Self Simplification Wherever You Are.

The simple life is not all that simple. Self sufficiency or living off the land takes lots of work, commitment and self discipline.A rural life could be a means towards a simpler existence, but for most of us, making the drastic changes involved in relocation would be virtually impossible; so, for those people, begin simplification right where you are.

I have seen many try to simplify their lives and actually end up creating more complications. Many books describe this process with rituals and procedures, and make it sound as though it could all be done in a day.

Simplifying all aspects of your life has no set time line. Each person is different. Some can achieve both an inner and outer need level immediately, and some may take years. Once you’ve made the choice to simplify, start from within. Listen to your inner voice, and use that as your guide.

I began about 5 years ago and am still learning and growing every day! For me it was about seeking a more peaceful existence and obtaining more freedom to enjoy the REAL important things in my life. I began by bringing my total existence to my own personal need level.

We all have different need levels but once you’ve found yours you’ll soon experience a sense of freedom and tranquility, leading you towards a more meaningful way of life. You’ll no longer feel as though you’re spreading yourself thin.

Without a cluttered mind and the added responsibilities of unnecessary material possessions, you’ll have more time to concentrate on family and friends or even begin and finish projects you had no time for.

Our material world does not and cannot fulfill us. It can, at best, provide a temporary bandaid, that leads to debt, stress and health problems. So many of us are enslaved and we don’t even realize it. We’re caught up in credit cards, new car payments, fashion, expensive homes, driving really long distances to work, high insurance payments and expensive vacation traps. All of this soon leads to a weary mind and lots of health problems.

People won’t remember what you had, but rather what you did. The choice to live a simpler existence positvely effects family, friends, our environment as well as your children’s future. People will notice the difference in you and will begin to ask questions. Use this as your opportunity to share, leaving behind a very important legacy.

A few first steps:

After you’ve made the choice to simplify your life, clean out your mind, body and environment. You can begin by cleaning out closets. Donate or simply give away as many items as possible. This will give you a good feeling, knowing that others will benefit from STUFF that no longer has use to you.

Clean out your car and follow up with your work space(whether at home or away). Once you’ve uncluttered all areas of your environment, you can then begin to simplify yourself from within. Start by getting rid of any bad habits that affect your finances as well as your overall health and well being.

Remove negative thought patterns, eat healthier and stay clear of any negative influences such as people, places and temptations that might cause you to overspend. You’ll soon learn that self simplification has a domino affect in all areas of your life. Take your time and enjoy the trip.

The simplified life…
Much more calm, much more life
The realness is unveiled
Projects move forward which in the past failed
What beauty and serenity it’s given me
Beautiful Simplicity

Anonymous

Suggested Reading:

1) The Joy of Simple Living by: Jeffrey P. Davidson
2) Simple Gifts by: June Sprigg
3) Simple Living by: Jose Hobday
4) Your Money or your Life by: Joe and Vicki Dominguez (one of the best for financial freedom)

Catalogs:

GVS – PO Box 310 Versailles, MO 65084 (takes you back to a simpler time; good quality products and shoes)

Gohn Brothers – Box 1110 Middlebury, IN 465401110 ( family owned; large amount of simple products)

Yoder Dept. Store – State Road 5 PO Box 245 Shipshewana, IN 46565 (lots of simple home made items and great quality garments)

Write to the above addresses and they will send you a free catalog. Businesses listed above use no phone or internet service…snail mail only. They walk their talk and have superb customer service!

Websites:

http://lehman’s.com – (one of my favorites for a huge array of simple, natural and self- sufficiency products; excellent customer service and great books) you can also sign up for Lehman’s Life…folks share information on simple living.

http://goodbks.com – some great gift giving books on the plain life as well as beautiful stationery.

http://www.thefarm.org – a walk through communal and self-sufficient living…began as a dream and still lives on

Periodicals:

1) http://www.backhomemagazine.com ( great farm companion)
2) http://www.motherearthnews.com (the original magazine for self-sufficiency)

Products:

1)Tom’s of Maine, family run, natural/safe products-love their deodorant!
2)Kirk’s, has been around for a VERY long time-great castile soap and hair products.

These companies sell all natural products safe for you and the environment. They are lower in cost than most of your organic products and can easily be found in almost all supermarkets around the US. I purchase mine at SweetBay Supermarkets.

Till next time, Peace Always, Gigi

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