Simple living might sound like some huge, daunting life overhaul—like you have to declutter everything you own, quit your job, and move to a cabin in the woods. But that’s not it at all. Simple living is really just about making small, intentional choices every day that bring more calm and purpose into your life.
No dramatic upheavals required.
Forget the all-or-nothing mentality that ends with an empty home and a dull routine. Simple living is about focusing on what actually works for you. Here are 10 easy ways to practice simple living every day because tiny changes add up to big freedom.
1. Clear Out One Small Area
Don’t try to declutter your whole home in one go. That’s a fast track to feeling overwhelmed. Instead, start with one tiny corner: a junk drawer, a shelf, or your desk. Clear it out, then move on to the next drawer, the next shelf, the next room. Clearing clutter from a small spot is a quick win that gives you instant progress, making the process feel way less daunting and a lot more rewarding.
2. Say No Without Guilt
No is a complete sentence—get comfortable saying it more often. Saying no to things that your energy is a powerful way to reclaim your time, simplify your life, and feel way more relaxed. Instead of doing things out of obligation, saying no frees up space for what really matters in life, whether that’s hobbies, hanging with friends, or just some extra time in bed!
3. Unsubscribe from Unwanted Emails
The moment a newsletter or sales alert lands in your inbox and you don’t want it—hit unsubscribe immediately. Dealing with these emails right away by removing yourself from mailing lists slowly but surely clears up your inbox. Less junk means less time wasted sorting it out. It’s a tiny step that clears mental clutter and keeps distractions to a minimum.
4. Quick Tidy Before Bed
A quick tidy at the end of each day will keep your home clutter-free without it feeling like a big chore. Just spend five minutes putting things back where they belong, clearing surfaces, and tossing out any trash. This simple habit prevents mess from piling up overnight and makes your home feel calmer and more inviting every morning.
5. Reduce Screen Time
So many of us complain about never having enough time to do the things we love: watching films, reading books, or playing games. Yet hours slip away scrolling through our phones. Try swapping just 15 minutes of mindless scrolling for something more fulfilling. Those small reclaimed minutes add up and suddenly, there's time for what really matters.
6. Shop Intentionally
Next time you’re shopping, ask yourself: “Do I really need this?” Simple living isn’t about never buying anything new or giving up all treats. It’s about making thoughtful choices rather than impulse buying. Over time, this habit helps create a lifestyle that reflects your values—and avoid a home full of clutter.
7. Simplify Your Wardrobe
Simplifying your wardrobe isn’t about owning as few clothes as possible, it’s about only keeping clothes you actually love and wear. When everything fits well, feels comfortable, and suits your lifestyle, getting dressed becomes easier and more enjoyable.
8. Define What's Important
Each day, take a moment to think about what really matters right now. Look at your to-do list and let go of anything that isn't urgent or important. This simple step will help you feel less overwhelmed and more in control. With clear priorities, decisions become easier, stress fades, and your day feels more focused and manageable.
9. Practice Gratitude
Take a moment each day to notice what’s good right now, like a kind word, a delicious meal, or a cosy room. When you start paying attention to the little things, you begin to see just how much beauty already exists in your everyday life. Simple living isn’t about chasing more, it’s about slowing down enough to appreciate what you’ve already got.
10. Be Kind To Yourself
Simple living isn’t just about doing less—it’s about caring more, especially for yourself. Make space each day to do something kind for you. It could be as small as enjoying your coffee without distractions, lighting a candle while you tidy up, putting on your favourite playlist, or taking five quiet minutes to do absolutely nothing. These little moments of self care add up and they remind you that you matter too.
Simple living isn’t about doing less just for the sake of it. It’s about creating space for what really matters in the life you already have. There’s no perfect formula, no magic checklist, and definitely no need to live in a spotless house with zero stuff. With small changes and simple daily habits, you can shape a life that feels calmer, more meaningful, and just right for you.