Though I’m not typically a “Pollyanna” type, I find myself wondering if there isn’t a bright side to this economic downslide. I know I’m not alone in needing to find the silver lining to keep from getting depressed by reading, hearing and talking about all the different ways the sky is falling.
Is it falling though? Really? Or are we just coming to an inevitable crossroads forcing us to choose which direction we want to go as individuals and as a society? And is it really such a bad thing to come to terms with who you really are and who you really want to be?
For my money, what there is of it, we have an opportunity—and a responsibility—to navigate ourselves out of this economic mess in a way that is sustainable for future generations. This means really changing the way we do things. Real change, people.
I’ve written before about eco-consciousness being more than the sum of our habits. Living toward our goal of sustainability requires putting our values in action. Being “green” is asking ourselves “how” and “why” we do the things we do. And, then, following an honest assessment: how can we do it better?
The root word “eco” comes from the Greek word for house. To build a strong house you need to take care of your environment and your finances: ecology and economics. If you look at being eco-conscious from that perspective, it makes sense that taking a look at your personal economics is another aspect of living green.
I know the current financial situation in our country is devastating a lot of people. It’s hit home for me, too. But I truly believe this was a necessary catalyst for all of us to look in the mirror and force our hand to live within our means and in sync with our personal values.
For years it’s been my goal to build up a savings account for that proverbial rainy day, and yet here the clouds are rolling in and I’m no closer to that goal. Except maybe I am, now that I’m making an honest effort to account for my spending. So many of us only have a vague understanding of what’s in our bank account and by month’s end we wonder where all our money went.
Paying attention, I think, is the best place to start making any change. The misunderstanding people have about saving money is that it’s hard and you can’t have any fun on a budget. Sure, “frugal” is an ugly word. So don’t use it. Try, “conscious” instead. Plus, the stress caused by worrying about money isn’t exactly fun either. Think of what you’ll save in sleeping aides, headache and ulcer medication.
Luckily, as you read this, you are in the perfect place to jump into both savings and opportunities for fun adventures. To be able to convince yourself, and your family, that spending—and saving—money wisely really can be an adventure, you have to make it more fun than work. Look around the EcoMetro site and flip through your EcoMetro Guide for savings on everything from groceries to entertainment. Get into the habit of planning social activities around what you have coupons for and you’ll get to enjoy saving money. And remember, fresh air is free.
For more tips on ways to save money at play, as well as how to talk with your children about money, read my article "
Baby on Board: With kids, attitude is everything."
Having some fun is a good place to start talking about money. Next time, we’ll get into the less exciting, but most practical, way you can save some dough while you put bread on the table.
What is your favorite “fun” way to save money? What’s your favorite entertainment coupon in your EcoMetro Guide?