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Economy Survival Guide: Give your life a make-under

Financially strapped by overspending? Nervous about over-the-top prices? Try these tips to bring your budget--and your stress level--back under the threshold of what's manageable.

If you have to make a few financial adjustments with the times it doesn't mean you have to give up all the luxury in your life. In fact, re-evaluating what really matters can actually get you back in touch with some of the fun that tends to get lost in our daily routines. Shake things up a little by spending less but doing more--at home, with the kids, and while having fun.

Home

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Do it yourself Make your own cleaners Make your own personal care products		Natural products that are better for your skin and overall health
Conserve Energy with the right lightbulbs Water with easy-to-use devices for faucets and shower		Money saved on utility bills and peace of mind that you're using natural resources responsibly
Buy different Break the bottled water habit - switch to nearly-free tap water and save on this unnecessary expense Buy in bulk to save money and packaging See if your local food co-op has volunteer opportunities that will earn you a discount on food Use our Wallet Buddy to evaluate purchases before you buy Get it used, repair what you've got, or find it for free		Freedom from waste, excess packaging, and unnecessary purchases, plus the personal satisfaction derived from restoring or repairing items you love
Simplify Get rid of all the clutter around your house...reorganize and have a yard sale Recycle what you can't sell Junk your junk mail and save on clutter--and trees		Cash in exchange for stuff you don't neeed anymore and comfort from a more spacious, orderly home environment

Kids

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Simplify school

Cut back on or make your own school supplies.
Pack zero-waste lunches, which tend to be cheaper and more nutritious than fast-food or indvidually-wrapped convenience foods
Encourage your child's school to stage fundraising drives based on recycling rather than selling stuff.

Savings on supplies, a chance to be creative, better food for your kids, and participation in socially responsible activities

Have fun differently

Download a free copy of Good Times Made Simple: The Lost Art of Fun
Download a free copy of What Kids Really Want That Money Can’t Buy: Tips for Parenting in a Commercial World

Fun - and meaningful activities

Fun

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Do it yourself

Make your own presents - material or nonmaterial
Set up an Alternative Gift Registry that focuses on nonmaterial gifts
Agree with familiy and friends that you will all Simplify the Holidays this year

Meaningful holidays by emphasizing the people rather than the gifts

Vacation differently

Look for fun activities closer to home that don't require expensive gas or air fares
Consider a volunteer holiday: see the sights, work for justice, or go on a yoga retreat with some of your expenses paid for in return for service

Relaxation and unique experiences for less money

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