books on simple living
Living a happier life is the goal of most folks, and one way to do that is to cut back and simplify. To get you started this list of books on simple living will get you started with all the information you need.
Living a simple life is something anyone can do, so you can go from being stressed and frazzled to living a happier life every day.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with life? Struggling to keep up with the pace of everyday tasks and responsibilities while also trying to find time for yourself or even your family? Simple living provides a way out. It’s an approach that encourages simplicity in all aspects of life–in attitude, possessions, obligations, and more–offering room for joy, creativity, and freedom from stress and anxiety.
If you’re ready to start your journey towards a simpler and happier life but don’t know where to begin, we’ve compiled a list of books full of guidance on simple living that can help you get going. Now, you can get the best insight into creating an abundant yet uncomplicated lifestyle.
What does it mean to live simply?
Living simply means choosing to lead a life that is less complicated. By setting up a home that is less cluttered and putting your focus on what truly matters. It involves intentional decision-making to prioritize the things that bring joy and add value to one’s life while eliminating unnecessary distractions and excesses.
This lifestyle encourages a slower pace, being more hands-on, and making more of what you need so you rely less on the stores. Finally, simple living embraces mindfulness and gratitude for the present moment.
Why should you consider living simply?
Living simply can help reduce stress and anxiety by eliminating the constant need to keep up with societal expectations and material possessions. It can also lead to financial freedom by cutting back on unnecessary expenses and focusing on more meaningful investments.
Additionally, simple living allows for more time and energy to pursue passions, hobbies, and relationships that bring fulfillment and happiness.
How to start living simply
Here are a few tips to help you get started on your simple living journey:
- Declutter your physical surroundings by getting rid of items that you no longer need, use, or love.
- Limit your use of technology and social media, which can often be a source of distraction and give you a false impression of other people’s lives.
- Practice gratitude and mindfulness by taking time to appreciate the present moment.
- Set boundaries and learn to say no to commitments that do not align with your values or goals.
- Focus on experiences rather than material possessions, as they can bring longer-lasting happiness.
- Simplify your daily routine by streamlining tasks and prioritizing self-care.
Recommended books on simple living
If you’re interested in learning more about simple living and incorporating it into your life, there are plenty of resources available to help guide you on your journey. Here are a few recommended books on the topic that provide insight, tips, and inspiration for living a simpler, more intentional life.
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less
This book by Greg McKeown is a guide to living a more meaningful and fulfilling life by focusing on what truly matters. Through practical strategies and real-life examples, the book encourages readers to identify their core values, prioritize their time and energy, and eliminate distractions and non-essential tasks.
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less (Japanese Edition)
The Joy of Less: A Minimalist Guide to Declutter, Organize, and Simplify
This book by Francine Jay offers a step-by-step guide for decluttering and simplifying all areas of your life, from physical possessions to digital clutter and even mental clutter. By adopting a minimalist mindset, the book argues that individuals can create more space, time, and freedom in their lives. With practical tips and exercises, this book is a great resource for anyone looking to embrace minimalism.
The Joy of Less: A Minimalist Guide to Declutter, Organize, and Simplify
Voluntary Simplicity: Toward a Way of Life That Is Outwardly Simple, Inwardly Rich
This book by Duane Elgin explores the concept of voluntary simplicity and how it can lead to a more fulfilling and sustainable way of living. By embracing a simpler lifestyle, the author argues that individuals can find greater contentment, balance, and connection with themselves, others, and the world around them.
Voluntary Simplicity: Toward a Way of Life That Is Outwardly Simple, Inwardly Rich (Revised edition)
The More of Less: Finding the Life You Want Under Everything You Own
This book by Joshua Becker explores the connection between owning less and living a more fulfilling life. Through personal anecdotes, practical tips, and thought-provoking questions, the author encourages readers to let go of excess and embrace a simpler, more intentional lifestyle. This book serves as an inspiration and guide for those seeking to find contentment and purpose by owning less.
The More of Less: Finding the Life You Want Under Everything You Own
Down to Earth: A Guide to Simple Living
Down to Earth by Rhonda Hetzel is a practical guide that offers tips and advice for living a simpler, more sustainable life. The book covers various aspects of simple living, including decluttering, gardening, budgeting, and self-sufficiency. With an emphasis on mindfulness and gratitude, this book will inspire you to slow down and appreciate the little things in life.
Down to Earth: A Guide to Simple Living
Simple Farmhouse Life: DIY Projects for the All-Natural, Handmade Home
Simple Farmhouse Life by Lisa Bass is a guide to creating a more natural and sustainable home through DIY projects. The book includes tutorials for making homemade cleaners, beauty products, and home decor items using all-natural ingredients. With a focus on simplicity and back-to-basics living, this book offers practical tips for reducing waste and embracing a more self-sufficient lifestyle.
Simple Farmhouse Life: DIY Projects for the All-Natural, Handmade Home
This is Home: The Art of Simple Living
This Is Home by Natalie Walton delves into the concept of simple living and how it can bring joy and contentment to our lives. Through stunning photography and personal stories, the book showcases different homes around the world that embody simplicity, mindfulness, and intentional living. With a focus on creating spaces that reflect our values and priorities, this book will inspire you to find beauty in the everyday and create a home that nourishes the mind, body, and soul.
This is Home: The Art of Simple Living
The Abundance of Less: Lessons in Simple Living from Rural Japan
The Abundance of Less by Andy Couturier is a thought-provoking exploration of simple living in rural Japan. The book follows the lives of ten individuals who have chosen to live simpler, more intentional lifestyles in harmony with nature. Through their stories, we learn about the benefits and challenges of living with less and find inspiration to incorporate elements of the Japanese philosophy of “less is more” into our own lives.
The Abundance of Less: Lessons in Simple Living from Rural Japan
Almost Amish: One Woman’s Quest for a Slower, Simpler, More Sustainable Life
In Almost Amish: One Woman’s Quest for a Slower, Simpler, More Sustainable Life, author Nancy Sleeth shares her personal journey towards living a more intentional and sustainable life. Drawing inspiration from the Amish way of life, Sleeth provides practical tips and reflections on how to slow down, declutter, and live in harmony with nature. With a focus on simplicity, community, and faith, this book will encourage you to make small changes toward a more fulfilling way of living.
Almost Amish: One Woman’s Quest for a Slower, Simpler, More Sustainable Life
More Amish Resources:
The Five Minute Journal
The Five Minute Journal is a simple and effective tool for practicing gratitude and mindfulness in everyday life. The book provides prompts and daily exercises that only take five minutes, making it easy to incorporate into a busy schedule. By focusing on the positive aspects of each day before your day begins, you will set up a more optimistic outlook. This journal is perfect for anyone looking to incorporate more mindfulness and gratitude into their daily routine.
Living simply is not about depriving oneself but rather prioritizing what truly matters and finding contentment in the present moment. It can lead to a more fulfilling and intentional life, with less stress and more time for what brings joy. Whether it’s taking small steps or fully embracing a minimalist lifestyle, these books on simple living will help you begin a journey of seeking a greater sense of purpose and happiness.
More Simple Living Resources:
