There are lots of great books, across many topics that apply to simple living. And while I could create a long list of relevant titles, I think that would do a disservice, as we try to keep things simple around here.
The top five simple living books that I highlighted below are all chosen based on their ability to encourage a more a simple lifestyle in their respective topic areas. These are my personal favorites that helped shape my philosophy of what simple living means to me.
There are many more great simple living books, and I encourage you to add a comment with your personal favorite.
My Top 5 Favorite Simple Living Books
1.The Guide To The Good Life by William Irvine – If you are looking to better understand how to control your emotions and live a more fulfilling life, this is the book for you. It’s a beautifully written book on applying old stoic philosophy to our modern life.
2. Simplify by Joshua Becker – This quick read lays the groundwork for why you’d want to simplify your life. Josh does a nice job of sharing his story, then provides a framework to begin simplifying. For more of his writing, check out his blog becomingminimalist.com.
3. The Life Changing Magic of Tidying-Up by Marie Kondo – This is THE book if you are looking at how to clean up the clutter in your home. Kondo shares her philosophy on home organization, as well as provides a framework to make decisions on what to keep, and what to remove.
4. Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey – With so many personal finance books out there (and I’ve read many), Dave Ramsey stands out as somebody with a proven track record of getting people to improve their financial habits. His plan is simple, does not play any tricks, and it encourages you to become debt free and save money.
5. Meditations by Marcus Aurelius – Did you ever want to read the life thoughts of a roman emperor from almost 2000 years ago? Meditations is the life/philosophy journal from Marcus Aurelius. This book is a great way to transcend time and learn ancient lessons of living.
And many more.
But seriously though, there are lots of great books on personal finance, emotions, relationships, etc, that will provide you inspiration for simple living. By reading more, you’ll be able to find bits and pieces of each author’s philosophy that you can incorporate into your own life.
What are your favorite simple living books? Leave a comment!
Great books. I also like Leo Babauta from Zen Habits. His blog and books inspire simplicity.
Great suggestions. I have read 4 of the 5, but Dave’s last name is spelled Ramsey.
Good catch – thank you!
I have two favorites.
Goodbye, things by Fumio Sasaki. His book inspired Marie Kondo to write her book, The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up.
Living the Simple Life by Elaine St. James.
Two books added to my to-be-read list, thank you!