I’m going to share my pipe dream with you guys. Ready?
After I graduate college, I want to build a tiny house on wheels. Yep, one of these:
When I tell people about this dream of mine, I usually get one of two reactions:
- Oh wow, that’s a really cool idea! Go for it!
- …That thing can’t possibly have a real toilet in it.
Some people think I’m a bit crazy – don’t worry, I do too – but I’m excited by the benefits of tiny house living.
1) Environmental Responsibility: Whether it’s my hippie phase or my college education, I’ve been hit in the face with the sad reality of the environmental crisis. I can’t change the whole world, but I can change my world. Tiny living is healthy and sustainable. I can follow the example of others in the movement, and hopefully someone else will follow my example too.
2) Simplifying: My sophomore year dorm was my favorite room ever. It was tiny, but I had it all to myself. I had everything I needed. It was the first time I realized that I simply don’t need most of my possessions. I’ve learned to evaluate my needs versus wants effectively ever since – and a tiny house would be the final piece of the puzzle.
3) Financial Freedom: My university is expensive. Really expensive. I am so grateful for my fantastic education, but I will be paying exorbitant student loans for a long time. Building a tiny house is a way to own my own home rent- and mortgage-free and will afford me the flexibility to take it wherever the work goes. If I want to work 3,000 miles away on the West Coast, I can pick up and go anytime I want!
4) Because if you’re going to fulfill your dreams, you can’t wait for the approval of others.
I will write periodically about my tiny house adventures and dreams. Stay tuned!
Amy Annette Henion 