5 Simple Ways to Make Your Life Less Difficult

In my opinion, life does not necessarily need to be difficult. The main reason why we suffer and struggle with getting things done is because we create problems for ourselves. Most of the time our unsettled (rajasic) minds easily fall into imagination, speculation, or daydreaming from which originate illusion, desire, and wrong judgement. As a result, our decision-making skills suffer and we wander aimlessly throughout the mazes of inner confusion, emptiness, and unhappiness. Let me show you five simple ways to make your life less stressful and difficult. Before we begin, here is an upbeat track that you may want to consider playing in the background while you read my words.

Don’t initiate closer friendships with people who are not compatible with your highest self. Perhaps they are fine as acquaintances, but can they really enrich your life? I have learnt that most interpersonal problems in our lives come from hanging out with the wrong kind of people and letting them come too close. When our perception of others is based on wrong judgement and temporary desires, we tend to attract individuals who will eventually hurt or disappoint us. No matter how lonely and desperate for company you feel, think twice before you write to that next seemingly interesting person. In this area of life, I believe it is essential to prioritise quality over quantity. Surround yourself with people who validate you for your best qualities and gently encourage you to work on your weaknesses.

Do something every day that brings you closer to your long-term goals. If you want to publish a book, make sure you write at least a few hundred words or so every day. Even if you are completely devoid of inspiration on some days, develop a consistent habit of daily writing. If you want to get fit, make sure you move your body every day. You may not always feel like running a marathon or hitting your new personal record, but at least make it a priority not to sit on the couch all day long.

Stop looking at superficial or irrelevant nonsense online. This includes: watching stupid TikToks, reposting memes, reading comments of strangers arguing with each other, and learning random facts completely unrelated to your life’s purpose. I would say that ten minutes spent on napping is more meaningful than the same amount of time dedicated to pointless scrolling. Don’t overload your brain with trash. It’s not worth it.

Say ‘no’ to commitments you have no time for. It will save a lot of stress for everyone involved. Learn how to be simultaneously assertive and diplomatic. Again, prioritise quality over quantity. I may also add that you should avoid multitasking. Learning how to focus only on one thing at a time requires practice, and you will probably encounter numerous distractions. Just keep practicing and you’ll get better at it.

Surround yourself with people who see opportunities, not limitations. If you are not looking for opportunities, you are unlikely to ever find them. Successful people ultimately see only opportunities, no matter how much they struggle or how many obstacles they encounter. As the Stoic adage goes, we cannot always control outer events, but we can control our mindset and attitude.