Friday, December 12, 2008

The Recession Survival Guide: pt 2/4

So, you've read the first two points in my recession survival guide, and you're back for more? well, never fear... I promised more and I, the socuse economist am a man of my word... Here it is then, part two of the recession survival guide.


Three: Smoking, Drinking and Gambling. Quit it!
Three of the most expensive habits known to man might be best left alone during a recession. Thousands of pounds a year is spent on each habit by each and every person who indulges in them. A thousand pounds can go a hell of a long way towards keeping a family afloat in a recession. Maybe it’s time to quit?

Please note, that I have never referred to any of these pursuits as ‘dirty’ or ‘dangerous’. I enjoy one or two of them myself once in a while and understand that it can be hard to quit. Smoking, drinking and gambling are no more dangerous than eating at McDonalds, and far less dangerous than driving to work everyday. In fact, given the correct application of willpower, these habits can be enjoyed perfectly safely, despite what the government says… whoops, off topic again!

Anyway, consider cutting down or quitting an expensive pursuit completely. You will feel the benefit once the withdrawal symptoms stop… twitch.

Four: Throw away the microwave.
Yes, you read correctly… the microwave is a sinful and evil mechanism… except for when it’s not.
Microwave meals are too expensive! It is well and truly possible to cook for yourself and eat well for a pound a day. I should know, I’ve been doing it for two months now. Curries, stir fries and pasta dishes will become your best friends, as you cook simple and cost-effective meals for 50p per person! (The extended version of this article has a brief example menu in it.*)

OK, so it won’t be ready in three minutes flat, (between 15-30 minutes, depending on the dish) and it’s not lavish, but can you afford to be?


*Please note: links to all extended articles will be added once they are operational.

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