How to Become Debt Free, Calm, and Happier in Life

It’s half way through the year and there have been five interviews in our Simple Living Interview Series with bloggers who have done the hard work of simplifying and are maintaining their minimalist lifestyle.

I thought it would be a good point to review the interviews and look at the similarities and differences in their simple living journeys. The bloggers who have participated so far are:

• Shakira from Miss Simple Living
• Cheryl from Handcrafted Travellers
• Christy from The Simple White Rabbit
• Jennifer from Simply + Fiercely
• Lisa from Try a Simple Life

Read each of their interviews HERE.

Differences in Simple Living

All five bloggers come from very different backgrounds. Some are single, some are married, some have kids and some do not. They live in the suburbs, cities, and one even homesteads! They live in the United States, Australia, Romania, and London.

They came to a life of simplicity after being shopaholics, working in full time stressful jobs, being in debt, stay at home moms on a budget, unable to say no, living in large homes, and following the typical definition of a “good life.”

The lesson? The desire to live simpler more meaningful lives transcends place, age, and family situation. Anyone can pursue a simple life. Don’t let your circumstances dictate whether you can pursue a simpler lifestyle.

I know at times I find myself thinking that it would be a whole lot easier to just wait until the kids graduate or until we move (which may be never!) to minimize our belongings and simplify our lives. After simplifying for two years, I know that’s not true.

The best time to start simplifying is now – today. If there is an inkling of desire in you to simplify your belongings, your schedule, or your mind – then just begin. Simplifying today in small but consistent ways will benefit you and your family more than you can imagine.

Click the image for more information!

Benefits to a Simple Life

All of the bloggers have been on this journey for years and are reaping the benefits of a simple life. I was not surprised that they share many of the same benefits and transformations:

• only owning physical things that they use and love
• less time cleaning  – and an easier time cleaning because of their clutter free homes
• easier time finding things because of the lack of clutter
• no more debt
• reduced number of hours working because of their lack of debt and new lifestyle of careful consumption
• freedom in choosing the type and amount of work they love (another benefit of a debt free and shopping free lifestyle)
• more time to do things they love
• more time to spend with the people they love
• more time to volunteer in meaningful activities
• greater health
• learning new skills
• more contentment, gratitude, and happiness
• calm

How to Start Simplifying

Each person shared great advice on how to start simplifying. All of them suggested starting with physical clutter.

Clearing physical clutter is such a powerful and life changing experience. It is often the first domino in a line of life altering effects. I know that I’m finding that to be true in my journey to simple as well. Clearing physical space makes room for clarity and new priorities to come front and center in your life.

How to start clearing physical clutter:

• start small and with the easy stuff
• just get started
• learn to let go
• reflect before, during, and after as your declutter
• celebrate your wins – no matter the size
• be kind to yourself along the way

I hope this encourages you to start or continue your simplifying journey. Keep in mind that they have been on this journey for several years already – so don’t get discouraged. Don’t compare your beginning with someone else’s middle.

To read each of their full interviews, click HERE.

This post will be shared at these lovely link up parties.

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