First Steps Toward a Frugal Ecology
1. Cut impulsive spending In times when money is short, it is more important than ever to stop impulsive spending immediately.
OK, I will bring my lunch and afternoon snack with me every workday.
1. Look for a second income. Many job earners are in a situation when they don’t know whether they still have a job tomorrow. Think real estate, the banking sector, local small businesses. Many of these are especially endangered due to a slow economy. Most people have no excess money to spend anymore and this creates a massive chain reaction with many businesses going bust.If you work in a high risk industry, act now and look for alternative income streams. It may mean working two jobs or doing some freelancing on the side, and regardless, it will mean more time on the job than off. Even if this means you will be uncomfortable for some time, you rather be that than broke and without a home.
OK, keep my tax work. And begin to create a brand in education with the ultimate purpose of doing consulting. Teaching my “Writing 4 the Web” course on the web during Winter Term while simultaneously developing a Moodle version.
1. Cut up your credit card.
OK, Why don’t I just ditch the wallet except for absolutely necessary ID and one credit card. I will try that for a week.
1. Consolidate your loans.
OK, I have loans, but they can’t be consolidated. Instead I am going to start using Mint.
1. Think twice before you buy stuff.
OK, I really want a Kindle for Christmas. Do I really need it? Can I even use it at home? Used Kindles when the new one comes out.
1. Recycle. Recycling doesn’t limit itself to glass bottles and tins. You can also recycle clothing, household items, clutter, Cd’s, electrical gear and more. One man’s rubbish is another man’s treasure. Before you throw these unwanted goods into the bin, sell them in a garage sale or on ebay to make some additional money.
OK, in a few weeks I will have some time to begin to get rid of stuff. Share stuff. Ebay stuff. Do it.
tellio :: Nov.07.2008 :: whats next :: No Comments »