There’s nothing wrong with this book, but there’s nothing new or desperately interesting about it either. And the title felt a bit misleading: there’s a lot of very generic improve-your-life stuff (mainly pretty obvious), and very little about actually simplifying through the first part.

The first two sections are ‘About You’ – self awareness, on different levels – ‘About You and Me’ – relationships and ‘tribes’. So far, fine but much as will be found in any self-help tome. The third section is about relating to the world and your environment, creativity, purpose – again, not awful, but still had me shouting “Get to the simplicity!”

Section 4 is ‘Essentials’: being present, gratitude, giving, and – FINALLY! – simplicity. Seriously, one short chapter in a book of 23 that deals with the topic I was here for?!

So yeah. Being harsh for not being what it called itself, although otherwise it’s a perfectly fine (if nothing wow) self-help 101. This ‘new, simplified approach’ touted in the preface really wasn’t apparent to me, just light reading on basic topics.

Not bad, but not great. A bit simplistic and preachy for me. I don't think I'm cut out for the minimalist life!

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an advance ARC copy of this book.

As a minimalist such as myself, I still learned quite a few things in Simplify Your Life. There is many talking points in here that I agreed with and already live by since becoming a minimalist. That's not to say this is the epitome of minimalism or even particularly about it, but at it's core, it's all about simplicity and finding peace and clarity through it. I absolutely enjoyed it and will apply the new things I learned into my life.

2/5 (thank you Netgalley & author for the digital arc)

This book goes from 0 to 100 quickly.
Oh you want to simplify your life? Stop smoking, find a way to stop that habit because it ruined your health. Go meditate. Eat organic food only.
Like, I do some of those things, but I don't like how author presents them.

However, the saving grace would be as you read more, you'll find a simple list of things you like, what you think of your future, your dreams, etc. that could help you get your life together.
Although, the friend bit is a bit... awkward. I don't have that many friend and even listing them according to my priority seems weird.

This book is perfect for those who are looking to take a meaning into their life. There's nothing new for me but i'm around the simplicity for two years now, so.

Pros:
- very simple, easy to read, easy to use
- cover from physical to mind areas

Cons:
- condescending tone
- doesn't suit me who's been in the rodeo, but i don't think it's suitable for beginners too