[genmed]

Great questions. This is something I've been trying to figure out for a while. Simple for me has meant spending only the time and money on things needed to make me happy. Steps I've taken to live a "simpler life" include going back to school to do my dream job, eliminating anything extra that I don't want or use (usually by giving it away), convincing family members I really don't "need" anything for holidays/birthdays, giving myself permission to spend time on things I enjoy, spending lots of time hiking and biking.
Is it cheaper to be simple -- yes in some ways as I've really cut down on spending money on anything that was not making me happy:
Running around and giving gifts to every relative for the holidays,
Going out to dinner with friends
At the same time I've also spent some additional money
I've always wanted a dog!
Hiring people to do things that in terms of my time and hassle factor aren't worth it (installing windows, putting up drywall) Yes we can do these things, but if it takes less time to work for the cost (overtime) and I really hate doing it..