Simplify Your Life

The most striking thing about modern industry is that it requires so much and accomplishes so little.

-E.F. Schumacher, Economist

For all of our supposed sophistication as denizens of the twenty-first century, the needs of humankind have not changed: We still need clean water and breathable air, good food to eat, and clothes on our back. Likewise, the desires of humankind have not changed in all recorded history: People still want to be famous and wealthy. We still want a variety of pleasures and luxuries.

What has changed is the capacity to devour the Earth at ever more alarming rates and further impoverish the many for the profit of the few. It may seem crazy or naive, but I think mindfulness can do something about that. Mindfulness can get people, especially those of us living in wealthy, first-world nations, to take a long, hard, look at our habits and ask if we really need more manufactured stuff, if our lifestyles are really making us happy.

What if we could subtract more stuff and actually be happier? What if we could do less and enjoy life more? Right now, in five or ten minutes, think of five material possessions that you no longer need in your life. Similarly, think of five activities you can do without. This morning and for the rest of the day, think of ways you can simplify your life so you spend less time in frantic activity and more time in quiet contemplation. You need not to tell anyone about your plans: Be mindful of the fact that others may not understand and may criticize your decisions.

This post in an excerpt from the book A Mindful Morning by David Dillard-Wright, PhD.