In the modern consumer society, we no longer take time to enjoy the small pleasures of life such as walking barefoot in the grass, admiring the moon, listening to the birds sing, or even being bored. Our time is often devoted to the relentless pursuit of financial gain to satisfy our material needs, which are constantly renewed due to the rapid evolution of technology, programmed obsolescence and the omnipresent advertising that surrounds us.

People who adopt a frugal lifestyle and consume less are often more satisfied with their lives than those who earn less. It seems that satisfaction with material consumption is often fleeting, and that we are always searching for more, insatiable in our desire to possess. Once a purchase decision is made, it is often overshadowed by other concerns, and the pleasure of the purchase can be short-lived.

The philosopher Schopenhauer developed the thought of satiety, which represents the feeling of emptiness and boredom that one may feel after having satisfied a desire.

Desire is a derivative of need that involves the addition of unnecessary elements and pleasure. For example, eating is a basic need, but eating caviar is a desire because it involves pleasure and is not necessary for survival.

By taking a considered approach and asking the right questions, it is possible to adopt a minimalist lifestyle by owning only the essential material goods. This approach helps to reduce unnecessary consumption, appreciate each object for its true purpose, and avoid cluttering up with unnecessary possessions.

We can also reduce our consumption and carbon footprint by choosing products that we really need and that are produced in ethical and sustainable working conditions. By taking this approach, not only can we consume less, but we can also benefit from more sustainable and economical products in the long term.

Similarly, we can look at agriculture and our food. It is preferable to favour local and seasonal agriculture, as this not only directly supports local farmers, but also reduces the greenhouse gas emissions generated by the many vehicles involved in the long-distance transport of products, which can sometimes travel thousands of kilometres.

For example, a tomato imported out of season can generate up to four times more kg of CO2 than a local tomato in season.

It is also possible to grow one's own food and move towards food self-sufficiency. This approach helps the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions from transporting goods, as well as ensuring food security in the event of a crisis or shortage. In addition, home-grown food can be healthier and of better quality, not to mention the benefit of being food independent. This can be done on a small scale, even in a small garden or on a balcony, by growing herbs, vegetables or fruit.

It is possible to live off the grid. This is a radical approach to voluntary simplicity which implies a life entirely autonomous and disconnected from the electrical network, running water and urban infrastructure. This practice may require advanced technical technical skills, as well as adjustments in lifestyle and consumption. consumption.

However, living off-grid can offer freedom and independence from conventional from conventional production and consumption systems and can significantly reduce environmental impact. a significant reduction in environmental impact. For example, by using renewable energy sources such as solar panels or wind turbines, as well as collecting water and by collecting water from natural sources.