The dawn of a new year often brings with it aspirations of self-improvement. As 2026 approaches, many find themselves crafting ambitious to-do lists, only to feel overwhelmed as the initial burst of energy wanes. Instead of adding more tasks, experts suggest a different approach: simplifying your life by doing less.
From daily chores to long-term planning, here are 52 expert tips designed to ease the burdens of modern life and help you focus on what truly matters.
Streamlining Daily Tasks
Professional organizer Susan C. Pinsky advises against perfectionism in organizing. “A drawer of jumbled underwear, but only underwear, is organized enough,” she says. Reducing sock styles to two can also eliminate the need for sorting and matching.
Productivity expert Moyra Scott recommends cutting down on emails. “The more you send, the more you get back,” she notes, suggesting that unnecessary emails only add to the workload.
Meanwhile, organizational psychologist Dr. Amantha Imber highlights the energy drain of “shallow work” like constant messaging, urging focus on larger tasks instead.
“Skip that multivitamin,” advises Dr. Jason Yu, a Sydney-based GP. “They often have very minimal scientific evidence to support their claims.”
Fashion editor Zara Wong suggests simplifying your wardrobe by wearing a single color from head to toe, while dermatologist Prof. Deshan Sebaratnam recommends prioritizing sunscreen over moisturizer for most skin types.
Weekly Routines and Health
According to Alice Peel, a primary school teacher, allowing children to solve their own problems fosters growth. Similarly, nursery manager Thea Kerr advises letting gardens manage themselves to maintain ecological balance.
Exercise doesn’t need to be complex, says Dr. Kim Way, an exercise physiologist. Simple, enjoyable exercises are often the most effective. Shona Vertue, a personal trainer, adds that skipping cool-downs won’t significantly impact recovery.
For culinary enthusiasts, chef Jo Barrett suggests minimalist cooking with fewer ingredients to create memorable meals. Gastroenterologist Prof. Emad El-Omar encourages a diet rich in plant-based foods over store-bought probiotics for gut health.
“Stop scheduling sex like it’s a chore,” says Georgia Grace, a sex and relationship practitioner. “Instead, schedule intentional time to connect.”
Enjoying Life’s Simple Pleasures
Coffee professional Jibbi Little asserts that high-quality beans are all you need for a great cup of coffee, dismissing the need for fancy gadgets.
Culture editor Steph Harmon advises against forcing yourself to finish unenjoyable books or films. “There’s more brilliant culture out there than anyone could possibly see in one lifetime,” she says.
For social gatherings, journalist Jenny Valentish suggests recognizing personal limits and leaving parties early if needed, emphasizing quality over quantity of time spent.
Travel expert Brett Mitchell from Intrepid Travel advocates for fewer, more meaningful experiences over a packed itinerary, while lifestyle editor Alyx Gorman recommends a day of rest after returning from trips to maintain the holiday spirit.
When Things Go Wrong
Career coach Ellen Hooper advises job seekers to leverage existing networks rather than applying indiscriminately. Meanwhile, Zee Heart of MoneyGirl warns against influencer-driven financial advice.
Clinical psychotherapist Marryam Chehelnabi encourages embracing healthy conflict to foster happiness and connection, while Sally Douglas and Imogen Carn of the Good Mourning podcast stress the importance of simply being present for those grieving.
“Our emotions are our responsibility,” says Dr. Orna Guralnik, emphasizing personal accountability in relationships.
Planning for the Future
Architect Anthony Burke highlights the importance of home orientation for natural heating and cooling, potentially reducing reliance on air conditioning.
Interior designer David Flack advises designing homes for personal enjoyment rather than future resale, while clinical psychologist Zac Seidler cautions against the anxiety of self-optimization.
Career counselor Lois Keay-Smith suggests embracing adaptability in career planning, reflecting the modern workforce’s dynamic nature.
As 2026 unfolds, these expert insights offer a roadmap to a more manageable and fulfilling life. By embracing simplicity and focusing on what truly matters, individuals can navigate the new year with less stress and more joy.
