You’ve probably heard the phrase “Less is more.” It’s everywhere—from design blogs to lifestyle advice. But where does this idea come from? And why has it stuck around for so long?

For me, “Less is more” is not just a catchy saying—it’s a mindset and a culture. It shapes how I build my Notion templates, and it might just change how you work and live, too.

The Roots of “Less Is More”

Even though this phrase has a much longer history, but “Less is more” is often credited to the architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, one of the pioneers of modernist architecture in the early 20th century. His work emphasized simplicity, clean lines, and removing anything unnecessary. He believed that by stripping away excess, the true beauty and function of a space would shine through.

But the idea itself goes even further back, rooted in centuries-old philosophies like Zen Buddhism and minimalism, which teach that simplicity brings clarity and peace.

“Less Is More” as a Mindset

At its core, “Less is more” means focusing on what’s essential and letting go of the rest. It’s about quality over quantity, depth over surface, and meaning over noise.

In today’s world, where we’re bombarded by information, notifications, and endless options, this mindset helps us cut through the chaos. It’s a form of mental clarity and intentional living.

Why It Matters for Your Focus and Productivity

Modern research backs up this old wisdom. Studies show that clutter—whether physical, digital, or mental—hurts focus, increases stress, and drains energy. Our brains have a limited capacity to process information, so when you overload it, performance drops.

The “Less is more” mindset isn’t just nice to have—it’s a productivity hack.

How This Philosophy Shapes My Notion Templates

With minimalism at my core, I create Notion templates that embrace this philosophy by cutting out:

• Distracting emojis and icons

• Unnecessary colors and decorations

• Anything that doesn’t add real value

The result? Templates that are clean, clear, and focused on what you need to do—not what looks flashy.

Minimalism as a Way of Life

“Less is more” isn’t just about design. It’s a lifestyle that helps you:

• Prioritize what truly matters

• Reduce overwhelm and decision fatigue

• Create space for creativity and calm

When your workspace reflects this mindset, your mind can follow.

Why You Should Embrace “Less Is More”

If you’re tired of feeling overwhelmed by too much digital clutter, too many tabs, or noisy apps, it’s time to try a different approach. Not more features, but fewer distractions.

My templates give you that simplicity and clarity. They’re built to help you focus, get organized, and work smarter.

Final Thought

“Less is more” is more than a design trend—it’s a cultural philosophy with deep roots and proven benefits. Embracing it in your tools and your life can bring calm, focus, and real progress.

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Want to experience the power of “less is more” in your productivity? Browse my clean and simple Notion templates today and start working with focus and ease.