Simplicity : Less is more

The advent of a new year heralds fresh beginnings, instills hope, unfolds possibilities, and brings new words.

For several years, I have embraced the tradition of selecting a 'word of the year.' This word serves as a beacon, guiding me through the ebbs and flows of life. It aids in fulfilling my needs and empowers me to extend such support to those around me.

My art therapy clients also embark on this annual journey of choosing their word. We utilize various methods, including visual imagery, reflective issues, and thought-provoking prompts, to assist in our selection. One client employed a deck of values cards to aid her decision making process. She was initially drawn to six words but eventually reduced her choice to the one that resonated with her the most, and that word became the word she chose.

At that time, I had not yet chosen my word for 2024, which, as my client pointed out, needed to be determined sooner rather than later since the first month of the year was nearly over. Consequently, with her eyes fixed on me, expectant, my mind shifted into high gear. What should this word be? I promptly drew a blank—a common reaction to pressure—and found myself unable to decide. Taking a deep breath to recalibrate, I resolved to flip one of those cards and embrace whatever word it revealed.

I would make that word work for me whatever it turned out to be.

The card flipped and the word that appeared was Simplicity.

Amazing. The process began with one simple act and here it was.

Huh, I was curious, how could I bring more simplicity into my life? What did simplicity mean for me? How was I going to embrace the concept of keeping it simple in a complicated world?

I really did not know.

But what I did know is I that I would find a way, and remember to pull myself up whenever I found myself over complicating, over thinking, over doing, over committing, or over explaining - a hangover from complex trauma, an attempt to prove to others (but more so myself) that I am doing enough, that I am indeed good enough.

and trust that I will be ok with less

Less thinking, more doing

Less worrying more calm

Less stuff more space

Less chatter more discovery

Less confusion more clarity

Less attachment more freedom

Less complication more simplicity

It does seem to be that less really is more

yours in Simplicity

Sharyn