Life is a complex puzzle, with pieces scattered everywhere, often obscuring the bigger picture. At times, it can feel overwhelming—like trying to fit together pieces that just don’t seem to match. For far too long, I was convinced that if I added more tasks and responsibilities to my plate, I could finally achieve the elusive balance and success I was striving for. But, truthfully, all I ended up with was frustration, confusion, and burnout.
The key to solving this puzzle, though, wasn’t about adding more pieces. It was about simplifying—shedding the distractions that clouded my vision and focusing on what truly mattered. By removing the unnecessary and letting go of what weighed me down, I’ve been able to create a much simpler, more fulfilling life. Today, I’m excited to share with you five things I’ve done that have transformed my life and, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, I truly believe they can do the same for you.
1. I Stopped Watching the News
Imagine this: Every time you walk into a room, someone hands you a backpack full of rocks. The emotional toll of consuming the news every day feels just like that. It’s almost as though you’re forced to carry around the collective despair of the world. For years, I felt like I had to stay updated on every headline, every scandal, and every crisis, even when they were completely out of my control. But the constant influx of negativity—be it political debates, tragedies, or sensationalized stories—was draining my energy and happiness.
By removing the news from my daily routine, I created space for a simpler, more positive existence. Instead of starting my day with a heavy burden, I could focus on things that uplifted me and brought me joy. And I encourage you, if you’re overwhelmed by the weight of the world’s problems, to consider stepping away from the news. It’s a choice that has made a profound difference in my life.
2. I Started Setting Realistic Goals
I’m the type of person who often operates with a zero or 100 mindset. If I set a goal, I go all in, pushing myself relentlessly to achieve it. In theory, it’s a great trait—aim for the stars, right? But, in reality, this ambition can quickly leave you feeling inadequate. When I first started my YouTube channel, I set a massive goal: 100,000 subscribers within a year. But as the months passed, I realized that this number was beyond my control. I was fixating on an outcome rather than the process.
So, I shifted my focus to something I could control—creating 100 videos. This small change in perspective allowed me to celebrate the milestones along the way, whether it was a new video or an idea that clicked. And it simplified my life immensely. Instead of feeling weighed down by the pressure to be perfect, I now feel energized by the progress I make, no matter how small. If you feel like you’re constantly chasing unreachable goals, try focusing on actions that are within your control. You might be surprised by how much lighter life feels.
3. I Prioritized What Truly Matters
It’s so easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of daily tasks—emails, calls, meetings, and social obligations. Most of these tasks feel urgent, but very few align with your deeper values and long-term goals. I used to spend my days ticking off items on a to-do list, only to end up feeling exhausted and unfulfilled. It wasn’t until I took a step back and asked myself what really mattered—my health, my relationships, my passions—that I began to prioritize those things.
By setting clear boundaries around my time and attention, I stopped letting the noise of urgent but insignificant tasks drown out the things that brought me true joy and fulfillment. I began to focus on what truly mattered: my well-being, the people I love, and the projects that align with my long-term vision. This shift has brought a sense of simplicity and satisfaction to my life that I never had before.
4. I Learned to Say No More Often
For the longest time, I believed that saying yes to every request would make me likable and help me build better relationships. But the reality is, you can’t please everyone. I found myself agreeing to events I didn’t want to attend, work projects I didn’t have the energy for, and obligations that drained me. Each time I said yes, it felt like I was adding another rock to my backpack.
The moment I learned to say no, everything shifted. Saying no doesn’t mean being selfish—it means protecting your time, energy, and well-being. I started saying no to things that didn’t align with my goals or my values, and, in the process, I created space for the things that truly mattered. Saying no has simplified my life in a profound way, and it’s something I encourage everyone to try. If you’re overwhelmed by obligations, start saying no more often—and watch how much lighter you feel.
5. I Let Go of “What Could Have Been”
For years, I carried the weight of missed opportunities and “what if” scenarios. I’d reflect on the decisions I didn’t make, the paths I didn’t take, and the opportunities I passed up. This cycle of self-blame and regret was draining, and it kept me stuck in the past. I was caught in a mental loop that stopped me from moving forward.
But I came to realize that holding onto these regrets was only preventing me from finding peace in the present. The truth is, life isn’t just about the choices we make—it’s about how we respond to them. Each experience, every regret, has shaped who I am today. Once I forgave myself for past decisions and let go of the “what could have been,” I started to feel lighter and more energized. By embracing the lessons from my past instead of dwelling on them, I’ve found the clarity I need to move forward with confidence.
By removing these five things from my life—watching the news, unrealistic goals, unnecessary tasks, people-pleasing, and past regrets—I’ve been able to simplify my existence and bring more peace, focus, and joy into my day-to-day life. It’s a work in progress, but the changes I’ve made have been transformative.