What do we truly need in life? Shelter, food, water, clothes, love, and safety. These are the fundamental biological needs of a human being. However, the modern world has added a troubling item to this list: money. Money has created a society driven more by desires than necessities, fostering consumerism, a relentless pursuit of wealth and power. But does money truly enrich our lives?

While most associate wealth with material abundance, overflowing bank accounts, and financial prosperity, I hold a different belief. True richness is not measured solely in monetary terms; it’s a quality of life. The mere act of being alive on this planet is a gift of immeasurable wealth, and money is but a fleeting illusion. In reality, money often leads to unethical and immoral behavior, diverting our attention from living a fulfilling and meaningful existence.

Last summer, I made a significant change in my life by purchasing an RV. I had grown weary of paying exorbitant rent and perpetually struggling with financial matters. Little did I anticipate how profoundly it would transform my life. In fact, it made me richer. Here’s how:

I have time to appreciate the little things

I now have the time to enjoy life’s small pleasures. When I downsized my life to reside in a trailer, I experienced an overwhelming sense of relief. I parted ways with unnecessary possessions, retaining only the essentials. Simple activities like long hot showers, laundry, and TV have become luxurious indulgences. Grand dinner parties have given way to outdoor gatherings, and my extensive wardrobe has been replaced by a modest selection of clothing. The act of owning less has heightened my appreciation for what I possess. Everything beyond those essentials is a luxury. This lifestyle has taught me that I am content with what I have. It has deepened my appreciation for life’s intricate details, encouraging me to slow down, relish the scent of fresh air, and admire the beauty surrounding me. It has nurtured gratitude in my heart.

I have the ability to live wherever I want

Living in a trailer allows me to lead a day-to-day existence, unburdened by mortgages or leases. I have the flexibility to hit the open road, select a new backyard, or anchor down for a while as I please. This freedom to move at will means I am not bound to any specific location and can live life on my own terms.

I am debt free

Embracing minimalism has translated into more money in my pocket. Within a few months, I successfully paid off a long-standing travel debt that had lingered for years, a feat I couldn’t accomplish with steep rent expenses. Residing in a trailer has significantly reduced my living costs. Additionally, I drive a used car that I purchased outright, just like my trailer. By adopting a minimalist lifestyle, I’ve reduced my expenses to essentials like campground fees, cell phone, and car insurance. As a result, I now spend less than I earn and have managed to accrue savings that bring me closer to my dreams. The freedom of being debt-free and financially stable is truly liberating.

I choose experiences over possessions

With fewer possessions to maintain and the absence of a demanding, stress-inducing job solely for bill payment, I’ve gained the gift of more free time. This precious time allows me to be with the people I love, strengthen my bond with my dogs, embrace the outdoors, engage in creative pursuits, and wholeheartedly pursue my passions. With increased financial freedom and abundant free time, I’ve been able to travel more frequently, embark on adventures, and relish life to the fullest.

I own less, but I gain more

Owning fewer possessions has opened the door to a richer life. Living off the grid provides me with a chance to connect more closely with nature. Residing in a natural environment is not only renowned for reducing stress and enhancing happiness and physical well-being but also grants me a remarkable and extraordinary backyard that stretches out to the majestic Coast Mountains. While my dwelling may be a compact trailer, my backyard is an expanse of tranquility, inspiration, and grandeur.

Wealth is a matter of perspective. I genuinely hold the belief that money alone doesn’t determine our richness. True success goes beyond the confines of monetary wealth. In reality, happiness stands as the key to genuine success. When you learn to value life’s small pleasures, allocate time for self-care, treasure love, kindness, gratitude, and compassion, cultivate social bonds and family connections, live within your means, and embrace minimalism to live life to the fullest, I believe you unearth the genuine essence of existence.

Once you recognize that desire is distinct from necessity, you embark on an authentic way of living. Finding contentment and joy in what you have, I consider that the ultimate wealth one can attain.

In this very place, nestled within the wilderness, I have everything I need. This way of life brings me nearer to nature and to people, affords me more time to engage in my passions, concentrate on dreams and aspirations, and forge a connection with my inner self. For me, this is true wealth.