from our upcoming book Our Secret Book of Benefits
We had owned a car.
Just like many modern things, it also turned out to be an unnecessary burden for us.
In our family, none of us have a need to travel long distance on a daily basis. And for occasional travels, plenty of taxi are available anywhere, anytime in all shapes and sizes.
So, owning a car did not make any sense.
We gave up the ownership of our car as well as the idea of owning a car in 2018.
Living car-free offers a range of significant benefits:
Financial Advantages:
Reduced Expenses:
No car payments: Eliminating car loans or leases freed up a substantial portion of our income.
Lower insurance costs: No car insurance premiums.
No fuel costs: Our fuel expenses disappeared.
Reduced maintenance costs: No more car repairs, oil changes, or tyre replacements.
Lower parking costs: No need to pay for parking at work, at events, or while shopping.
Increased Savings: The money saved from car ownership was invested for buying land and building a food-forest.
Health & Wellness Benefits:
Increased Physical Activity: Walking, biking, and using public transportation encouraged physical activity, improving cardiovascular health, reducing stress, and promoting overall well-being.
Reduced Stress: Commuting by car was stressful. Eliminating it significantly reduced stress levels.
Improved Air Quality: Fewer cars on the road contribute to cleaner air and a healthier environment.
Environmental Benefits:
Reduced Carbon Footprint: Cars are a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. Living car-free significantly reduced our carbon footprint.
Reduced Traffic Congestion: Fewer cars on the road contribute to reduced traffic congestion and improved traffic flow.
Less Dependence on Fossil Fuels: By reducing reliance on cars, we contribute to a shift away from fossil fuels towards more sustainable transportation options.
Social & Community Benefits:
Increased Interaction with the Community: Walking, biking, and using public transportation often involve more interaction with our community and fellow residents.
Greater Awareness of Your Surroundings: Without the distraction of driving, we become more aware of your surroundings, the environment, and the people around.
Other Benefits:
Reduced Clutter: No need to store a car, freeing up valuable space in our home.
Increased Freedom: We are less tethered to a car and have greater flexibility in terms of where we live and how we travel.
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