My college career was spent studying economics, I continue to read economics, yet today was the first time I realized economics is another lens to living a moral life. The idea of “living free” is not something new. The founding fathers constantly practiced ideas to living a free life. Adam Smith, in the 1700’s, wrote a book called “Moral Sentiments”. Becoming free is about independence. And independence is being in control of your actions and taking responsibility for those actions.
This weekend I finished Isaac Morehouse/Mitchell Earl’s book “Don’t Do Stuff You Hate” which is, among other things, an economic lesson in morality. Discovering the things you hate, being fully aware of that knowledge, and then acting upon the self-discovered knowledge is a major part of living free. Without detaching yourself from stuff you hate you won’t truly be able to live the life you want.
I also listened to Russ Roberts on EconTalk chatting with Ryan Holiday about his book “Ego is the Enemy“. Another fascinating case of using economics to keep your morals (ego) in check. The idea of not celebrating successes, or lamenting failures, is another step in living free.
Last, I’ve started reading “Self Control or State Control“. I am only a couple chapters in but it again has the same message: take control of your life, be responsible for your actions, lead to a free-er life.
I am in no way an expert in living free. Sometimes I get caught up in the rat-race and forget who I am and my principles. I will continue my attempts in living free even when faced with challenges of life.