“Essentialism is not about how to get more things done, it’s about how to get the right things done. It doesn’t mean just doing less for the sake of less either. It is about making the wisest possible investment of your time and energy in order to operate at the highest point of contribution by doing what is essential.”- Greg McKewon
“You can never get enough of what you don’t really want.”- Rick Hanson, Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things
In Chapter 10 (“Quit Something”) of The Next Right Thing, Emily P. Freeman suggests that rather than chasing more, perhaps we need to discover enough right where we are. Rather than pursue what’s productive, profitable, impressive, or expected, instead consider this: What is essential?
However, if you find it hard to decide what’s essential, Emily offers three ways to clear soul clutter and get back to basics.
1. Be picky who you listen to. As Emily counsels, take a hard pass when another’s words, plans, or advice tempt you to make you feel like you need to hyperventilate. It’s possible this exhausting advice appeals to your false self.
2. Schedule a listening day. Harness the energy you spend on non-essential things. Redirect it as you prayerfully listen to the nudge of your own life and calling. Just as Jesus spent time alone with His Father, you need a time of remembering and knowing that you are not alone. Therefore, schedule a listening day.
3. Quit something. Say no to something so you can say yes to what really matters. As a result, this enables you to move from the sure place of who you really are. Finally, the author adds, Sometimes saying no is your only gateway to the world of your most meaningful yes.”
Today’s question: What Bible verses help you find essentialism in your life? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Left behind in my imaginary past”
