The New Dream Blog
In our blog, we feature stories, tips, and commentary from contributors around the world on topics ranging from
consumerism and parenting to how to live a fuller life with less. Enjoy!
Interested in contributing a guest post? Please review our submission guidelines.
Our Emerging Normal: Share Your Thoughts with Us
by New Dream | April 28, 2020
We welcome any reflections you wish to share about this moment in time, as you and those around you more deeply question what we prioritize and consume—and as we all continue to seek individual and collective well-being.
Youth Perspective: Seattle Is Dying, At Least for Longtime Residents and Job Seekers
by Alexis Arambul | May 3, 2019
New Dreamer Alexis Arambul discusses a challenge facing more and more U.S. cities: a lot of people who need work simply can’t afford to live in the places where work is offered.
Be There for People: Life Lessons from a Fifth Grader
by Jen Patterson | April 9, 2019
New Dreamer Jen Patterson shares her experience working as an academic coach and being personally challenged and inspired by a student's poem.
The Gift of Connecting with the Past
by Moira Silva | December 7, 2018
New Dreamer Moira Silva shares the experience of creating a truly meaningful gift for her family: the gift of interviewing her great aunt.
Tales from a Tech-free Summer Camp
by Eli Austin | October 11, 2018
A recent high school grad shares a lesson for young people about the benefits of getting off our devices and out into nature.
Community Building Through Peacemaking Circles — and Dinner
by Jessica Laus | June 26, 2018
Community dinners bring people together as equals in order to have honest, and at times difficult, exchanges in an atmosphere of concern and respect for all.
Community in Action Challenge: Build Connections
March 12, 2018
Let's consider reaching out to make new (or newly energized) connections in our neighborhoods or workplaces. Take our challenge to learn fun ways to do this!
Excerpt: The Art of Frugal Hedonism
by New Dream | March 5, 2018
Looking for a way to save money (and the world), inoculate yourself against many of the ills of modern life, and enjoy everything more? Try "frugal hedonism."
The Value of Reducing Children's Screen Time: An Interview with Jean Rogers
February 6, 2018
Jean discusses how screen-time overuse is affecting kids' social-emotional and physical health, and provides tips for parents seeking to reduce screen time.
The Benefits—and Joy—of "Making Do" With What You Have
by Bea Echeverria | December 14, 2017
After moving to the U.S. from Spain, New Dreamer Bea Echevarria realized that "making do" wasn’t a coveted value for everyone. But there are many good reasons it should be.
Living the Dream: Part-timer Sarah Lakeman
by Edna Rienzi | October 9, 2017
By cutting back her work hours, Sarah was able to make more time for her family and community—and to live true to her values.
Want to Change Your Life? Change How You Consume
by Chris LaPlante | June 6, 2017
Take Back Your Time's Chris LaPlante describes the pitfalls of consumerism and explains why we can all benefit from cutting back.
Great Summer Reads: 2017 Edition
by New Dream | June 2, 2017
Looking for a great summer read? Here’s a list of our favorite recent (or recent to us!) books.... and a few more we're excited to delve into.
Your Money or Your Life? Share Your Story!
by Vicki Robin | January 24, 2017
This classic book on achieving financial independence is being updated—and the authors want to hear from you!
Living the Dream: Kim Knuppel, Community Volunteer
by Lisa Mastny | June 3, 2016
Kim is very active in her local time bank as a way to support her community and create a more meaningful life outside of the consumer culture.