Keeping it Simple in 2007
This year, my New Year’s resolution is simple: I will apply the KISS principle to my life. I’d heard the slogan “Keep It Simple, Stupid” for years but hadn’t related the concept to everyday activities. I’ve begun to realize, however, that my everyday frustrations have a direct correlation to the complexities of a task or technology. My goal, then, is to simplify my life in a few basic areas, so I’ve made a list of my simplifying priorities:
In 2007, after I’ve scanned and admired the recipes in Bon Appetit and Food & Wine, I’ll reach for my old Betty Crocker cookbook and rely on the tried-and-true favorites. There was a time in my life when the presentation of a successful gourmet meal was a proud personal accomplishment, but these days, I’d rather leave it to the chef, or hire the caterer who cooks AND cleans up the kitchen.
Food prepared more simply usually has less calories and actually digests better. Frankly, rich sauces and highly-seasoned entrees can make me sick at times. A plate of grilled chicken or fish with a side of new potatoes or fresh vegetables tastes just as good—sometimes better. I can simplify my diet and eat healthier by selecting more “natural” foods. (Speaking of my health, I’ve tried personal trainers and yoga classes, and I’ve purchased a home gym and weight set, videos and training manuals, but I still have no simple answer for motivation in that area.)
I will not buy complicated clothes or shoes. They may look terrific in the catalog, but if the snaps, belts, clasps or material aren’t practical, they will just hang in the closet. I’ll search for basic, comfortable items that travel well and do not have to be ironed. I’ll let the color black be my signature style, and I won’t feel guilty when I forego the latest trends (I’ll also clean out my closet of all the purchases made on a “whim,” many of which still have the tags on them!).
I’ll limit my skin care products to what I really use—about four products—and put any extras in a different place—or better yet, toss them out. All the samples and nearly empty bottles just clutter up my cosmetic bag.
Any electronic purchases I make this year will be based on user-friendliness. I don’t have the desire or the patience to read instruction manuals—if it’s not intuitive, I’ll never use it. When selecting home appliances, such as a new dishwasher or washing machine (after 20 years, I suppose it’s time!), I’ll choose the most basic models. I really wouldn’t use 20 different settings; on/off, hot/cold, normal/delicate, heat/air-dry—those are all the settings I need.
I’ve given up on programming my car’s GPS system. I was proud to learn how to voice-activate my four-year-old cell phone, as well as send limited text and picture messages, but I’m fearful of the upgrade. I will look for the most basic of phones to replace it. I’ve learned that if the salesman can’t show me how to use the technology within five minutes, I shouldn’t buy the product.
It’s true—we fill the space we have with stuff, be it the “junk drawer,” the basement or the garage. In 2007, I plan to organize as if there is no more space. Use or toss, donate or recycle will be my mottos. In today’s fast-paced world, constant multitasking and long hours at work necessitate simplifying those areas of life which can be better managed. It’ll be simple, right? tpw
In 2007, after I’ve scanned and admired the recipes in Bon Appetit and Food & Wine, I’ll reach for my old Betty Crocker cookbook and rely on the tried-and-true favorites. There was a time in my life when the presentation of a successful gourmet meal was a proud personal accomplishment, but these days, I’d rather leave it to the chef, or hire the caterer who cooks AND cleans up the kitchen.
Food prepared more simply usually has less calories and actually digests better. Frankly, rich sauces and highly-seasoned entrees can make me sick at times. A plate of grilled chicken or fish with a side of new potatoes or fresh vegetables tastes just as good—sometimes better. I can simplify my diet and eat healthier by selecting more “natural” foods. (Speaking of my health, I’ve tried personal trainers and yoga classes, and I’ve purchased a home gym and weight set, videos and training manuals, but I still have no simple answer for motivation in that area.)
I will not buy complicated clothes or shoes. They may look terrific in the catalog, but if the snaps, belts, clasps or material aren’t practical, they will just hang in the closet. I’ll search for basic, comfortable items that travel well and do not have to be ironed. I’ll let the color black be my signature style, and I won’t feel guilty when I forego the latest trends (I’ll also clean out my closet of all the purchases made on a “whim,” many of which still have the tags on them!).
I’ll limit my skin care products to what I really use—about four products—and put any extras in a different place—or better yet, toss them out. All the samples and nearly empty bottles just clutter up my cosmetic bag.
Any electronic purchases I make this year will be based on user-friendliness. I don’t have the desire or the patience to read instruction manuals—if it’s not intuitive, I’ll never use it. When selecting home appliances, such as a new dishwasher or washing machine (after 20 years, I suppose it’s time!), I’ll choose the most basic models. I really wouldn’t use 20 different settings; on/off, hot/cold, normal/delicate, heat/air-dry—those are all the settings I need.
I’ve given up on programming my car’s GPS system. I was proud to learn how to voice-activate my four-year-old cell phone, as well as send limited text and picture messages, but I’m fearful of the upgrade. I will look for the most basic of phones to replace it. I’ve learned that if the salesman can’t show me how to use the technology within five minutes, I shouldn’t buy the product.
It’s true—we fill the space we have with stuff, be it the “junk drawer,” the basement or the garage. In 2007, I plan to organize as if there is no more space. Use or toss, donate or recycle will be my mottos. In today’s fast-paced world, constant multitasking and long hours at work necessitate simplifying those areas of life which can be better managed. It’ll be simple, right? tpw