Simplifying to Thrive: Lessons from Loss

By Helena Zachariassen.

In the wake of my father-in-law’s recent passing, I’ve found myself in deep contemplation and receiving a profound reminder: the true essence of life lies not in the accumulation of physical possessions but in the richness of our relationships. This period of mourning has been both heart-wrenching and illuminating, guiding us toward an even deeper understanding of what truly matters. It’s in the quiet moments of reflection and the shared grief with loved ones that the concept of simplifying to thrive has become self-evident rather than just a concept.

The Profound Shift 

The loss of a loved one is never easy, and the grief that accompanies such a departure can often be overwhelming. For me, this loss brought into sharp focus the fragility of life and the ephemeral nature of material wealth. As we were thinking through my father-in-law’s belongings—items accumulated over decades—I couldn’t help but reflect on how little they seemed to matter in the grand scheme of things. The stories and memories shared during a lifetime were far more valuable than any object.

In a time of grief, we found ourselves not just mourning the absence of a cherished person but also reevaluating our own lives. It became evident that relationships and shared experiences are far more fulfilling and enduring than any material possession. This shift in perspective isn´t a new one as such, but it does certainly serve as an empowering reminder encouraging people to embrace a lifestyle that prioritises simplicity and meaningful connections over the relentless pursuit of more.

The Burden of Excess 

Modern life often encourages us to amass more—more belongings, more status symbols, more achievements, more of everything. Yet, in our quest for more, we sometimes lose sight of what truly brings joy and fulfilment. The weight of physical possessions or toxic relationships can become a burden, cluttering our lives and minds, leaving little room for the things that truly matter.

This was starkly evident during the aftermath of my father-in-law’s passing. The real treasures were the stories shared by friends and family, the laughter, the love, and the lessons he imparted. It was a poignant reminder that our lives are never defined by the things we own but by the connections we nurture. 

Embracing Simplicity 

In light of these revelations, more than ever before, I’ve come to see the value in embracing simplicity. Simplifying our lives involves a lot more than just decluttering our physical spaces; it’s about prioritising what truly matters and letting go of what doesn’t. Here are a few ways to embrace simplicity and thrive.

Prioritise Relationships 

Invest time and energy in the relationships that matter most. Whether it’s spending quality time with family, nurturing friendships, or connecting with a community, make these relationships a central part of your life. The richness of these connections far outweighs any material possessions. Let´s not forget to purge connections that have been outgrown or feel toxic.

Declutter Your Space 

Physical clutter can lead to mental clutter, ultimately leading to emotional clutter. Regularly assess your belongings and keep only those items that add value to your life. This doesn’t mean you have to get rid of everything, but focus on keeping things that truly matter and bring you joy.

Live Mindfully and Intentionally 

Mindfulness encourages us to be present in the moment and appreciate the here and now. By focusing on the present, we can cultivate a deeper sense of satisfaction and fulfilment. Mindfulness practices can help us let go of unnecessary worries and find contentment in simplicity and ´being´ rather than in the doing and constantly performing.

Simplify Your Goals 

Often, we set complex and numerous goals, which can lead to stress and burnout. Simplify your goals by focusing on what is truly important and aligning them with your core values. This approach can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Find Joy in the Simple Things 

Sometimes, the most profound joy comes from the simplest experiences—enjoying a walk in nature, having a heartfelt conversation, or savouring a quiet moment of solitude. Learn to find and appreciate these moments of simplicity in your daily life.

The Joy of Living Simply 

Embracing a simpler lifestyle doesn’t mean living a life of deprivation or denying ourselves pleasures. Rather, it’s about finding joy in the essential and meaningful aspects of life. It’s about creating space for what truly nourishes our soul and letting go of what holds us back.

In my own journey towards simplicity, I’ve discovered that there is profound joy in living with less but loving more deeply. By focusing on relationships, experiences, and meaningful moments, I’ve found a sense of peace and fulfilment that material possessions never provided. However, as already mentioned, simplicity is not about deprivation or denying oneself of life´s pleasures. It is both healthy and sane to sprinkle oneself with some extra love and care now and then, in whatever form desired and needed.

The recent loss of my father-in-law has been a challenging but enlightening experience. It has reinforced the understanding that life’s true richness lies not in what we own but in how we connect with others and cherish the moments we share. By embracing simplicity, we can create a life that is more aligned with our values, more fulfilling, and ultimately, more joyful.

As we continue to navigate the complexities of modern life, let us remember that simplifying to thrive is not just a personal choice but a powerful way to honour the essence of our relationships and the legacy of those we’ve loved. In the end, it’s the love we give and receive, not the things we accumulate, that defines a life well-lived.

Helena Zachariassen is a mum of 2, an expert in simplifying and home organising, and a lover of all things beautiful in life. A certified KonMari Consultant and Lifestyle Coach, she is the founder of Switzerland’s first KonMari and Lifestyle Coaching Consultancy - My Happy Home. She is passionate about empowering and inspiring people of any walk of life by organising their living spaces according to the KonMari Method by simply choosing joy.

Having her roots in Finland, the Nordic country of pure, quiet, and beautiful wilderness, and being deeply inspired by nature, beauty and simplicity, Helena lovingly encourages and supports her clients in transforming their homes into havens of serenity.