A collection of simplicity quotes, sayings and proverbs to share with your friends and family.
Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. ~Leonardo da Vinci
Nature is pleased with simplicity. ~Isaac Newton
It is simplicity that makes the uneducated more effective than the educated when addressing popular audiences. ~Aristotle
To be simple is the best thing in the world; to be modest is the next best thing. I am not sure about being quiet. ~G. K. Chesterton
Life is not complex. We are complex. Life is simple, and the simple thing is the right thing. ~Oscar Wilde
Less is more. ~Mies van der Rohe
The best things are nearest: breath in your nostrils, light in your eyes, flowers at your feet, duties at your hand, the path of God just before you. Then do not grasp at the stars, but do life’s plain, common work as it comes, certain that daily duties and daily bread are the sweetest things of life. ~Robert Louis Stevenson
Purity and simplicity are the two wings with which man soars above the earth and all temporary nature. ~Thomas à Kempis
Let us learn to live simply, so that others may simply live. ~Mahatma Gandhi
Beauty of style and harmony and grace and good rhythm depend on simplicity. ~Plato
Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler. ~Albert Einstein
The firm, the enduring, the simple, and the modest are near to virtue. ~Confucius
Making the simple complicated is commonplace; making the complicated simple, awesomely simple, that’s creativity. ~Charles Mingus
The ability to simplify means to eliminate the unnecessary so that the necessary may speak. ~Hans Hofmann
Things to remember: 1) The worth of character; 2) The improvement of talent; 3) The influence of example; 4) The joy of origination; 5) The dignity of simplicity; 6) The success of perseverance. ~Marshall Field
Simplicity is an exact medium between too little and too much. ~Sir Joshua Reynolds
Simplicity is the nature of great souls. ~Papa Ramadas
Reduce the complexity of life by eliminating the needless wants of life, and the labors of life reduce themselves. ~Edwin Way Teale
Simplicity, simplicity, simplicity! I say let your affairs be as one, two, three and to a hundred or a thousand… We are happy in proportion to the things we can do without. ~Henry David Thoreau
Simplicity is making the journey of this life with just baggage enough. ~Anonymous
Simplicity is indeed often the sign of truth and a criterion of beauty. ~Mahlon Hoagland
Simple style is like white light. It is complex, but its complexity is not obvious. ~Anatole France
A little simplification would be the first step toward rational living, I think. ~Eleanor Roosevelt
I’ve learned to keep things simple. Look at your choices, pick the best one, then go to work with all your heart. ~Pat Riley
I believe that a simple and unassuming manner of life is best for everyone, best both for the body and the mind. ~Albert Einstein
It is the sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all. ~Laura Ingalls Wilder
In character, in manners, in style, in all things, the supreme excellence is simplicity. ~Henry Longsworth Longfellow
I have learned by some experience, by many examples, and by the writings of countless others before me, also occupied in the search, that certain environments, certain modes of life, certain rules of conduct are more conducive to inner and outer harmony than others. There are, in fact, certain roads that one may follow. Simplification of life is one of them. ~Ann Morrow Lindbergh
Any intelligent fool can make things bigger, more complex, and more violent. It takes a touch of genius–and a lot of courage–to move in the opposite direction. ~E. F. Schumacker
All the great things are simple, and many can be expressed in a single word: freedom, justice, honor, duty, mercy, hope. ~Winston Churchill
Three Rules of Work: Out of clutter find simplicity; From discord find harmony; In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity. ~Albert Einstein
A vocabulary of truth and simplicity will be of service throughout your life. ~Winston Churchill
The simplest things are often the truest. ~Richard Bach
Simply the thing that I am shall make me live. ~William Shakespeare
Simplicity is the final achievement. After one has played a vast quantity of notes and more notes, it is simplicity that emerges as the crowning reward of art. ~Frederic Chopin
Simplicity is the glory of expression. ~Walt Whitman
Man is an over-complicated organism. If he is doomed to extinction he will die out for want of simplicity. ~Ezra Pound
Life is beautiful in its simplicity. ~Thomas Matthiessen
You can often find in rivers what you cannot find in oceans. ~Indian proverb
Beware the barrenness of a busy life. ~Socrates
The ordinary arts we practice every day at home are of more importance to the soul than their simplicity might suggest. ~Thomas More
In a world often overwhelmed by complexity, it’s refreshing to pause and reflect on the beauty of simplicity. The following collection of quotes, sayings, and proverbs celebrates the elegance and power of simplicity. From the wisdom of Leonardo da Vinci to the musings of Albert Einstein, these insights offer guidance on how to simplify our lives, appreciate the beauty of the uncomplicated, and find harmony in a busy world.
Simplicity as Sophistication – Leonardo da Vinci
Leonardo da Vinci, a true Renaissance genius, recognized that “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” In a world where complexity is often mistaken for sophistication, da Vinci’s words remind us that true elegance lies in simplicity. The ability to distill complex ideas into simple, understandable concepts is a mark of true genius.
Nature’s Fondness for Simplicity – Isaac Newton
Isaac Newton, the father of modern physics, observed that “Nature is pleased with simplicity.” Nature’s inherent simplicity is evident in the elegant laws that govern the universe. From the graceful orbits of planets to the straightforward principles of gravity, nature’s simplicity has inspired countless scientific discoveries.
Simplicity’s Effectiveness – Aristotle
Aristotle astutely noted that “It is simplicity that makes the uneducated more effective than the educated when addressing popular audiences.” In communication, simplicity often reigns supreme. Complex ideas can become muddled, while simple, clear messages resonate with people. Effective communication is not about using big words; it’s about being understood.
The Virtues of Simplicity – G. K. Chesterton
G. K. Chesterton humorously pondered, “To be simple is the best thing in the world; to be modest is the next best thing. I am not sure about being quiet.” Simplicity and modesty are virtues that guide us toward a balanced life. While being quiet isn’t always necessary, simplicity and modesty bring clarity and humility to our actions.
Life’s True Nature – Oscar Wilde
Oscar Wilde offered a profound perspective on life: “Life is not complex. We are complex. Life is simple, and the simple thing is the right thing.” Often, we complicate our lives with unnecessary worries and distractions. Wilde reminds us to strip away the complexities and embrace the simplicity of living in the present.
Less is More – Mies van der Rohe
Architect Mies van der Rohe famously stated, “Less is more.” This minimalist design principle highlights the beauty of simplicity in aesthetics and functionality. By eliminating the superfluous, we can focus on what truly matters, resulting in elegant and efficient solutions.
The Sweetness of Daily Duties – Robert Louis Stevenson
Robert Louis Stevenson beautifully captures the essence of simplicity in daily life: “The best things are nearest: breath in your nostrils, light in your eyes, flowers at your feet, duties at your hand, the path of God just before you. Then do not grasp at the stars, but do life’s plain, common work as it comes, certain that daily duties and daily bread are the sweetest things of life.” Finding joy in life’s simple pleasures and responsibilities brings contentment.
Wings of Virtue – Thomas à Kempis
Thomas à Kempis likened purity and simplicity to wings that allow us to soar above the mundane: “Purity and simplicity are the two wings with which man soars above the earth and all temporary nature.” These virtues elevate our souls and guide us toward a higher, more meaningful existence.
Simplicity for the Greater Good – Mahatma Gandhi
Mahatma Gandhi encouraged us to embrace simplicity not just for ourselves but for the benefit of others: “Let us learn to live simply so that others may simply live.” By reducing our own wants and consumption, we can contribute to a more equitable and sustainable world.
Harmony Through Simplicity – Plato
Plato recognized the connection between beauty and simplicity: “Beauty of style and harmony and grace and good rhythm depend on simplicity.” Whether in art, music, or life, simplicity fosters a sense of harmony and balance that resonates with our innate sense of aesthetics.
Simplicity in Problem Solving – Albert Einstein
Albert Einstein, the renowned physicist, emphasized the importance of simplicity in problem-solving: “Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler.” This quote reminds us that while simplification is crucial, it should not sacrifice accuracy or completeness.
The Virtue of Endurance – Confucius
Confucius highlighted the virtues of the firm, the enduring, the simple, and the modest: “The firm, the enduring, the simple, and the modest are near to virtue.” Simplicity is not synonymous with weakness; it can be a source of strength and resilience.
Creativity in Simplicity – Charles Mingus
Jazz legend Charles Mingus celebrated the creative power of simplifying complex ideas: “Making the simple complicated is commonplace; making the complicated simple, awesomely simple, that’s creativity.” This perspective encourages us to seek elegant and straightforward solutions to complex problems.
The Art of Elimination – Hans Hofmann
Hans Hofmann emphasized the art of elimination in achieving simplicity: “The ability to simplify means to eliminate the unnecessary so that the necessary may speak.” This principle extends beyond design and into life itself, where decluttering our thoughts and actions can lead to greater clarity.
Guiding Principles for a Fulfilling Life – Marshall Field
Marshall Field shared valuable life lessons that underscore the importance of simplicity: “Things to remember: 1) The worth of character; 2) The improvement of talent; 3) The influence of example; 4) The joy of origination; 5) The dignity of simplicity; 6) The success of perseverance.” These principles offer a roadmap to a fulfilling and meaningful life.
The Balanced Medium – Sir Joshua Reynolds
Sir Joshua Reynolds recognized that “Simplicity is an exact medium between too little and too much.” Striking this balance is an art, whether in our actions, possessions, or aspirations. It requires thoughtful consideration of what truly matters.
The Nature of Great Souls – Papa Ramadas
Papa Ramadas identified simplicity as a defining characteristic of great souls: “Simplicity is the nature of great souls.” Simplicity allows individuals to connect with their inner selves, making room for empathy, compassion, and wisdom.
The Art of Reducing Complexity – Edwin Way Teale
Naturalist Edwin Way Teale offered a practical approach to simplifying life: “Reduce the complexity of life by eliminating the needless wants of life, and the labors of life reduce themselves.” By focusing on our true needs and values, we can lead more fulfilling lives.
Happiness in Minimalism – Henry David Thoreau
Henry David Thoreau, known for his simple living at Walden Pond, advocated for minimalism: “Simplicity, simplicity, simplicity! I say let your affairs be as one, two, three and to a hundred or a thousand… We are happy in proportion to the things we can do without.” Thoreau’s words remind us that true happiness often lies in embracing a minimalist lifestyle.
Simplicity in Life’s Journey – Anonymous
An anonymous quote reflects on the importance of traveling light in life’s journey: “Simplicity is making the journey of this life with just baggage enough.” This metaphor encourages us to shed unnecessary burdens and attachments as we navigate life’s path.
A Sign of Truth and Beauty – Mahlon Hoagland
Mahlon Hoagland acknowledged that simplicity is often a sign of truth and beauty: “Simplicity is indeed often the sign of truth and a criterion of beauty.” In a world where complexity can obscure reality, simplicity serves as a beacon of clarity.
Complexity Hidden in Simplicity – Anatole France
Anatole France likened simple style to white light, whose complexity is not immediately obvious: “Simple style is like white light. It is complex, but its complexity is not obvious.” This quote reminds us that simplicity can conceal profound depth and sophistication.
The Path to Rational Living – Eleanor Roosevelt
Eleanor Roosevelt advocated for simplification as the first step toward rational living: “A little simplification would be the first step toward rational living, I think.” Reducing unnecessary complexities in our lives can lead to greater clarity and well-being.
The Power of Focused Effort – Pat Riley
Pat Riley, a successful basketball coach, found strength in simplicity: “I’ve learned to keep things simple. Look at your choices, pick the best one, then go to work with all your heart.” Focusing our efforts on the essentials can lead to remarkable achievements.
The Beauty of Unassuming Living – Albert Einstein
Albert Einstein shared his belief in the virtues of an unassuming manner of life: “I believe that a simple and unassuming manner of life is best for everyone, best both for the body and the mind.” Einstein’s words remind us that simplicity benefits not only our mental well-being but also our physical health.
In conclusion, these quotes, sayings, and proverbs inspire us to embrace simplicity as a guiding principle in our lives. From the elegance of minimalism to the clarity of communication, simplicity enhances our understanding, deepens our appreciation for the world around us, and leads us on a path toward a more meaningful existence. In a world that often tempts us with complexity, these timeless insights encourage us to find joy and wisdom in the simple things.