Have you heard of the voluntary simplicity movement? This began as a small movement of people who were revolted by consumption and encouraged others to really analyze their needs vs. their wants.

Years ago, Clark interviewed two proponents of the idea on the show -- Amy Dacyczyn of The Tightwad Gazette and Marc Eisenson of Good Advice Press.

Today, the idea of voluntary simplicity is really gaining a lot of traction in our down economy. USA TODAY reports that people are beginning to understand that taking on more debt just to have more belongings only increases the complexity of your life and the level of stress.

In fact, 47% of consumers now report they already have what they need -- however they define that statement -- according to the 2009 MetLife Study of the American Dream. And 32% of consumers report that they're spending less now and expect to keep doing so, according to a recent Gallup Poll.

Too bad Clark didn't copyright his "save more, spend less and avoid rip-offs" slogan. It's popping up everywhere these days!

Americans at many income levels are wheezing with debt. The New York Post reports 20% to 25% of every dollar in lower and middle income families is devoted to dealing with credit card debt. That fact alone speaks to why the simpler life is better.

We're in the unique situation of living better than ever when it comes to having possessions, but at what price? Many of us have precious little financial peace of mind.