January and February of this year seemed to drag on forever. I used this time creatively, however, and mapped out a few things – strategies mainly. It’s not like there was much else to do in the middle of a Canadian winter – what with four feet of snow and -30C temps.

I knew the type of lifestyle I wanted to maintain. I calculated how much per year I would need to fund that meager existence. And, I had a plan to generate enough money to cover my needs.

I should mention that I chose to live below the so called “poverty line.” I do not consider myself poor. I don’t struggle to pay bills. I am not stressed out over my finances. But, most importantly, I feel proud of the fact that I consume less than a quarter of what I used to consider the bare essentials. I don’t feel guilty living the way I do because I don’t take more than I need. But, most importantly, I’m the happiest I’ve been in years. I eat healthy, I keep fit, I have no stress, I come and go as I please, I don’t report to anyone, and I have time to experience life.

Now, I do get a lot of flack from friends and family about how “destitute” I’ve become. I am constantly criticized over the way I’ve “given up” on life and become a bum without purpose and direction. Hmm…

You know, if I let all that get to me, I’d be back on the corporate hamster wheel in very short order. Fortunately, I can see this criticism for what it really is – Jealousy – plain and simple.

Yes, it may be disguised as genuine concern, but deep-down, most people are jealous of the fact that they are still slaves to the system, while I’ve found a way out. I’ve created a sustainable system to support my chosen lifestyle. Income equals expenses, with a little left over to squirrel away.

All this, while working only when I want to work.

Wow, I’m starting to sound like an infomercial. But, believe me, there is no magic in what I do to sustain myself. When I do work, it’s physically demanding, dirty, and below many people. In fact, I’m sure that some look down on me because of what I do to make money; but it’s not like I have to put in 40 hours a week like they do. That, in itself, is immensely gratifying.

I’m getting a little ahead of myself here, however.

Filed under: A new life • Becoming self-sufficient

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