Darwin Chapuswike

Living Simply: Finding Peace in a Complicated World

April 16, 2025

In my journey as an L2 Support Engineer at NetOne Zambia, I have often found myself caught up in the fast-paced demands of technology and work. But recently, I have been reflecting on the beauty of living simply, a principle that has brought me immense peace amidst life’s complexities. In a world that constantly demands more, more hustle, more success, more stuff, the idea of living simply feels almost radical. Yet, simplicity is not about deprivation or giving everything up. It is about making room for peace, presence, and what truly matters. In this post, I will share what living simply means to me, its benefits, and practical steps to embrace it in your own life.

What Does It Mean to Live Simply?

Living simply means choosing quality over quantity. It is about shifting focus from the external noise to the internal calm. It does not mean you have to live off the grid, throw out all your possessions, or quit your job. It just means being intentional. Simplicity is less about having less and more about making space. It could be as small as clearing clutter from your desk or as big as rethinking how you spend your time and money.

The Benefits of a Simpler Life

Embracing simplicity has transformed my perspective in several ways:

• Mental Clarity: Clutter, whether physical or mental, can create stress. A simpler life clears the fog and helps you focus.
• More Time: When you are not constantly chasing the next thing, you free up time to truly live in the moment.
• Stronger Relationships: With fewer distractions, you can show up more fully for the people you care about.
• Financial Freedom: Living simply often means spending less, which can lead to saving more and reducing debt.
• Emotional Peace: There is something grounding about not needing everything, about realizing you already have enough.

How to Start Living Simply

You do not need a dramatic life overhaul to start. Here are a few gentle steps to ease into a simpler lifestyle:

1. Declutter One Space at a Time: Start with a drawer or a shelf. Let go of what you do not use or love.
2. Simplify Your Schedule: Say no more often. Leave room for rest, reflection, and fun.
3. Be Mindful with Money: Ask yourself if a purchase adds real value to your life.
4. Practice Digital Minimalism: Limit screen time. Unfollow accounts that drain you. Embrace stillness.
5. Reconnect with Nature: Spend time outside. Watch a sunset. Walk barefoot. Nature teaches us simplicity.

Reflection: A Moment of Simplicity

The photo below captures a moment from 2018, taken during a quiet evening in Lusaka. I was dressed in a simple suit, reflecting on my journey and the values that ground me. The black and white filter adds a timeless quality, reminding me of the enduring importance of simplicity. In that moment, I was not chasing the next big thin, I was simply present, finding peace in the stillness. This image serves as a personal reminder of what living simply looks like for me: stepping back, breathing deeply, and focusing on what truly matters.

Final Thoughts

Living simply is not a trend, it is a return. A return to self, to clarity, to purpose. It is not about what you give up, but what you gain: peace, contentment, and a life that feels truly yours. In the end, simplicity is not something you chase. It is something you remember something that is always been there, waiting for you to come home. As I continue to balance my technical career at NetOne with my personal growth, I am committed to embracing simplicity and sharing these reflections with the tech community in Zambia and beyond.