We are not your typical revolutionaries. You won’t see us protesting, boycotting, or blocking the doors to megastores; we’re simply not buying. Our battles are personal, made up of a million little acts of consumer disobedience. We leave convenience foods on the shelf and breeze by impulse items without a glance. We cut up our credit cards, borrow

Our time would then be free for friends, family, and community; and for spiritual, philosophical, and cultural pursuits. Imagine what we could do with all that newfound time, energy, and capital!

5. Let things go. Cherry blossoms fall at the height of their beauty, rather than withering on the branch. Allow possessions to fall from your life in the same way, like petals scattered to the wind. (For example: donate your wedding dress or heirlooms before they deteriorate in the attic.)

Here’s an example of text to include: “I appreciate your generous spirit, but just wanted to let you know I have all the things I could possibly want. This year, I’d like to try something special: a stuff-free holiday. Instead of exchanging presents, let’s find other ways to enjoy this wonderful season together. We’ll each have one less gift to wor

37. Cook a week’s worth of meals at a time, and freeze for later (google “batch cooking” for recipes and instructions).

70. Choose your battles. There are thousands of little things that just aren’t worth fighting for—let them go.

93. Realize that you’re not living in the spotlight. Most people are too wrapped up in their own lives to care (or notice) what you own, what you’re wearing, or how you look.

Act gracefully. Do what you do, and say what you say, with poise and elegance. Brash language and aggressive attitudes just aren’t cool (or particularly pleasant).

He simply smiled and said, “Not much,” offering no further explanation. (It later came to my knowledge that he worked part-time helping children with disabilities.)