Great Depression Era Lessons

I received a question from a follower of this blog asking 'how did I become such an expert on frugal living?" So, I thought I'd answer that question in this weeks post. 

I was taught the basics as a young child and never forgot about them, however, as with all children who grew up and went out on their own, we knew it all, so why listen to the parents. Over the years, I made the mistakes of eating out all the time, wasting money and food. Then one day I was doing research for a book and realized my parents were correct in their belief of frugal living.  (Just don't ever tell them I admitted that, please.)

You see, my parents grew up during the Great Depression where frugal living was not just a necessity, it was the only way to survive. During the Depression, basic necessities were hard to find, or they were rationed to ensure supplies lasted longer. When people think of the Great Depression, they think of hardship, people living on the streets, in cardboard shanties, or without food to survive. Yes, many people did live like that because they lost everything after the Stock Market Crash of 1929, and jobs were scarce. However, everyone survived by reverting back to the old ways of living - frugal living - budgeting, household management, being creative in the kitchen to stretch that food, while also making their own clothes. Unfortunately, with society being self-centered and self-indulgent, wanting everything they see, even if they didn't need it, we all became selfish in our outlook on life. As a result, the survival techniques and cost savings tricks we were taught as children, have been slowly lost from our minds. We all live hurried lives these days, failing to stop to smell the roses, sip a cup of tea or even relaxing with a good book.  Isn't it time to revert back to the old ways, even if only adopting a few of those old ways? 

The most important knowledge I can share with you today is that unless you are disciplined and willing to learn, you can't change your ways. Many changes will be needed in order for you to adapt to a new system of doing things. Reorganization and strategic planning will also be necessary in order for you to have the gratification of reaching your goal of living frugal. Trust me when I tell you it was very hard for me to switch my behavior, so you're not alone. However, you can do it if you're willing to cut corners and stop trying to keep up with the Jones's. Feel free to navigate through my other blog, Potpourri of Frugality and read the varied pieces pertaining to budgeting, household management and saving money on food costs. Put the money you save in a rainy day account or vacation account, you'll be surprised how fast that account grows.