The Perfect Time to Embrace Simple Living? Right Now.
There’s a powerful truth about life that often slips past us unnoticed: sometimes, the very things we think will bring us happiness are the ones quietly stealing it away.
For much of my life, I believed in the “American Dream”—a bigger house, a bursting closet, the latest gadgets, and everything else that seemed to symbolize success. So, I chased those things with determination, convinced they’d lead to a richer, more fulfilling life.
But looking back, I see how many years I spent pursuing all the wrong things.
It’s not easy to admit, but a large part of my life was spent collecting possessions that ultimately didn’t matter. By the age of 33, our home was overflowing—with furniture, clothes, toys, tech, and a sea of “must-haves.” Each item came with a hidden price: time spent cleaning, organizing, fixing, and maintaining. Slowly and silently, the very things we thought would bring us joy began to consume our lives.
Then everything changed.
We decided to declutter—more than 60% of our possessions gone. And in doing so, we discovered something we never expected: a life filled with more joy, clarity, purpose, and freedom. We found time for faith, for family, for friends, and for making a real difference. We uncovered passions we never knew existed. And we realized that chasing possessions had been robbing us of our best years.
If I could go back in time, I’d choose simplicity so much earlier—during my teens, in my twenties, or as a young parent. Because the sooner we embrace simplicity, the sooner we experience its transformative power: less debt, less clutter, more money, more intention, more time with the people who matter most.
Here’s the thing—there’s no single path to simple living. Some are introduced to it as children. Others find it later in life—maybe during financial hardship, a move to a smaller home, or a sudden realization of what truly matters. Some discover it while raising young kids; others in retirement after the nest empties. Some stumble upon it through a book, a blog, a documentary, or a deep conversation. Others ease into it, one step at a time.
But no matter how or when it shows up in your life, the best time to start living simply is always now.
Why Starting Early Makes a Difference:
1. Simplicity Shapes Stronger Habits
When we begin living with less early in life, we start building habits that stick. We learn to value experiences over things, relationships over status, purpose over possessions. These become the cornerstones of a more intentional and meaningful life.
2. It Frees Up Resources for What Matters Most
The earlier we simplify, the more time, energy, and money we free up to invest in what truly matters. Imagine saving more, giving more, and diving into your passions sooner instead of someday.
3. It Helps Us Avoid Regret
One of my greatest regrets is not beginning sooner—losing years (and dollars) chasing things that didn’t truly matter. Starting early spares us from that regret and lets us align our lives with our deepest values from the start.
4. It Prepares Us for Life’s Twists and Turns
Life is unpredictable. Simplicity builds resilience. Whether it’s a job change, a relocation, a health crisis, or something global, living with less equips us to adapt with greater ease and grace.
5. It Sets a Powerful Example
Choosing a simpler life doesn’t just benefit us—it inspires others. Our kids, friends, and communities see that meaning isn’t found in what we own, but in how we live. And the earlier we model that truth, the deeper its impact.
The beauty of simplicity? It’s never too late to start. Whether you’re 20 or 80, the benefits are always available—just waiting for you to reach out and claim them. But the earlier you start, the longer you’ll have to enjoy them.
So where do you begin?
Start small. Clean out a single drawer. Cancel a subscription you don’t use. Say no to something that doesn’t align with your values. Every little step creates momentum. Every bit of clarity brings you closer to freedom.
The best time to live simply isn’t tomorrow. It’s not “someday.”
It’s today.
Start now—and create a life you’ll never regret.
