Simplicity is Born from Complexity

And we're CRAVING simplicity.

There are entire movements supporting simplicity: Minimalism, Tiny Houses, Decluttering (eg. Kondo Method), etc...

Simplicity is POWERFUL. But it's not always easy. Because it's usually hidden in the raw materials of complexity. Like a remarkable sculpture that's hidden within a slab of marble.

I keep hearing phrases like:

...in these busy times.

...in these complex times.

...in these fast times.

NO WONDER we're craving more simplicity. So many of us hear these messages and feel the pressure to BE busy, complex, and fast. It takes tremendous will power and purpose to CONSCIOUSLY slow down, do less, and simplify.

Yet, the reward in simplifying is totally worth it.

For example, I decided some years ago to simplify my experience of driving. My goal was to simply stop reacting to other drivers and their behaviors (even the really surprising ones) as often. But rather, allow the experience to unfold. To "go with the flow."

Before, if someone flew by me and aggressively changed lanes, I'd call them "reckless" and "dangerous." And perhaps they still are.

But I simplified and now ask myself...

WHAT DO I CHOOSE TO DO RIGHT NOW?

The answer, more often then not, is to BREATHE, be extra OBSERVANT, and come back to the PRESENT MOMENT. Now, I often thank that driver for reminding me to come back to the moment because there's a good chance that my mind wandered off to random thoughts anyway.

Driving for me is simple. Not stressful. I don't say this to brag or say it's "better." I say it because being stressed about driving added complexity to my life.

And it wasn't necessary.

So I carved it away from the complex "marble" in my life. And I'm getting closer and closer to the remarkable, creative, powerful, and simple sculpture of my life.

Religions are complex. The core message, "Love yourself, others, and the powerful energy that surrounds us" is simple.

Parenting is complex. The core of parenting, "Unconditionally love and guide children toward their potential" is simple.

Working is VERY complex. The core of working, "Use your gifts, grow your skills, and contribute value" is simple.

The goal of all of this is NOT to strive for a SIMPLE life. Because that suggests that simplicity is some kind of goal or milestone...something that is out of reach until it's not.

The goal of all of this is to remind you of the OPPORTUNITY to choose to reduce your experiences of complexity.

If there's a part of your life that feels BUSY, COMPLEX, or FAST, that's an invitation to, slow down, do less (specifically, the less valuable things), and simplify.

Simplicity is a WAY of life.

It doesn't mean renouncing worldly things. It means that when we slow down and become more present, we see what's most important, what would benefit from our attention, time, gifts, and strengths...and then DO THAT.

Just do that ONE thing that's right in front of you (which may include doing NOTHING, resting, and recuperating if you've been overwhelmed with constantly DOING without pause).

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P.S. I help successful professionals reconnect with a blazing sense of fulfillment in three core areas of life: career, relationships, and spirituality. The path to fulfillment is a return to simplicity. You already have all you need. This isn't about adding more things and taking more time. In fact, making this shift saves time. So if you think you're ready to shift from complexity to simplicity and experience new levels of fulfillment, visit me at www.tommyacierno.com to learn more.