I think a lot.
In fact, I think so much that I am often accused of over analyzing things and preparing for the almost impossible possibilities. I can easily find myself overwhelmed by my own thoughts to the point of tears. It happens to me far more than I like to admit. I also have miniature panic attacks and temper tantrums and shut people out and give up on things, only to start them over and over again.
Through it all one thing remains true: Nothing is ever really that complicated. In fact, most of it is pretty simple. We just are educated away from simple. Simple must mean wrong. We are taught to puff ourselves up and present ourselves to our coworkers and peers and business associates as grand and complicated individuals. It is no wonder that we take the same exaggerated and dramatic approach to living out our dreams.
In 2011, I am focused on trimming out the extra spectacles and doing things simply.
I want to write a book, so I am writing a book.
I want to pay off all my credit cards, so I am paying them off.
I want to read more. I want to have a better paying job. I want to grow spiritually.
One by one, I am doing these things. Simply by applying the effort required toward them.
Any “plans” I have are to guide, not complicate.
That is not to say that some of these things are not hard:
Fiction writing is proving to be a hefty challenge for me.
I, (like you) enjoy spending money more than paying off bills.
I work, I write, I sleep, I pray… When in the heck am I am going to read -more?
This approach may seem obvious because it is pretty simple and it may even feel like you already take this approach to your own life, and maybe you do.
But if the thought of reworking your resume makes you cringe. If you have a stack of books that you want to read, but haven’t gotten to and the thought of doing so is stressful… If you feel behind at work, on sleep, or in life…
You can afford to simplify.
{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
YES! That’s the key! You wanna do something, just do it. It IS that simple. Good reminder! Keep them coming!
Kind of like design in a sense. Many times when things get over complicated in the design world, returning to the simple really moves us forward. Great post!
Good read and a very timely read, if I may say so myself.
I believe everyone in the world has a tendency to complicate things. While that is certainly understandable, for me, it is usually one of things where I have to go through that particular something and reflect upon, then understand how much of it was a simple case of me adding too much to the plot.
When it really didn’t require as much.
Just do it – I now remind myself, as perhaps you should.
I, too, overanalyze and overcomplicate certain situations and I’m realizing now that life can be simple. I love this post and I hope you accomplish all of these ‘simple’ goals.
Another way to simplify is to focus and not try to do too much at once.
Whew. U make it sound so easy. So SIMPLE! Perhaps it’s conditioning that makes this seem a complicated task. I mean I’m with u. I know it’s necessary, but HOW? The Nike slogan ain’t gettin’ it! I’ve tried -just do it! Well perhaps more practice.. Hell I’m a simple individual, my life just isnt! Here’s to u babe- make it happen!
well look who is back. I am a real simple guy. I think choices in life are rather simple however the problem is that each choice comes with complex consequences that enlightened folks often try to consider in their decision making.
Over the years I have learned that I should only worry about the elements which i can control which life has proven to me is very little. I can only hope that in acting within my sphere of control I can emit a positive influence.
good luck with your goals and aspirations..
Piece and Blessings.
I can so relate to this! I just keep telling myself it’s now or never.