I happen to be over the age of 40, mid forties to be exact, in the past I would have cringed at having to share my date of birth, but today I am embracing my age and new simplified life. I am guessing that as we get older, our priorities just shift. We may no longer find the same fulfillment in the pursuit of material possessions or stats, for example. Instead, we focus on building healthy relationships, personal growth, and meaningful experiences.
Living a more simple life aligns with these values by providing more time and energy for what truly matters. Being in your forties comes with having greater self awareness. We learn what brings us joy and what drains our energy. Living a simple life helps us to clear away the clutter and focus on things that nourish our soul.
As a young mother I had no choice but to juggle work, school, family, and personal commitments. Having to learn how to juggle all of the above can be stressful, especially after 40. When we simplify our life it helps us create a sustainable work-life balance, reducing stress and leaving more room for R&R.
Simplifying your life in 2024 after 40 can be a transformative journey! I spent a few years trying to find ways that inspired me and wanted to share some of those ideas to inspire you.
Declutter your space, including your schedule
- Create a clean, organized space. In 2019, my healing journey led me to Marie Kondo’s “spark joy” method. Her method is Keep what brings you joy and let go of the rest. It wasn’t easy letting go of everything all at once, but as time went by, I made space and decluttered closets, drawers, even my digital files.
- Clear the Mental space: Create a realistic to-do list and prioritize according to your values. Learn to say “no” , once in a while, gracefully. Say no to people, places and requests that drain your energy.
- Information overload: Unsubscribe from unnecessary emails, follow fewer social media accounts, and schedule dedicated times for checking important emails, news and media.
It takes time to embrace minimalism and living intentionally. You can embrace slow living by savoring life’s moments, disconnecting from technology and spending time in nature. Cultivate mindfulness. Choose meaningful experiences over accumulating possessions.
Mix and match your wardrobe pieces using versatility, and reducing decision making chaos, not to mention laundry loads.
Prioritize self-care and well-being. As a Health Coach, I spent my days encouraging others to make a lifestyle changes, healthy habits.
Make sleep, healthy eating, exercise, and stress management non-negotiables. Practice mindfulness, meditation, yoga, or other activities that connect you to your inner self and reduce stress.
- Connect with loved ones: Strengthen relationships with family and friends. Make time for meaningful conversations, shared activities, and expressing gratitude.
- Simplify routines: Create efficient routines for morning, evening, and weekends
Remember, simplifying your life is a process, it doesn’t happen over night. Be kind and compassionate to yourself and celebrate your progress. The key is to declutter your life of noise and commitments that don’t align with your values, allowing you to focus on what truly matters.
Reflect on your values and dreams. What do you want your life to look like in 2024? Use that vision to guide your simplification decisions.
Enjoy your journey towards a simpler and more fulfilling life in 2024!
