Living a Simple Life Improves the Quality of Life

Just found this hub and it intrigued me. I work long hours because we need the money just to pay the bills

But I'm not worried about paying the bills so guess on one hand I have stress but on the other I love the job so I'm not stressed about it

Taking the simple life option really does work. We do it as much as we can. Awesome hub

Lawrence

Bill, you got it right, everything you said was true. I went from a big house down to a small one. Instead of all that furniture I had I now have my favorite guitars. I can play and enjoy them I can't play furniture. I liked my job but never loved it, when I started to teach in 1981, I found my true passion. I make a little money and do what I love. You have a great hub for people to take serious. After I got the parkinson and heart disease, my life is simple. I live each day stress free. Stella Have a great day.

Great article!!!

As this year came rolling to a close, I took a close look at my stress filled life. I determined that the two biggest stressors were my job as a newspaper reporter, and my alcoholic husband.

I took a big breath, and decided to eliminate both from my life.

My husband reacted with disbelief. My boss laughed, saying that he couldn't believe I would leave a real job to pursue my hobby.

Now I teach yoga, am a full time massage therapist, and a writer. Now I get to write what I want, when I want, without artificial deadlines.

My life is stress free and I love it. It can be done.

Namaste

I would love to be more "simple" in life... I use cleaning and organizing to feel more simple, but rarely works. Remove unnecessary things is a key. Thanks for sharing!

Hi, Bill. May I link this Hub into the one I wrote about growing up in a frugal society? Thanks in advance.

My life is less stressful now that I downsized from a four bedroom house into a small apartment. I gave all my treasures to my children, and I was thankful they love antiques and Hummels as much as I love them.

Now I have more time to spend with my family and my little doggie!

Oh boy, you nailed it with this one. I know first hand what stress can do to a person. Luckily my stress level is pretty low, but I have a tendency to stress when I don't need to. At almost 50 I'm still learning how to handle that, but there are times in life when it can get overwhelming and something has got to give. Writing is one way I try to handle it!

Sounds like you are definitely living the right way for you. Congratulations on finding yourself. Many people can't do that.

This is wonderful advice. In the Christian perspective we have what we call "asceticism." What it is basically is trying to cut down on things that we do not necessarily need in life. By being detached to those things, we become more attached to things that are more important in life especially LOVE as you pointed out.

Bill, love it! As you know, we are on the journey to a simple life, too, and like you say, it's not easy. You have been one of the ones I look to inspiration for my own journey towards it. I love that you are actually stress-free. I am not there yet, but working towards it. Sharing this one, and am linking to it, too, from my blog. Blessings, my friend!

Good for you Bro.

Hats off, I say. I struggle, sometimes, but all self-inflicted. A great Sunday to you both. Salaam!

I agree with you about this. It's good to live a simple life with less worries.

Thanks Bill,

Oh how I hate that 6 letter word as it seems like stress is used so much these days. I too have found myself banding the word round. Life is too short and it is a phrase I use whenever I think "stress" is around the corner or not faraway.

Yes, i do believe that stress can be a killer, however we need to go deeper as to what causes stress. Stress is caused because fo the mental picture we draw about circumstances in our lives and how we interpret them. And since it is mental we can change the picture at will and thus change our stress level at will. Hope this helps

This is a very inspirational hub filled with excellent advice, Bill. Living a life free of stress is a wonderful goal!

Lovely Bill, I feel the peace - your lifestyle zings with calmness and energy. I have this knowledge that if I shout about my happiness the Gods would wallop me. It's a recurring problem. The last time I felt so in tune with my life I had an altercation with a motorbike and lost. I have the best of two worlds but I'm not admitting it. Ok, I'll work on my thinking process...

Glad you're living a wonderful life, Bill!

It is true the simpler the life lesser the worries and stress. The thins as you have asked "can you do it?" is the big question. I guess we all can if we try to put our woes to rest. Great hub.

Yes, Bill. We're doing what we love. It doesn't pay the bills quite yet, but it will soon! It's been an exciting past few weeks my friend. Thank you for the encouragement. :)

Well first off Bill I would like to say happy upcoming 8th birthday and glad you are still among us. You are absolutely right about life's potential to add additional stress and you are proof that it is a choice to live it or remove it. I have found the more I rely on my higher power (for me it's God) I do not experience the same stressors as in the past. In my recent past and probably my coming future I will have some understandable stress since I just finished my doctorate and will be sitting for my board exam shortly but those are events rather than a constant presence of stress. I hope that with all I have done I can live a life of freedom shortly!! Have a great weekend, and try to relax :)

Bill, thank you for sharing your personal journey and the pain you experienced prior to making changes for yourself. My husband and I are in the process of simplifying-transitioning into work we love, reducing expenses and debt, transitioning into work we love, being more connected to people than to things (by transitioning into work we love). Oh, did I mention, that doing work we love is our number one goal?

To my great surprise I have found that as we single-mindedly focused on transitioning to doing work we love some of the other objectives have been met or are gaining traction. And it's all because we simplified our objectives and simplified our lives so that we could live them and be the people that we want to be in our community.

A wholehearted amen! to your ideals. Voted up and sharing.

Lastly, I heard a phrase years ago that really stuck, "If you spend your health to gain your wealth, you'll have to spend your wealth to regain your health." Hmm, you're idea wins!

Great message illustrated by your wise choices and selfless example! It can be done.

I completely agree with your title, that simple life improves quality of life.

I myself try to live a simple, stress free life and encourage others also to do the same.

You made some very important points in this hub. Thanks for sharing another wonderful hub!

Amen, Amen, Amen. Stress is literally killing us, myself included. Still trying to figure everything out. I don't mind work outside of writing--I just wish I had less of it, but then there goes the vacation time and health insurance. Still looking for my soulmate. Maybe one day life will feel a little more settled, until then, I'll just keep writing and building this income.

When I moved from Nashville back to California I left everything including my beautiful grand piano. Everything includes designer clothes, paintings, upscale furniture, even my awards - everything. In return, I now live the glorious, stress-free, simple life. I love it! I share a quaint, log cabin-style home with my lovely daughter and her husband right smack in the middle of a breath-taking forest. I breathe clean air, eat sparingly, take long amazing walks with my Dalmatian and sing to the trees. I feel about simplifying life as you do.

I'm proud of you Bill. You've overcome a huge life-sucking, destructive disease and become a giant among men (and women). With your magnificence, you remain humble. You continue to be the teacher we all need.

A superb hub and enjoyed the videos. More than anything though, I enjoy your writing. The integrity that runs through your veins, shines through and lights a path for us all.

Thank you Bill for everything.

Love,

Audrey

Stress is a killer! We had our three lovely grandchildren up for the weekend plus an extra day and a half, and the joy is always overflowing, although we are worn out, but it is a good worn out ... like chopping your wood, you are worn out, but it feels good! Worrying is a waste of time and does not change the situation, so I always cast all my cares to the Lord and then sleep like a baby.

Sweet dreams.

This hub reminds me of that song by Lynyrd Skynyrd, "Simple Kind of Man" ... perfect!

Bill, Funny you should write about this right now. The last few weeks I have been thinking hard, talking to my mom and brother, about living simpler, downsizing, wanting to enjoy life more. I had planned to pay off this house this past summer, but jobs changed, and I've been struggling. It will take many years now. So I've been slowly getting rid of stuff as I have time (hoping to have more time next semester) with the possibility of moving back to my first house (that I'm now renting out) for a while, until I can save for the little place with a few acres away from town a bit. My little house is less than half this house's size, with little storage. The idea may not happen, but it gives me hope to think about being debt-free with a house paid for and minimal expenses. I could teach part-time and work on my writing! And visit my parents more. Etc . . . . I'm trying to simplify, getting rid of stuff I never thought I would part with. Who knows what the next six months, the next year will bring? Keep the simple life articles coming! They're inspiring!

Some days I wish I didn't have five chickens and two kittens to worry about every day but that is not often; mostly I am thankful for them and the relaxation they have brought me. So I am right there with you for the most part; riches mean nothing to me. Life is good and we can never miss what we never had when the hard times fall. Right?

My life is quite simple these days in my retirement. Not having to work = a more relaxed, stress-free lifestyle. I don't have a lot (money - possessions - etc.) but never have and never really needed more. Today I find the best lifestyle for me is keeping busy, loving my family, thinking positive, and avoiding negative people. As you and others here have said, nothing brings you down or feels stressful like having to deal with negativity. Most excellent article!

Great article, personally I feel like I'm getting there, slowly. I have to make more changes but I'm a lot better then I was yesterday. I've made some changes such as writing more, which has been a great outlet. I hope to reach a complete stress free life. You're an inspiration, that it's possible. Thank you.

You give some great advice here. And it's so true that simple leads to less stress. I still have some in my life, but it's getting easier to change things for the better.

When I was working full time as a nurse, I was stressed much of the time, now that I'm retired I'm more laid-back. Writing is a wonderful stress reducer. Loved this. Thank you..

Very happy for you. In retirement, I've found most of the stress is gone. Some necessary family relationships do provide barriers that occasionally bring some stress. Great advice. ;-)

We've had some sunshine but I hope it's going to last as it's carnival night on Saturday in Bridgwater. You should see it, it's great!

Any day is a good day to write but it's much easier if it's raining outside!:)

Ann

Such an inspirational hub. I learned to split wood the other day, and as soon as I realised it was not strength but momentum I needed, the whole process became one of meditation. Thanks for encouraging me to ive more simply

Forget most of the dreaded diseases most people fear. Stress is THE biggest health threat ever. Unfortunately, to that I can personally attest. After making some positive changes and coaching, I've been able to reduce many of the stressors and their negative effects. Here's to the simple(r) life!

Very wise, bill, as ever. Stress is a terrible thing. I've had plenty but now I don't have much at all but I am worried about some family members. It's difficult to change your life when you're young and have a young family but it's so rewarding if you can. I need to help others to look at things and see what they could do. I think stress also blots out that spark of hope that things can get better. Seeing the wood for the trees make such a difference.

Wishing you a continued stress-free life and a great evening, bill!

Ann

Wow!!! A great one once again. You have put it so clearly and honestly and appealing. I also like the simple life and try to be stress free. I advise others and canvass for simple living whenever I feel and whenever they are ready to take my advice.

It is said that the more stuff you own, the more your stuff owns you. My grandparents had very little and lived to their 90's. I can easily name a dozen friends who have the cars and boats, big toys and McMansions and they all suffer from hypertension and heart disease. They drink too much, eat a less-than-healthy diet, and seem basically unhappy. Coincidence?

Bulls eye, Bill. Simple living is the only way to be happy. I know both ways of living and sure 100% agree with you.

Billy, I am so glad that you are living the simple life, stress free. Yes, it is possible. I striped myself down over a year ago, giving most of my belongs away, I'm a giver. I saved nothing for the way back when I moved back home into the wilderness to care for my, Mom. This has been a dream come true for me, so I am living my dream. And, the miracles as you say, just started happening and I am blessed because I caused the change. I have some chronic health problems, but they are more manageable now then ever. Otherwise, I have no stress in my life, because all of the things I really need are mine to enjoy a simple life once again. I am so glad to be out of the city, this county girl was out of her element there.

Is this heaven--It's Iowa----Iowa---Yah---could have sworn it was heaven.

(Field of Dreams)-------------Just Saying. Take care my friend

Stress is for sissies who have not the courage to change their life.

Oh, dear Bill, how I do envy you. Stress is my middle name, no, it’s my first name. We dream of my retirement and leaving the city and getting back to the basic life from whence we came, but apparently that is not our path. Sometimes I just want to say “to Hell with it all!” and run away. We aren’t in debt, but you can’t run from health problems. Mr. B is facing more surgery that could render him an invalid or be the death of him. It’s ironic because I need his physical strength because of my injuries sustained in a bus accident. I can’t do housework, including loading a dishwasher without pain. Instead of moving to the country, we may have to move into a patio home (ugh!) or worse yet, assisted living.

So I will gladly back you up. To the ones blessed with their health, I will say de-stress while you can. Get rid of the gadgets, big house, fancy cars and rental property (if you have such) and live life while you can. Better yet, move to a mountaintop and breath some clean air.

Good morning! I was forced to take early SS at age 62, living on it alone. Downsizing was not an option. Now a minimalist, and other friends following the same path. Less is more. Life is full.

Good, well researched article.

Bill, you speak with authority from having lived through an incredible amount of stress. You figured out a different path and put into practice

actions to change your world. After changes were made, love found you.

I believe a stress free life is possible for many people. It is wonderful to give hope to people who are struggling with life. Your words can be the very thing someone needs to hear to give them encouragement.

*******

I want to thank you for giving me new ideas to bring some peace and

tranquility into my life.

My son is tied and taped and being transported via UPS to your front door. I am already beginning to feel the peace around here. I am more relaxed and may take my dog on a walk through the park. Peacefulness is all around me.

Be sure and give him a drink of water when he arrives. Then, put the tape back over his mouth.

Thanks,

DJ.

Excellent article, Bill. I think one of the key changes to make - and one we can all do - is to avoid negative people. They bring you down, make your blood boil, and cause stress. The other areas you mentioned make sense, but not all are easily attainable. Right now I'm not in a position to strip myself down to the bare minimum. I'm about as 'minimum' as I can handle at the moment. But, as you say, we're never too old to learn or to make small changes until the ultimate goal is achieved.

I will say, tho, that I'm pretty much stress free. I have moments, but for the most part, stress isn't an issue.

Billy,

Living a simple life is definitely the way to go - fortunately I never hanker for material things - I am still living off the smell of the oil rag though occasionally I indulge and buy myself some lovely perfume off the car boot, it has a much nicer odor. I prefer a simple things in life anyway and I know it is definitely the answer.

First off, beautiful picture. You actually get to see this everyday? I'm jealous. I live in the middle of farm country; not to many hills or mountains to break up the scenery. :( That's I why I so look forward to our holidays in Cornwall. Beaches to laze on, woods to explore, quaint villages to visit...if you can find joy in that, then Sweetpea you just ain't trying.

I got off that crazy merry-go-round a couple of years ago and we are so much happier for it. The sleep is improving, I've don't need pain killers anymore and I can indulge in crafting and writing to my heart's content; after the housework is done, of course. Work before play. My family is closer than ever. Like you say, some people can't or won't stop living they way they do. Let's hope someday they can and reap the benefits of a simple life.