Is it ever really necessary to have our own private car? Or is it just a luxury that many of us have become far too accustomed to?
In previous generations, getting a driver’s license at age 16 was automatic. For middle and upper socioeconomic classes, getting a car also happened for the vast majority of teenagers.
Driving was equated with freedom and independence. These days, for a variety of reasons, many teens and young adults are choosing not to drive or buy their own vehicles.
Instead of driving and creating more air pollution, consider making a radical life decision.
What if you could walk, bike or take public transportation to get around? As a bonus of not owning a car, you will get into better shape from walking more and you won’t have to deal with car payments, insurance, flat tires, oil changes and upkeep, accidents---or any other stresses related to vehicle ownership.
You will no longer need to buy gasoline or worry about finding parking. No more road rage or caring about traffic. Speeding tickets will be a thing of the past.
What’s more, you don’t need a car, thanks to bicycles, buses, carpools, Uber and all the other options for transportation.
Reduce your carbon footprint by choosing more conscious, ecological ways of getting around. Take advantage of your commuting time: read an enlightening book while you are on the bus or subway or get some extra work done. Not driving reduces your stress level and helps set the foundation for a healthier, more balanced life.
Being car-less, you contribute to a greener environment. Although there are electric cars and hybrid cars with good gas mileage, it’s much more eco-friendly not to drive at all. Anyone truly concerned about the environment should make a statement by giving up their car.
As Mahatma Gandhi said, “There is a sufficiency in the world for man’s need but not for man’s greed.” There are over 300 million cars in the US alone. Imagine your life without a car. Then, go out and live it!
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