Sunday, September 20, 2009

Smaller Can Be Better

Bigger isn't always better. And smaller isn't always worse.

You can have a relatively small (even jewel-like) home, or car, that satisfies all of your personal needs. Being smaller, it will then be easier to clean and maintain. And it may even cost you less to buy in the first place. But even if it doesn't, it may still be a good idea.

Think of the BMW-made MINI Cooper S. It's a small yet high-quality vehicle and is quite fuel-efficient. Its not a cheap "economy car," but a moderately-priced performance vehicle. For those of us who like to own automobiles, it may be one of the more eco-friendly choices available.

                                                          My wife, Donna, and our MINI Cooper S MC40

And when it comes to houses and other dwellings, how much space does one really need? Just because many television programs depict people living in palatial dwellings, is that really a desirable thing for most of us? However, if that is what you want, then just realize what else you may be giving up to have it.

The houses and vehicles that many U.S. residents possess are often substantially larger than those owned by residents of other countries. Yet most people in those countries aren't pining away for larger homes and cars.

Perhaps it's time to come to grips with the concept of "enough." After all, while there's nothing wrong with working hard and being rewarded with nice possessions, there's also nothing wrong with choosing to live with less (even if you can afford more).

And by making a decision to not follow the hungry trends of consumerism, you may give yourself more choices in other areas of your life. Because if you don't need a large income to get by, you can then choose your life's work based solely on your interests, and not the amount of money you'll be papaid.

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