I Am Uninformed

8/03/2006

FEEDING TIME

I've been spending a lot of time reading productivity and money-saving oriented sites, such as Get Rich Slowly. Being constantly on the edge of total financial collapse has sharpened my interest in these sorts of things.

It all started when I began frequenting those websites that purport to link to the best places to save money on things like computers and televisions. As interesting as they were, I soon realized that my financial problems were not likely to be solved by saving $100 here or there on big ticket items that I don't need, and couldn't afford in any case. What I need was a way to increase the amount of money that I recieve, and to decrease the money I spend.

It sounds obvious, like the classic formula for weight-loss, and yet, it can be so difficult to implement. Short of finishing college, or achieving a certificate in a skilled trade, my income is not likely to rise any time soon. That leaves reducing my expenses.

I have cut out the most obvious things, like buying books, music, fancy dinners, pornography, and alcohol. I'm now working on paying less for the essentials.

I'm having a little trouble with that. Specifically, I'm having trouble with lunch. Although I often go to some pretty cheap places when taking a meal at work ($1.50 gas station hot dogs anyone?) I am certain that home-made sandwiches would be cheaper in the long run.

I'm getting sick of sandwiches.