Family Life in a Steady State Economy
It’s nearly impossible to take a snapshot of a so-called typical family, but in a steady state economy, the important things are emphasized in each household. Healthy lifestyles and relationships take center stage. With the work week shortened to something like 30 hours per week, family members can spend more quality time with one another and explore personal development, such as picking up a musical instrument, learning a new language, or watching a sunset. Children receive more attention. The lament, “I wish I had spent more time with my family,” is no longer heard.
 | More of this…Time for the things that matter most |
Family Life in a Growth-Obsessed Economy
Trying to squeeze more and more growth out of an overgrown economy is the recipe for a frantic and tense family life. Downtime is scarce and leisure is in short supply. People get stuck in the rat race, tumbling through a stress-inducing cycle of waking up tired, trudging to work, struggling to make ends meet, being told to shop until we drop, having trouble sleeping, and waking up tired to start again.
 | Less of that…Stress and anxiety in a constant struggle |
Exemplary Family Life
Colin Beavan (aka No Impact Man) and his family took on the experiment of building a happier life by living more simply. He has documented the family experience in a lively and engaging way.