Simple Living, The Future of America?

Sorry I haven’t posted for a bit. I have been feeling a bit off kilter due to finances. Please forgive me!

I am making a prediction which maybe isn’t one but I am hopeful it comes to pass. America will become a simplistic society in time, waste, living, and values in the next 20 years. I say this due to the America of which we see today. The crazy housing market, debt ratios, and pain of more and more people realizing that stuff only puts a temporary band aide on pain, sadness and self esteem issues.

Simplicity in of it self is the art of reducing life to key components of which you value. Like everything life is a balance. Some people enjoy living frugally and splurging on key things like health, love, travel, books, self growth, learning, personal spirituality and charity. Live richly with being aware of the bottom line. Read The 4 Hour Work Week or The Simple Living Guide for more info.

The direction America could swing, is coming to the realization that the Big Mac that they are eating isn’t what they value, although by the purchase it seems like it is for the moment. We have lost sight of what does matter in our culture. It’s not to say you shouldn’t have needs like dental, medical care or a warm bed. If what you value is 400 thread Egyptian cotton but can’t afford your car payment your priorities may be out of whack. However, if all things are in order and fine sheets are what you want then be my guest. The lesson here is not to stingy with oneself for the sake of it but to really prioritize what you or your family personally value. The Jones’ have been dead since the 50’s but we are still looking at them for what shiny car they bought and for their approval. Honestly they can’t even afford those things now so don’t try to be like them.

My personal simple journey is in part knowing what I value and childhood lack. I am still trying to out run my ego needs of running away and feeling valuable. I remember when I was maybe 20 I had excellent credit, steady work, and then my childhood needs took me shopping. I remember in one day I went to Ikea and spent $1200. This was a splurge and not preplanned. My need to feel ok about myself, to feel deserving, or worthy made me buy my bedroom and entertainment center on credit. After floundering unhappy at work, leaving jobs, and being depressed it took me nearly 7 years and then some to pay off that and other debt. In the meantime, I am learning now about doing what one has to do to say afloat even if you don’t want to. (Minus stress of work that becomes a mental health concern.) It doesn’t mean you have to do “it” forever. To this day I am still learning lessons and realizing personal happiness may not come from money but lack of security and stability will give you an awful feeling that isn’t fun. Motivation to action or depression, it is your choice!

I myself have been good and bad at simplicity. The good, I don’t own much of what I don’t value. I know people and places interest me more than too many things to clutter my life with. I have enough paper for that!