The Simple Living Handbook

February 25, 2013
Minimalist lifestyle blogger Lippincott (LovingSimpleLiving.com) extolls the virtues of an uncluttered existence—both literally and figuratively—in this handy tome. While readers might be expecting yet another book on how to simply clean and organize their material possessions, the author goes several steps further to apply the simplification process to all areas of life—from paring down time-wasting habits like watching too much TV to letting go of excess guilt from the past. While Lippincott does offer useful tips on managing actual possessions, she insists that the key to a happy, fulfilled life is to learn how to focus on what is most important, spiritually and mentally, and discard the rest. Along the way, she shares her own stories about the processes she’s used to live these principles, including trading in a house for a small apartment (which she shares with her husband and two small children) and finding a way to say “No” when she’s overbooked. This thought-provoking offering will have readers seeing their lives and possessions in a new light.

June 1, 2013

According to blogger Lippincott (lovingsimpleliving.com), decluttering is a lot like losing weight--getting started is the hardest part, but the results are worth the effort. More important than an organized space is a serene mind, says Lippincott, who covers the psychological and practical implications of resizing one's life. She includes the usual room-by-room sorting/tossing advice but then devotes chapters to simplifying one's schedule, escaping debt, and rising above judgmental thoughts. Lippincott writes from a Christian perspective, but atheists and adherents of any faith will find her suggestions sound. VERDICT Accessible and chock-full of useful advice.

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