"Amid a frenzy of conspicuous consumption, an inconspicuous revolution has been stirring. A growing number of people are seeking a way of life that is more satisfying and sustainable. This quiet revolution is being called by many names, including voluntary simplicity, soulful simplicity, and compassionate living. But whatever its name, its hallmark is a new common sense — namely that life is too deep and consumerism is too shallow to provide soulful satisfaction. As a result, more and more people, particularly in the United States and Europe, have been exploring life beyond advertising's lure. These people have experienced the good life that consumerism has to offer and found it flat and unsatisfying compared to the rewards of the simple life. Their choice of a lifeway of conscious simplicity is driven not by sacrifice but by a growing understanding of the real sources of satisfaction and meaning — gratifying friendships, a fulfilling family life, spiritual growth, and opportunities for creative learning and expression.

"This is a leaderless revolution — a self-organizing movement where people are consciously taking charge of their lives. It is a clear and promising example of people growing up and taking responsibility for how their lives connect with the Earth and the future. Many of these lifeway pioneers have been working at the grassroots level for several decades, often feeling alone, not realizing that scattered through society are others like themselves numbering in the millions. . . .

"The more I thought about the phrase 'voluntary simplicity,' the more I appreciated its power. To live more voluntarily is to live more consciously, deliberately, and purposefully. We cannot be deliberate when we are distracted and unaware. We cannot be intentional when we are not paying attention. We cannot be purposeful when we are not being present. Therefore, to act in a voluntary manner is not only to pay attention to the actions we take in the outer world, but to also pay attention to the one who is acting — to our inner world.

"To live more simply is to live more lightly, cleanly, aerodynamically — in the things that we consume, in the work we do, in our relationships with others, and in our connections with nature. We each know the unique distractions, clutter, and pretense that weigh upon our lives and make our passage through life needlessly difficult. In living more simply, we make our journey more easeful and rewarding."