Extravagance is attractive; in a society that appeals to being “different” simplicity is just boring. But simplicity is also intimacy, sophistication, and elegance.
It is the ability to expose your naked beauty for the person that you are, without the makeup, the wild outfits or accessories. It is an intimate beauty that is peaceful in comparison to extravagant looks.
But aside from looks/image, simplicity lies in mindset. Taking the rush out of daily activities and replacing them with something serene. Not overthinking and just going with your gut. Why complicate life? Just do it.
There is more than just stripping down your makeup or wearing plainer clothing however, simplicity is sophistication.
Albert Einstein once said, “Any intelligent fool can make things bigger and more complex…it takes a touch of genius – and a lot of courage to move in the opposite direction.” Breaking a problem down and getting to the core is the journey that makes simplicity more rewarding and intelligent.
Just question this: would you lean towards a simpler layout of instructions when building something or complex ones?
We may claim to be up for the challenge, finding the pieces to the puzzles, but what we don't see is that we are drawn to simpler paths. They exemplify intelligence and sophistication in the ability to be more efficient. When a product meets the market for the first time competitors work to produce the same thing with less efficiency, thus, making it simpler. With less efficiency the product is also at a smaller price, something the typical consumer is drawn too.
Essentially, simplicity is relative to validity -- there is nothing simpler than the truth. In addition to representing sophistication, there is a type of courage needed for it. Getting tied up in a lie, or a bunch of lies, is easy -- as well as just hiding oneself through false images. But standing up to the simple truth, not so easy.
It's human nature to see complex things as better, but author and psychologist Edward De Bono said it best, "Complexity creates confusion, simplicity focus."
Hand in hand with truthfulness, simplicity shows elegance.
Similarly to the way simplicity emphasizes ones naked qualities, it shows elegance through control. Whether it be control over ones image or demeanor, being able to present it with elegance is "simple".
And in a world where complexity and extravagance is a norm; simplicity stands out.
There is nothing boring about being a minimalist. Where human nature draws complexity, minimalism draws control. Leading a simple mindset means to lead a life of intimacy, sophistication, and elegance. The softest touch between arms may have more meaning than leap into another's arms. Controlling it is where the actual complication lies.
