The essence of simple living, or voluntary simplicity, is living in a way that is outwardly simple and inwardly rich. This way of life embraces frugality of consumption, a strong sense of environmental awareness, a desire to return to living and working environments which are of a more human scale.

Simple living is in many ways an expression of social responsibility. This is a reaction to many serious societal problems, including the prospects of a chronic energy shortage, the growing global disparity between developed and undeveloped countries, the prospect of resource scarcity, the pollution and toxins that poison our communities, and our planet’s environmental degradation. These are but a few of the more modern elements which converge to make voluntary simplicity a seemingly rational response to a pressing situation.

Simple living manifests itself in different ways for everyone. For my wife and I we consider these issues at the core of our choices moving forward in life.

• Material Simplicity & Limiting Consumerism
• Environmental Awareness
• Eliminating Stress & Complexity from Life
• Sense of Community
• Health & Happiness

We have always lived relatively modestly, and have been aware of environmental issues. But we have moved towards taking a more active role in defining our goals in life and making deliberate choices that help us achieve a more simple life. We hope to lessen our environmental impact and develop a foundation for a lifetime of happiness and balance.

If you want to learn more about simple living, check out some of these links.

Affluenza
Commute By Bike
Life in the Bike Lane
Nebraska Food Cooperative
One World Two Wheels
Simple Living Network
Slow Movement
Zen Habits: 72 Ideas to Simplify Your Life

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