Are you searching for inspiration to simplify your life and find contentment in the little things? Look no further! We’ve curated a list of the 20 best books on simple living that will guide you towards a more intentional and fulfilling lifestyle. From practical tips to philosophical insights, these books offer a wealth of wisdom for anyone seeking to declutter their mind, home, and schedule. Whether you’re a minimalist at heart or simply curious about the benefits of living with less, these simple living books are sure to leave a lasting impression and motivate you to embrace a more meaningful existence.
Contents
- 1 20 Best Simple Living Books
- 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 Final Thoughts on Best Simple Living Books
- 23
20 Best Simple Living Books
The Joy of Less
by Francine Jay
The Joy of Less by Francine Jay is a refreshing and practical guide to embracing a minimalist lifestyle. This insightful book on simple living offers a step-by-step approach to decluttering and simplifying every aspect of your life, from your home to your daily routine. Francine Jay provides valuable tips on how to let go of material possessions, reduce clutter, and create a more peaceful and organized living space. She also explores the benefits of living with less, including increased freedom, clarity, and contentment.
With its emphasis on mindfulness and intentionality, this simple living book encourages readers to focus on the things that truly matter and let go of the rest. The Joy of Less is a must-read for anyone looking to simplify their life, reduce stress, and cultivate a greater sense of well-being. Whether you’re a seasoned minimalist or just starting to explore the idea of living with less, this book about simple living will inspire and guide you on your journey towards a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less
by Greg McKeown
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown is a compelling book about the art of simplifying one’s life and focusing on what truly matters. McKeown argues that in a world filled with distractions and overwhelming choices, it’s essential to prioritize and eliminate the non-essential in order to achieve true fulfillment and success. The book provides practical strategies and insights on how to identify what is truly important and how to say no to the constant demands and distractions that pull us away from our core priorities. McKeown’s message is clear and powerful: by embracing essentialism, we can free ourselves from the burden of busyness and achieve greater clarity, purpose, and satisfaction in our lives. This book on simple living is a must-read for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the chaos of modern life and seeking a more intentional and fulfilling existence.
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. Kondo, a Japanese organizing consultant, presents her unique KonMari method, which focuses on decluttering and organizing your home in a way that brings joy and simplicity to your life. The book delves into the philosophy of minimalism and the transformative power of tidying up, offering practical tips and advice on how to let go of the things that no longer serve you and create a living space that sparks joy. Kondo’s approach to tidying is not just about cleaning your home; it’s about creating a mindset shift that can lead to a more harmonious and fulfilling life. Whether you’re someone who struggles with clutter or simply wants to embrace a more intentional and mindful way of living, this simple living book has the potential to change your perspective and transform your living space.
Walden
by Henry David Thoreau
Walden is a classic book on simple living, written by the transcendentalist philosopher Henry David Thoreau. In this timeless work, Thoreau recounts his experiences living in a small cabin near Walden Pond in the 1840s, where he sought to live a life of simplicity and self-sufficiency. Through his observations of nature, reflections on the human condition, and musings on the value of solitude, Thoreau encourages readers to reevaluate their own lives and priorities.
This influential book about simple living has inspired countless readers to seek a more deliberate and meaningful existence, free from the trappings of materialism and consumerism. Thoreau’s eloquent prose and profound insights continue to resonate with modern audiences, making Walden a timeless and relevant exploration of the joys and challenges of embracing a simpler way of life. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for your own journey towards simplicity or simply looking for a thought-provoking read, Walden is a must-read for anyone interested in the simple living movement.
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 profound exploration of the philosophy of living a life that is grounded in simplicity. This book about simple living encourages readers to embrace a minimalist lifestyle and find richness within themselves, rather than in material possessions. Elgin delves into the concept of voluntary simplicity, offering practical advice on how to simplify one’s life, reduce consumption, and live in harmony with nature.
Elgin’s powerful message resonates with those seeking to escape the pressures of modern consumerism and find fulfillment through mindfulness and sustainable living. The book on simple living is filled with thought-provoking insights, inspiring personal stories, and practical strategies for living a more meaningful and sustainable life. Voluntary Simplicity is a timeless guide for anyone looking to embrace a simpler, more intentional way of life and discover the true richness that comes from within. It is a must-read for those interested in the simple living movement and the pursuit of a more balanced and fulfilling existence.
The More of Less
by Joshua Becker
The More of Less by Joshua Becker is a captivating book on simple living that challenges the notion that more is always better. Becker shares his personal journey towards minimalism and offers practical advice on how to declutter your home, schedule, and mindset. The book encourages readers to prioritize the things that truly matter and let go of excess material possessions and commitments that only serve to weigh us down.
Through inspiring stories and actionable tips, Becker demonstrates how adopting a minimalist lifestyle can lead to more freedom, happiness, and fulfillment. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by clutter or simply seeking a more intentional way of living, this book about simple living offers valuable insights and guidance. It’s a refreshing reminder that true abundance isn’t found in the accumulation of things, but in the experiences and relationships that bring meaning to our lives.
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 charming and insightful book on simple living. Wiking, the CEO of the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen, explores the Danish concept of “hygge,” which roughly translates to “coziness” or “comfort.” Through beautiful illustrations and practical tips, Wiking delves into the art of creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, fostering connections with loved ones, and prioritizing the simple pleasures in life. This simple living book offers readers a glimpse into the Danish way of life and provides inspiration for incorporating hygge into their own daily routines.
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 on simple living that encourages readers to embrace the power of less in order to achieve more. Babauta, a renowned productivity expert and creator of the popular Zen Habits blog, provides practical strategies for simplifying one’s life and focusing on what truly matters.
Through real-life examples and actionable advice, Babauta demonstrates how the principles of simplicity and minimalism can be applied to business, personal goals, and overall well-being. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing tasks, eliminating distractions, and decluttering both physical and mental spaces in order to increase productivity and reduce stress.
Whether you’re looking to streamline your work processes, declutter your home, or achieve a greater sense of balance and fulfillment, this book about simple living offers valuable insights and a roadmap for making meaningful changes. With its straightforward and accessible approach, The Power of Less is a must-read for anyone seeking to embrace a more intentional and fulfilling lifestyle.
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 and practical book on simple living that offers readers a blueprint for a more intentional and fulfilling life. Luhrs encourages readers to simplify their lives by decluttering, reducing their consumption, and embracing a more minimalist approach to everyday living.
Through insightful advice and personal anecdotes, the author provides a roadmap for achieving a simpler, more joyful existence. From creating a simple living budget to cultivating meaningful relationships and finding balance in work and leisure, this book about simple living covers all aspects of leading a more intentional and simple living lifestyle.
With its practical tips and strategies, The Simple Living Guide empowers readers to prioritize what truly matters, leading to a more stress-free and joyful life. Whether you’re looking to declutter your home, streamline your schedule, or simply find more joy in everyday life, this simple living book offers invaluable guidance for anyone seeking a more intentional and fulfilling existence.
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 comprehensive guide to decluttering and simplifying your living space, with a focus on how minimalism can lead to a more intentional and fulfilling life.
Through a room-by-room approach, Becker offers practical tips and advice on how to reduce the excess and create a more purposeful and peaceful home. He emphasizes the importance of letting go of material possessions that no longer serve us, and how this can lead to greater happiness and contentment.
Becker’s writing is clear and engaging, making it easy for readers to understand and implement his ideas. Whether you’re looking to downsize, organize, or simply live with less, The Minimalist Home is a valuable resource that will guide you on your journey to a more intentional and simplified life.
Slow: Simple Living for a Frantic World
by Brooke McAlary
Slow: Simple Living for a Frantic World by Brooke McAlary is a refreshing and insightful book about embracing a more intentional and mindful way of life. McAlary invites readers to slow down and savor the present moment, offering practical tips and inspiring stories to help readers simplify their lives and find joy in the everyday.
This book on simple living encourages readers to declutter their homes, minds, and schedules, and to prioritize what truly matters. With a focus on mindfulness, gratitude, and connection, McAlary’s gentle and encouraging voice makes this simple living book a valuable resource for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the demands of modern life.
Whether you’re seeking to reduce stress, cultivate more meaningful relationships, or simply savor the beauty of the present moment, Slow is a book about simple living that offers a roadmap to a more fulfilling and balanced life. It’s a must-read 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 on simple living that chronicles the author’s personal journey towards a more intentional and meaningful life. Flanders shares her inspiring story of how she embarked on a year-long shopping ban, during which she not only stopped buying unnecessary items but also decluttered and gave away a large portion of her belongings. Through her experiences, she discovered that life is worth more than anything you can buy in a store.
With honesty and vulnerability, Flanders delves into the emotional and psychological reasons behind her shopping habits and how she found fulfillment in simple living. Her narrative is both relatable and thought-provoking, offering practical insights and valuable lessons for anyone seeking to break free from the cycle of consumerism and embrace a more intentional lifestyle. The Year of Less is a compelling and insightful book about simple living that will leave readers inspired to reassess their own relationship with material possessions and find greater joy and contentment in life’s simpler pleasures.
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 the key factors that contribute to happiness and well-being. Drawing from his experiences at the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen, Wiking presents a charming and insightful collection of anecdotes, research findings, and practical tips for living a more fulfilling life. This book on simple living offers a refreshing perspective on the pursuit of happiness, emphasizing the importance of relationships, gratitude, community, and a sense of purpose. Wiking’s engaging writing style and thoughtful observations make this book about simple living a joy to read, as he takes readers on a global journey to uncover the secrets of the world’s happiest people. Whether you’re looking for inspiration to cultivate more joy in your own life or simply enjoy learning about different cultural practices, The Little Book of Lykke is a heartwarming and enlightening read that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the simple pleasures in life.
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 inspiring book about simple living. In this insightful guide, Layne offers readers a roadmap to simplify their lives, declutter their homes, and cultivate joy in the process.
With a focus on intentional living and mindful consumption, The Minimalist Way provides actionable strategies to help readers let go of physical and emotional clutter, prioritize what truly matters, and create space for joy and fulfillment. Through personal anecdotes and practical tips, Layne empowers readers to embrace a minimalist mindset and make positive changes in their daily lives.
Whether you’re looking to streamline your belongings, manage your time more effectively, or simply find contentment in the present moment, this book on simple living offers valuable insights and guidance. The Minimalist Way is a must-read for anyone seeking to embrace simplicity and create a more meaningful, joyful 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 delightful and practical book about the art of decluttering and simplifying your life. Based on the Swedish tradition of “döstädning,” or death cleaning, Magnusson offers gentle and thoughtful advice on how to free yourself and your loved ones from the burden of clutter. This book is not just about tidying up, but also about living a simpler, more intentional life. Magnusson’s approach is both practical and philosophical, encouraging readers to consider the legacy they leave behind and how to make the process of decluttering a positive and meaningful experience. Whether you’re downsizing, organizing your belongings, or simply seeking a more minimalist lifestyle, The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning is a valuable resource for anyone looking to embrace a more mindful and simplified way of living. If you’re looking for a book on simple living that is both practical and inspiring, this is the book for you.
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 charming and insightful book on simple living, drawing from the Japanese concept of ikigai, which translates to “the reason for being.” In this book about simple living, Mogi explores how embracing the principles of ikigai can lead to a more fulfilled and purposeful life. Through engaging anecdotes and practical tips, he delves into the art of finding joy in the everyday, fostering meaningful connections, and pursuing one’s passions. This simple living book offers a refreshing perspective on happiness and fulfillment, emphasizing the importance of balance, mindfulness, and gratitude. Whether you’re seeking to simplify your life or find deeper meaning, The Little Book of Ikigai is a delightful guide that encourages readers to cultivate a sense of purpose and contentment in all aspects of 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 refreshing and practical book on simple living. With a focus on minimalism, Jay provides readers with a step-by-step guide to decluttering their homes and lives, and offers valuable insights on the benefits of living with less. The book emphasizes the importance of letting go of material possessions and simplifying one’s surroundings to create a more peaceful and fulfilling lifestyle.
Through relatable anecdotes and practical tips, Jay inspires readers to reevaluate their relationship with belongings and make intentional choices about what to keep and what to discard. The Joy of Less is not just a book about simple living, but a transformative guide that encourages readers to prioritize experiences and relationships over material possessions. With its easy-to-follow advice and motivating tone, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to embrace a more minimalist and intentional way of living.
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 delightful and insightful book about embracing a minimalist lifestyle. This book on simple living is not just about decluttering and organizing, but also about finding joy in the little things and creating a home that reflects your values. Erin Boyle, a blogger and mother, shares her personal journey towards a simpler, more intentional life, offering practical tips and beautiful photographs along the way.
Boyle’s writing is warm and encouraging, making this book about simple living a joy to read. She covers various aspects of simple living, from creating a minimalist wardrobe to reducing waste in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned minimalist or just starting to explore the idea of living with less, Simple Matters is sure to inspire and guide you on your own journey towards a more purposeful and fulfilling life. This simple living book is a must-read for anyone looking to simplify their life and find more meaning in the everyday.
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 profound book on simple living that offers 100 practical and insightful daily practices to help readers embrace a more mindful and fulfilling lifestyle. Drawing from the wisdom of Zen teachings, Masuno presents a collection of simple yet powerful rituals and habits that can be easily incorporated into daily life to promote peace, joy, and inner tranquility. Through this book about simple living, Masuno encourages readers to slow down, appreciate the present moment, and find contentment in the everyday. Whether it’s savoring a cup of tea, decluttering the home, or practicing gratitude, each practice is designed to cultivate a sense of harmony and balance.
With its gentle guidance and serene wisdom, The Art of Simple Living is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to simplify their life, reduce stress, and find greater happiness. This simple living book is a beautiful reminder that true joy can be found in the uncomplicated moments of our daily routines.
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. With the clutter and busyness of modern life, this book offers a refreshing perspective on how to simplify and declutter your life, leading to a more fulfilling and joyful existence. Lorilee Lippincott shares her personal journey towards a simpler lifestyle, providing valuable insights, tips, and strategies to help readers embrace minimalism, reduce stress, and focus on what truly matters. This book about simple living covers various aspects of simplifying, including decluttering your home, managing finances, and finding contentment in the little things. Whether you’re looking to downsize, minimize your possessions, or streamline your daily routines, this simple living book offers practical guidance and encouragement to help you achieve a more intentional and fulfilling life.
Final Thoughts on Best Simple Living Books
Embracing a simpler way of life can bring about profound changes, and these 20 books about Simple Living are the perfect guides to help you along the journey. From practical tips to philosophical insights, these books offer a wealth of wisdom and inspiration for anyone seeking a more intentional and fulfilling life. Whether you’re looking to declutter your home, simplify your schedule, or cultivate a deeper sense of gratitude, there’s a book on this list that can help you achieve your goals. Dive into the pages of these books and discover the transformative power of simple living.
Which book about Simple Living 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 about Simple Living?
The best books about Simple Living are:
- 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 about 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 five 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,
- 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.