At one with the universe
One of the consequences of having self-awareness is the feeling that you are separate, and not at one with the universe. Feeling separate leads to existential angst. However we are not really separate at all. It is true that we are differentiated from other things but not for long. The [...]
Pursue wisdom
The most important truth for all humans to face up to is that, in the words of Frederick Nietzsche, we are not finished yet. We are not fully evolved. We are not perfect. Indeed, a lot of what we think and do is unevolved. We can do better. But [...]
The Ways of Sustainabilism
Sustainabilism is the approach for achieving environmentally sustainable human well-being. Econation’s mission is to highlight the ways that enhance and contribute to the wellbeing of both people and planet. We also uncover and criticise the ways that harm the wellbeing of both people and planet. It just so happens [...]
Not-to-do list
“To attain knowledge, add things every day. To attain wisdom, remove things every day.” – Lao Tzu Lao Tzu’s advice is an age-old truism. Antoine de Saint-Exupery said something akin: “[a] designer knows he has achieved perfection not when there is nothing left to add, but when there is [...]
Urban farming
Not very long ago the majority of people grew vegetables and fruit in their home gardens. It was a valuable part of the household economy. It made practical use of available land and offered a modest level of self-sufficiency, at the least. In some cases, it provided a large [...]
The benefits of simple living
There are many reasons why people chose lives of sufficiency and voluntary simplicity. People can become slaves to the belief that we need stuff that we don’t really need. The pressures and demands of modern lifestyles are not necessary and can be eschewed for considerable benefit. Many people are [...]
Decluttering at home
Decluttering is good for your well-being and for nature. There are a variety of benefits for decluttering your home including the following. Less can be more. Reduce frustration and save time by not having to search for mislaid items. With less clutter and more space your home will be [...]
A fable about sustainability
The goose that laid golden eggs Once upon a time, there lived a very poor farmer who constantly struggled, always finding it hard to feed his large family. He prayed constantly to the universe for help and one fateful night his prayers were answered. In a dream, an old [...]
Survive mindset or Thrive mindset
In a letter to Rachel Carson, Thomas Merton discussed one of the fundamental ills of modern society, namely heedless technological progress. Merton's argument makes a compelling case that this type of progress derives from what I would call a survive-at-any-cost mindset. In order to progress our humanity, we need [...]
Slow is fast
It is a good idea to think about going Slow in a world where fast seems to be the default setting. Slow just means taking your time, being more deliberate and more mindful. Slow is about quality over quantity. Slow is about the means and not the ends. Slow is [...]