In a world where the culture of selfish hustle is celebrated, and everybody seems to be constantly chasing the next big paycheck or luxury item, I find myself pondering an important question, “What if I just want to live a simple life?”
Surely, I’m not alone in feeling overwhelmed by the relentless push for profit—longing instead for a more selfless, purpose-filled existence.
Every time I open social media, I’m greeted with images of people flaunting their latest high-end purchases or announcing another career milestone or business financial success.
The message seems clear: bigger is always better, and you’re falling behind if you’re not perpetually reaching for more. But what if my desires lean towards less rather than more?
The never-ending race to upgrade everything in our lives—from our homes and gadgets to our job titles—feels utterly exhausting.
With each new version of a smartphone, the previous one becomes outdated. With every large home, there’s a significant mortgage attached.
And with every step up the career ladder, there’s often less time for family, more stress, and a deeper sense of being caught in an unending cycle of pursuit.
Here’s my thought today: I have no interest in competing with other people.
And I don’t want to trade my peace and passion for a lifestyle dictated by this world.
When did life turn into a consumerist rat race anyway? And why is choosing a different path seen as being so unconventional?
There’s something incredibly appealing about the simpler aspects of life, aspects often overlooked in the hustle of modern living.
Imagine waking up to a deliberate morning routine, enjoying a book just for the adventure, or planning your evening around long walks and meaningful conversations with a loved one.
These simple joys—why do we seem so ready to exchange them for merely temporal achievements?
My idea of a fulfilling life isn’t packed with luxury brands, flashy cars, or zeroes at the end of my bank account. Instead, it’s filled with selfless moments that fill my heart and life with purpose and joy.
It’s about connecting deeply, growing in faith, finding peace, and experiencing a genuine joy that transcends circumstances.
I find meaning in simplifying not just my physical space, but my entire life. Because by releasing the grip of society’s expectations, I make room for what genuinely matters.
I dream of days not lost to mindless hustle but cherishing each moment with intention and thoughtfulness. I find great satisfaction in living according to my values, not those dictated by the latest trends or public consensus.
Ambition is not inherently bad, nor is the desire to provide for our families. Just the opposite, they are vitally important. But in the seemingly relentless push for more, let’s not lose sight of the beauty of contentment.
There is unparalleled joy in recognizing and valuing the simplicity of life.
While the world may define success by material achievements, let’s discover a wealth that transcends financial prosperity.
So, as society continues its rapid pace, I choose to slow down. To savor the now. To embrace simplicity. To define success on my own terms.
Ultimately, what I desire is a simple, meaningful life. And I hope, deeply hope, that the world can see this as a deliberate choice, not a concession.
Because the more they do, the more they will choose it as well.
ChuNam says
I am truly overwhelmed by the race for success and material wealth. I find that life isn’t solely about striving to work for advancement and then being able to purchase modern amenities and luxurious material possessions. I only need to ensure financial security for my family to be prepared for emergencies. I don’t need an excessively large house, or a new car, or designer items; I just need enough comfort to reduce labor and provide comfort. I need more time to enjoy and relax rather than diving into tasks or projects. I’ve decided not to pursue further advancement in my daily work because I feel it’s sufficient; it already reflects my contribution value and provides a decent income. Additionally, managing investment portfolios truly helps me control my finances and ensure my family’s needs in both the present and the future.
I won’t be under too much pressure in work and finances anymore; I have more time to enjoy this life and contemplate gradual holistic life development. I truly appreciate your article; it has resonated with me on issues that I am currently concerned about. Thank you.
Linda Campbell says
Excellent article. You are speaking my language.
julia a kasdorf says
The mountain climber, Adrian Hayes, says “We are all searching for Significance.” He asserts that, deep down, down that’s why people climb mountains. I can’t speak to that, but I know I’m reluctant to give up performing because I fear not being “significant”.
But not being a performer would make my life much simpler and way less stressed. Performing is liberating, but all the promo and booking and posting is very draining.
Rita Glennon says
This is wonderful. Thank you for putting this out there, Joshua. Every phrase resonates and it’s so good to share the journey and the values in this space that you have created.
Alice says
This is everything!
Vicente Izquierdo says
Fantastic reading Joshua. Thank you very much ! Some day you may comment on the new film from Win Wenders, Perfect Days, it´s just delicious.
John Costigan says
Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication – Leonardo Da Vinci.
Judy says
Joshua—- I’m with you 100%!
I choose a simple life and I have no desire to “keep up with the Jones’s”. None whatsoever. I’m not impressed with people who have the newest, latest, bigger, better everything. I actually find it silly.
Tonya Smith says
A life of service to others or your community is priceless but I will even add the element of “look how much I am doing to serve.. in all of these different areas..look at the boards I serve on, how great am I?” Can we go back to serving to simply serve, without recognition and without the need to coordinate yet another amazing event, under my name… an over inflated need to be recognized!
Gienne says
There is something to be said for modestly or anonymously doing charitable work or donating. On the other hand, you may open another person’s eyes to a worthwhile cause and get them on board to helping as well. And I’m speaking of the actual hands-on work, not the serving on the board kind of activity.
Minaxi says
Thank you Joshua, this article resonates so well with my beliefs and values, I cannot believe it. Because you have eloquently stated all that I have felt in my life with regard to money and success, I continue to feel that way. Yet sometimes I also feel like an outlier for having these ideas which go against the tide of modern thought and lifestyle. I feel so validated reading this. From time to time I do find the need to keep up but then it passes quickly. I realize that I do have an abundance of everything, it’s only for me to give thanks each and every day. When I look back at my life, even though I may not have had a massive wardrobe (far from it actually—only ever had 6 sets of clothes and one pair of shoes until I started a job, I was an unintentional minimalist back in the day), no cars, no flashy luxury items, yet I was surrounded by people I loved and people who loved me. And music, books and films:). I was happy, I am happy and content. And that to me is enough, that I can look back with happiness and gratitude. My dream is to get rid of 90 percent of my stuff and live a life unencumbered by possessions and unbridled ambition.
Arlene Towle says
TOTALLY with you on this!!