Stumble It!
Jul 08 2008
Three Practical Tips for Cutting Costs and Living Well
As I went through all the headlines today, I couldn’t help but notice all the emphasis on bailing out the economy (particularly in the U.S.). From reducing oil costs to curbing sub-prime mortgage lending and paying for college, it all seems so pessimistic! But before any of you readers crawl into a fetal position and start feeling sorry for yourselves, I shall attempt to put things in perspective. Below is a quick list of three ways to keep yourself sane in tough financial times.
Watch less TV: I’ve noticed how since I’ve cut back on my TV viewing that I don’t have as many opportunities to be persuaded into buying anything via commercials. As my former Marketing Professor would tell you, marketers are paid to satisfy the needs wants of the public. The thing is… if you don’t have any such impulse, it must be created so that you perceive that need or want. The cool car, the cell phone that makes your breakfast, etcetera are probably not paramount to your well being. The diet soda you buy doesn’t help you lose weight either, but drinking free water does. Every commercial’s job is to make you want to buy that “thing” of the moment and watching less TV will help you avoid the urge.
Skip the gym: Sure, if you have a serious health problem you’d be well advised to seek the help of a dietitian, trainer or coach. But, if you want to stay generally fit, running on a treadmill while watching Everybody Loves Raymond for 200 bucks a month is no better for you physically than running out side for a couple of miles while rocking out to your favorite tunes… or better yet, if you have no tunes, sing to yourself. I find Sinatra songs work quite well in this regard. 
If you live in an urban area, you probably can find a park or you can always do what I like to do and listen to fast music and just move around until you sweat! Try it, you’ll probably like it!
Socialize at home: Yes, in the age of hip hop deejays and My Super Sweet 16 episodes on MTV, always remember that hanging out with your best friends at home is very affordable, (barring no great gas expenses). Stay out of the bar and chill at Mia’s house. Hey, you can listen to all the crappy Bon Jovi songs you love and no deejay can tell you otherwise. Plus, the drinks are free!
So, I hope these tips help you in some way. But hey, Please leave comments if you want to and let me know if you disagree. Until next time, this is Mike saying… Wax be nimble, wax be quick!
