Different For You, Different For Me
Recent blog posts and podcast episodes have revolved around a central idea that we shouldn't be pursuing a higher standard of living, but a higher quality of life. I aggressively make the argument that quality of life is what we're all really seeking, but often confuse it with the pursuit of a higher standard of living.
I've received more than a dozen messages about this topic, mostly asking one specific and relevant question: "How do you define a higher quality of life?"
Much like I often say when talking about the Meaning Over Money principles, everyone is different. If someone tries to tell us what we should value, it's a clear-cut sign they've lost the plot. My objective is never to tell you what to find meaning in, but to encourage you to recognize that meaning should always come before money. Therefore, the question still remains: "How do you define a higher quality of life?"
I think the best way for me to answer this question is through my own personal lens. I don't expect you to follow suit, but perhaps by giving you a glimpse into my very personal definition of a higher quality of life, you, too, might find it easier to define yours. Without further ado, here's a partial list of my definition of a higher quality of life:
A walkable life. I deeply desire to live in a dwelling whereby I'm able to walk to various places: coffee shops, restaurants, bars, services, and retail. I've had a walkable life for 13 of the past 17 years, and I don't want to go back.
Non-homeownership. I strongly prefer renting, as I don't want to deal with all the surprise headaches and unforeseen expenses that come with owning. I have so many priorities in life that having a landlord to call when something happens is one of the greatest blessings of my life. There are financial reasons I choose to rent, too, but my quality of life is significantly higher when I rent. I’ve owned two houses in my life, but will thoroughly enjoy renting life as long as Sarah allows it.
No consumer debt. Not owing anything to anyone changes nearly every aspect of our lives. It's a feeling that we don't quite understand until we've lived it.
Never taking a meeting before 9AM. This allows me to slow-play my morning. I drink a few cups of coffee, see Sarah, play with the boys, and take them to school before starting my workday.
Travel. Traveling is one of my love languages, so financially investing in that adds so much value and richness to my life. We always have a healthy allocation to our travel fund in our monthly budget.
Budgeting. The mere act of monthly budgeting/tracking allows me to have clarity and intentionality. That practice alone adds a ton of value to my life: less stress, more clarity, no guilt.
Meaningful work. I'll take any and every pay cut in the world to ensure I wake up every day excited for what I'm about to do. Not because the work is fun, but because the work matters. I've taken a 90% pay cut to pursue meaningful work before, and I'd do it again if needed.
Good food. Nothing is better than good food shared with good people. I always prioritize the opportunity for a high-quality meal with others.
What about you? How would you define a high quality of life?
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