives to “work” alongside regular Americans—and it was. But The Simple Life also represents a societal shift: It transformed its leads from rich-kid socialites into A-list celebrities—a type of global fame previously reserved for actors, singers, or athletes with traditional “talent.” Now, the reality TV medium is maneuvering to try to recapture The Simple Life ’s naivety. This year, long-running shows have purposefully gone “back to basics,” in an attempt to rediscover what fans first liked about them. There has also been a wave of early-2000s reboots, plus new shows that draw inspiration from an era when the medium felt lighter to consume. Can reality TV really reclaim its innocence?

In 2003, when The Simple Life premiered on Fox, we had already started to see how reality TV could turn ordinary people into celebrities. MTV’s The Real World —a show that, each season, followed a different group of young people living together in a city like San Francisco or New York—became an early reality TV phenomenon. In the United States, 50 million people watched the first season finale of Survivor , and in the U.K., early seasons of Big Brother also drew huge ratings. These shows were typical of early reality programming, in that they branded themselves as “social experiments.” What happens when people try to survive together on a remote island? Or are locked in a house with no contact with the outside world?

At that point, celebrities were becoming reality-TV-curious. MTV was already showing us stars’ homes on Cribs , and then there were The Osbournes and Newlyweds —a strangely addictive reality show starring divorced-couple-in-the-making Nick Lachey and Jessica Simpson. The Simple Life was different, though. Masterminded by the same producers as The Real World , the show staged a clash between “regular” and filthy-rich people, to ask a question: What happens when you take away the credit cards from two heiresses and make them work for a living?

At the same time, it was first and foremost entertainment. Any notion of “social experiment” was surface-level and performed, from the over-the-top pink clothing and Chihuahuas, to the mountains of (probably empty) suitcases Hilton and Richie brought with them. The blonde duo would chase each other with animal feces and even auditioned men to date a young Kesha’s mother . Armed with Barbie-girl looks, a baby voice, and a catchphrase (“That’s hot”), Hilton created a character for herself: the airhead heiress.

The Simple Life was part reality, part sitcom. Hilton was the lead, and her name was in the theme music—“Miss Hilton, you must be worth a trillion bucks!” the lyrics sang. She played the role to perfection, and her ditzy persona transcended the show to become her brand: Paparazzi would photograph her driving around in a pink car, strutting out of nightclubs in oversize sunglasses, and shopping with her dog in her handbag (like Elle Woods, without the Harvard degree). “The whole world assumed that’s who I really was,” Hilton said earlier this year . There was a fascination with her model looks and wealth, but part of the allure was also working out what, if anything, was real about her. This is what professor June Deery, author of the 2015 book Reality TV , calls “staged actuality”: the tension between the real and the staged. Deery thinks this is at the core of why audiences are so enthralled by the reality medium.

Particularly for the first two of its five seasons, the innocence of The Simple Life was part of what made it fun. As Hilton and Richie got more famous, the show lost its footing, storylining a feud between the pair in the later seasons. The two women filmed separately before reconciling in a hilariously staged scene in which Hilton gifted Richie a pair of sunglasses. In a sense, this represented reality TV as a whole: It was becoming more conflict-centered and contrived.

The public reevaluations of the 2000s often make us wince today. (The shameful hounding of Britney Spears is the clearest example.) But the most brutal years of the reality TV medium actually came after The Simple Life. Much of the reality programming that defined the post-Hilton era—like MTV’s Teen Mom and bizarre dating shows like Flavor of Love and Playing It Straight —was clearly exploitative. I grew up in the U.K., where the TV schedule featured shows with names like Fat Families and You Are What You Eat . On the latter, contestants would be shown a giant table crammed with all the food they’d eaten in a week. After they had been berated for that, one of their poops would be shown on national television. (Google it if you don’t believe me!) The fifth season of the U.K.’s Big Brother , in 2004, professed to be purposefully “evil.” It was a far cry from the previous seasons, which focused on “back to basics” living, the contestants even keeping a coop of chickens. Instead, the show introduced twists to provoke (often drunken) arguments. ( Police investigated after one incident, dubbed “fight night,” spun out of control.)

It seems like there is a nostalgia for the earliest years of reality TV, before conflict and animosity became so central. This year, Bravo aired Luann and Sonja: Welcome to Crappie Lake —a Real Housewives spin-off featuring the New York City series’ Luann de Lesseps and Sonja Morgan as they attempted to breathe new life into Benton, a town in rural Illinois. The Simple Life inspired a whole subgenre of (slightly sadistic) shows about taking celebrities out of their surroundings. But Crappie Lake felt so similar in format and tone to The Simple Life that, according to creator Jeff Jenkins, it was originally pitched to Hilton’s mother, Kathy, who turned it down because she didn’t want to “encroach on her daughter’s terrain.” In the U.K., Survivor and Big Brother were both rebooted in 2023, the latter firmly reestablished as a social experiment rather than a tabloid-focused controversy machine.

Some of reality TV’s other big shows returned to their origins this year, as well. After a wild period of FBI arrests and embezzlement scandals, the Housewives franchise has rediscovered its sweet spot: wealthy women arguing about petty, low-stakes stuff. The reboot of the The Real Housewives of New York City —which was totally recast to better reflect New York’s elite today—featured arguments about cheese plates, restaurant reservations, and party etiquette. Elsewhere, The Great British Baking Show also declared it was going “back to basics,” after fans complained it was becoming too mean and complex.

Part of this might be a desire for more lighthearted escapism, after national reckonings on race and politics made their way onto reality shows following the Black Lives Matter protests of summer 2020. It might also be a response to concerns about the welfare of reality stars themselves—it’s hard to be entertained by shows that feel overly dark and exploitative. Or it could be fatigue over huge newsworthy scandals—like the conviction of Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star Jen Shah, who was sentenced in January to six and a half years in prison for running a nationwide telemarketing scam. Whatever the reason, reality TV is channeling a time when being a viewer was less complicated.

.css-1pfpin{font-family:NewParisTextBook,NewParisTextBook-roboto,NewParisTextBook-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;font-size:1.75rem;line-height:1.2;margin:0rem;padding-left:5rem;padding-right:5rem;}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-1pfpin{padding-left:2.5rem;padding-right:2.5rem;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1pfpin{font-size:2.5rem;line-height:1.2;}}.css-1pfpin b,.css-1pfpin strong{font-family:inherit;font-weight:bold;}.css-1pfpin em,.css-1pfpin i{font-style:normal;font-family:NewParisTextItalic,NewParisTextItalic-roboto,NewParisTextItalic-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;} There is a nostalgia for the earliest years of reality TV, before conflict and animosity became so central.

After The Simple Life ended, Hilton’s star began to fade in the early 2010s, as ratings for her solo reality projects faltered. (There are only so many times you can watch someone look for a “new BFF.” ) But we’re currently living through a Hiltonaissance. It started with This Is Paris —a 2020 documentary that focused on her upbringing and rise to fame. In the film, Hilton revealed her experiences with emotional, verbal, and physical abuse while attending boarding schools as a teenager. The airhead heiress we first met was nowhere to be seen. She was offering something new.

Hilton’s rebrand suggests an awareness that her “That’s hot” persona probably wouldn’t work now. Viewers are more savvy, and social media has given us what feels like a more intimate connection with celebrities. (Plus, it’s much more aspirational to be a savvy #boss than an airhead.) In this era, the key to success on reality TV is sharing as many new things as possible, so Hilton’s TV character now feels more complex, and less distant—whether or not that’s actually the case. Most recently, fans watched the run-up to her wedding on Peacock reality show Paris in Love. The second season, which is currently airing, more closely resembles a Kardashians -style show, in which Hilton—no longer speaking in the baby voice that made her famous—shares how she juggles her business empire, motherhood, marriage, and fame.

It was once enthralling to watch Hilton, who never seemed fully real, doing something as normal as baking a messy pasta dish. In 2021, she shared the recipe for her “famous” lasagna on Cooking With Paris —a slick Netflix series where celebrity besties like Kim Kardashian and Demi Lovato joined her in the kitchen. The end product was more polished than The Simple Life, but nowhere near as fun . (The show was canceled after one season, and apparently, her lasagna tastes “like a shoe.” )

Twenty years on from The Simple Life, reality TV is longing for a simpler time. But I’m not convinced the medium can recapture its innocence beyond surface-level nostalgia. Too much has changed. Eventually, the Kardashians would supersede Hilton. Led by the socialite’s former assistant and bestie Kim, the family took “talentless” reality TV fame to a whole new level, transcending the medium to create the modern-day influencer. Now, we rarely hear the phrase “famous for being famous” anymore, because it’s so widespread in our culture. I wonder if what we’re really nostalgic for is the time when this was an exception, rather than a cultural norm. When we could salivate over the old lasagna without knowing exactly how it was made, or that it didn’t taste as good as it looked.

Louis Staples is a freelance culture writer and critic based in London, UK. He writes “Cultural Staples” — a fortnightly culture essay at Bazaar.com. His work is featured in The Cut, The Guardian, Vogue, Rolling Stone, and Variety.  

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