Life doesn’t have to be complicated. You can have a magical life when you embrace simplicity. As the song goes ‘the best things in life are free’. Free air, time spent with friends and family, creating a tranquil environment by having a place for everything and everything in its place.

While on vacation in an Asian country many years ago, I was struck by how happy people were and how little they had. You often hear people say this once they’ve experienced it also. Within a short period, I also visited another state in my own country and stayed in a self-contained apartment. Having both experiences close together made me realise how much I loved simplicity.

The accommodation had everything I needed and nothing more. It was a beautiful environment and was more than big enough for just me. It made me start decluttering when I arrived home. I’ve been constantly decluttering since. While I’ve made progress, I still have a long way to go.

I love a simple life. Somehow, it is easier to see and find more of what you love as it is fitted into your life once you declutter. I discovered the KonMari method, which helped me on this journey. I say this rather than that because I’m still on this journey and will be for life, I suspect.

We all function better when living a simple life. The foundations start in childhood. Whatever environment a child lives in, they become familiar with. If a child is encouraged to practice cleanliness and orderliness at a young age, they are often happier because once they feel that they have their own space. They have a sense of connection and belonging in that space. They feel secure and comfortable just by knowing where to find their things.

When you watch any declutter or hoarder show, you will see how children are affected. Children naturally love an organised, structured space to live and play in. They are more than willing to donate their things to others. They only need what they love, nothing more, and a space to play so they can invite their friends over.

Living with simplicity creates a magical life because it frees up our minds. There’s a quote from Terri Guillemets “Clutter smothers. Simplicity breathes”. What a simple quote. Simple and true.

When life gets complicated, declutter. Whether it is a physical good or your mind, it’s good to break it down and uncomplicate the complicated. Retain anything useful, or beautiful. Discard the rest, whether it’s a tangible object or a thought. Help your child do the same.