Small Needs to Become the New Big

It is becoming evident that there needs to be a fundamental shift in the North American values system if we are to get ourselves out of this environmental mess we have created. At the core, there needs to be a realization that small is better. Rather then competing with the Jone’s for the biggest house, biggest car etc, the competition should “how small can you go?”

Have no fear, there will still be the opportunity to spend large amounts of money and demonstrate conspicuous consumption, however there will be a twist. Rather then gloating about the new 3500 sq foot house your family of three inhabit, it will be mentioning how through personal ingenuity, and ability to purchase the newest of technology your family is able to cut their house footprint in half and thrive in a home of only 1700 sq feet!

The new measuring stick for cars will not be speed and engine size, but fuel economy and efficiency of space. For those really striving to be noted, you can create a lifestyle where you only have to drive your car on weekends! Try and beat that Jone’s!

Unfortunately, while this shift is needed immediately, it does not seem to be on the horizon. Bigger is still better. Hopefully, as more and more people seek options for what they can do to help improve the environment, the mantra will gradually become “Smaller is smarter”.