We live in a culture that encourages everyone to believe that life has no limits. Yet, for many, the race to get it all and do it all has hidden costs. Can we work, spend, and consume with no limits and still be in balance? Is more always better? Have we been conditioned into thinking that limits are bad when in fact they may be essential to our financial welfare, psychological health, planetary survival, and equitable co-existence with others?
This guide is meant to help you reflect on your life choices and to support your efforts to live in balance with your work, family, and the planet. There are many indicators that people are spending, consuming, and working too much. Credit card debt is at an all-time high, working hours have dramatically increased, stress-related diseases are at epidemic rates, and the environment is suffering as a result if our insatiable appetites for more cars, bigger houses, and endless stuff. Everyone yearns for the traditional American dream of freedom, opportunity, and material security, but many are questioning the recent highly materialistic definition of that dream. If you are one of those who wants to slow down, live in accordance with your deepest values, and have more fun with less stuff, this guide is for you.
The Center has identified seven educational programs that can be used by individuals or small groups. Each program has a unique focus and methods. We’ve structured the guide to provide concise summaries, goals, and contact information for each program. The comprehensive peer reviews contributed by several experts in the field are central to the format and have been culled to provide extensive analyses of the resources. The programs presented appeal to individuals, families, and communities –anyone looking for a way to bring about positive change. From advice on personal finances to tips on how to maintain a "green" household, this guide presents synopses of the best resources available, enabling you to quickly choose the program that meets your needs.
There are many resources available with the common goal of helping you live a more fulfilling life. We hope Easy Does It leads you to discover the wealth of what is available, explore the various options, and ultimately find a balanced lifestyle perfectly suited to your own priorities and goals.