This ebook is biased

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NOTE: Like any work, this one is biased. I want to tell you my views up front.

First, I don't believe that accumulating possessions is the most important activity in life. I believe that things can trap people in unsatisfying lives. I will therefore make suggestions which some people may find radical. For example, I will suggest that you get rid of any television set you own. I will also suggest that you not own a car. These suggestions may seem extreme, but I will explain in "Rule Your Stuff" how all the stuff you own costs you in terms of time, money, and energy. I will also explain how you can live without a car and thrive without a television.

Second, my advice for choosing a place to live will recommend living in a city. This is not a book about achieving simplicity by living on a farm and growing chickens. In a city, your needs can usually be met more efficiently. I don't suggest that you must necessarily live in one of the largest cities, but one adequate to your life's goals. I explain in "Optimize Your Place" how choosing a place to live that meets your needs can greatly simplify and enrich your life.

Third, I suggest discipline in your habits. In "Hone Your Routine," I suggest that self-control and consistency in some of your daily routines can greatly simplify your life. I believe that sometimes sacrificing immediate gratification can help simplify your life.

Fourth, I believe that following your heart's desire is a great motivator, and that motivation is a key to simplicity. In "Live Your Dream," I will suggest that you state, in writing, what you want to do in your life. This statement can motivate you to act on the simplicity suggestions in this ebook. Most importantly, this dream statement is key to a rich, simple life because simplicity is not just about sacrifice and following rules, but getting rid of the clutter so that you can follow your dreams.

Finally, I am an advocate of getting help from others. In "Tap into Resources," I suggest using a network of friends and associates to help you get what you need. I also recommend the use of the Internet and World Wide Web for communication and information. The Internet has become an essential information resource that can save you enormous amounts of time and money. I will describe how to use the Internet well and cheaply, and you don't even have to own a computer.

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