Introduction:
Are you wondering why it feels like you just can’t afford ‘normal life’ anymore-no matter how careful you are? You’re not alone. In this post, we explore the hidden forces behind rising costs and how simple living can offer a more peaceful, sustainable path forward. For many of us, it feels like we’re financially stretched even when living modestly.
This post is a gentle dive into why life feels increasingly unaffordable-and what we can do about it. Spoiler: it starts with choosing true simple living, not as a trendy Instagram aesthetic, but as a true to life practical and powerful way forward.
Section 1: What’s Really Going On-A Simple Explanation of Inflation and the Cantillon Effect
Most of us grew up being told that if we worked hard, saved a little, and spent wisely, we’d be okay. But in recent years, it feels like that playbook was thrown out the window because the advice given is getting people nowhere. The cost of everyday living has quietly but steadily drifted out of reach. But Why?
Let’s simplify a concept called the Cantillon Effect: when new money is introduced into the economy (like stimulus checks or bailouts), it doesn’t reach everyone at the same time. Those closest to the money-banks, corporations and investors-spend it first while prices are still low. By the time the rest of us feel it, the price of the standard lifestyle has already risen.
It’s like showing up to the store with a coupon…after everything’s been marked up.
If you’d like to read more about Richard Cantillon’s “Essay on the Nature of Trade in General” Click on this link to learn https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/essay-on-the-nature-of-trade-in-general-lf-ed
Section 2: Why “Normal Life” Costs More Than Ever
What used to feel like a reasonable lifestyle-groceries, housing, medical care, electricity-now feels hard to sustain. The typical cost of living has increased, but wages haven’t kept up. It’s getting harder and harder to afford what was once considered standard.
And, for many, this leads to a deep sense of stress and confusion: “I’m doing everything right, so why is everything so hard?”
The old standard of “normal” wasn’t built to last in this kind of system.
Section 3: The Quiet Power of True Simple Living
So what do we do?
We go back to the basics-not in a survivalist, extreme way, but in a thoughtful, practical way. Simple Living-or what some call slow-living or back-to-basics-living-isn’t about giving things up. It’s about choosing enough, choosing clarity and peace.
- Learning how to grow even a small portion of your food
- Cooking from scratch instead of depending on take-out
- Reusing, repurposing, and repairing before replacing
- Slowing down and building habits that support your real life, not a fake one
- Living by your values, not your schedule
It’s not always easy, but it does work and helps you to feel in control of your life.
Section 4: From Hearth to Home- A Life Built on Enough
Here on From Hearth to Home, we’re creating a life that’s rooted in purpose, not stress. One where contentment replaces consumerism, and where stewardship and skills matter more than appearance. If you’ve been longing for a different way to live-a life that feels more grounded and real-you’re in the right place.
If this post resonated with you, I’d love to hear from you. Leave a comment, share your thoughts, or pin this for later. And if you’re curious about how to begin this journey toward practical, simple living, stick around. I’ve got so much more coming your way.
From My Hearth to Yours,
Becky xoxo
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