Simplify: 106 ways to uncomplicate your life

Paul Borthwick
Authentic (2007)
ISBN 9781934068014
Reviewed by Cathy Yanda for Reader Views (5/08)


Has there been one day in your life where you knew if you could just get things together, your life would be much better? Has there been more than one? If you are like most of us, the answer would be a resounding YES! In this case, this book is for you. If you have never experienced the need to simplify and uncomplicate your life, you can stop now, as this book is not for you. Borthwick writes, “Lack of focus often manifests itself in multi-tasking that results in unfinished projects.” I never thought this was true for me until his words caused me to think more about it. He was right. I began thinking about what I needed to do to make things happen, to tend to the more important things in my life and found that I would have more time and focus if I let go of some things that I really didn’t need or want to do.

“Simplify” is a small book that is laid out in short chapters around topics that look at determining whether you need or want something, staying fit, how to spend your downtime, and much more. The book has many references to Biblical principles and a resource appendix. With 106 different topics, you can choose to read one a day, two a week, or even one a week, or you can do as I did and read the entire book, highlight the ones you need to concentrate on and re-read them as needed.

Borthwick reminds us to remember that our life is not the norm for others, and that we should make decisions about how our life goes. We cannot depend on someone else to do so. He shares that “God’s priorities for us are summarized in Micah 6:8. What does God want from us? To act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.” When we begin to look at our lives through this test, we will begin to live with moderation in all things. “Simplify” is highly recommended reading for those of us who have at any time felt like we lost control of some of the important things in life and want a simpler, better life.

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