As a new year begins, many feel motivated to make positive changes — whether it’s finally improving their health and fitness, strengthening relationships that matter, growing a deeper spiritual life or just simplifying all the busyness. But despite good intentions, overloaded schedules, constant demands on our time and digital noise often sabotage our efforts. This year, consider getting “back to basics” — pursuing simplicity and restoring balance to what’s essential.

What does living simply really mean? According to author and simplicity expert Bronwen Sciortino, it’s not necessarily about dramatic lifestyle changes or abandoning possessions. Rather, it means identifying what matters most, removing excess and clutter and creating space for meaningful connections. When we pare down complexity, we lighten the load — relationally, physically, spiritually and mentally. This clears space for focus on health, purposeful work and deeper connections, whether with loved ones or with God.

In Scripture, Jesus invites us to “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls (Matthew 11:29).” When we walk closely with Him, we trade anxiety for peace and purpose. Getting back to basics allows us to hear his voice more clearly amidst the everyday noise.

Here are a few steps you can take:

  • Do a thorough decluttering to reduce excess stuff. Remember, every item that goes out frees up mental space.
  • Establish simple, consistent morning and bedtime routines to bookend the day.
  • Implement regular tech-free Sabbath days to disconnect from screens and enjoy simple pleasures like going for a walk, reading or having real conversations.
  • Meal prep healthy meals to avoid fast food pit stops.
  • Prioritize exercise, hobbies and relationships before filling your calendar.
  • Do a media audit and prune back entertainment subscriptions and apps that aren’t adding value.
  • Block out regular calendar margins — small buffers of space between activities. They provide breathing room and prevent schedule overload.
  • Set limits around additional time commitments. If your current load is stretched, consider a season of saying no before yes.

The key is evaluating what energizes you versus what drains you. Then relentlessly pruning activities that deplete time, energy and mental space without enriching your purpose, relationships or health. Start small to avoid becoming overwhelmed. Just regularly ask “Does this add value and align with my priorities?” and have the courage to let go of excess.

Remember that living simply isn’t just about minimalist home organization and efficient time management. It goes deeper, to an inner contentment that frees us from striving and worrying. When we build our lives around loving God and others well, we can let go of excess possessions and activities because we’re grounded in what matters eternally. We recognize that despite living in a society that seeks to endlessly accumulate and achieve, less truly can be more.

What would this coming year look like if you eliminated the unnecessary to focus on the essential? Perhaps less rushing, less scrolling, less stuff filling your days — and more rest, presence and peace to hear God’s voice. More time for creating, learning and meaningful conversation. More mental margin for spontaneity and inspiration. In Luke 10:41-42, Jesus gently reminds devoted follower Martha, “you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.” Be inspired by Mary’s example of sitting attentively at the Lord’s feet. Choose the better part as you pursue simplicity and discover peace and purpose in the new year.