One of the benefits of sustainable living is finding consistent financial balance.
Economic downturns happen all the time, did you know that? It’s true.
Every since the inception of our great nation, our economy has had ups and downs. Strangely, we act surprised when it happens.
Every economic system worldwide changes, depending on many factors. Some factors can be controlled (debt and spending), others cannot be (natural distasters, wars, civil disruptions, etc).
Understanding that ups and downs will come, wouldn’t it make sense to live in such a way that when they do come, we won’t fall far?
What do I mean by “fall far”?
Warren Buffet has a great quote that makes me laugh every time I hear it….
“When the tide goes out, you can tell who’s been swimming naked”
In other words, when the economy tanks, everyone who has been living above and beyond their means suddenly try to hide their nakedness. You couldn’t see it when the economy was good, but when “corrections” happen (and they do), our nakedness (vulnerability) is exposed.
I don’t know about you, but I prefer to swim with a bathing suit.
In other words, I prefer to live my life in such a way that when the corrections come, I can withstand them…I won’t “fall far”.
Sustainable living earmarks one of life’s best ways to have a “stable home economy”.
Sustainable households either produce or “barter” for their needs, making currency more optional. Most Americans do work outside their homes to earn an income, my husband does as well.
However, our goal is to become less and less dependent upon that income. Using earned income is a highly effective way to become more sustainable. Learning to live a non-consumer lifestyle will enable us to have the financial freedom we desire down the road.
Folks who use much of their incomes to sustain their heavy debt-loads will soon find themselves “swimming naked” when financial woes come, and they will. They always do.
No one lives high forever. I can guarantee you that. No one. They can do it for a while, but it’s simply not sustainable for an entire lifetime. Sooner or later, the “fall” comes, and it comes hard, devastating those who are uncomfortable being closer to the earth.
Want to learn more about sustainable living? We want to help you out!
Whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced homesteader,
will teach and encourage you every month!
Sustainably priced….it’s FREE!
PDF 
About kmorris
I totally agree about bartering for things that don’t take cash…. I do just that. But what about when we can’t afford our cash bills…. Utilities, house payments? I don’t buy clothes… I trade for them. But I can’t trade with the electric company
Jen,
Excellent question!! You’re absolutely right, you can’t barter with the electric company. That’s one reason many “sustainables” not only look for ways to make their own power through solar or wind, but also choose to find ways to do without it altogether. This is referred to as living “off grid”, or without power from the electric companies.
It takes you to a whole different level of independence but it’s doable!
Very cool post Kelly! Thanks for all the good info you share!
Great Post!! And how true!!
Keep posting about this subject – I need more information and ideas on how & what to do to live this way. I’m a widow and need specific suggestions. Thanks.
Great post!! Would you consider sharing on my very first blog hop? http://offthegridat-30.blogspot.ca/2012/07/frugal-i-made-it-tuesday-1.html