“Why Do We Make Life Harder Than It Needs to Be?”

Ever feel like you’re living life on hard mode? Sometimes, it’s not the external world but our own mindset and habits that create roadblocks. We hold onto outdated ideals, compare ourselves to others, or chase perfection. In reality, life doesn’t need to be this complicated. What if we could just… make things easier?

Living with ease is a practice in itself, and it’s built on simple but profound shifts. From letting go of perfectionism to being comfortable with your own company, here are eleven ways to start creating a life that’s less stressful and more enjoyable.

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1. Embrace “Good Enough” Over Perfection

Perfectionism can feel like a chase with no finish line. Rather than aiming to be flawless, try to embrace “good enough.” Whether it’s a project at work or your personal goals, striving for excellence without demanding perfection lets you experience a sense of accomplishment and reduces stress. Remember: perfection is a myth, but progress is real.

2. If It Won’t Matter in 5 Years, Don’t Waste More Than 5 Minutes on It

Think about the things that steal your time and energy—small mistakes, temporary setbacks, minor grievances. If it’s something that won’t matter years down the road, give yourself permission to let it go after a few minutes. Life becomes so much lighter when you stop letting minor worries hold major power over your day.

3. Let Go of “Shoulds” and “What Ifs” to Live in the Now

Constantly wondering if we “should” do something or worrying about “what ifs” pulls us out of the present moment and into anxiety. Give yourself a break from these mind traps and focus on what feels right now. By letting go of “shoulds” and “what ifs,” you open yourself up to clarity and contentment in the present.

4. Limit Comparison to Others

Comparing ourselves to others is natural, but it’s often a shortcut to feeling inadequate. When you notice yourself comparing your life, achievements, or appearance to someone else’s, try shifting your focus to gratitude. Appreciate what’s going well in your life. When we stop looking sideways, we can actually enjoy our own path.

5. Say “No” More Often

It’s hard to say “no,” especially when we want to please or help others. But saying “yes” to everything can lead to burnout. Protect your time and energy by saying “no” to things that don’t serve your priorities. The more you honour your boundaries, the easier life feels.

6. Say “Yes” More Often

On the other side of the coin, sometimes we hold back from saying “yes” to opportunities or experiences out of fear or doubt. Life feels more vibrant when we’re open to trying new things and embracing opportunities that bring joy or growth. Say “yes” to the things that excite or fulfill you, even if they push you out of your comfort zone.

7. Lower Your Expectations of Life

Expecting everything to go perfectly or hoping every day will be amazing sets you up for disappointment. Lowering your expectations doesn’t mean giving up; it means being realistic and flexible. Life has highs and lows, and accepting this helps you ride out the tougher times without extra frustration.

8. Put Up Boundaries—In Work, Relationships, and Beyond

Healthy boundaries are essential for peace of mind. At work, they prevent burnout; in relationships, they help maintain respect; and in your personal life, they protect your time and energy. Boundaries aren’t walls—they’re safeguards that allow you to show up as your best self without feeling drained.

9. Let Go of the Need to Control Everything

Trying to control every outcome and detail of life is exhausting. Accept that some things are simply out of your hands, and practice going with the flow. Trusting the process and embracing flexibility helps you handle life’s twists and turns with a calmer mindset.

10. Reflect on Past Wins and Losses

We often dwell on mistakes but rarely take time to celebrate our victories. Reflecting on both the highs and lows helps us learn and grow. Recognize your progress, forgive your past missteps, and celebrate how far you’ve come. This balanced perspective keeps you grounded and ready for what’s next.

11. Learn to Be Okay Being Alone

Being comfortable in your own company is a powerful skill. It helps you feel secure, independent, and less reliant on external validation. Use alone time to reconnect with yourself, pursue interests, and reflect on your values. When you learn to enjoy solitude, you experience life with greater ease and self-assurance.

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Final Thoughts

Life doesn’t have to be as hard as we sometimes make it. With a few changes in mindset and habit, you can trade stress and self-doubt for a more peaceful, fulfilling way of living. Embrace these small shifts, and you may find that making life easier starts with a choice to be kinder to yourself.