I’ve been thinking a lot about busyness lately: why it is that we fill our schedules up to the brim, leaving no time for things that are fruitful, and letting ourselves become anxious and stressed beyond comprehension. I’ve shared quite frequently as of late about how the clothes in my closet have been transitioning into much more simple and classic pieces in the past year. It wasn’t intentional by any means, but upon a bit of reflection it sort of feels like this change has been concurrent with what’s been going on in my life, too.

Last year it got to the point where I couldn’t see beyond the day-to-day, and was so stressed that I would close my eyes at night to sleep and my mind couldn’t shut off. I think it came from trying to please others and just being afraid that not doing something all the time meant that I wasn’t working hard enough or that I wasn’t enough. What changed? Well, in a nutshell, my heart. Defining purpose and focusing on what matters most, without the need to complicate things. An understanding of whose I am. And this certainly doesn’t come from a place of having it all figured out – not even close. I might even sound naive in writing all of this and that’s okay. I just know that it’s all too easy to slip into life this way, having the weeks, months, and years fly by with no overarching mission… and I have a feeling I’m not the only one who feels this way.

There’s been such joy in being okay with missing out on certain social engagements or opportunities, allowing myself to be transparent and sometimes wrong, knowing that none of that defines my valueIronically, I’ve actually been a lot more productive and have accomplished more, being able to work harder when I need to be working… but taking time out intentionally to rest and for investing in others. I don’t frequently get personal on this blog, but felt compelled to today for whatever reason. I hope this serves as a bit of midweek inspiration to focus on what matters, and I’d love to hear your thoughts on this!


Wearing: Joe Fresh shirt, Mackage jacket, LOFT jeans, J.Crew pumps, benah bag (borrowed from Jenny)

Photos by Jenny Liu

11 comments on “Minimal

  1. Very thought provoking post and in a way, I’ve been feeling the same the past year or so. It’s funny but strangely true how our wardrobes reflect our lifestyles. I think with the pace of our world nowdays it’s so easy to be wrapped up in day to day activities that the weeks and months roll by mindlessly. For me at least, I often try to just fit “one more thing” into my day and before I know it it’s nearly 2am already and I’m not getting enough sleep.
    Balance is certainly a lifelong adjustment but I like to remind myself it can be done! Time doesn’t cheat, everyone has 24 to start and end their day!

  2. I’ve been such a fan! but t this is my first time commenting… I always thought I was doing something wrong where busy-ness was concerned. It’s nice to know I’m not the only one. Thanks for making keeping it real – look beautiful :)

  3. I think it’s great you’re taking time to reflect on what’s important in life and what makes you feel happy and at peace. We are so blessed to live in a country and a time where we are free to do what we want and become who we want to be. Sometimes we can’t help but want to strive for the best, but we can’t forget about our own health and happiness. Keep chasing your dreams and don’t forget to stop and smell the roses every once in a while!

    P.S Been loving your looks lately!

    xoxo

    Souda

  4. nice contemplation. just wanted to share with you what i’ve been into these past couple of years.

    http://www.becomingminimalist.com/6/

    http://www.theminimalists.com/what/

    http://www.rowdykittens.com/2014/05/sabbatical/

    http://zenhabits.net/career/

  5. Jen, you’re such a beauty inside & out. I love when you get personal on the blog. It always resonates so strongly with my own belief system and I love reading your point of view. You sound far from naive by the way. You’re an amazingly thoughtful and intelligent woman and I adore you for it!! Looking gorgeous as ever… love your simple & chic style!! xoxo

  6. Day-to-day stresses can be a HUGE killjoy, dear Jen…glad to hear that you are finding contentment in simplifying your life!! I’ve been lucky to somehow have missed out on the whole “fear of missing out” thing; I have a job that I enjoy, a small but cozy home, and a husband and family that love me…I’m happy to leave “overachieving” up to someone else!!

    http://www.StyleIsMyPudding.com

  7. Thank you for this! It’s good to know that we all have the same pressures and worries, in one way or another. I love seeing your style evolution follow your life growth: you look amazing!

  8. I absolutely agree.. In North America, we tend to measure our success by how stressed and busy we are.. I love how in Europe, they take time to rest as a non-negotiable part of their day. I’m working on that!

  9. Such true words – we feel like we have to be everywhere for everyone and forget about ourselves in the process! I have always felt an obligation to say yes to everything and it can really lead to burn out!
    I love your outfit here – I really like how you have mixed high end pieces and also a shirt from Joe – shows fashion comes in all price ranges.

    If you would like to visit my blog (I am actually running a great giveaway for canadian residents) it is http://www.theurbanumbrella.com

  10. I strongly believe that we loose more opportunities while we are stressed and constantly working on other things. We shut down from the outside world and live in our own word filled with schedules and timelines. We might get so engaged with this world that we forget to check if we actually enjoy our work or if it is the right direction for us. And later, often when it is quite too late, we stop for a second and realize that this place we are in is not something we want at all.
    So glad you have noticed this process, Jen.
    In the end being happy is the most important thing in life.
    Because how can you enjoy your achievements if you are upset? xx
    Nitabiti

  11. Jen, I’m just catching up on my blog feed now, and took the time to read this. I love it. Thanks for sharing from your heart and I can completely relate with the crazy busyness of life. I’m sure others can, too. I honestly don’t know how you maintain such a quality blog and work, too! Would love to read more personal posts.

    By the way, gorgeous photos! I love classic styles. :)

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