Around the holidays, there’s always a part of me that wants to make life simpler. This year we decorated a little less. We bought less. We agreed to spend more time together.

In an effort to simplify my online life, I gathered all my websites onto one server. Doing so unleashed a little spam which I finally got under control, but it also made me recognize the amount of email hitting my inbox from retailers, businesses and non-profits–especially during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Had I really signed up for a life where my inbox is filled with more want ads, than notes from friends, family and clients? My days felt more prescribed than subscribed.

Now, instead of clicking through or deleting the emails I don’t have the time to read, I’m taking a few moments to unsubscribe. I don’t need to know that Victoria Secret is selling a bra every week because I have only two boobs, and I will shop when I need to. I don’t need a hotel discount for a place I visited two years ago.

I’m keeping a few newsletters and blogs related to my work or friends, and preferred non-profit updates, so I’m reminded to help others. My hope is this simple life will give me more time with those I love the most. I think that’s the life I’d rather subscribe to. To the rest I say, “And to all a good night.”

How many emails in your inbox each day are “subscriptions?”

How my inbox feels in the morning. A mountain of email, and just hoping to find one from Ted, friends, family or clients.

 

How I want my inbox to feel. A few things to attend to in the distance, clean and clear, with us much more in focus. Both pictures were taken in the Rockies near where I grew up in Canada.

6 Comments on An Unsubscribed Life

  1. I have been needing to do some serious Inbox inventory myself.. it is amazing how quickly your information is fired through the cyber world and dumped right back into your own Inbox. Your comment about only having two boobs made me laugh out loud.. and you are absolutely correct! How many LL Bean clearance items do I need to peruse and if I act now, I can have the entire world shipped to me for FREE! clutter free is good. Thanks for sparking the thought!
    XO
    Leslie

  4. My family adopted a philosophy a few years ago to “Keep it easy.” It’s a wonderful way to approach life, and is amazing how rewarding it is. Here’s to the simple life 🙂

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