Don’t use a lot where a little will do!

The paradox of less is a powerful reminder that sometimes we need to strip away the noise to find clarity and growth. Embracing simplicity and mindful inaction really can lead to profound transformations, whether in our health, understanding, or finances.

2024 was the year with a lot of tough choices, more time to myself and also discovering my identity. Throughout this process I learned a profound truth: less is more. I found that small efforts can lead to great rewards, and the real breakthrough was letting go of unnecessary barriers.

The Power of Less:

• Fasting (not eating) → Better health
• Silence (not speaking) → Deeper insight
• Rest (not working) → Greater productivity
• Frugality (not spending) → Growing wealth
• Simplicity (not complicating) → Clear thinking

These counterintuitive equations reveal life’s hidden treasures. By embracing the art of subtraction, we unlock extraordinary potential within our surroundings.

These ideas reveal that by simplifying and subtracting, we uncover hidden strengths in our lives.

The key? It’s not about constantly doing more, but sometimes doing less.

Often, the best way to move forward is to take a step back.

The phrase “less is more” is a common paradox, one that is often applied to personal style. For example, overdressing can detract from the beauty of an outfit by drawing attention away from its individual details. But I recently discovered that the idea of “less is more” goes far beyond aesthetics. It can be applied to all areas of life, providing a profound shift in how we approach work, relationships, communication, and even personal growth.

The first time I truly understood the power of this paradox was when I realized that I could no longer maintain the grueling hours of corporate life.

I realized I needed a new approach. I decided to focus on accomplishing just one significant task each day — my most important, value-adding task. By doing less, I began to achieve more. This shift taught me that prioritization is key. Instead of being overwhelmed by a never-ending to-do list, I concentrated on what truly mattered. The result? Increased productivity, creativity, and sustained energy throughout the week.

Applying “less is more” to my work transformed my routine and redefined how I measure success. The lesson here is simple: when we prioritize and focus on what is essential, we become more effective. In a world that glorifies hustle culture, it’s important to recognize that burn-out is counterproductive. Mental health and self-care are equally important for long-term success.

After experiencing the benefits of “less is more” in my professional life, I began to explore how this principle could improve other aspects of my life. One area I reflected on was how I present myself to the world. I used to wonder if my modesty was holding me back. Should I be more vocal about my accomplishments? Should I promote myself more aggressively?

But then I realized that “less is more” applies here, too. There is no need to boast about my achievements or push myself to the forefront. Sometimes, allowing people to discover your value on their own creates more meaningful and genuine connections. Think of historical figures who made a significant impact without ever focusing on themselves. These individuals let their work speak for them, and their quiet strength drew others toward them naturally. The concept of servant leadership — leading by serving others — exemplifies this idea. By stepping back and keeping ego out of the equation, we can often achieve greater respect and appreciation.

I also found that “less is more” applies to communication, particularly in relationships. In today’s society, we’re encouraged to express every thought and feeling, to over-communicate. However, I’ve learned that restraint can lead to more harmonious interactions. Holding back, choosing not to say everything that comes to mind, often creates space for deeper understanding. It prevents unnecessary conflict and fosters peace in relationships. Sometimes, silence communicates more than words ever could.

In fact, saying less has improved the quality of my relationships. I’ve discovered that silence, when used mindfully, can be a powerful form of communication. It allows for reflection and listening, two often overlooked but essential components of effective communication.

This philosophy has also changed how I approach my family relationships. I used to believe that being helpful meant constantly stepping in, offering advice, or taking control. But “less is more” has shown me that sometimes the best way to show love is by stepping back. I realized that in trying to help, I was often being overbearing. Offering unsolicited advice, for instance, is one area where less is definitely more. By doing less, I allowed my loved ones to grow and solve their own problems, which is far more empowering for them — and far less stressful for me.

In applying this principle to my physical space, I’ve found that decluttering and letting go of excess possessions has brought me more joy. I now have fewer items, but they are of higher quality and greater value to me. By owning less, I appreciate more. I can savor the things I truly love instead of being overwhelmed by a cluttered environment. This newfound simplicity brings a sense of luxury and abundance that goes beyond material wealth.

In a similar way, simplifying my schedule has brought clarity and balance to my life. By creating fewer obligations, I’ve made space for activities that align with my values and passions. This open time allows me to be more present and focused on what really matters, instead of being consumed by endless tasks and responsibilities.

The idea of “less is more” may seem contradictory at first, but in reality, simplicity brings clarity, peace, and meaning. When we strip away the unnecessary, we uncover what truly matters in life. Here are a few questions to help you apply this concept to your own life:

- How can you do, be, and have less while magnifying your overall happiness, peace, and success?
- Can you prioritize what’s essential and let go of the rest?
- What tasks or habits are draining your energy without adding value?
- In which areas of life are you trying too hard?

Reflecting on these questions can guide you toward a life of greater simplicity, focus, and fulfillment. The beauty of “less is more” is that it applies to every aspect of life, from work to relationships to personal growth. By doing less, we often create space for more — more peace, more meaning, more success.

I encourage you to take small steps each day toward embracing this philosophy. Remove what’s unnecessary, do less, and create pockets of space where ease and flow can thrive. In doing so, you’ll find yourself expanding into a greater version of yourself, one that is aligned with what truly matters.

Based on the post by Karthi Subbaraman on Linkedin and The Paradox of Less is More (And How It Will Improve Your Life) by Rita Seth