30 Simple Life Quotes
Life moves fast, doesn’t it? It feels like every moment is packed with to-do lists, bills, commitments, and a crammed full calendar. But sometimes, the most meaningful answers come from slowing down, simplifying, and focusing on what truly matters. That’s where the beauty of simple life quotes comes in.
It’s amazing how a few words have a way of cutting through the noise and speaking directly to the heart. They remind us to pause, breathe, and savor the small, precious moments that make life so unique. Whether you’re seeking a little peace, clarity, or inspiration for simple living, this collection of quotes is here to offer just that—a gentle nudge to simplify and see the extraordinary in the everyday.
Life is Crazy Busy
Life can feel like a whirlwind sometimes, can’t it? Between work, responsibilities, and the constant buzz of tour phones, it’s easy to feel stretched thin. That’s why so many people today are drawn to the idea of simple living.
But what is simple living, exactly?
Simple living is about focusing on what truly matters with your thoughts and your time, shedding the unnecessary stuff and clutter, and creating space for the things that bring joy, contentment, and meaning.
At its core, it’s about being intentional with your time, your energy, and even your decisions.
Simple Life Quotes
If it feels like the days are flying by and you’re craving a chance to slow down, you’re not alone. Taking those first steps toward a calmer, simpler life can feel tough, especially when you’re trying to trade constant chaos for clarity and focus more on what truly matters.
But here’s the secret—sometimes all it takes is a little inspiration. A few simple words can be enough to ignite that spark for change. Here’s a list of 50 simple life quotes to inspire you to pause, reflect, and find the beauty in living simply—with a little extra insight sprinkled in along the way.
Down to Earth: A Guide to Simple Living
The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living (The Happiness Institute Series)The Simple Living Guide: A Sourcebook for Less Stressful, More Joyful Living
50 Simple Life Quotes
1. “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” – Leonardo da Vinci
2. “The more you have, the more you are occupied. The less you have, the more you are free.” – Mother Teresa
3. “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” – Theodore Roosevelt
4. “Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated.” – Confucius
This timeless quote reminds us that minimalism doesn’t mean lack—it means making room for what truly matters. When we declutter, whether in our living spaces or our minds, we create space for focus and fulfillment.
6. “Simplicity boils down to two things – identify the essential and eliminate the rest.” – Leo Babauta
7. “Happiness is not having what you want, but wanting what you have.” – Unknown
8. “Perfection is achieved not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away.” – Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
9. “Simplicity is making the journey of this life with just baggage enough.” – Charles Dudley Warner
This quote gently reminds us to shift our priorities from material possessions to the intangible joys—connection, love, and experiences.
11. “Beware the barrenness of a busy life.” – Socrates
12. “There is no greatness where there is not simplicity, goodness, and truth.” – Leo Tolstoy
13. “Slow down and everything you are chasing will come around and catch you.” – John De Paola
14. “Simplicity is the glory of expression.” – Walt Whitman
Lao Tzu’s wisdom reminds us to align with the natural rhythms of life. There’s no need to rush—everything unfolds in its time.
16. “Own only what you can always carry with you; know languages, know countries, know people. Let your memory be your travel bag.” – Alexandr Solzhenitsyn
17. “A little simplicity would be the first step toward rational living.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
18. “Simplicity is not about deprivation. Simplicity is about greater appreciation for things that really matter.” – Unknown
19. “The simplest things are often the truest.” – Richard Bach
This one cuts straight to the heart of consumer culture, encouraging us to reflect on what truly adds value to our lives.
21. “Our life is frittered away by detail. Simplify, simplify.” – Henry David Thoreau
22. “Less stuff means more freedom.” – Maxime Lagacé
23. “Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler.” – Albert Einstein
24. “Minimalism is not a lack of something. It’s simply the perfect amount of something.” – Nicholas Burroughs
This tender quote encourages us to savor life’s small joys—laughter with a friend, a quiet moment, or the warmth of the sun on your face.
26. “Declutter your mind, heart, and home. The rest will take care of itself.” – Unknown
27. “Simplicity is the foundation of happiness.” – Unknown
28. “It is not wealth or splendor, but tranquility and occupation which give happiness.” – Thomas Jefferson
29. “You have succeeded in life when all you really want is only what you really need.” – Vernon Howard
Plato’s words are a profound reminder that contentment comes from within, not from accumulating more. True wealth lies in appreciating what you already have.
How to Simplify Your Life
Feeling inspired by these quotes to bring more simplicity into your life? Here are a few easy ways to get started:
- Declutter your space. Go through your home and donate or discard items you no longer use. Start with one drawer or closet to ease into it.
- Practice saying no. Protect your time and energy by turning down commitments that don’t align with your priorities.
- Unplug regularly. Establish tech-free hours to reconnect with yourself, your family, or nature. Reading a book or taking a walk can be a great way to spend this time.
- Focus on small joys. Take time to notice and appreciate the little moments—a good cup of coffee, a kind word, or the stillness of the morning.
- Simplify your schedule. Leave space for rest and spontaneity by not overloading your day.
Simple living is not about perfection. It’s about creating a life with meaning, joy, and balance. Start small, take one step at a time, and watch as life begins to feel a little lighter and a lot more fulfilling.
