Voluntary Simplicity: What It Is, How It Works, Types

What Is Voluntary Simplicity?

Voluntary simplicity minimizes needless consumption and pursuit of wealth for its own sake. It is sometimes called "simple living," "the simple life," or "downshifting." People embrace voluntary simplicity to create more meaningful lives for themselves and reduce the negative impact on the environment.

New Takeaways

• Voluntary simplicity de-emphasizes money and material goods for a less stressful life.
• Reducing unnecessary consumption has environmental benefits.
• Practicing voluntary simplicity is about liberation, not deprivation.

Understanding Voluntary Simplicity

Advocates believe that consumer culture encourages buying happiness and boosting social status with expensive goods. Voluntary simplicity rejects this and offers a more fulfilling alternative.

A simpler life is less costly, allowing for more time with family and oneself. It’s not just about having less, but wanting less. Practitioners feel liberated, not deprived.

Types of Voluntary Simplicity

Voluntary simplicity has been embraced under different names and variations. Early advocate Henry David Thoreau simplified his life near Walden Pond. The 1960s hippie counterculture rejected materialism. The Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) movement promoted saving for early retirement. Marie Kondo brought the idea of decluttering and organizing belongings to the forefront.

Voluntary simplicity is an individual choice. You can incorporate aspects that enhance your life.

Special Considerations

You can enjoy benefits of voluntary simplicity without making it the focus of your life. You can downsize, cook more at home, or grow your own food. Consider reducing work hours for more family and hobby time, or save to leave your job earlier.

Voluntary simplicity is an individual choice. Spend less, reduce clutter, and practice mindful consumption to start.