Having recently convinced my husband that we should downsize our house in two years when our youngest child graduates, it was natural for me to grab author Tammy Strobel’s, You Can Buy Happiness (and It’s Cheap), when I saw it on the shelf. Strobel, a blogger about simple living and the tiny house movement, discusses why her and her spouse decided to abandon the “traditional” American lifestyle of “more is better” and focus on gaining time ……time for each other, their families, and the community around them.
Strobel makes a compelling argument for why material items only weigh a person down and never bring more than the most immediate happiness. She believes that when you lessen the need for these items you free your time and resources to do what truly makes you happy (be it an occupation you love, volunteering, pursuing hobbies, et cetera). Throughout the book the author shares stories from a multitude of others from all walks of life that have had similar experiences. She also gives concrete ideas for how to start the process of simplifying.
I really enjoyed her ideas and found the book to be a fast read. Strobel is non-judgmental throughout, always being sure to point out that each individual needs to strive for their own balance in life. If you are interested in shifting the focus of your life or enjoyed reading Shiny Objects: Why We Spend Money We Don’t Have in Search of Happiness We Can’t Buy, by James A. Roberts, then give this book a look!