Let’s face it, life feels complicated. I ask myself all the time… why can’t anything be easy? Wouldn’t that be something? If we could face everyday and just say, “Boy, that was easy!” But the fact is that we all face challenges that complicate our lives. Whether it is with our kids, our work, our family, or our relationships, complications arise from dynamic tensions or circumstances that are beyond our control.
As parents we are trying to balance how much to give our kids and how much to do for them while teaching them to be responsible. (The older the child gets, the more complicated this becomes.)
Our work is no longer straightforward. Our jobs are complicated by matrixes, global remits, multiple stakeholders, misaligned priorities, and excessive ambiguity. Gone are the days of 9-5, one boss, and absolutely clear responsibilities.
Our family life is complicated by different personalities, habits, interests, demands, schedules, sports, and clubs. The family unit has lost its unity.
Our relationships are often complicated by long distances, frequent travel, long hours, overuse of mobile communications instead of real connection, conflicting priorities, and an absence of a God-centered life.
Have you ever wondered about whether things were so complicated in the old days? Have you ever felt like you might want to go off the grid? It’s probably time to simplify your life. Getting back to the simple things will renew your spirit. Here are some ways to simplify your life today:
- Focus on the vital few versus the trivial many. I call this trimming the fat from your life. Don’t let your day run you; you run your day.
- Give your mind a rest. If you are having trouble sleeping because your mind never stops, your life might be too complicated. Take a hot bath (even if it is only 15 minutes before bed). Read a chapter in a good book, one that is not work-related. Decompress by painting, drawing, or listening to tranquil music. Escape to a simple quiet space.
- Above all make time for God. When we put Him first by starting our day off with Bible reading and prayer, everything else falls into place. Pray about what you should focus on and accomplish each day. Ask God to bring simplicity to your life. Surrender to His will and He will bring perfect peace to you.
One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to enquire in his temple. Psalms 27:4
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