There is a new creature out there called the second hand consumer. This consumer has been created due to economic conditions in our country. A year ago consumers demanded new and shinny, and now they are searching out deals. Reports tell us more buyers are looking for used cars, appliances, clothes, books,CD"s, the list goes on.
It is great that we are looking for deals, and that we are compromising and not demanding such new items. The negative side to this new consumer is that car dealers are going out of business, book stores are closing, appliance stores are hurting, and all this means people lose their jobs. I am not wise enough to know how we reverse this process. I want people to buy within their means, but I don't want anyone losing their jobs.
In tough times we all change our spending habits. I no longer color my hair. I found the time and dollar amount I spent in the salon was a waste. I am now natural. People might not be getting expensive hair cuts and many are going 2-4 weeks longer than usual to get a cut. Get ready to seeing men who need a hair cut. We might see people leaving their snow mobile in the garage this winter not due to lack of snow but due to budget cuts. That $10.00 per movie ticket might become a treat rather than a Friday night habit. Gift giving might become a hand made item rather than a gift card. It will all change.
Ask someone aged 70 plus how they survived the depression and then World War II rationing. Their suggestions might help us through this time. We might want this change, but this change is what we need to right the sinking ship. Good luck with changing your habits. Don't hesitate to email me your suggestions, jane@thepaulusteam.com. I will share them with readers.
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