Quitting the Rat Race - Privilege, Pension and Hard Work
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- Опубліковано 26 сер 2019
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For me, the biggest take away I got from this video is that some people build their careers throughout their lives but this guy builds his life as a career and I think that’s wise and beautiful.
Many people see his wonderful choice of "life as his career" as a mistake on their part (the thumbs down on this video proves that). I regret not making that same choice at younger age! Continued success to him with his choice!
I quit my job today, and I am rather terrified, because it wasn't according to some tidy plan like I like, but I want to give you some of the credit (yes credit, not blame!) for helping me to be brave enough to do it. I've worked in higher education in mathematics for 25+ years, with many highlights, but some lows too, and times when I really wanted to make a drastic change. This time, it was COVID, and being required to teach face-to-face even when cases are getting worse where I live. I'm not courageous; I'm probably a generation older than you, Daniel, with the middle-aged creaky joints and all; and I lack almost all practical skills and knowledge ... but what you said about taking leaps so you can *live*, has really been hitting me hard. You say a lot of poignant things that get to me, and I think I can't ignore it - it can't be an accident that I've been hungrily watching channels like yours about self-reliance and simplicity, for the last several years, that I'm trying to grow a garden for the first time, that I'm trying writing and art like I've wanted to do since childhood. There's some deep need in the spirit there. And even if I'm a latecomer and the path is foggy, I've got to try to follow it. Thank you again, very very much!
How are you?
All the best...
Wishing you all the best!
Well done to you.
you are not alone by any stretch of the imagination. i have been odd-job-bob for most of my life. very well educated bum to be honest and these are my people...those who want to homestead even later in life (im in my 50s but damn it, here we go) i have wood working capabilities, gardening for a few years some successfully some not so much, i have "creaky joints but a big heart. Daniel's rantings (with love) speak to me also and i am anxious to get onto my own homestead hopefully in this 2022 year. not sure of the location though...i like Daniel im in the UK also at the moment but i am not tied here (or anywhere) and have the ability to go EU, UK or Canada (born there but do not want to go back ) thinking UK or Ireland for me somewhere. that remains to be seen. So i would say...be scared but carry on. and if you need to chat to someone im sure there are loads of us floating around on facebook too. good luck
I had a massive heart attack at age 46 whilst trying to survive the corporate treadmill and have spent the rest of my life trying to live what's left 'my way' . Hampered by broken health my wife and I have still enjoyed ourselves - including adopting two you children 17 years ago - and make the most of our time together. My only regret is having been seduced by the toys and baubles used to trap us into an unrealistic and undeliverable expectation of life, before coming to my senses - at the cost of my health. I applaud you wisdom and courage to be your own man.
That's an all-too-common story, similar to my own father. Getting through it and rebuilding your life is remarkable. Thank you for sharing. :)
@@rcb8771
I second that.
You’re not alone mate. Many more of us waking up having paid heavy costs along the way.
@@ApriliaRacer14 but we survive and hopefully get to pass our hard learnt wisdom on. Hope you are good and take care.
I came from a family of 9, and my father died in his fifties as well. There was not a lot of money in my family, but in truth I never missed a meaI and I was raised by good, kind people. I am well educated, and looked wistfully at those whose parents paid for the educations, and went on holidays in the summer, while I worked. Due to a lot of circumstances, partly of my making, I went through some very difficult years in my late 20's and early 30's. I used to look at those as lost years. In truth, that was the time I learned all the really important things about how to live, and it forged my character. I am grateful now for those years. In the end, what is important is picking a path that suits you, and pursuing it. Even if it costs you friends, the approval of society, and financial security, it is still worth it. I congratulate you. You learned this lesson a lot sooner than I did.
Well said, Jimmie Oakland. So pleasant to read a thoughtful response such as yours. Thank you!
Jimmie I too came from a family of 9. Lately, I have been giving my parents so much credit for all that they did. My only regret was not letting them know that when I was growing up. I agree with you 100%
the love in your dog's eyes when he looks at you is lovely to see. He absolutely adores you. His eyes shine with it. Border collies wear their heart on their paws.
I really tried to listen, but Mossy stole the show. What a character. He is pure love and clearly believes the sun rises and sets over you.
What a lovely, purposeful, life you are living. You both made today a bit more special.
Dog: I have no idea who he's talking to or what he's saying, but I'm going to alternate between liking his face, and looking like a cool bro with the wind in my fur.
Your parents raised a kind and refined young man.
I think what you're doing is wonderful. There are no guarantees in life (a car accident at 24 put paid to all my hopes and dreams). So, live as you wish to. The life you've chosen is a good and healthy one. I love your posts. And, I'm so in love with your beautiful, affectionate and faithful dog. Good on both of you. Greetings from me in South Africa.
Hi there..thanks for sharing your comment wisdom..It's very thought provoking ..I'm an artist that was never encouraged or able to use my gift as it demands a lot of time and seeming isolation. .although there is nothing like this feeling of creating or expressing through a gift. .now I'm 40 plus and working shifts at an opticians just so I can secure an income but really can't yet seem to find my groove within that. I am however saving as much as I can ..have a children's book in the process which is a goal I have set..I do love these vids and look forward to see the video of the dog as he has stolen my heart too.🍷🍻here's to Mossy Bottoms success..Liyat LA
Im sorry for you.
But your profile picture is cool 😌
All the super healing best to you !!! Profound statement 🙏🏼💚🙏🏼
I'll catch some waves for you, G'day from Australia.
specialgifts LA I share a similar history. Wanted to be an artist from age 9 but circumstances and lack of encouragement (which I so needed) meant that now, at age 58, I am still working as a medical secretary in order to pay off a mortgage. I have finally started to paint again with the encouragement of my lovely husband and realise that at my age I have to just crack on and do it now, rather than wait until retirement or until my circumstances change because that time may never come! Much success with your book - enjoy the process because that’s why we do it isn’t it?
Collecting water,
The Story Of The Cracked Pot: For Anyone Who's Not Quite Perfect
An elderly Chinese woman had two large pots, each hung on the ends of a pole which she carried across her neck.
One of the pots had a crack in it while the other pot was perfect and always delivered a full portion of water.
At the end of the long walks from the stream to the house, the cracked pot arrived only half full.
For a full two years this went on daily, with the woman bringing home only one and a half pots of water..
Of course, the perfect pot was proud of its accomplishments.
But the poor cracked pot was ashamed of its own imperfection, and miserable that it could only do half of what it had been made to do.
After two years of what it perceived to be bitter failure, it spoke to the woman one day by the stream.
'I am ashamed of myself, because this crack in my side causes water to leak out all the way back to your house.'
The old woman smiled, 'Did you notice that there are flowers on your side of the path, but not on the other pot's side?'
'That's because I have always known about your flaw, so I planted flower seeds on your side of the path, and every day while we walk back, you water them.'
For two years I have been able to pick these beautiful flowers to decorate the table.
Without you being just the way you are, there would not be this beauty to grace the house.'
Each of us has our own unique flaw. But it's the cracks and flaws we each have that make our lives together so very interesting and rewarding.
You've just got to take each person for what they are and look for the good in them.
SO, to all of my cracked pot friends, have a great day and remember to smell the flowers on your side of the path!
Moral: Each of us has our own unique flaws. We're all cracked pots. But it's the cracks and flaws we each have that make our lives together so very interesting and rewarding. We've just got to take each person for what they are, and look for the good in them.
NB
What a wonderful story, thank you💚
Great story
Love this story. Why does wisdom always seem to be a thing of the past?
Just found you. I’m in New Zealand...feel the same about this world, lots of us do..it’s called an awakening.
I'm a 49 year old male here in England and everything you say resonates with me. I just haven't acted on these feelings because I've been sucked in to the system and family responsibilities. Good on you and loving the posts!
never too late, especially if you're in good health
Thoroughly enjoyed watching your dogs face as you were talking, thank you. :)
So did I!
me too :)
Me too! I lost my two senior dogs in 2017. I am in no position to be able to get another dog. So I enjoy watching vloggers who have dogs.
But I did adopt a really ancient senior and she is a amazing blessing.
That is a very contented and happy dog.
Admit your male privilege, or you will not be eligible to sleep with me or my feminist friends.
Hello from Az , USA 🇺🇸
I have been watching, but never posted ‘till now.
I can only dream about such a peaceful way of life now at 65. You can feel the most lovely quality of your life listening and watching you both. And How elegant, articulate and sincere your story is. For me, you make planting.. harvesting, digging, building a precious journey. This brings out the hidden poet in me
that longs for the joy of a life, without regret.
I think that will be the ultimately be your legacy for your future.
Your kind and gentle heart is a breath of fresh air. Just like where you are sitting.
Carry on working your wonderful life. 🌹
I enjoy the escape of watching you and this wonderful, sweet hearted dog.
eileen corado well said ❤️
Love from an Irish lady who lived in NYC for 30 years. Happy now to be back living on the family farm here with my brothers. Admire you.
I am a orphan in my 50's,miss my parents so badly but my mum said your a long time dead,go forth and live your life,I can do this with joy in my head,get up early everyday and make the most of it,my parents are with me in spirit everyday,I realise prob a bit late in life we are on this earth for a reason ,I think that it is to enjoy with good friends and family,not the partying good time but contented mind good time,
What most people fail to realise is that there is only the 'NOW'. Nothing else exists. The past you can't do anything about and the future isn't here yet. Most people are living in a prison of their own making worrying about stuff and nonsense. I'm pretty much doing what you are doing but without the tumbledown cottage. Mine is standing and has a roof. I lost my job in January and decided I really didn't want to work anymore. I'm living off of a small pension that wouldn't even buy a beat up car, until I set up on my own. In the meantime I'm growing our food. My husband works for his self but doesn't earn enough to pay tax. We get by but we are happy. We are in our sixties and if the Government hadn't taken my state pension with only five years notice I'd have some money coming in. We have a few luxuries but who cares, what are luxuries but things you don't really need? I'd back my kids 100% if they chose to do what you are doing. There is no dignity, or power in being a debt slave to either the Government or all those other self serving entities who grow rich on our labour. Good luck to you, I love your ethos and your honesty.
Best of life to you both
This has to be the best comment of all time. Just because everyone know it, but we are in denial
Wounderful.
@@junitolopez3762 idealisms that are fostered through culture and perceived need push and can keep you
in this mindset or self inflicted prison.... the way out is to find your passion or passions and give them
priorities.... suddenly most of the fear and dependence seems to disappear and the now is the joy.
greetings from Bellows Falls, Vermont and Rosswein, Sachsen where I am enjoying (relatively) my own
passions. .... two, when possible, is better though, as the social need is always there...
best wishes to all of you....
@@williammorse8330 Brilliantly put!
I have to admit, I wish I were like you, with the same mindset, physical health, and willpower. Thanks for this video. I think your father would be very proud of you if he could see you now.
Your Dad's story brought tears to my eyes. Go forth and live how YOU want to live. I wish you nothing but health, a watertight roof over your head and food in the ground and your belly and sunshine xx
I’m 52, the age of my dad’s age of his death.
Brought by my mom to Canada. Had a hard working life here . Having a chance to education, I have improved my life significantly but at the cost of very fast pace life . Now that I have the things that I worked for 30+ years, I want the things that I have left behind in Poland where I was born with a little twist .
I want to move to Africa; Tanzania.
I love the slow pace of life, the weather; no snow
I would like to live off the land own a Doberman, a donkey, some chickens for eggs and meat . For money I could have a clinic and treat people .
Wish me luck.
Good luck to you. I am in the same boat as you.
@@Maisha-Halisi hello I'm from Kashmir....love this arrangement too
Wish you luck 🙏👌😁
A very enlightening video full of wisdom, humanity and serenity. Thank you so much!
I was about to write the same, but you beat me. It's hard to find a person of his age with such beautiful perspective and wisdom.
So true.
like, you are nice person, whats your mbti?
I like it to very thoughtful lots of love Diane xxxx Colin 🏳️🌈🌈😋🐸
I've been waiting for an update!! I think about Mossy Bottom often.
So have we love it love Ireland 🌈💚 love to live there xxxxxDiane 💯💓💚
@@DianeD862 lots of cheap house like ur man is in for less than 3ok
If only it was so easy we can dream or longer holidays to Ireland and Dublin love Diane xxxx Colin 🌺🍀🏳️🌈🍀🐸
@@CORRIGEEN71 i
@@CORRIGEEN71 do you live in Ireland 🌈
Thank you so kindly for Your words of support. I'm a 58 year old single woman. Former travel agent who had to cash out my 401k 3x to survive. I now have no job, no where to live and no sustainable LIFE. So it's very late in my life but my Dad taught me how to grow, my mom how to can. So now I'm looking for LAND! I live in the Pacific Northwest of USA. I have no tidy plan but I refuse to continue down this same path as last 30 years that has netted me nothing.
Peace and blessings to you kind sir and please know how helpful this has been for me. ⚘♥️🕊🍃
I have worked jobs my whole life and now am retiring in a few months with both a federal and state pension. I too have plans for creating massive gardening that I never had time for while working. I feel that I've lost so many good years that I could have been doing things that I wanted to do but I never had your courage and fortitude. I fear I am getting too old to accomplish all my goals and will have a limited time to enjoy them. You are most definitely doing the right thing & and I am very proud & happy for you. 👍
Always thinking of mossy bottom, love that name, and that dog is so so adorable. You can see that dog adores you. You look the epitome happiness. Yes it is inspiring even at my age.
Exactly what I was about to say. You can see the love in those eyes!
If times ever get tough and you need a temporary job, I think you would make a great TV presenter or even an audio reader. You have the look and the voice and accent.
he oozes positive energy. Keep releasing more videos please
@john connolly OK, and that's fine, but it's not for everyone. I think the idea is to recognize there are different ways to live your life.
Yes agree you are a natural TV presenter and voice over.
I recently watched one of your videos where you talk about being an introvert, this was enlightening for me. I finally realised that it’s okay to be introverted and it doesn’t mean I’m being rude or standoffish, I’m just not a people person, particularly in crowds. Blessings to you both.
Ja Ho Me too ;)
Liking your own company seems to be a sin in our overly socialized society.
Thanks so much for discussing privilege! I live in a housing cooperative that I co-founded and my no. 1 life goal is to never work full time.
I also saw my family work themselves to the bone and have no energy for anything else and vowed I would never love like that.
Also pls don’t ever worry about talking videos, those are my favorites and the longer the better.
Ps ur dog is such a beauty.
Well done for following ur heart and I hope it continues to nourish u x
It does not matter how other people see your lifestyle as "hard work and exhausting"....I get the feeling that to you it is Art. You are the craftsman of your reality and doing it all from scratch ...like a potter forming clay. There is something cathartic, joyful and satisfying about what you do. It makes you Happy and that is so awesome. You are connected to your Truth. Lovely dog and You of course 😊
You are living a wonderful life, I'm sure your dad would be so proud of you! Good luck for the future, Poo
We moved to spain 21 years ago and we purchased a house with 3 walls 3 story made of stone washed the clothes in a stream we had cable drums for table and chairs we had very litle money but we now own two house's car have good savings we own every thing we have and got it all from hard work so good luck to you and more people should try it wish you all the best
Mike Spence sounds marvellous ;)
Hello Mike!
Moving to Spain is also my dream! I am living in Scandinavia where the summers are very short and winters are very long. I wish i could live in a country where the winters are mild and the summers are NOT TOO hot! Somewhere i can grow vegetables and tropical fruits. I am looking at the south of Spain - Andalusia, but i am not sure where in Andalusia.
If you have any ideas, i would appreciate if you could tell me!
@@Mourad1m I think thair is one part of Spain the village was abandoned many years ago and the government are trying to bring back to life but property is supposed to be cheap I will try and get some info for you
As a woman now in my 60s I can tell you and your listeners...... Truer words were never spoken! If you have a dream, DO IT !! My generation came up being taught to work at a job and be thankful you had it....... money, things, pension, etc. -- all those things were to be coveted. Now, I wish I had followed my longing along with my late husband and our children to pursue a lifestyle such as yours. You are so very right about peace and contentment being enough. In fact, they are a blessing!
You lifestyle seems so peaceful, I'm loving the vibes
You have achieved fulfilment and money can't buy that! People forget that this was normal life for a lot of folk at one time and indeed probably still goes on as I'm sure there are many an aged farmer still living this life, just without the spotlight. Love your philosophy, and your doggie!
I'm from the West of Ireland (Clare) but fairly committed to a semi-happy life in Dublin. I envy your guts and youth. The West needs younglads like yourself to wallow in the harsh beauty down there.
1:24 dog saying, '' hey, why are you pulling on my ear. Hey, stop pulling on my ear. I love you SO much, you can pull on my ear if you like. '' My dog passed away 2 years ago and I'm still not over it.
The best cure for a lost love is a NEW love... 🙂
An inspirational speaker and motivator who DOESN'T scream!
Much love from Algeria ❤
Just what i wanted to say! He is so sincere
can you replicate his lifestyle in Algeria? is there agricultural land waiting to be developed in your country? At least you have warm weather most of the time
@@jscanl My father actually has been doing that for over 10 years or so. He just recently decided to take care of bigger farm animals so he has 2 cows which both are soon to give birth.
That is one cute dog.
@Rex B Barkin' you diddle children. Admit it
Your doggy Moss is so cute I just contain myself when I look at him ❤️and loves being hugged and petted - he is just a true gem ❤️
This is just the second video of you I have watched. I find it interesting to find vloggers like you who do not do the fast-paced rapid talk and tight edits typical today to hold the attention of the viewers. You talk slow-paced, relaxed, no fancy tight editing, no fancy music, yet so engaging. Not for one minute was I bored listening to you. The substance and insights you speak of are, to a good extent, compelling. Thank you for sharing. I am an instant subscriber.
Amen! This is a message we all need to hear we've become so dependant on the system ( Social construct) with our 25yrs mortgage, smart TV and smart phone. God help us when the imminent recession finally drops. I'm praying for myself and others to make this move because their is more to gain than to loose. Welĺdone
You ought to take a moment to think about what an amazing piece of life enhancing super technology the smart phone is!
If people stopped WASTING their life on useless effing social media then maybe they would appreciate what they had in their hand a bit more!! A smartphone performs a VAST range of functions in a tiny package at very low cost. Use it to improve your life - don't be a slave to it .....
You have no idea what your smart phone is being used for. It's the key to the jail you'll be locking yourself into down the road. Do some research before it's too late. Do you really think the global corporations are giving you all this free stuff because they like you? Your freedom is being eroded day by day, you're being controlled and spied on and fed misinformation and in the not too distant future you'll be part of a system similar to what's already happening in China with their 'social credit system'. You're already being controlled and you don't even realise it. Smart phones are for dumb people.
What recession would that be US or europe
Daniel you're an inspiration! Well I'm no expert according to the financial analysis it will be world wide and it will make the Great Depression looks like child's play. However, it's not for us to fear the God Factor is near stay bless you all.
I have been waiting for the imminent recession for five years
Here was I thinking, wow that dog is very content to just sit there 😆
His true colors came through at the end 🤗. Well done to both of you🌻
Notice how the dog is enjoying the moment during the whole video. No single thought. Just pure love.
I echo what Chris says....you're videos are helping me through a tough time. I'm at a cross roads and it's seeing you and the life you've created that help prove there is more to life. Thanks again for sharing with us.
All I'll say is that things aren't always what they seem. People think that just because your young and own a property, you must be rich, but they don't stop to consider that you've been saving your Butt off and working for years, while others your age having been frittering their money away on cars and booze.
To be truthful, telling someone they are privileged when you don't know their full story, and everything they've been through, is really narrow-minded. People just throw the word around without even considering all the hard work that goes into gaining such 'privilege'.
I'm 23 and I just bought my first property, so I can relate to you a lot of what you say.
Always glad to see an update from mossy bottom . How Moss adores you is so cute!
i quit my job today with no plan at all,it was making me so miserable so I bit the bullet and walked out.im the same as you I don't chase money I chase time
PREACH!
Things will work out right.
Stay strong and stay blessed.
Good luck! Send us updates.
How is that going ?
You said one thing which really resonated with me: "I'm happy, and that's what matters!"
A beautiful life for you and your adorable little best friend x
Lol mossy steals the show. He is a beautiful dog.
Tracy's Little Patch of Dirt. And my heart 🥰 that’s one happy pooch who clearly loves his owner x
Water is free in Ireland so check how far your house is from the main system. you might not have to pay much to get it installed.
About work though you are absolutely right. In Lithuanian we have saying which roughly translates to "Work makes a person beautiful/decorated" which is a saying that stuck to me trough my life so far. I wanted to make my life easier for my self by going to university and studying what I thought I loved but the more I did it the more I realised that it's not what I really want from life. I realised that I am much more happy working for farmers over summer doing physical work and on free time just making all sort of projects, trinkets and things than I am during college when I am sitting at a computer all day drawing and stressing about my deadlines and I realised that If I continue doing this after college it's only going to get worse. I honestly did not know what I was going to do once I was finished with college. But once I found your videos a month ago or so I realised that this might be the right thing for me. I only got a year of college left so once that is done I will get the best paying job I can till I get money to buy some run down cottage and do the same thing you do. probably will try to sell some art as well on the side to get some income if I get the chance to. So thank you for your videos they are truly inspiring me to go and live a more simple but much more full life.
BTW even though I am quite far from even starting my journey with renovating an old cottage. I had a lot of thought of what I would do with it to make it more spacious. One thing that I would do would be to make the sleeping spaces in the attic. That way you would have a lot more space downstairs. Since you are making an attic right now I thought I would throw that idea your way.
Modestas Salvis Lovely quote! If you are interested in cottages, tiny homes or homes from shipping containers could be something to look into. Lots of great ideas from UA-cam ;)
@@kotare86 Thanks! I told my sister about the idea I have and she told me to look at the channel "living big in a tiny house" so I been watching their videos all day yesterday and today. It is defenetly an interesting idea of having a house on wheels. But I do like the look of the old stone Irish cottages so I am not entirely sure which I will go for both, ideas have advantages and disadvantages. I guess only time and my future budget will tell 😅
... as long as there is good insulation under the roof. Attics are very extreme in temperature, I think.
Love your interactions with Moss! Reminds me of my kids when they were very young! Always wanting to be the center of attention.
Thanks for being frank about the hard work and the satisfaction of completing the chores....this concept has been lost over the past years.
Aw man do i want to quit the rat race, holy jesus...Every job I've gone to I've met at least 2 to 3 real arseholes, sometimes a lot more, I've had it with these types; I've been working as a chef the last few years, very negative environment working in a kitchen, not everywhere though. I'm saving money to meet up with my friends in Canada, then i'm saving more and trying to sell paintings, but i have a plan b lined up, i'm also into baking and have been baking for a year or two now, i knead the dough hahaha. Love the channel.
Jim O'Ryan. Good luck to you with your endeavours. A chef’s working environment is not for the faint-hearted. Once you’ve made that jump, and moved away from your usual groove, other opportunities may come along that you might not even have considered. I think going to Canada, even for a short while, sounds like a good idea. Changing your environment is a bit like pressing the reset button, and allows you to discover what is really important to you.
Good luck Jim. Sending all the best from the UK
People would die for home-baked bread. If you weren't going to Canada you could bake real organic bread and get permanent customers to deliver to. I always think about the lady who lives on a narrow boat here in Britain. She sells knitting wool and travels up and down the canal network. She has customers who wait till she comes round again to buy more wool for their knitting. Good luck!
I've been a chef in Ireland for nearly 30 years now and love cooking, but you're right, it's the assholes and working conditions which make it unbearable and it's getting worse. Just be patient work for yourself not anyone else join a union and never let the assholes drag you down.
@@paullooney2522 Exactly yeah, the job is very easy, the food is already pre cooked, i would rather cook from scratch myself, but its the head chef...he's a clown.
the happiest time of life is when there is very little to make one anxious about - just steady work and total beleif in your efforts eventually give reward and contentment - who knows what the future brings.Good to see your update - looking forward to seeing your restoration work on the buildings. Beautiful dog
Lovely themed chat. Your achievements of a life style and a way of being shine through. Thank you for sharing this.
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and life! I don't know if you will read this, but I want to say how much I appreciate the wisdom words in your videos. The life you have here is completely different from mine on the surface (I'm a PhD student in the big city of LA, USA), but I identify with everything you say here about living with thoughtful intention and an eye for the beauty of simple things. I feel a kindred introverted soul in someone who cultivates a relationship with their solitude, and hearing the deep thoughts that come from it. The world and media isn't suited to easily finding these kind of thoughts, and I am so glad to find your work.
Hi Daniel, glad to see you re doing well, beautiful simple life, I wish you continued happiness. My best wishes. Gerard in Wexford.
Thank you for the update. I appreciate your lifestyle. Its like alot in US going off grid. Living just like you. Its a life ive always wanted to live myself. Its being close to your creator. Living a life he called you to live. Simple.
"The only thing scarier than change is staying the same"
I've been on a similar path to yours for almost two years now, except I'm quite a bit older! I've been fascinated by this type of lifestyle for quite some time, and about six years ago I decided to begin making plans to take the plunge. So about two years ago I took early retirement and jumped ship, despite being told by others that I was crazy (although I thought they were the crazy ones for remaining in the rat-race).
I purchased a cottage in the centre of Ireland on just over an acre which was in need of quite a bit of work, most of which I'm doing myself when possible. Yes it can be hard work and a steep learning curve, especially in terms of growing food naturally, and also taking into account the fact that prior to this I'd never grown anything!
I suppose it depends on what you want out of life, and how far you are willing to go to achieve it. Make no mistake it's hard work, especially if you're going it alone.
Working on a tight budget means having to do most of the renovations myself, so time has to be divided between working on the house and working on the land. Then there's all the domestic stuff like cooking and washing and cleaning to contend with, and the fact that I haven't had a proper holiday in nine years.
So has it been worth it? Absolutely!
I love my life and the freedom it gives, and in those two years there hasn't been one day where I doubted myself in making the right decision. Not having had a holiday in such a long time might seem like a big deal to some, but when you're contented with life then you don't really need a holiday "to unwind", and every day seems like a holiday to some degree anyway, so it's not an issue. Anyway I've my dogs and my chickens to consider, so apart from the financial aspect taking a break would necessitate having one of my daughters to house sit. Keeping animals requires responsibility.
A lot of people seem to take the attitude of..."I'd love to, but...."
I believe that there's never a 'perfect' time to do anything, so if you're waiting for that perfect time to have all your ducks lined up in a row when everything falls into place...then you'll be waiting forever.
So, plan...prepare...jump....live.. would be my advice.
Love your videos. It's great to discover that I'm not alone in my 'craziness' and that there are other people out there who believe that having the desire to be independent and in control of their own lives is something to aspire to, and hopefully achieve.
And good luck to anyone who's about to take that leap.
Having read previous vlogs from this channel it sounds as if there are a few of you doing similar things in Ireland. Would it make sense to get together and help each other get the homes built? Like a barnraising thing. You all have crops or animals to care for but with some planning it should be a possibility surely. To have a solid place to live will surely help the rest of the work. There are also willing volunteers who'd muck in too.
But that would mean having to have one of those long wooden tables and lots of lemonade? he he I'm joking...I get what you're saying.
The thing is, there may be a few people doing something similar, but Ireland may be bigger than you'd imagine and we could all be a few hours drive apart from each other and not exactly neighbours. The barn raising thing is usually done between actual neighbours.
I've recently been concentrating on the house quite a bit and essentially have it quite comfortable now, although the field outside has turned into a bit of a mad thing as a consequence of that. An old man told me once you should get the house sorted first so when you come in from a hard day in the fields you can relax in comfort.
I donno...I think maybe part of going your own way is doing what you want when you want to, and not be tied to arrangements with others? Tomorrow I could decide I want to paint a ceiling or decide I want to clean out the hen house, or decide I want to do very little and have a chill day. I think that's part of the beauty of it. There are exceptions obviously and at certain times things need doing on a certain day, but the less of that the better. I'd be interested to hear what other smallholders think.
You’re an inspiration. We should all have a friend just like you that we can bounce ideas off of, share ideas and aspirations or even just listening to one another and getting a bit of reassurance or encouragement. I truly enjoy your videos.
I am very touched by your words. A lot of courage, a lot of ❤️ ; thanks for updating!
💖Moss! You know dear boy, I'm a 70 year old Hippie now and loving the retirement I get to enjoy, but when I was 24 years old, I too decided to quit my job and go to Europe on my own. I didn't know what I would DO for money once there, but I ended up in The Netherlands, landed a job in a bank and stayed 5 1/2 years. Returned to the States and tried to live a 'normal' life, but the vagabond in me kept telling me to move along. So I took off cross country again, got a good paying job in the medical field, but I wanted to only work part time so I could pursue my voluntary job working on the ambulance. Well, after 12 years that itch to move back to Europe seduced me so I returned to Holland in 1989 and have been here ever since. I scratch my head sometimes at my youthful folly, but boy I'd do it again in a heartbeat. You're right .. do it while you are young and still have the physical strength to build your castle. Soon enough old age will be upon you and you can look back with pride. 🌹
Linda Casey wonderful comment!
This is beautifully written :)
@Nicky L I AM retired. I paid into the American system since I was 16 until I left in 1989 and into the Dutch system from 1989 until 2009. I also paid into different retirement systems in the U.S. and here. I have no guilt whatsoever as to the small pittance I receive now from both countries. I'm quite frugal and have also managed to save a little money as well. 🌹
a mature hippy linda
Do you have children and nephews my dear lady ?
Thank you for another inspiring video! They bring me a great sense of peace. Your simplicity and the genuine loving relationship that you seem to have with your dog it’s a real joy to watch! I think I may have seen him smiling a few times! 😄
You are a true lover of country. Since you're young, enjoy having the strength to be able to tackle many projects. There is something special to be said about breathing clean fresh air in the country and enjoying the peace and quiet in nature. Your ducks are adorable and your dog is so sweet and you can tell he loves you very much. i wish you much success in all you do. You are very fortunate.
Thank you for the update. Your dog is lovely, and so are you.
I love your dog...I am new to your channel. You look like a young Bee Gees . The main singer and I think the only one left alive. I can tell your dog loves you very much.
Even though you bought the land and house out right. Do you have to have insurance and also pay yearly taxes on the property? If not...I am moving over there! You seem very content and at peace with the life you have chosen for yourself. Peace and health be with you and your animals.🙏
BARRY!!
STAYIN' ALIVE......!!!
He looks like a handsome BeeGee you meant 😜
Yeah totally think this dude is like a Bee Gee
Thanks for the update, Daniel. Glad to see that you are still enjoying the experience. Given one of the video themes, long may it last! Maybe into eternity...?! Wishing you everything good in your journey, Robbie.
so nice to see you again Daniel! You inspire me a lot to fulfill my dreams and spend time in the wild. I’ve been spending most of my days in nature recently and it’s beyond healing. Thanks x
You are quite literally 'living the dream', wishing you the greatest success going forward 🍃
As much as I love the tutorials, I love your shares even more. Thanks for this, I was looking forward to it!
You are so well versed and soft spoken and the mutual love and affection you and your dog have for one another is heart warming. 🙂❣
Love that inspirational simplicity ,minimalism and consciousness !!! Super thumbs UP for Daniel and mossy ! :D
Thank you for the continued inspiration! Your videos are a little bit of sanctuary; a window to look into from the rat race and remember there is another way. Keep them coming!
Very nice thank you. A nice video about your solar-powered water-pump and how the system works and delivers water would be awesome.😁
I can listen to you for hours. It makes my day when I see that you have posted a new video. You are an inspiration to me. Thank you
"I'm happy and that's what matters". I'm a recent sub, love your channel mate, you are so chilled and very thought provoking.
Your dog is so darn cute. Your life style is a choice that suits you well. We can see the progress of the stone work. So pretty 🌻
Thanks for the update. Great to see you chugging along :)
Wow, really enjoying your videos, full respect to you for living the life you want. I've made a compromise with the rat race. I'm now teaching part time, 3 days per week. I'm not making much money, but I am lucky enough to live in housing association property and so I don't need much. As you say, our best resource is TIME, and I now have more of that in which to pursue the other things I love. Who wants to be a wage slave? Can't imagine anything worse! All power to you for choosing what feels right to you. PS love the doggy :)
Thank you so much for doing what some of us are dreaming of, and showing that it is possible, even if you are basically pulling yourself up by your bootstraps. Really enjoy your content, the simplicity and wholesome nature of it really makes it stand out against the poppier and flashier videos of this type.
Thank you, I really needed that reminder as to why I'm doing something similar down in Kerry :)
Why don't you put up a video and let us see what you're doing, good luck with your plan
What a powerful and encouraging message Daniel. I always look out for your video. Please make the video very often. Thank you
What is abundantly clear here is the sense of self belief, courage and self esteem that you have.
Without that, none of us could achieve anything like you have.
There must have been a fortuitous set of circumstances around your upbringing.
Childhood is a lottery and some of us win while others loose big time.
Thank you for giving us so much of your time and for inviting us into your world!! You are such an inspiration and encouragement to people who would love to do what you are doing but don't have the courage etc..😊
Love from Gateshead. Followed your channel from the early days. Wishing you every joy immeasurable. xxx
where is this filmed?
@@terrydavis6368 Ireland...South I think. 👍
Moira Goldsmith West of Ireland. 😀
@@nicolafigini784 Cheers m' dear. 😁
Thanks for filling us in on ur previous life and answering questions... I think loads of people including me would love to live like u do ....I do sort of... but wish I did it when I was younger but just wasn't the right time I guess ...
Working out what ur priorities are is half the thing ...
I'm sorry u lost ur dad so young .
Mossy ur funny 😍
Good to see u post again .TY
I didn't quit the rat race I stuck it out until it quit me leaving me burned out and utterly depressed. It's been over twenty years since I crashed and burned but difficult as it's been it probably saved my life as well as my sanity. I admire your courage and the vision you have for your own life it takes real strength to journey the road less travelled and your making a fine job of it. I don't know much about growing stuff or building stuff but I'm a quick study so if you ever need a hand or a dig out I'd be happy to help. I'm also an oil painter singer and musician so a bit like yourself I've created my own little life around the things I love and the rat race for me is gone forever. Take care to all at mossybottom.
Use your imagination.
I've been waiting to hear from you it's lovely to hear from you I love Ireland would like to do what you have done love Diane xxxx 😃 Colin 💚🐸💚🍀🌈🍀💚
Roof is looking great! Can’t wait for a video about the restoration!
Have loved your videos since the start. Two handsome boys living a handsome life (even though I know it's not always roses). Please keep up the good work and I hope we continue to be as much of an inspiration for you as you are for us. Warm regards from the Scottish Borders
Thankyou for sharing your personal thoughts about life in your videos. I am thinking about them and your life often and can sense that I am changing for the better as a person with a new found belief in myself and the possibilities that I never thought I could achieve. Thankyou for the wisdom and strength that you are sharing with all of us!
This was a suggested video and it was Outstanding! My entire family is gone. My only sibling, and baby brother died suddenly at age 55. I am now 62 and cherish each day. My health is okay, nothing serious but several chronic issues which limit my ability to work full time or do manual work. I can walk great distances and enjoy hiking in the countryside. Your dog is precious and obviously adores you!
Brilliant vid,you are the epitome off an amazing quality of life. A simple life but you have everything you need and want. If a lot more people could live like this I think a lot of problems and stress would disappear. Keep up the good work. Love the outtakes at the end 😁 love and blessings x
Have you watched Jean de Florette? I think you have made a very good decision getting a pump. We have a pump but not good if the power goes off so I store water in bottles just in case (I live in the country with beautiful views. 40 years now.) Have reached a point in my life where it is a struggle. My husband had to go into a care home so now on my own but do get help. Certain people are wanting me to go into a retirement home.
I am hanging on here to get one more summer and autumn. The bulbs are starting to flower and it is just days from spring. Can’t wait for all the cherry trees to blossom. Tough choices ahead.
Do so enjoy your posts.
carol King 💚✨💚 🍀🍀🍀
Jean de florette is a wonderful film but perhaps not the best encouragement for someone trying to life the good life in the styx!!
Manon des Eaux!!! Do you live down under?
T.T. Margaux Yes I do. Born and lived all my life in N.Z. Come over for a holiday. You would love it. My favourite place for holidays was Te Anau in. Jan. of course it is busy. with tourists these days but the scenery never changes. ❤️
x Thank you for your kind advice. xx
Your outlook is always so inspiring! Thank you for taking the time and making the effort to share a piece of your world with us.
Charming and wise young man!
Wish him all the best with my complete respect.
You’re living the dream, my man 😄
Spent half of last Sunday weeding and doing yardwork for my sister in law, who is recovering from a foot injury and couldn’t have been more happy and content doing it. There’s just something so satisfying about that kind of work.
Moving from the city to the countryside myself in two months. Just an appartement sublet in a small village (and I will still have to work in the city 3-4 days a week)...but it’s a start. Hoping to actually work in some kind of occupation with plants/animals at some point, while making a supplementary income from home. Owning property just isn’t in the cards financially, where I live and I‘m bound by family ties to the region.
But yeah, I‘ve had it with ‚city life‘ 😏
It was a pleasure to see you thriving and content!
Greetings from North Carolina. Your wisdom and bravery really shine in this video. Feel blessed that you touch and inspire all of us with your sensitive and frank sharings. As always, I look forward to the next update. Thank you😊
I read recently that one definition of wisdom is delayed gratification. That rings true... Aren't all of the best things in life those that we strive toward with energy, focus, and patience? Your story speaks to so many people still in the rat race portion of their journey, and it gives them the strength to persevere... I did my corporate time, climbed a reasonable distance, and when the view didn't look all that spectacular when compared with what I was being asked to give up, I decided that was the time to do what called my name. I found a modest, derelict house more suited for a wrecking ball than a renovation on a small, garden-worthy plot of land about an hour from my elderly parents. I bought it for less than what most people spend to buy a used car. For the next two years, I had the thrill of my life being able to work alongside my then-retired former-bricklayer / Jack-of-all-building-trades father followed by the next few years working quietly on my own to physical exhaustion. It is the home I wanted but most especially it is the experience that I dreamed of.
The greatest takeaway, perhaps, for me is how little we truly need once we free ourselves from the rent and mortgage burden. (It's easier than you know, people!) The one thing I've missed and would like to change, however, is the ability to travel, although I have to say that every time I do go somewhere, especially locally, I appreciate it like I just landed here. My very best to you, Daniel. I look forward to all of your videos and am with you in spirit!