Embracing Simplicity: 5 Habits I Eliminated for a Zen Life
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Decluttering Your Mind
Less is often more, a lesson echoed through history by Stoics and psychologists alike. Yet, as we grow, the clamor of modern life drowns out this wisdom. Our inboxes overflow with emails, social media buzzes with notifications, and everyone is vying for attention on platforms like LinkedIn. The relentless noise of technology can drown out the peace we seek.
However, we have the power to choose — to engage with this chaos or to step back. Below are the five habits I let go of to find tranquility amidst the noise.
The Pursuit of Society's Definition of Success
I’m not sure when it began, but I went from a carefree child to an adult fixated on achieving "success" as defined by societal standards. I woke up one day, and suddenly good grades, prestigious schools, and high-paying jobs became my benchmarks for self-worth. Over the years, I absorbed the societal values that prioritize wealth and status.
Despite achieving these milestones, each success brought only fleeting satisfaction, leaving me with an overwhelming sense of emptiness. I realized I didn't want to continue down this path. One Thursday morning, while observing joggers in the park, I decided I desired a different life — one where I could enjoy simple pleasures without the burden of materialism. If that meant sacrificing a high salary, so be it.
The crucial question I ask myself is: on my deathbed, what will I regret more? The answer is always clear: not having lived authentically when I had the chance. Letting go of society's expectations allowed me to declutter my life.
Ditching Trends to Stay Grounded
The internet is rife with fleeting micro-trends, and I often observe people jumping on these bandwagons. While some trends can be fun, many pursue them simply to fit in, losing sight of their true interests. I’ve chosen to distance myself from these trends, which has noticeably slowed the pace of my life and helped me remain centered.
Focusing on One Screen at a Time
When I write, I stick to one platform — the Medium editor. Having multiple tabs open for shopping, social media, and other distractions only breeds anxiety. Currently, I have three devices on my desk, but I only focus on my laptop, leaving the others untouched. Concentrating on one task at a time enhances mindfulness and reduces distractions.
Embracing Multiple Perspectives
One of my biggest frustrations is people who insist there's only one way to approach a problem. This narrow-mindedness often leads to conflict and dissatisfaction. It's crucial to recognize that many paths can lead to the same destination. Embracing diverse viewpoints fosters understanding and harmony — a key to achieving a Zen state of mind.
Breaking the Doom-Scrolling Cycle
Last but not least, there's the issue of doom-scrolling on social media. While it's easy to recognize its negative impact, breaking free from this cycle can be challenging. My approach has been to gradually reduce my social media usage. By deleting apps temporarily, I’ve created space for reflection and mindfulness in my life. The constant barrage of comments and opinions serves only to clutter our minds. Cutting out this noise has allowed me to reclaim my time and prioritize meaningful living.
In conclusion, eliminating these habits has been one of the best decisions I've made. If you’re interested in similar insights, consider subscribing to my newsletter to stay updated on my journey.
Chapter 1: Small Changes, Big Impact
The first video illustrates how even minor habits can significantly transform your life, offering motivation through Zen principles.
Chapter 2: Transformative Habits for a Mindful Life
This video discusses ten impactful habits that can change your life, emphasizing the wisdom found in Buddhist teachings and stories.