Do Less, Achieve More: Takeaways from Essentialism by Greg McKeown
A few weeks ago, I did something I’d always avoided: I emptied my entire closet. Every single item. Clothes were everywhere—some I hadn’t seen in years. Once I finished, I felt surprisingly amazing... but also a little empty.
Not just because the closet looked bare, but because making that physical space felt like I had cleared something out mentally too. The weirdest part? I started appreciating the clothes I kept. I’m actually wearing all of them now—instead of hoarding like some fabric-obsessed dragon. Turns out, fewer things really can feel better.
That brings me to a concept Greg McKeown explores in Essentialism—the art of doing less, but better. His ideas completely changed how I think about time, energy, and where I invest both.
1. The Power of No
Here’s the hard truth: if you don’t choose how to spend your time, someone else will. And they’re usually focused on their own goals, not yours.
I used to say yes to everything. Plans, projects, even “quick” meetings that lasted two hours and left me jittery from too much coffee. But when I started saying no—like a real, confident no thanks—I noticed I had more energy for what truly mattered. Bonus: people started respecting my time more when I did too.
2. Less but Better
A real example? My screen time was... not great. Especially on Instagram. So I downloaded an app called ScreenZen (not sponsored, just genius). It makes me wait three minutes before opening the app, limits me to 2 sessions of 10 minutes a day, and—here’s the kicker—I do 20 pushups every time I want to open it.
Ridiculous. But effective.
Now, I only open Instagram when I actually want to post or reply to DMs—not because my thumb is bored. It’s a perfect example of less but better: less mindless scrolling, better content, improved posture (thanks to the pushups) and no existential crisis about not working hard enough.
3. Protect Your Time and Energy
Training, creating, thinking deeply—none of that happens without focus. And focus needs boundaries. Lately, if something doesn’t align with what I’m working on, it’s probably a no.
But here’s the key: play isn’t a distraction. It’s essential. Whether I’m surfing, snowboarding, goofing off, or just being creatively unproductive, that’s often when the best ideas show up. Some of my favorite thoughts have come during a bike ride or while messing around with a finger skateboard. Weird? Maybe. Coincidence? I don’t think so.
4. Clarity of Purpose
The simplest filter: if it’s not a clear yes, it’s a no. This saved me from way too many “meh” decisions. It applies to everything—work, workouts, relationships, even dinner plans.
When you're clear on your purpose, decisions stop draining you. They either fit or they don’t. And that clarity? It feels like freedom.
5. Simplify and Eliminate
Simplifying sounds simple. But it’s tough. Letting go of things that don’t serve you—bad habits, chaotic systems, mental clutter—takes courage.
Start with one thing. That annoying admin task you keep avoiding? Do it first. That pile of unused gear in the corner? Donate it. The browser tab that’s been open for six weeks? Close it. Every small action makes you feel just a little lighter.
And over time, those small wins start to add up.
Between the empty closet and the 20-pushup rule, I’ve been thinking a lot about what really matters. Essentialism isn’t about being perfect or rigid. It’s about being intentional. Choosing your yeses wisely. Protecting your time like it’s your dog’s favorite stick. And making space—not just in your closet, but in your mind.
If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, scattered, or stretched thin, try this: simplify just one thing. Then see what happens.
Worst case? You end up doing more pushups. Not the worst outcome.