“Reduce the complexity of life by eliminating the needless wants of life, and the labors of life reduce themselves.”—Edwin Way Teale
Sometimes, the answer to common problems is to begin a different routine, start a new process, or purchase something to make life easier. While this might be true in some situations, I’ve found even more success with the exact opposite approaches.
Mathematician Carl Jacobi made a huge contribution toward solving hard problems when he suggested the idea of “invert, always invert.”
When we have a problem, we typically approach it in a forward-thinking way. “How do I have a better marriage?” But when we focus only on moving forward, to the neglect of the root issues, we will likely not get the lasting results we want. If we invert the question, however, we may find a more direct and durable route to success.
For example, “How do I avoid having an unhealthy marriage?”
Inverting our approach to problems can guide us to remove what ails us. For instance, if we want to be healthier, we could add a new exercise routine or vitamin, but maybe we should start by ceasing an unhealthy habit of smoking or eating too many unhealthy foods. This applies in many areas. For example, instead of adding more obligations to my schedule or “things” to my home, I’ve found that having less actually contributes more.
Too Much Stress
We live in a fast-paced society that prioritizes efficiency and productivity. According to The American Institute of Stress, more than 70 percent of people experience stress that contributes to poor physical and mental health, and 48 percent have trouble sleeping.Too Much Clutter
Clutter affects each of us differently, and how we feel about our homes can shape our mood and stress levels. When we walk inside the door and notice piles of clutter and unfinished projects, it’s no surprise that our cortisol levels rise.Instead of living in a home filled with items that take away from the enjoyment of life, establish a few decluttering strategies to help push past this problem.
Not Enough Time
There have been many days where I wish I had just a few more hours to be productive. I try to fill my day full of events and work while still keeping up with the regular demands of motherhood. But when my mindset is geared this way, I often feel run-down and weary by the end of the day.Instead of trying to take on a list of a dozen items, make a three-item to-do list of realistic, attainable tasks. Life isn’t just about checking everything off a list or seeing how fast we can get something done. Use your hours wisely, and set limits on activities that waste too much valuable time such as social media, your phone, or Netflix.
Financial Debt
With the ease of online shopping, many people overspend and are faced with financial debt that adds stress to their lives. Our society teaches us that when our clothes and things no longer bring us pleasure, we should buy something new to fulfill that desire.Unclear Goals
When our goals in life are unclear or scattered without any real destination, we’re likely to become overwhelmed and feel stretched thin between the things we’d like to do, should do, or could do.Instead of juggling too many goals with no path forward, consider these ways to make them clearer.
Limited Creativity
Our modern world thrives on a stable economic system. In order to live well, we earn income and purchase goods and services to have our needs and desires met.But if we solve life’s problems only by spending money, we rob ourselves of a valuable gift.
The ability to create allows us to bring beauty and innovation into our lives. When we create things or find new ways to solve problems without spending money, we often gain more emotional satisfaction than if we simply head to the store or call the repair guy.
Make a home-cooked meal for your family. Take photos of the people you share life with. Write in a journal to convey your thoughts. Plant a small garden and watch it yield fruit. Go on an adventure without spending a dime. Sew a patch. Search YouTube for how to fix that squeak your dryer makes. Begin healthy habits that reduce stress. Make a home that’s warm and inviting to those who enter. Create deep relationships with those you love by giving quality time. Read to form a well-rounded view of the world.
The time you spend doing meaningful things that enrich your life is true wealth. Just as it’s impossible to out-exercise a bad diet, you can’t out-accomplish a bunch of wasted time. Often the key to a better life is simply getting rid of the items, habits, and ideas that weigh you down.