How has your life changed since a year ago?

“One year ago, I was just a fresh graduate who asked my parents for money every now and then.

One year ago, I sat there by the window, staring blankly off into space, having no clue of what I should do and where I should start.

One year ago, I ate a lot of meat, never thinking that one day I’d be a vegetarian. The thought alone was so daunting.

One year ago, the idea of giving up every luxurious and convenient thing in big cities to spend the rest of my life living and nurturing my future children in the countryside sounds crazy (or even idealistic) to me. I might admire those who have made the idea a reality, even though I knew for sure I wouldn’t dare to live that way (because I was ambitious, and living in a big city gives me so many opportunities).

One year ago, I dreamed of living a free life. But how can I be free if I’m still worried about what others think about me? How can I live a truly/completely free life if I keep trying to please everyone, keep feeling self-conscious around new people? (I was not much self-confident). Those were the questions I asked myself over and over gain one year ago but I didn’t have the answers yet. Maybe, living a free life was just a dream, or rather an endless desire of mine, I thought.

One year ago, I used tons of non-eco friendly products (such as nilons, chemical cleansers,…), and never felt bad about that. They are inexpensive, quick, and convenient.

—

Now I’m working my first full-time job and making enough money to support myself and my parents.

Now I already know what I want to do in life, and how to live a meaningful life. I’m planning for each day and for my future. Everything becomes clearer.

Now I’m gradually working my way toward a vegetarian and I feel great that I made this decision in the first place.

Small towns/villages, mountains and even islands become places that I now consider to live in the future.

Now, living a green, natural and healthy lifestyle has become my first priority.

I don’t know if I’m being completely free but I’m sure I’m freer than I’ve ever been. I embrace my inner self and my appearance. I stop putting on makeup or buying gorgeous clothes. I wear whatever I feel comfortable with and don’t care what others think about me. I’m more myself than ever when I’m with others and when I’m alone.

Now I reduce the use of chemicals and plastics (reduce waste) as much as I can. Natural and organic products are way better.

(Honestly, I didn’t think my life had changed this much for just 1 year. Now looking back, I’m grateful for where I’m today.) “

My Quora answer