One of the mischaracterizations of a free market economy is the idea that proponents of capitalism want everyone to be consumed with, well, consumption! While it's true that markets inspire and allow new, incredible items and services to meet the needs and wants of everyday people, this doesn't only work for one type of lifestyle. In fact, more than any other system in human history, free markets allow the most diversity of lifestyles for different people. Allowing people to freely make agreements and exchanges destroys barriers to pursuing nontraditional ideas for how you want to live your life.
Historically, different climates have required very specific lifestyle choices - if the seasons were harsh and unforgiving, a nomadic lifestyle might be a necessity. If there was little natural vegetation, agrarian setups were a necessity. Yet with the free exchange of goods and services, people can now try new and exciting lifestyles without being at the mercy of their direct environment. The cost of travel alone has made what would have been an unthinkable journey to our predecessors just a summer vacation away for us. Similarly, those who want to downsize and live with fewer objects now have plenty of resources at their disposal to do so. With the construction of tiny homes, creation of affordable conveniences like air fryers, and event newly expanding access to internet services by way of offerings like Starlink, shrinking your lifestyle or taking it on the go has never been easier.
These are just a few examples of the many ways voluntary exchange and creative people allow for the most expansive and diverse lifestyles possible.
