In a world of infinite information and constant stimulation, it can be easy to float through life instead of piloting it where I want. Cutting through the discord and evaluating what really matters will create a simpler life– a life that lets me decide where my time and attention will be spent without shutting myself away from the world.

We live in fast and exciting times. Modern technology makes so many things possible that could not have even dreamed of 20 years ago. Living a simpler life doesn’t mean that I have to give up the amenities of the 21st century. I don’t have to become a monk (although I can). I don’t have to throw away my T.V. and turn off the internet (but some choose to do so). Living a simpler life can be done in many ways and I hope to explore what that might mean through this blog.

The beautiful aspect of the simpler life is that it means something different to each person. For some, it may be similar to Thoreau’s experience at Walden Pond– limited technology and surrounded by nature. However, for most of us it is unreasonable to strive for that level of asceticism when our lives, jobs, and families are all demanding our responsibility. Instead, I can strive to simplify my life to focus on what I truly value. For Thoreau, that meant living with sparse possessions in a cabin he built with himself. For the busy professional it may mean figuring out a way to finish the day’s work early so she can spend time with her family. Or write the next great novel. Or read a book. The key is that living the simpler life is different for every person.

I hope to use this website as a tool for uncovering what it means to live the simpler life for me, for the student, the teacher, the grandpa, the unemployed, the mother of five and everyone in between.

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