Celebrate National Simplicity Day (Without Overcomplicating It)

July 12th is National Simplicity Day—a day inspired by Henry David Thoreau, who famously wrote, “Our life is frittered away by detail… simplify, simplify.”

I love the idea of celebrating simplicity, but why only one day of the year? What about the other 364? Are we just embracing chaos and clutter until next July rolls around?

Let’s not.

Simplicity isn’t about rigid minimalism or tossing everything you own. It’s about making choices—small ones—that create a little more ease, clarity, and breathing room in your everyday life.

So whether July 12th lands on a weekday full of meetings or a lazy summer Saturday, here are a few truly simple ways to celebrate:

✨ 1. Declutter one small space

Think junk drawer, nightstand, or the corner of the counter that somehow becomes a paper magnet. Set a timer for 15 minutes, sort what’s there, toss or recycle what you don’t need, and enjoy the instant satisfaction of a cleared space.

🗓 2. Simplify your schedule for the day

Cancel something that’s not urgent. Say no to one thing. Or resist the urge to cram “just one more” errand into your day. Give yourself some breathing room—on purpose.

🧺 3. Streamline your laundry routine

Hot take: you do not have to sort your laundry by color. (Most modern machines and detergents are up to the task—especially if you wash in cold water.) Try doing one mixed load and see how much time and mental energy you save.

🥣4. Make a “simplify” swap

What’s one thing you can do more easily today? Eat cereal for dinner? Wear your go-to outfit, even if you've already worn it 3 times this week? Skip the elaborate to-do list and just focus on your top 3? Small choices add up.

💚5. Just. Sit. Still.

Even if it’s for five minutes. Outside, inside, with a cup of coffee, or just your thoughts. One of the most radical things you can do in a busy world is pause.

Simplicity doesn’t need to be a whole lifestyle overhaul. It can start with one drawer, one load of laundry, one quiet moment.

So, happy National Simplicity Day. Let’s make it the start of something a little lighter—not just for July 12th, but for all the days that follow.