“Less is more.” This simple phrase, coined by architect Mies van der Rohe, has been a guiding principle in the world of design for decades. But its wisdom extends far beyond clean lines and minimalist spaces. In today’s fast-paced, always-on culture, “less is more” feels more relevant than ever—an antidote to the overwhelm so many of us face.
I came to this realization during one of the busiest seasons of my life. As a UX leader balancing a demanding career, family responsibilities, and my wellness brand, Arum.care, I often felt like I was running on empty. My to-do list never seemed to end, and I wore my busyness as a badge of honor. Until, one day, I didn’t.
This blog is about what happened next—how embracing “less is more” transformed my life and how it can transform yours, too.
The Noise of More
As a UX leader, I’m accustomed to the concept of complexity being the enemy of clarity. This principle applies not just to design but to life itself. I remember juggling multiple projects at work, while also striving to grow Arum.care. I’d try to fit family time into the margins of an already packed schedule, and even my attempts at self-care felt rushed and transactional.
Over time, I realized I was falling into the trap of believing that “more” equaled better—more commitments, more achievements, even more steps in my skincare routine. Instead of feeling fulfilled, I felt stretched thin.
How Less Became My More
Mies van der Rohe’s philosophy encouraged me to rethink this approach. Simplicity, I realized, wasn’t about doing less for the sake of it—it was about focusing on what truly matters.
I began to declutter not just my home but my calendar and my mindset. I stopped chasing perfection in my routines and instead embraced rituals that felt meaningful. One of those rituals is using Hooyo, our soothing botanical oil I created, to bring others like me grounding moments—a chance to pause, breathe, and reconnect with ourselves.
Embracing Less: Practical Steps
Here are a few ways I’ve integrated “less is more” into my daily life:
- Simplify Your Space: Start small—clear your workspace or organize one drawer. A tidy environment can clear mental clutter.
- Create Meaningful Rituals: Instead of trying to “do it all,” focus on one grounding practice. For me, it’s putting down my phone and trading it endless scrolling for a moment to meditate,ground myself and apply a few moments of gratitude for the things and people that make up my life.
- Learn to Say No: Protect your time and energy by declining commitments that don’t align with your values.
These small steps can help you shift from overwhelm to intentionality, creating more room for joy and connection.
Finding Beauty in Simplicity
The beauty of “less is more” is that it’s accessible to everyone. You don’t need to overhaul your life or embrace minimalism overnight. Instead, it’s about making intentional choices—removing the unnecessary to focus on what truly brings value.
For me, this philosophy has deepened my relationships, enhanced my creativity, and given me a sense of freedom I hadn’t experienced before.
Mies van der Rohe’s wisdom reminds us that less isn’t emptiness—it’s clarity. It’s the space to breathe, reflect, and appreciate life’s simple moments.
I invite you to try it for yourself. Whether it’s decluttering a corner of your home, simplifying your routines, or introducing a calming ritual with Hooyo, there’s power in letting go.
How will you embrace “less is more” in your life?
Discover Hooyo today and experience how simplicity can transform your self-care.
