Are you looking to simplify your life and find more joy in everyday moments? Look no further than these 20 best books about simple living. Whether you’re seeking practical advice on minimalism, mindfulness, or decluttering, these books on simple living offer wisdom and inspiration to help you live a more intentional and fulfilling life. From timeless classics to modern gems, these simple living books will guide you towards a more balanced and peaceful existence.
Contents
- 1 20 Best Books About Simple Living
- 2 The Joy of Less
- 3 Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less
- 4 The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up
- 5 Walden
- 6 Voluntary Simplicity: Toward a Way of Life That Is Outwardly Simple, Inwardly Rich
- 7 The More of Less
- 8 The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living
- 9 The Power of Less: The Fine Art of Limiting Yourself to the Essential…in Business and in Life
- 10 The Simple Living Guide: A Sourcebook for Less Stressful, More Joyful Living
- 11 The Minimalist Home: A Room-by-Room Guide to a Decluttered, Refocused Life
- 12 Slow: Simple Living for a Frantic World
- 13 The Year of Less: How I Stopped Shopping, Gave Away My Belongings, and Discovered Life Is Worth More Than Anything You Can Buy in a Store
- 14 The Little Book of Lykke: Secrets of the World’s Happiest People
- 15 The Minimalist Way: Minimalism Strategies to Declutter Your Life and Make Room for Joy
- 16 The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning: How to Free Yourself and Your Family from a Lifetime of Clutter
- 17 The Little Book of Ikigai: The Essential Japanese Way to Finding Your Purpose in Life
- 18 The Joy of Less: A Minimalist Guide to Declutter, Organize, and Simplify
- 19 Simple Matters: Living with Less and Ending Up with More
- 20 The Art of Simple Living: 100 Daily Practices from a Japanese Zen Monk for a Lifetime of Calm and Joy
- 21 The Simple Living Handbook: Discover the Joy of a De-Cluttered Life
- 22 Conclusion
- 23
20 Best Books About Simple Living
The Joy of Less
by Francine Jay
The Joy of Less by Francine Jay is a refreshing and practical book on simple living. Jay presents a minimalist approach to decluttering and organizing your home, and ultimately your life. With insightful tips and guidance, she helps readers let go of material possessions and embrace a more mindful and intentional way of living. The book is filled with inspiring anecdotes and actionable steps to help readers create a peaceful and clutter-free living space. Whether you’re looking to downsize, simplify, or just bring more order to your home, this simple living book offers a wealth of wisdom and practical advice to help you on your journey towards a more fulfilling and intentional lifestyle.
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less
by Greg McKeown
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown is a compelling book on simple living that challenges readers to rethink their approach to work and life. McKeown advocates for focusing on what truly matters and eliminating the non-essential. He provides practical strategies for prioritizing and making deliberate choices, rather than succumbing to the pressure of busyness and overcommitment. The book emphasizes the importance of saying no to the trivial in order to say yes to the essential, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and purposeful life. Through real-life examples and insightful anecdotes, McKeown inspires readers to adopt a mindset of essentialism and embrace the power of less. Essentialism is a must-read for anyone seeking to simplify their life, prioritize their goals, and achieve greater clarity and effectiveness.
The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up
by Marie Kondo
The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo is a renowned book on simple living that has taken the world by storm. In this book, Kondo introduces the KonMari Method, a revolutionary approach to decluttering and organizing your home. The author encourages readers to only keep items that “spark joy,” and to let go of the rest. Through her unique perspective on tidying, Kondo inspires readers to create a space that is not only organized, but also brings a sense of peace and tranquility. With practical tips and insightful advice, this simple living book has helped countless individuals transform their living spaces, and in turn, their lives. If you’re looking to simplify your life and create a more harmonious environment, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up is a must-read.
Walden
by Henry David Thoreau
Walden, written by Henry David Thoreau, is a classic book on simple living, nature, and self-discovery. In this timeless work, Thoreau reflects on his experience living in a small cabin near Walden Pond, where he sought to live simply and deliberately. Through his observations of nature, musings on the human experience, and insights on the pursuit of a meaningful life, Thoreau’s words continue to resonate with readers today. This influential piece of literature encourages readers to re-evaluate their priorities, embrace the beauty of nature, and find contentment in the simple things. Walden is a thought-provoking and inspiring read for anyone seeking to live a more intentional and mindful life.
Voluntary Simplicity: Toward a Way of Life That Is Outwardly Simple, Inwardly Rich
by Duane Elgin
Voluntary Simplicity: Toward a Way of Life That Is Outwardly Simple, Inwardly Rich by Duane Elgin is a thought-provoking book on simple living. It delves into the idea of embracing a minimalist lifestyle and finding fulfillment in less material possessions. Elgin explores the concept of voluntary simplicity as a way to reduce stress, increase personal fulfillment, and live in harmony with the natural world. The book encourages readers to reevaluate their priorities, simplify their lives, and focus on what truly matters. With a blend of practical advice and philosophical insights, Voluntary Simplicity offers a compelling argument for embracing a simpler, more meaningful way of life. This book about simple living is a must-read for anyone seeking to cultivate a sense of inner richness while simplifying their external circumstances.
The More of Less
by Joshua Becker
The More of Less by Joshua Becker is a refreshing and inspiring book on simple living. Becker encourages readers to embrace a minimalist lifestyle, focusing on what truly matters and decluttering both physical and mental spaces. Through personal anecdotes and practical tips, he demonstrates how owning less can lead to more fulfillment and freedom. This book about simple living challenges the consumerist mindset and encourages intentional living, with a focus on experiences over possessions. Becker’s writing is engaging and relatable, making it easy for readers to apply his principles to their own lives. Whether you’re looking to declutter your home, reduce stress, or live a more meaningful life, The More of Less offers valuable insights and guidance on the journey to a simpler, more satisfying existence.
The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living
by Meik Wiking
The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living by Meik Wiking is a delightful book about simple living that explores the Danish concept of ‘hygge’ (pronounced hoo-ga) and its role in creating a cozy and contented life. Wiking, CEO of the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen, delves into the art of simple living and offers practical tips and insights on how to incorporate hygge into everyday life. The book covers various aspects of hygge, including home décor, food, relationships, and mindset, providing readers with inspiration on how to cultivate a warm and inviting atmosphere that promotes well-being and happiness. With its charming illustrations and engaging writing style, The Little Book of Hygge is a must-read for anyone seeking to embrace the Danish way of simple living and find joy in life’s little pleasures.
The Power of Less: The Fine Art of Limiting Yourself to the Essential…in Business and in Life
by Leo Babauta
The Power of Less: The Fine Art of Limiting Yourself to the Essential…in Business and in Life by Leo Babauta is a compelling book about simple living. Babauta offers practical strategies for simplifying your life and achieving more with less. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on the essential and eliminating distractions, which can lead to increased productivity and fulfillment. The book provides actionable advice on how to prioritize tasks, set meaningful goals, and create sustainable habits. Babauta’s approach is both insightful and inspiring, making this book on simple living a valuable resource for anyone seeking to streamline their personal and professional lives. Whether you’re looking to declutter your physical space, manage your time more effectively, or find greater peace of mind, The Power of Less offers a roadmap for embracing simplicity and finding greater joy in the process.
The Simple Living Guide: A Sourcebook for Less Stressful, More Joyful Living
by Janet Luhrs
The Simple Living Guide: A Sourcebook for Less Stressful, More Joyful Living by Janet Luhrs is a comprehensive book on simple living that offers practical advice and inspiration for those looking to embrace a more mindful and intentional lifestyle. With a focus on sustainability, mindfulness, and self-care, Luhrs provides readers with tips on decluttering, creating a peaceful home environment, and finding balance in a fast-paced world. Through personal anecdotes and actionable steps, this book about simple living encourages readers to prioritize what truly matters and let go of the excess that weighs them down. Whether you’re seeking to simplify your daily routines, cultivate healthier relationships, or reduce your environmental impact, this simple living book serves as a valuable resource for anyone looking to live with more joy and less stress.
The Minimalist Home: A Room-by-Room Guide to a Decluttered, Refocused Life
by Joshua Becker
The Minimalist Home: A Room-by-Room Guide to a Decluttered, Refocused Life by Joshua Becker is a practical and inspiring book on simple living. Becker provides a step-by-step approach to decluttering and organizing every room in your home, helping readers create a space that is both tranquil and functional. Through personal anecdotes and insightful tips, he encourages readers to let go of material possessions and focus on what truly matters in life. This book about simple living offers practical advice on how to simplify your life, reduce stress, and find contentment in the present moment. Whether you’re just starting your journey to minimalism or looking for new ideas to enhance your living space, The Minimalist Home is a valuable resource for anyone seeking a more intentional and fulfilling lifestyle.
Slow: Simple Living for a Frantic World
by Brooke McAlary
Slow: Simple Living for a Frantic World by Brooke McAlary is a refreshing and practical guide to embracing a more intentional and mindful way of living. In this insightful book on simple living, McAlary encourages readers to slow down, declutter their lives, and prioritize what truly matters. With personal anecdotes and actionable tips, she explores the benefits of living a simpler, more meaningful life, and offers guidance on how to cultivate mindfulness, gratitude, and contentment in a fast-paced world. Through her gentle and relatable approach, McAlary reminds us that simplicity is not about deprivation, but rather about creating space for what brings us joy and fulfillment. Whether you’re seeking to reduce stress, find balance, or reconnect with what’s important, this simple living book is a valuable resource for anyone looking to embrace a slower, more intentional way of living.
The Year of Less: How I Stopped Shopping, Gave Away My Belongings, and Discovered Life Is Worth More Than Anything You Can Buy in a Store
by Cait Flanders
The Year of Less by Cait Flanders is a captivating book about simple living that follows the author’s transformative journey towards a more minimalist lifestyle. Flanders embarks on a year-long shopping ban, during which she learns to live with less and declutter her life both physically and emotionally. As she gives away her belongings and reevaluates her spending habits, she discovers that true fulfillment and happiness come from experiences and connections, rather than material possessions. With honesty and vulnerability, Flanders shares her personal struggles and triumphs, offering valuable insights and practical tips for anyone looking to simplify their life. This book on simple living is a powerful reminder that life is worth more than anything you can buy in a store, and that true wealth lies in the richness of our experiences and relationships.
The Little Book of Lykke: Secrets of the World’s Happiest People
by Meik Wiking
The Little Book of Lykke: Secrets of the World’s Happiest People by Meik Wiking is a delightful exploration of what makes people truly happy. In this book about simple living, Wiking takes readers on a journey around the world to discover the keys to happiness in different cultures. Through heartwarming stories and insightful research, he uncovers the common principles that contribute to a fulfilling and joyful life. Wiking’s charming writing style and engaging anecdotes make this simple living book a joy to read, and readers will come away with practical tips for incorporating happiness-boosting habits into their own lives. Whether you’re looking to cultivate a more joyful mindset or simply curious about the secrets of the world’s happiest people, this book is an uplifting and inspiring read.
The Minimalist Way: Minimalism Strategies to Declutter Your Life and Make Room for Joy
by Erica Layne
The Minimalist Way: Minimalism Strategies to Declutter Your Life and Make Room for Joy by Erica Layne is a practical and insightful book about simple living. Layne offers a refreshing take on minimalism, providing readers with actionable tips and strategies to simplify their lives and find joy in the process. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, she guides readers through the process of decluttering their physical space, schedules, and mindset. The book encourages readers to let go of the unnecessary and embrace a life of intention and purpose. Whether you’re new to minimalism or looking to deepen your practice, this book on simple living is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to create a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning: How to Free Yourself and Your Family from a Lifetime of Clutter
by Margareta Magnusson
The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning by Margareta Magnusson is a book on simple living that offers a practical and refreshing approach to decluttering. The author, a Swedish artist, shares her personal experience and wisdom on the process of ‘death cleaning’—the art of minimizing possessions and organizing your life to make things easier for yourself and your loved ones after you’re gone. Magnusson’s gentle and humorous writing style makes this book about simple living both enjoyable and motivating, offering valuable tips and insights on how to let go of unnecessary belongings and embrace a more minimalist lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to downsize, simplify, or just get organized, this simple living book provides a thoughtful and inspiring guide to freeing yourself and your family from a lifetime of clutter.
The Little Book of Ikigai: The Essential Japanese Way to Finding Your Purpose in Life
by Ken Mogi
The Little Book of Ikigai by Ken Mogi is a delightful exploration of the Japanese concept of ikigai, which translates to “the reason for being.” This charming book offers a refreshing perspective on finding purpose and joy in everyday life. Mogi’s writing is insightful and engaging, offering practical wisdom and inspiration for embracing a life filled with meaning and fulfillment. Whether you’re seeking a book on simple living or simply looking to infuse your life with more purpose, The Little Book of Ikigai is a must-read. With its gentle wisdom and timeless insights, this book about simple living will leave you feeling inspired to cultivate a life of joy, meaning, and contentment. If you’re drawn to the idea of simple living, this book is a wonderful guide to discovering the essence of ikigai and incorporating it into your daily life.
The Joy of Less: A Minimalist Guide to Declutter, Organize, and Simplify
by Francine Jay
The Joy of Less: A Minimalist Guide to Declutter, Organize, and Simplify by Francine Jay is a must-read for anyone looking to embrace a more minimalist lifestyle. This book on simple living is packed with practical tips and actionable advice for decluttering your home, organizing your space, and simplifying your life. With a focus on the benefits of living with less, Francine Jay offers a refreshing perspective on the joys of minimalism. Readers will learn how to let go of excess stuff, create a calm and peaceful living environment, and ultimately find more happiness and fulfillment in their daily lives. Whether you’re a seasoned minimalist or just starting your journey towards a more simplified life, this book about simple living is sure to inspire and motivate you to make positive changes in your home and mindset.
Simple Matters: Living with Less and Ending Up with More
by Erin Boyle
Simple Matters: Living with Less and Ending Up with More by Erin Boyle is a captivating book about embracing a minimalist lifestyle. The author shares her personal journey towards a more intentional and simple way of living, offering practical advice and inspiration for readers looking to declutter and simplify their own lives. Boyle’s approach to ‘simple living’ is refreshing and accessible, making it easy for anyone to incorporate her tips into their daily routine. Through beautiful photography and thoughtful prose, she encourages readers to focus on the things that truly matter, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Whether you’re a minimalist at heart or just curious about the ‘less is more’ philosophy, this book about simple living is a must-read for anyone looking to create a more balanced and harmonious home and life.
The Art of Simple Living: 100 Daily Practices from a Japanese Zen Monk for a Lifetime of Calm and Joy
by Shunmyo Masuno
The Art of Simple Living: 100 Daily Practices from a Japanese Zen Monk for a Lifetime of Calm and Joy by Shunmyo Masuno is a captivating book on simple living. Masuno, a renowned Zen monk, offers practical wisdom and timeless teachings for finding peace and joy in everyday life. His 100 daily practices, rooted in the principles of Zen, provide a roadmap for cultivating mindfulness, gratitude, and tranquility. This book about simple living is a gentle reminder to slow down, appreciate the present moment, and savor the beauty of simplicity. Masuno’s profound insights and elegant prose make this simple living book a valuable resource for anyone seeking a more balanced and harmonious way of life.
The Simple Living Handbook: Discover the Joy of a De-Cluttered Life
by Lorilee Lippincott
The Simple Living Handbook: Discover the Joy of a De-Cluttered Life by Lorilee Lippincott is a practical and inspiring book on simple living. Lippincott shares her personal journey of simplifying her life and offers practical tips on decluttering, organizing, and prioritizing what truly matters. The book provides valuable insights on how to live with less and find joy in the simple things. With a focus on mindfulness and intentional living, this book about simple living encourages readers to let go of material possessions and embrace a more meaningful and fulfilling life. Whether you are looking to declutter your home, simplify your schedule, or reduce stress, this simple living book offers practical advice and encouragement to help you live a more intentional and fulfilling life.
Conclusion
Embracing a simple lifestyle can bring about a sense of peace and contentment. The 20 best books about Simple Living provide valuable insights and practical tips for decluttering, embracing minimalism, and finding joy in everyday moments. Whether you’re looking to simplify your home, your schedule, or your mindset, these books offer inspiration and guidance for living a more intentional and fulfilling life.
Which Simple Living book is best?
The best book on Simple Living can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
- The Joy of Less by Francine Jay,
- Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown,
- The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo.
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Simple Living?
For those looking to learn about Simple Living, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
- The Joy of Less by Francine Jay,
- Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown,
- The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo,
- Walden by Henry David Thoreau,
- Voluntary Simplicity: Toward a Way of Life That Is Outwardly Simple, Inwardly Rich by Duane Elgin,
- The More of Less by Joshua Becker,
- The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living by Meik Wiking,
- The Power of Less: The Fine Art of Limiting Yourself to the Essential…in Business and in Life by Leo Babauta,
- The Simple Living Guide: A Sourcebook for Less Stressful, More Joyful Living by Janet Luhrs,
- The Minimalist Home: A Room-by-Room Guide to a Decluttered, Refocused Life by Joshua Becker
These books offer a range of perspectives on Simple Living, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.
What are the best books on Simple Living?
The best books on Simple Living include:
- The Joy of Less by Francine Jay,
- Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown,
- Slow: Simple Living for a Frantic World by Brooke McAlary,
- The Year of Less: How I Stopped Shopping, Gave Away My Belongings, and Discovered Life Is Worth More Than Anything You Can Buy in a Store by Cait Flanders,
- The Power of Less: The Fine Art of Limiting Yourself to the Essential…in Business and in Life by Leo Babauta,
- The More of Less by Joshua Becker.
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Simple Living are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Simple Living books of all time?
Choosing the best Simple Living books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
- The Joy of Less by Francine Jay,
- Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown,
- Voluntary Simplicity: Toward a Way of Life That Is Outwardly Simple, Inwardly Rich by Duane Elgin,
- The Power of Less: The Fine Art of Limiting Yourself to the Essential…in Business and in Life by Leo Babauta,
- The Minimalist Home: A Room-by-Room Guide to a Decluttered, Refocused Life by Joshua Becker,
- The Year of Less: How I Stopped Shopping, Gave Away My Belongings, and Discovered Life Is Worth More Than Anything You Can Buy in a Store by Cait Flanders,
- and Slow: Simple Living for a Frantic World by Brooke McAlary.
Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Simple Living and continues to be influential today.