Do you often feel overloaded, stressed or unable to make decisions because everything seems so complicated?

When your life is too full or too complex it is hard to think clearly:  you may tend to go around in circles, leave a trail of half-finished jobs in your wake, or take on more if asked without considering the implications.  These drain your emotional energy leaving you exhausted and dissatisfied – it’s a familiar pattern.

The answer is to simplify those areas of life that aren’t fulfilling, in order to make more space for things you enjoy and that make you feel good.

The following five steps are (very condensed!) keys to a calmer, more satisfying lifestyle…

1. Think through your values

What is most important to you? Our values and beliefs make us who we are but most of us haven’t ever taken the time to spell them out so we can see their influence. Knowing the hierarchy of your values makes it easier to pinpoint where you are torn and is vital for making clear decisions.  If you usually dither - look to your values!

2. Set boundaries

Overloaded people invariably have a problem saying “no”, or are so run off their feet they can’t clearly visualise everything they are trying to juggle.  Be realistic about what you have the time, ability and inclination to do, decide your limits and politely but firmly communicate them to the world at large.  It does get easier with practice!!!

3. Dejunk your life

Clutter wastes time, causes frustration when things get lost, and drains your emotional resources.  Research has shown that those who are surrounded by clutter tend to feel more negative about themselves.  Getting rid of things and restoring order can be difficult and time-consuming but  it brings obvious benefits: you feel calmer, more organized and more in control of your life.

4. Make yourself your No. 1 priority

Our culture tends to value self-sacrifice - especially from mothers! But objectively, what is likely to be better for the well-being of those around you: if you are happy, healthy and fulfilled or frustrated, tired, and secretly resentful of not being appreciated? Ensure that you make sufficient time to relax and do things you enjoy, so that your batteries can recharge…

5. Get help

How many things that you currently do could be done by someone else?  Or not done at all? We often struggle on alone without considering that it may be more effective to pay someone else, ask a friend for help, get expert advice or combine our efforts.  Developing a really good support network can make life infinitely more manageable.

Overwhelmed simply by the thought of tackling the steps above?  Why not take them one week at a time with the help of my free 5 week “Simplify Your Life" E-course.

Put your details into the subscription module above on the right and you will be automatically subscribed to the course. Your first detailed instalment - "Values" - will arrive shortly !