Downshifting is the answer to the stress, overwork and lack of life quality that drags so many of us down. It involves deliberately opting out of the career rat race, reducing working hours, cutting back on purchasing and living a simpler, balanced and more fulfilled life than ever before. For some this may mean switching to a less stressful job, working part time or from home, or negotiating flexible working hours - for others it may include escaping to the country or moving abroad to live the dream they've always wanted. Either way, it's no longer simply an aspiration to pursue in the distant future. Quitting the rat race has become a practical, attainable proposition for millions of us and Downshifting can help you every step of the way to that dream. This revised new edition gives all the advice you need on what to consider, how to plan, the pitfalls to avoid, living better on less, simplifying your lifestyle, and achieving balance and fulfilment for the best life ever.

'Genuinely inspiring...every home should have one' Independent 'An intertaining, evangelising read' The Times 'The Downshifter's Bible' She

Former full time Observer journalists Polly Ghazi and Judy Jones both quit the rat race to live the lives they really wanted to lead. They are now highly successful freelance writers and authors living in Washington and Wiltshire respectively.