This week my wife and I sat down to talk about how we can simplify our lives. I had just watched an interview with a billionaire who said he prefers his freedom of time over maintaining yachts, jets, luxury cars, or giant homes. That hit home for me.
For a long time I thought success looked like a thousand-acre farm, a huge garden, animals to tend, and a pile of toys. I still respect that lifestyle and maybe one day I will want it, but right now I am learning to focus on being a good steward of what I have. I am choosing to give my energy to the things that bring the most joy and the best return.
Which brings me to our chickens. We first bought them for fresh eggs and to keep our old Pekin duck, Queen Jillian, company. Jillian has been gone for a while, the chickens hardly lay anymore, and our dogs can’t run free in the yard without trying to chase them down, which is their job after all. On top of that I find myself spending evenings chasing them into their coop instead of doing the things I value most.
I value my freedom. The freedom to travel. The freedom to hunt. The freedom to spend time writing and reading. The freedom to be present with my family and my dogs. The chickens no longer fit into that picture.
So we have decided to give them to someone who enjoys having them around. Life often comes down to choosing between time, enjoyment, and reward. For me, the focus is clear. If that means I buy eggs somewhere else, that is what I will do.
FIELD
Wind is everything. Whether you are walking to a stand, slipping into a blind, or just hoping to see animals up close, the wind will decide your chances. Always approach from downwind so your scent carries behind you. A light puff bottle, a pinch of dust, or even watching how leaves and grass move will tell you which way it is blowing. Animals live and die by their noses. If you ignore the wind, you may never even know they were there.
MINDSET: The Three Questions
When you feel the pull to buy or commit to something new, stop and run it through these three questions:
1. Does this add freedom or take it away?
Will it give you more time, energy, or options, or will it chain you to more responsibility?
2. Will it matter a year from now?
Short term impulses fade fast. If it won’t hold value a year down the line, it’s probably not worth it.
3. Does it align with my priorities?
If it doesn’t support your family, health, growth, or purpose, then it’s likely just noise.
If it passes all three, move forward with confidence. If it doesn’t, let it go and protect your freedom.
The things you own end up owning you.
Chuck Palahniuk
What’s one thing you could remove from your life today to make space for what matters?
