Life coaches are everywhere. Ask any random person how they are, and they’ll likely respond with some form of, “I’m tired,” “I’m overworked,” “I’m frustrated,” or something that hints at being stuck in the rat race that modern life has become. Every day, millions of people lay their heads on their pillows, close their eyes, and feel as though—somehow, in some way—they’re missing the mark on happiness.
A common theme among people today is the idea that they’ll get what they want someday, that they have plans for the future, or that their time will come!
But what if it doesn’t? What if some strange circumstance arises that leaves them (or you) just out of reach of your desires, goals, needs, and personal happiness? What if someday never comes? Will you be looking back on your life, wondering what happened or where the time went? Will all the constant striving toward your goals, your happiness, your wants, and perceived needs—without ever really achieving any of them—have been worth the lifetime spent toiling?
The truth is, no matter how often people talk about making their lives easier or having more time to do the things they really want to do, few ever actually make the leap. In fact, “too busy” only becomes busier as time goes on. Soon enough, it’s easy to lose sight of the fact that the only way to simplify your life is to lower your expectations.
Today, we’re taught that nothing is out of reach. But anchoring your happiness to achievements alone is a precarious way to live. For example, if the only way you’ll feel fulfilled is by buying the boat you’ve always dreamed of, you’re robbing yourself of the ability to enjoy the beauty of RIGHT NOW.
Lowering your expectations doesn’t mean abandoning your dreams or giving up. It does mean moving through life with an attitude of gratitude for what’s already present—and not hinging your life satisfaction on a particular event, a certain kind of car, or a specific amount of money.
Simplifying your life is about taking inventory of the things that truly bring you joy and letting those things grow. It’s not about the what ifs, the whens, or the if onlys. It’s about the RIGHT now. Instead of drooling over what you don’t have or chasing what you think you need—learn to find peace in where you are, right now, in this very moment.
When you lower your expectations, you’ll find yourself less disappointed. You’ll also notice that by expecting less from other people or external sources, you start seeing the beauty and vibrance already present in your life. Less expectation brings less frustration—and more flexibility to notice the things you may have been overlooking all along.
The easiest way to start simplifying and lowering your expectations is to take two simple starting steps.
Identify the things that are important to you.
Get rid of everything else. EVERYTHING!
Sounds easy, right? And it is—as long as you stay committed to the result. Identifying what’s important is a daily exercise, one that should factor into almost every decision you make. It includes people and places you may currently feel stuck with. At every crossroads, ask yourself whether you’re moving toward what matters to you—or whether you’re pushing against your own happiness just to do what feels “right,” “necessary,” or “politically correct.”
It may mean weeding out certain people in your life. It might mean finding a new job. It could mean appreciating your decade-old car that still runs like a champ.
It may also mean letting go of the need to be right in every argument, skipping that new pair of boots because you’re saving for something bigger, or making personal changes that others won’t understand—or support.
When you start identifying what’s truly important to you, you begin a journey toward simplifying your life and lowering your expectations in a way that can finally bring you authentic joy. Yes, it takes commitment. It requires decisive action. It calls for willpower—especially since so many people are addicted to the rat race and the drama that comes with it. It also requires learning how to say “no” and being honest with yourself about what’s truly achievable.
For example, if you’re always stressed at work and come home expecting a spotless house, you might spend your limited free time cleaning instead of enjoying it. But ask yourself—is that “perfect” house really what’s most important to you? Or is it stealing time away from what truly matters, like connecting with your partner, kids, or friends?
Simplifying your life means clearing the clutter in all areas—whether that’s your garage or your mental state. Now is the time to release what’s weighing you down. When you get rid of the old, you send a clear message that you’re ready to welcome in the new—the simplified, authentic life aligned with what really matters to you. And more often than not, the universe will follow suit.
