
Have you ever noticed how some people seem to move through life with a sense of energy and purpose—while others just go through the motions? Some wake up excited for the day ahead, while others hit the snooze button, dreading what’s to come.
Why the difference? What separates those who embrace life fully from those who just endure it?
And maybe even more important, which person would you rather be?
A number of years ago, I read an article that has always stuck with me. The article was titled Why Productive People Always Have Time for Exercise. It’s a good short article by Tyler Tervooren—I recommend you take some time to read it.
I’ve always remembered this article because the title struck me. Even before clicking to read it, I remember thinking, “Yeah, that’s right! Why do productive people always have time for exercise? Or even more broadly, why do productive people always seem to have time for everything? How do they get so much done? Are they working harder, faster, better? Are they more disciplined?”
As I read the article, I realized something important: The answer isn’t because productive people have more hours in the day. They find more time, more energy, and more passion to live it to the fullest.
You see, and I stand as living proof of this, the more we experience joy in life, the more we can’t wait to get up and start living it. The more we build a life we can’t wait to live, the more time and passion we find to live it!
As an example, compare the worker who dreads their job to the one who enjoys it:
The person who hates their work scowls at the alarm clock, drags themselves out of bed, moves sluggishly through their morning routine, mopes through the day, counts the hours until quitting time, distracts themselves at night, and then goes to bed late because they don’t want tomorrow to arrive—only to repeat the cycle tomorrow.
The person who enjoys their work, on the other hand, wakes up eager to start the day! They fuel their body with healthy food and exercise because they want to feel their best. They invest fully in their work, purposefully strive to limit distractions, return home with energy, and go to bed with a sense of satisfaction—ready to do it all again in the morning.
People who love the life they live naturally find more time to live it.
Personally, I want that to be true of me all the days of my life. In fact, I want to live a life that doesn’t even require an alarm clock. I want to live a life that I am so excited that I can’t wait to wake up in the morning and start living each day.
Does exercise result in more productivity? Absolutely, just as Tyler points out in his article. But only someone who values their life and how they spend it will want to become more productive in the first place.
That’s why the most important question we can ask ourselves isn’t How can I be more productive? But rather, Am I living a life that energizes and motivates me to be my best in the first place?
And if the answer is no, then what needs to change?
I can tell you that building a life you can’t wait to live rarely requires adding more. Instead, it starts with removing the things that drain us. It begins with clearing space for the things that bring meaning and energy.
For me, the biggest turning point was removing excess possessions. I realized they were robbing me of time, energy, and resources that could have been spent on things that actually mattered. When I let go of the nonessential, I found more freedom and capacity to shape my life around what I truly valued.
But for others, the unnecessary weight might be something different: a draining commitment, a self-defeating mindset, a mismatched expectation, or an unhealthy habit.
If life feels uninspiring, something is holding you back. Identify the nonessential. And remove them entirely. Because the first step in crafting the life you want is to get rid of everything you don’t.
If you want to start living a life that excites you, here are four practical steps to take:
1. Remove the Nonessential – Eliminate what no longer serves you. If it’s physical clutter, start decluttering one small area today. If it’s a commitment, set a plan to step away. If it’s a toxic mindset, seek support and work toward change. The more weight you remove, the more room you create for a better life.
2. Prioritize What Energizes You – Think about what excites you. What do you love to do? What activities make time fly? What do you want to be remembered for? Start making small shifts to bring more of those things into your daily life. Even one small change can reignite purpose and momentum.
3. Take Care of Yourself – You can’t build a life you love if you’re constantly running on empty. Eat well, exercise regularly, and get enough rest. Not as an obligation, but as a way to show up fully for the life you want to live.
4. Be Intentional with Your Time – Time is the most finite resource we have. Invest it in things that matter. Cut back on distractions, limit mindless scrolling, and make space for meaningful activities. The more excited you get about the life you are building, the easier this becomes to do. But get started now.
We only get one shot at life. Why not make it one we want to wake up for?
I love writing. I am a girl who writes in journals. Yes journals, multiple a day. One for setting an intention, gratitude, a calendar, etc. A different pocketsize for travelling. It was exhausting to keep up, saw the full piles stacking up of full journals and still I was looking for that one best planner most of the time. I even asked your advise on Twitter one day Joshua, which one to keep? You retweeted my message, something like Keep what adds value to your life, loose everything that doesn’t.
I actually decluttered some journals, empty and full ones, or half written.
It would still go on however. Not able to see what doesnt add value. Maybe some days of the week I’d print and cut out photos to go along with the memories. To make it even more valuable I thought. And still searching for new cute journals. Like I haven’t found the best one out there yet. I even bought an erasable one.. (two) to feel less guilty. While I am typing this on your blog, it feels like I finally see my whole – gotten out of hand – journey. I am highly sensitive and in this fast paced family life, I ‘needed’ this writing time daily. But recently I became aware. I am a morning person, doing yoga before everyone wakes up and yes, journal.
My husband and kids come in the room while I am writing and I am so into it most of the time, I noticed myself hardly looking up, ‘afraid’ I’d forgot to write down what I intended. I am ‘she and her little books-girl’, according to my family.
Sigh.. this is not what I want to be remembered by.
I used to think diary’s or journals are magical and mysterious legacy’s to see and read when somone’s gone. To be able to look into their heads as comforting or simply to be read as stories. But last year my mother in law passed away and we found journals. Leaving the family feeling powerless, because we would read she was feeling very lonely most of the time. But never spoke up. She had a beautiful heart warming laugh. As her being a mother of 7 kids we weren’t aware of her loneliness. But now it cannot be fixed anymore. I started wondering why I’d keep journals. What is the intended outcome. Most importantly, I am missing out on now. My life is great, so thankful for it and I want to write it all down, but now I am ready to let that go.
Reading and watching your inspiration made me finally thoroughly feel the fact I am distracted from things that matter. Years and years I have been soking up your and other people’s minimalisme inspiration and I have made some steps, but sometimes accumulating again like in a viscious circle.
This year will finally be the year of less. Thank you.
On January 1, I made a change that I had been thinking about for a few months. I was an Amazon Vine reviewer and had grown increasingly fretful and unhappy with doing it. Every article I read of yours, Josh, just seemed to point to that frustration produced by ordering products I didn’t for the most part give a damn about, trying them, reviewing them–as a former professional book reviewer, writer and editor I was thoroughly entrenched in writing thoughtful and useful reviews rather than slap-and-dash one–and deciding what to do with the products if I didn’t want them.
So much time! So much effort! So much crap! I hated the fact some of it went to the landfill. And I especially hated the fact that by my reviews I was contributing all too well to the extreme consumerist movement that destroys people and the environment.
So I spent all December thinking about it before I opted out completely.
And very, very, very happily. It has been one of the best life decisions I have ever made. I felt and still feel so free now that I have discarded those golden handcuffs (actually cheap gold-plated ones).
Thank you.
I am currently dealing with not only my own material possessions, but those of my mother who passed away almost a month ago. I am starting to get up the gumption to sort through things. Of course, it will be especially difficult getting rid of her things, but I think she would support me on that. Joshua, you are a wonderful writer and human being. I know you get paid to spread the word about your passion, and you deserve every penny. I don’t know when you started the becomingminimalist movement, but it is just what the doctor ordered to help us attain the best days.
As I continue to read and appreciate the articles in my email from Becoming Minimalist, it has kept my mindset focused on “less is more” and “things that matter”. I have recently been thinking of how to become more productive and how finding the balance in health can actually help me achieve productivity and finding purpose (adequate sleep, diet, exercise, and less stress with clutter). This article confirmed it all. I love the resources and related articles provided. Thank you. This lifestyle is truly life changing! Blessings to you!
I love these articles and all of your post!! I am 57 and looking toward “semi retirement” coming up!! Less is more!!!
I love your articles, they are so inspiring. My problem now is I’ve reached the time in my life when I’ve lost my husband and three of my four pets which were my furbabies. It’s just me now and one little dog so I’m having a hard time finding meaning in my life at this time. I would love to have your advice on how you pick up the pieces and find meaning in a life that is now devoid of the most significant person in your life and even your precious little fur babies. I am decluttering and I am trying to find meaning in other aspects but I would love your feedback on this, Joshua. I really do value what you have to say.
I understand where you’re coming from. We lost our son in May 2024. I used to be the person that got up I the morning, looking forward to what I wanted to accomplish that day, but that isn’t the case anymore. It’s a hard place to be. Know that you aren’t alone in the struggle.
Wanting less?!.. the secret sauce to a livelier flavor of daily living has its root as you pointed to. Have less , see more (clarity) I get it.. now for the exodus of the THINGS that weigh down. Thanks so much!!!
Love this advice – encouraging & straightforward…makes clear points!
Thank you ???? for sharing!
This article is great. So true…thanks for your emails…
Sure – but then again, there are so many variables.
Working as a dive instructor / guide is something I love to do. I get up at 5:30, clocking at 7:30 and clock out at 5:00 pm, unless the departure is earlier or I have to stay later for some reason.
Six days a week, no paid leave.
Well, believe it or not, it does get tiring in the morning, and I do need an alarm clock (ok, I usually wake up at 5am before it rings, body rhythm). In the evening I’m too zonked out to do much, and usually crash at 9pm.
And on days off, I’m happy to be out the water and/or the office, and can’t say I have much energy left to do great things.
Still, it is a life I love. I love being out, being underwater, taking guests out. I’m 46 and I’ve been doing this for years and yes, this is what I like. Doesn’t mean I don’t enjoy having breaks from it as well.
But hey, loving your life (style?) doesn’t mean the sun is always shining. There are many downsides as well, and energy is not suddenly a freeflowing tap because you enjoy what you’re doing.
Finding more time to live it? Not quite sure about that one.
There’s only so many hours in a day, and it depends on context, and how much control you personally have over your schedule.
The is no dream-life. Chasing this is an illusion.
It’s more question of balancing out what drives you, and living a life you’re content with, and which can accomodate those drives.
And yes, those drive can and do change!
I get it…. this was an article for those who are not depressed.
<3
Thank you for always sharing such an amazing perspective ❤️ Your articles motivate me daily and I appreciate your time and effort in sharing them. Cheers to a more simple, real life!
I love this. It reminds me of Seth Godin’s quote, “Instead of wondering when your next vacation is, maybe you should set up a life you don’t need to escape from.” This is why we sold all of our belongings, packed five carry-on bags, and set out to see the world with our three kids in 2013. Do we work? Yes. But our days are framed by the sunrise and sunset and our desire to jump out of bed and see what the world has in store for us! Amazing article. Thank you.
One day I wake up, and out of the blue I googled: How to live a simple life and luckily I found this website. Thank you :)
Loving my new outlook on Life. Keep what u love, get rid of the rest.
Will be spending time with family members who will never understand this concept. I know a few will be trying to dismiss my happiness, ridicule my belief that less is more, obsess over their possessions.
People still believe only way to show that you suceeded in life is fancy cars in driveway, four car garage full of stuff, and big house.
Meanwhile husband and I r enjoying experiences, spending less time cleaning and maintenance on our modest home cuz we decluttered.
Our big project and purchase of summer is a 35 year old pop up so we can camp longer into season. It will hold all we need.
Funny you should mention the alarm clock. When I left the Corporate World 14 years ago that was one of my measures of success – to not wake up by an alarm clock. Been living that way for many years now and it is blissful to just wake up naturally every day and step into the day at whatever pace feels right that day.
May I ask what caused your transition and what your vocation is now? I have tried everything to focus on me despite the circus and rat race that is my J.O.B. Now I’m forced to take a month off. Dr’s orders. Thank you for your insight.
Wow. This hit where it hurts today. I am totally miserable with my life. I am a stay at home mum of 3. I am living overseas in a country which speaks a language different from my own. I am here cause it is my husbands dream. I have spent so long following the dreams of others I don’t even know what I would want to do anymore. I dont have a clue what makes me happy. Let alone what type of life I want to live. Gosh how does one move forward from here?
Hello Yvonne,
I have just read your comment and though almost a month later, I felt compelled to respond.
I can really feel your pain. As I’m just two years into my minimalist journey, I’m definitely far from an expert! This does not bother me though as I am enjoying the journey. While I have no spouse and I live only with my cat as my children are now adults and living their own lives on another continent, I was very unhappy with my life and found myself so overwhelmed by how many changes I needed to make in order to improve it, that for many years I actually did nothing!
If you haven’t already done so, then may I suggest that you start simply by looking through some of your personal belongings and get rid (Donate, Sell, Bin) of those which you feel you could really do without. I’m pretty sure you will find a post on this site with tips on how to do this. Start small, for example, with a drawer. I found that, at the same rate, this started to clear my mind of clutter also, which helped me to start seeing what is important to me and what I needed in order to be happy in my own skin, and therefore, in life.
Though I still have a fair way to go, two years and 5 house clear-outs later, not only do I notice a huge increase in my self esteem but family, friends and acquaintances have positively commented on my increased confidence, strength, and even height! (despite not wearing heels).
Give it a go and see what happens, there are fantastic blogs/communities to help you along the way.
Warmest wishes for you,
Tammy.
That unfair comment made me sad. I am so grateful for Josh and his website and blog. I have found your advice and thoughts an absolute life-changer. Why do people feel they have to criticise people whose stance is different to theirs? It takes time to write a post – why don’t people spend time pursuing the things they DO believe in?
I am with Maureen: I too, in my early 40s, got rid of people I found difficult to tolerate. That was actually the beginning of minimalism for me. Since that time, I have gotten happier. In fact, we got so happy that we had two babies in the span of 24 months. Life is much better now. Because we are minimalists, we have much more quality time with family, without all the extraneous things that distract, and paradoxically, make us unhappy.
Productivity is much higher these days. We are producing better fruits.
Wow, I have been reading this blog for awhile now and I love most of it. I have a strange relationship with minimalism, I do think it is a better way to live. To each his own. My way is different than others that have posted here. Chris, why on earth would you come on here and attack this author this way? If you do not agree with his views that is great, do not read it, and do not post. Go start your maximalism site and see how successful you are. No need to lash out at a man putting out good, peaceful information that many people enjoy reading and adapting to their lifestyle. I hope you just had a bad day, Peace my brother.
Joshua, you rock! ;)
Most of this minimalism stuff is nonsense. You have decided to make yourself a career based on simplistic notions. The fact that you are writing and updating a blog is not of minimal effort itself as you could make more money working a few hours in your local pub. In reality, the blog is an ego trip that assumes people agree with your lifestyle – almost as if you are reaffirming your own insecurities.
Minimalism is as old as time began and you are re-circulating the same old crap as most philosophy types do. I live in a house full of junk and i love it, it is full of colour and represents all of my interests. 20 pairs of shoes and 20 coats is not a problem to me. Oh, maybe i should make a career out of writing about ‘maximalism’ which has as much meaning as ‘minimalism’ . This is surely not a life existence for you? to devote a whole life to analysing pointless arguments about nothing.
Interesting analysis Chris. There is a reason philosophers and spiritual guides and writers return to the notion of simplicity over and over again. It is important. And as a whole, we often need to be reminded of it.
All a matter if perspective, whatever works for that person, is what is right for them..
I personally am thankful for your posts, it keeps me focused. In a country obsessed my materialism, I could feel what mattered to me and my soul slipping away…always had mind set that I just needed to work harder on keeping it all organized and cleaned…an almost impossible task. Also taking away what is most precious commodity of all, Time.
Through growing older and reading posts like yours and others, it has helped focus my thoughts. I am far from those minimalists that only have 100 items, as I feel like that is not freeing to me. But am parting with all that isn’t precious or useful.
Sorry to see you seem so full of anger Chris ! It can be said that those content with their life don’t need to criticise others so maybe a bit of a sort through of your feelings might help?
As all the previous commenters have noted, this really struck a chord with me. As a recent college graduate, I just started my first 9-5 and am trying to gauge how much time I’ll be able to allott to personal endeavors, my blog, relationships, and so on and so forth. Culture tries to convince you that there will be little to no time left for that by the end of your day and even the end of a long week. I love this idea that we get more done in every aspect of our lives if we pour into our personal interests and passions.
With it, I plan to keep up exercise and tackle a little bit of writing every day. Setting the intention is the best start, so thanks for the inspiration!
Right this minute – I am! I moved to Bondi Beach and starting running so I could get fit and appreciate my new surroundings. I went from running 0.5km (getting breathless) to running 5-7km several times a week, spend time meeting up with friends and prioritising writing; your sentiments are very true!
How did you work up to this. I’m not as fit as I once was due to some health issues which I’m working on.