Man standing with open raised arms watching sunrise
Enjoying the simple pleasure of a sunrise.

Why I Practice and Recommend Simple Living, High Thinking

In a world that often glorifies complexity, indulgence, and materialism, the philosophy of “Simple living and high thinking” is a welcome call for clarity and purpose and a rethinking of what is ultimately important. It is a principle that has been espoused by sages, philosophers, and spiritual leaders across centuries, but in the hustle and bustle of modern life, it often gets overlooked.  Today, I want to reflect on why this approach is more relevant than ever and how it can transform our lives for the better.

Photo by Khalil Yamoun on Unsplash

I became acquainted with the concept of “Simple living and high thing” in 1979 when my father brought home a moth-eaten, threadbare copy of WH Davenport Adams’ 1906 book of the same name (he had bought it from a street hawker of used books).  The book was fascinating for my impressionable young self, and I could relate to many of the precepts espoused in it.  I no longer have a copy of it, but a few years ago, I found a digital facsimile of the book on archive.org.  Even when I read it now, I am amazed at the relevance of Adams’ observations and his practical tips to think highly while living simplly in the midst of conspicuous consumption.

The Trap of Materialism

Let’s face it: our culture encourages us to chase after more – more possessions, more money, more status. Yet, the more we acquire, the less satisfied we often feel. The pursuit of material wealth can easily become a cycle of endless craving, leaving little room for self-reflection, genuine connection, or personal growth. In today’s fast-paced, hyperconnected world, it’s easy to lose sight of what’s truly important. We’re bombarded with information, advertisements, and societal pressures that push us toward distraction and superficiality. Simple living and high thinking offer a counterbalance, a way to ground ourselves amidst the chaos.

When we embrace simplicity, we gain clarity. When we cultivate high thinking, we find purpose. Together, they form a powerful antidote to the stress, confusion, and emptiness that often accompany modern life.

I’ve been there myself, caught up in the allure of “having it all.” But the more I tried to accumulate, the heavier life felt. It’s as though the very things meant to bring comfort and joy were slowly chaining me down.  Having wealth and possessions also causes anxiety and the fear of losing it all.  Additionally, there are always others who have more or flaunt more, causing an endless cycle of one-upmanship.

What Does Simple Living Really Mean?

Simple living doesn’t mean deprivation or asceticism. Instead, it’s about removing the clutter—both physical and mental—so that we can focus on what truly matters. It’s choosing quality over quantity, depth over superficiality. By simplifying our lives, we free up time, energy, and resources to invest in things that nurture our souls.

For me, this has meant decluttering my home, setting boundaries around digital distractions, and adopting mindful consumption. But more importantly, it has meant letting go of the internal clutter: self-doubt, envy, and the incessant need for external validation. Each step toward simplicity feels like peeling away layers of unnecessary weight, revealing a lighter, freer version of myself.

The Power of High Thinking

While Simple living clears the ground, high thinking plants the seeds for a fulfilling life. High thinking is about aspiring toward ideals that transcend our immediate, individual concerns. It’s about cultivating virtues like compassion, wisdom, creativity, and service. It’s about asking the big questions: Who am I? What is my purpose? How can I contribute to the greater good?

High thinking doesn’t require grand gestures or extraordinary intelligence. It’s a mindset, a way of looking at the world with curiosity, humility, and a commitment to growth. For me, it has meant prioritizing lifelong learning, engaging in meaningful conversations, and finding ways to give back to my community. Each act of high thinking feels like adding a drop of clarity and purpose to the vast ocean of life.

Why It Matters Now More Than Ever

In today’s fast-paced, hyperconnected world, it’s easy to lose sight of what’s truly important. We’re bombarded with information, advertisements, and societal pressures that push us toward distraction and superficiality. Simple living and high thinking offer a counterbalance, a way to ground ourselves amidst the chaos.

When we embrace simplicity, we gain clarity. When we cultivate high thinking, we find purpose. Together, they form a powerful antidote to the stress, confusion, and emptiness that often accompany modern life.

A Call to Reflect

As I write this, I’m reminded of how far I still have to go in embodying these principles. It’s not always easy to resist the pull of consumerism or to keep my mind focused on higher ideals. But the journey itself is deeply rewarding. Each small step toward simplicity and higher thinking feels like a step closer to a life of meaning and fulfillment.  I will go back to WH Adam’s book in future blogs and adapt its precepts to modern living.  Watch this space.

Meanwhile, I invite you to reflect on your own life. What could you let go of to make space for what truly matters? What ideals could guide your thoughts and actions to bring more purpose into your days?

The beauty of Simple living and high thinking is that it’s accessible to everyone, regardless of circumstances. It’s not about what you have; it’s about how you choose to live and think. And in that choice lies the power to create a life that’s not just successful but significant.

Image by Shahariar Lenin from Pixabay

Practical Steps to Embrace Simplicity and High Thinking

You might be wondering how to start incorporating these ideas into your daily life. While it may sound daunting, the journey begins with small, actionable steps. Here are a few that have worked for me:

  1. Declutter Your Space: Begin by taking a good look at your immediate surroundings. Is your home filled with things you rarely use or don’t truly value? Start with one area—a drawer, a closet, or even your digital files—and remove what doesn’t serve you. You’ll be amazed at how a clean, organized space can lead to a clearer mind.
  2. Practice Gratitude: A mindset of gratitude helps us focus on what we already have instead of what we lack. Make it a habit to reflect on three things you’re grateful for each day. This practice shifts your perspective from scarcity to abundance and fosters contentment.
  3. Set Intentional Goals: Align your goals with your values. Instead of chasing after what society deems important, ask yourself what truly matters to you. Whether it’s nurturing relationships, pursuing a creative passion, or contributing to a cause, let your goals reflect your deepest aspirations.
  4. Limit Digital Distractions: Technology is a double-edged sword. While it connects us, it also distracts us from meaningful experiences. Set boundaries for screen time, disable unnecessary notifications, and dedicate tech-free moments to focus on the present.
  5. Engage in Reflective Practices: High thinking often stems from deep reflection. Practices like journaling, meditation, or even a quiet walk in nature can help you connect with your inner self and gain clarity about your priorities.
  6. Seek Out Inspiring Content: Feed your mind with books, podcasts, and discussions that challenge and uplift you. Surround yourself with people who inspire you to think deeply and act meaningfully.
  7. Serve Others: One of the most fulfilling ways to practice high thinking is to contribute to the well-being of others. Volunteer your time, share your skills, or simply offer a listening ear. Acts of kindness not only benefit others but also enrich your own life.

The Ripple Effect

When we embrace Simple living and high thinking, the impact extends beyond our own lives. Our choices inspire those around us to reevaluate their own priorities. Families become closer, communities grow stronger, and societies move toward a more compassionate and sustainable way of living.

Imagine a world where simplicity and purpose guide our actions instead of greed and haste. While it may sound utopian, change begins with individuals. Each one of us has the power to create ripples of positivity through our choices.

Conclusion

While Simple living and high thinking may not offer instant gratification, they promise lasting fulfillment. They invite us to step off the hamster wheel of endless striving and into a life of intentionality and joy. The journey may require patience and persistence, but the rewards—clarity, purpose, and peace—are well worth the effort.

So, take a moment today to pause and reflect. What would your life look like if you embraced these principles more fully? The path to a meaningful life starts with a single step. Why not take it now?

References:

Adams, WH Davenport. “Plain Living And High Thinking; Or, Practical Self-Culture: Moral, Mental, and Physical. London: John Hogg, 1906. Archive.org.

Views: 0

Comments

No comments yet. Why don’t you start the discussion?

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *