I've tried to live a simple life in 2 countries: the USA and S. Korea. It was much more successful in Korea, where I could grow produce on our apt rooftop, take public transit (no need at all for a car), use a bike, not stress about having a job provide my health insurance, low cost of living and no problem living in cheaper areas (no danger). All while living on an irregular freelance income.
We've lived in America for 2 years. I want to go back to Korea, but my wife is comfortable in America (because she was able to get her ((middle class salary)) dream job). Since we've lived here, it feels like constantly we need more,more,more. We got (one) car, which was a major expense, which we share between us. I expect we'll need another when I get a full time job. We want to live in a walkable area, but they are either dangerous or much more expensive than the suburbs. This is all while living in two cities considered very affordable (Raleigh, NC & Houston, TX).
So I'm wondering, how is everyone actually living the simple life? I'm okay living in a spartan "Mr Money Mustache" way, but its not exactly as sustainable as it was in Asia. I'm okay with frugality, but my wife doesn't like riding a bike when everyone else is driving (just an example).
Is the simple life just a dream? Or is it possible to actually live a thriving simple life in America?
Edit: Oh also, I just want to make sure to point out that I'm not saying the grass is greener somewhere else. I'm just talking about the practicality of living the simple life in both places. Koreans are probably more materialistic than Americans, and def not much culture of living a simple life there
Submitted July 22, 2017 at 03:16PM by rouge_mango http://ift.tt/2ukPxFO
