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Strategies For Living in a Recession

Strategies for Living in a Recession

Recession is defined as "the state of the economy declines; a widespread decline in the GDP and employment and trade lasting from six months to a year"("Recession", n. d.). Although the real gross domestic product increased from a 2.2 percent third quarter to an increased of an annual rate of 5.7 percent in the fourth quarter of 2009 (“News Release: Gross Domestic Product”, 2010) we still have some time to go to actually feel the recovery of the economy in our homes.   All the same, it is a great relief knowing that we are out of the recession.  In the meantime, before we see the increase in income here are some strategies for living on limited income or just for stretching the dollar.

1. Budget your expenses ahead of time, a week, a month, or even a year.  
2. First include everything you and your family will need within the projected period of the budget. 
3. Meals can be planned along the budget as well.  This can save you huge chunks of money.
4. Buy groceries ahead or in bulk after you know your budget and your meal plans.
5. To save time, you can even prepare some meals to be frozen as well.
6. At the store keep your eyes out for coupons and sale ads.
7. Shop for store brands.
8. Plan your trips ahead.  
9. Organize car pool with family and friends when possible to ease some transportation costs.
10. Buy your clothes on clearance rack, or simply buy used clothes, you will be surprised at the value you will find.
11. Try gently used toys for children as well. (Clean or disinfect anything you buy used before using for yourself, your family or anyone).  

These strategies can help save you and family some money and help you live a bit more comfortably in any economic down period.

Reference List

News Release: Gross Domestic Product (2010).  Retrieved from   http://www.bea.gov/newsreleases/national/gdp/gdpnewsrelease.htm

Recession.  (n. d.).  Retrieved from http://wordnetweb.princeton.edu/perl/webwn?s=recession