Economy

The Unconventional Journey: From China's Rat Race to Mountain Solitude at 21

Published December 27, 2023

In the remote reaches of southwest China's Guizhou province, a young 21-year-old has chosen an unexpected path for his life, constructing a rudimentary bamboo shack that clings to the edge of a precipice. This young individual, known as Liu Youwen, has effectively declared himself 'retired' from the frenetic pace of urban life that many of his peers are entrenched in. Liu's story is one of stark contrast to the bustling cityscapes and the relentless pursuit of economic prosperity that characterizes much of China's urban centers.

Embracing a Simpler Existence

Liu made the conscious decision to depart from the competitive environment of metropolitan China, where many are engrossed in the ambition for wealth and status. His pursuit instead is one of tranquility and self-sufficiency, nestled within the serene beauty of Guizhou's mountainous terrain. Liu's home, self-built from bamboo, may be lacking in modern luxuries, but it is rich in panoramic mountain vistas and the sound of nature.

The Dichotomy of Progress and Simplicity

While stories like Liu Youwen's showcase an individual's quest for simplicity, they coexist with a world where technological and corporate progress, symbolized by giants like Alphabet Inc. GOOG, continue to advance. Alphabet Inc., known for being the parent company of Google, epitomizes the technological rush that Liu has stepped away from. Headquartered in Mountain View, California, Alphabet is not only a leading tech company by revenue but also stands as one of the most valuable global entities, a far cry from the secluded lifestyle Liu has adopted.

A Reflection on Happiness and Success

Liu's lifestyle prompts a deeper introspection into the true essence of happiness and success. While companies like Alphabet Inc. GOOG exemplify success in the corporate sphere, setting industry standards and shaping the digital landscape, it is individual stories of radical lifestyle change, like that of Liu, that challenge the conventional measures of success and open up dialogue on personal fulfillment.

lifestyle, simplicity, technology