Living simply in a fast-paced world often feels like swimming upstream. We’re surrounded by endless to-do lists, the constant pull of consumerism, and the pressure to be everything to everyone. For me, simplifying isn’t about slowing down to the point of stagnation—it’s about moving off autopilot, tuning into the rhythms of life, and creating space for what truly matters.

Even when I am in a busy season, I actively look for ways to simplify my life. Some days this works, other days I feel overwhelmed and exhausted. When that happens, I remind myself that it is just one day, not every day. And I think about ways I can make tomorrow better.

1. Align Your Life with the Seasons

One of the reasons I love the Wheel of the Year offers a framework for simplifying your life by tuning into nature’s cycles. In spring, I focus on renewal—clearing clutter and planting new ideas. Summer invites me to embrace abundance and joy, while autumn is a time to let go of what no longer serves me. Winter reminds me to rest and reflect.

Aligning my actions with these seasonal energies brings a natural sort of flow and purpose to my life. For example, during the quieter months of winter, I take on low-spend challenges or reflect on my long-term financial goals. It is not a time that I bust out big house projects.

2. Start with Your Priorities

Simplifying isn’t about doing less—it’s about doing what matters most. Take time to identify your top priorities, whether it’s nurturing your health, spending more time with family, or pursuing a creative passion. Let these priorities guide your decisions, both big and small. And acknowledge that priorities can shift. For example, my priority right now is nursing school. As much as I’d love to tackle some bigger projects in my house, I know that now is not the time. Nursing school will be done in one year, and I know once it is finished I will have the bandwidth to do more things.

3. Simplify Your Spending

Mindful spending has been a game-changer for me. Before making a purchase, I ask myself, Does this align with the life I’m building? This mindset has helped me move away from impulse buys and focus on quality over quantity.

If you’re looking to simplify your spending, I recommend trying a low-spend month or auditing your subscriptions. You’d be surprised how freeing it feels to cancel services you don’t truly need.

[Looking at you, Netflix.]

4. Invest in Tools, Not Clutter

When I do spend money, I aim to invest in tools that simplify my life, like my trusty cast-iron skillet or a well-made journal that helps me unwind and clear my head.

5. Tend to Your Space

A cluttered home often leads to a cluttered mind. At least, that’s how it is for me. I’ve found that taking time to tend to my space—whether it’s organizing a drawer, mending a favorite sweater, or repurposing items I already have—creates a sense of calm and clarity.

6. Embrace DIY Where It Makes Sense

Simplifying doesn’t mean you have to do everything yourself, but learning a few DIY skills can be helpful. I’ve taught myself to mend clothes and tackle small home repairs, which not only saves money but also deepens my connection to my belongings.

That said, it’s okay to call in help when you need it. Simplifying isn’t about martyrdom—it’s about making choices that serve your life as a whole.

7. Create Time for Rest and Reflection

In our fast-paced world, rest often feels like a luxury. But the Wheel of the Year reminds us that rest is essential for growth. Winter is my favorite season for reflection—I journal about what worked, what didn’t, and how I want to move forward.

Two weeks into my nursing program I had to have one-on-one with myself and acknowledge that the pace of life wasn’t working. I HAD to figure out a way to slow down and have some down time between work and school. I bought a three month membership to my local gym and my walking buddy and I resumed our weekly walks, using the gym’s indoor track. When I’m working from home, I try to hop on my treadmill a couple of times a day for 10 - 15 minutes, to get my blood moving and improve my mood.

Consider carving out small moments of rest each day. It could be as simple as enjoying a cup of tea without distractions or taking a walk in nature to clear your mind.

8. Make Space for Joyful, Free Activities

Not everything that brings joy requires money. Some of my favorite moments are those spent stargazing, journaling, or walking in the woods during autumn. These activities not only simplify my life but also help me feel more connected to the world around me.

9. Reframe “Simplicity” as Intentionality

Sometimes, simplifying means spending money or outsourcing tasks to create space for what truly matters. For instance, hiring a repair person might save you hours of frustration, allowing you to spend that time with loved ones or tending to your health. Simplicity doesn’t always look like minimalism—it’s about living with intention.

10. Use the Wheel of the Year to Check In

Each season, I take time to reflect on where I am and where I’m going. Am I living in alignment with my values? Are my daily choices supporting the life I want to create? These seasonal check-ins help me stay grounded and ensure that I’m simplifying in ways that truly matter.

Books to Inspire Intentional Living

Here are a few books and authors that have inspired me:

The Year of Less by Cait Flanders
Simple Abundance by Sarah Ban Breathnach
The Art of Frugal Hedonism by Annie Raser-Rowland and Adam Grubb
Your Money or Your Life by Vicki Robin
Meet the Frugalwoods by Elizabeth Thames (I have listened to this on audible multiple times)
The Minimalist Home by Joshua Becker (The Minimalist documentary is also excellent)

Each of these books offers unique perspectives on how to slow down, simplify, and align your life with your values.

Simplicity Is a Journey, Not a Destination

Living simply in a fast world isn’t about achieving perfection—it’s about making intentional choices that bring you closer to the life you want to live. Some seasons will feel busy or chaotic, and that’s okay. What matters is that you keep coming back to your values, adjusting as needed, and creating space for what truly matters.

How can you simplify your life today? Maybe it’s canceling a subscription, taking a walk in nature, or reflecting on the season’s lessons. Wherever you are on your journey, remember: simplicity isn’t about doing less—it’s about living more.