This is something that a fashionista with style and good taste will say. See Eileen Bygrave’s article on Style, not fashion
The title above is a quote of Leonardo da Vinci.
Does this apply to lifestyles? I like to believe so.
Simple Lifestyle
I have always tried to live simply. I don’t need the expensive European car. I don’t need a good class bungalow with a swimming pool (not that I can afford it), designer clothes, shoes and handbags. Simple food, no roast beef or suckling pig or Peking duck, as I am pescatarian.
I feel that the markup for slight increases in quality is too high. So I accept things that are “good enough”.
Simple and Sophisticated or Simple and Cheap
But, is my lifestyle simple and sophisticated, or is it simple and cheap?
Simplicity does not necessarily equate with cheap, for simplicity can be expensive and classy. You don’t buy much, but you buy quality, Similarly, the minimalist lifestyle can be economical, or costly because of quality products.
Living within Your Means
Ultimately, it boils down to living within your means. You can be minimalist, simple and sophisticated, or simple and cheap (or not so cheap).
When you have more than enough, share it with family, friends and neighbors. This refers to occasions when you receive a gift of food items that you cannot completely consume, when you make purchases in bulk because of a discount, or extra tickets to a concert which you buy to get company. Just gift it. You lose nothing, you gain friendship and gratitude.
De clutter your Possessions
Many of us in our senior years attempt to simplify our lives by culling our many collections accumulated over the years. We read about those who ultimately have to live in nursing homes with limited room for possessions. We realize that we really need very little. But it is difficult to cull, there are too many memories. Perhaps we should ask others to cull for us.
Albert Einstein believed that a simple and unassuming manner of life is better for everyone. Who am I to disagree with him?
Indeed, simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.
lingsinglin
Dr Ling Sing Lin is a medical doctor by training. She worked in MOH HQ for many years, in policy making and administrative positions, until her retirement.
