(Updated from original article published in 2009)
The only way to even begin to live a purposeful, simple life is to give up any notion that you are in competition with any other single person. Life is not a game, it’s not a test, it’s not a winner takes all experience. It’s just life — and what happens during your time here is up to you. If you spend your time comparing your belongings, lifestyle, job, family, etc. to anyone else, well…you are being set up for a very complicated existence. How can you learn to experience your life if you are so busy trying to either get outside approval or be like everyone else? Simple living involves being secure with your choices and your direction in life, without fearing the judgment and influence of others. It’s tough to do, and believe me I struggle with it as well. But I am doing my best to keep what the “other” people are doing in check and instead focusing on my own life and surroundings. (Like when figuring out my adventure coming up) A few things I try to keep in mind that might be of help to those of you looking to live your own simple life with your own purpose, instead of that lead by an outsider, include:
1. You can only be in competition with yourself; no one else.
2. People think way less about you than you think they do. (I fight this one often)
3. “Stuff” cannot replace real emotions, feelings or experiences.
4. You only belittle your own self by trying to keep up with someone else.
5. You probably have more than that person you are comparing yourself to.
6. No one is perfect. No one. Even if you think someone is, they aren’t. Trust me.
7. Focus on what you have and not what you don’t have.
8. The world would be a pretty boring place if everyone was the same.
9. Everyone has a path. Follow the one that is yours and ignore those of others.
10. If you cannot stop the comparisons, stay away from big triggers like TV and celebrity magazines. Over time, you won’t even remember who is popular or cool! (I don’t even have TV anymore and it’s been amazing!)
By trying to keep some of these 10 things in mind while focusing on the good in your life, you can start living your own real life in your own real way. But by continuing to compare yourself to anyone else, you are limiting what kind of life you can lead – nevermind the fact that you may miss your life altogether. And that is NOT living simply! Do you have anything to add to the list? If so, let us all know in the comments.
Reminds me of a quote:
I’m not in this world to live up to your expectations and you’re not in this world to live up to mine. – Bruce Lee
Great post!
Like Marc above, it made me think of a quote!
“The main who follows the crowd will usually get no further than the crowd. The man who walks along is likely to find himself in places no one has even been.” – Alan Ashley-Pitt
You can only be yourself, it’s pointless trying to be anyone else.
Thanks,
Cassie.
Great quote, thanks for sharing!
Thank you so much for this post! I am currently having issues with the whole comparing your life to others with my husband. I tell him to be happy with what he has and not with what he doesn’t. We could be way worse. Good luck with your adventure. Wish you and your gf the best! Be safe out there
I came across your site after googling “I never feel like I’m doing enough”. I feel as if I’m always comparing myself to others, and I hate it. I want to live a very simple life – low key job, small house down south in the country with just a few necessities. On the other hand, society seems to push us all to get high paying jobs and to live “the good life”. I’m currently going on my third year of college for a medical degree and all I want to do with my life is cook. I just want to graduate so I can go to culinary school!
Your blog is such a relief. I am defnitely going to continue to read it!
I’d also add “its not about keeping up with the Joneses, whether the Joneses are Bill Gates or Leo Babauta.”
Molly, i love that you are still planning on finishing that degree so you can cook! I love it. Keep going….