Downshifting

[Badger]

Downshifting is the process of trading a high-pressure, high-speed, high-consumption lifestyle for a simpler, more enjoyable, more self-reliant way of life.

Would love to hear from anyone who has succesfully "Downshifted" and what the pleasures and pitfalls were. Obviously any plan has to involve keeping the boat and being able to sail mid-week.

Any experiences or plans you could share with us ?

 

[webcraft]

Definitive downshifting for yachties consists of:

1/ Chucking in job/Telling boss where to go

2/ Selling everything inc. current boat

3/ Buying blue water cruiser and/or possibly smaller property with rental potential

4/ Putting rest of money into cruising kitty and heading for the sun

Job done!

<font color=blue>Nick</font color=blue>
<A target="_blank" HREF=http://www.bluemoment.com>

</A>

 

[chippie]

I live that lifestyle to some extent except I never quite achieved the high flyer bit ;-]

 

[Badger]

I did all that in 1996 and then came back to face the music. I am more intersted in the sustainable middle way. It doesn't sound like anyone has done it.

 

[ean_p]

"sustainable middle way"....was that???

 

[BrianJ]

Yes I tossed it in a few years back. For the first two years I missed the Domestic/ International travel and all the “perks” Then I went sailing offshore for 12 months. Then on the way home, wondered why I had trouble climbing a very steep hill in a port one day .Got home, went to see the Doctor who sent me straight to the specialist…had my “open heart” within weeks. Felt I should sell the boat I case something went wrong and my children were stuck with that chore.
Of course I got better became active again, then sailed with mates in the Pacific. Now I do the odd delivery (very selective on the type of yacht I will deliver). But mostly drive my clubs 36’ rescue boat on weekends or when warranted. So I am still on the water.
But, life style has changed. I don’t spend so much time in the bar or eating out, have developed outside interests i.e. golf. I find there is always a project ready to do. I am currently stripping an antique dining room table and four chairs. That will keep me busy for a long while.
The only problem is finance, but you live according to your means, you do what you want to do when you feel like it. To hell with only sailing mid week, if you want to sail on Monday or Tuesday etc, then you do.

I don’t know what “Downshifting successfully" is, other than to say I am happy doing what pleases me. I also have time to have a friendly “ dig” at my Pommie friends on this BB. All in good fun, as I get back what I give.

Its your decision , but I say go for it.
BrianJ