How I am Simplifying My Life at 70

Turning 70 has brought with it a beautiful invitation: to live more simply, more peacefully, and more in tune with what matters most. Over the past year, I've quietly made changes that have lightened my days and deepened my joy. Here are ten ways I’ve simplified my life — maybe you’ll recognize some of them in your own journey too.

1. Letting Go of "Shoulds"
I no longer do things just because I think I "should." I ask myself what truly matters to me, and if something doesn’t bring meaning or peace, I let it go. I regularly re-read Essentialism, by Greg McKeown to remind myself what I really need to do and what isn't essential.

2. Downsizing Commitments
I used to say yes too often, but now I choose wisely. Fewer obligations mean more room to breathe, rest, and be present in the moment. And to paint without distraction or interruptions.

3. Curating Possessions
If it’s not beautiful, useful, or truly meaningful, it doesn’t stay. Simplifying my surroundings has created a calm, inspiring space that supports the life I want to live. I regularly go through sections of my home - books, clothes, kitchen - and get rid of what I no longer want or need.

4. Creating a Gentle Routine
I’ve let go of strict schedules and have embrace quiet mornings. My days now flow gently with time for tea, prayer, painting, and quiet reflection. Even thought I create a list of projects I want to complete, I let myself off the hook if I don't reach a day's goals. Tomorrow is another day to start again.

5. Limiting Technology Noise
I’ve turned off most notifications and cut back on screen time. I regularly unsubscribe from email lists if I'm not going to be someone's customer. I want to use technology as a helpful tool, not a distraction from real life.

6. Cooking More Simply
I cook simple, wholesome meals that nourish without stressing me out. I'm a pretty good cook, having started cooking for a farm family at around the age of ten, but that doesn't mean I need to create masterpieces for every meal. Repeating meals I enjoy keeps things easy and satisfying.

7. Honoring My Energy
Instead of pushing through tiredness, I rest when I need to. This has been a hard one. I have always had big dreams and lots on the go, but I know that my health has suffered. Listening to my body is a gift I now give myself every day.

8. Focusing on Fewer Creative Projects
I've narrowed my focus to the creative work I love most. Saying no to some things has allowed me to go deeper with what I say yes to. I have to remind myself that to every thing there is a season, and some things need to wait until another time so I can focus on what is important right now.

9. Releasing Relationships That Drain Me
I cherish kindness, honesty, and mutual care in my relationships. Recognizing what relationships are not healthy for me is not always easy but asking myself how I feel after spending time with someone is a good way of evaluating the value of the relationship. Letting go of draining or one-sided connections has made space for richer ones.

10. Embracing Faith Over Control
Perhaps the most powerful simplification of all: I’ve stopped trying to control everything. I trust God’s timing more and lean into grace and peace. We are encouraged to "seek peace and pursue it". If I don't have peace around activities or decisions, I know that they're not God's best for me.

If you're feeling a nudge to slow down, clear space, or make your life more beautiful and meaningful, I hope this encourages you. Simplicity at 70 isn’t necessarily about doing less — it’s about living more fully in the things that matter.