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I believe we're experiencing our second Great Depression. Although some who lived through the one of the 1920s say this one isn't as bad as before, this one is definitely taking its toll. Its effects have been disclosing unethical and unsavory business practices, poor management, and brought to the light of day ignorance on the part of leadership akin to that of Tammany Hall. What we've been left with is the responsibility to pull our way out of the muck and mire, survive, and regrow ourselves and opportunities.
For most of us, the economic downfall came with the bursting of the Internet bubble, around 1999. Companies growing too fast, start-up businesses charging too little yet paying exorbitant salaries, and people spending as though the heady days of boom would continue indefinitely all pointed to our current situation. But most of us talked ourselves into believing it wouldn't happen.
Some of us were frontrunners and met our current kismet and saw things begin to crumble as early as the 1990s. It seems I'm blessed to be one of those pathfinders. Surviving on less than $9,000 per year presents a lot of challenges. It means making more than the usual sacrifices and being extremely resourceful.
How have I been surviving under such circumstances? Budget and priorities as well as being creative have gotten me this far.
Budget
You have a certain sum of money that comes to you each month. That amount, like a pie, needs to be divided into slices that allow you to do the necessities. There needs to be a certain amount for shelter, utilities, food, phone, transportation, hygiene, and maintenance.
Some payments must be made so that there's a receipt. So it's sometimes necessary to pay via a money order if not by a debit card (which doesn't usually carry a fee). Cut out as many of the extraneous costs and fees as possible.
Housing
Landlords will usually want a tenant who has at least two-thirds more income than the rent. That sometimes means you need to be a roommate with strangers. The apartment or house can be luxurious (or not) but the full brunt of the rent falls on the shoulders of everyone nearly equally. The trick is making certain everyone has similar standards and mentalities. Communication is paramount.
Transportation
Walking is not only economical. It's also great exercise. But there are times when walking simply isn't an option. Using some form of transportation is mandatory.
One of the more economic ways to commute is to calculate how often you're going to be traveling to and from some place that's too far to walk. If you'll be out and about at least 20 days a month, get a monthly bus pass.
The other means of getting around is either a bicycle, moped, or skateboard (not a good mode for a week's worth of groceries). Otherwise, carpooling is an option. Everyone pitches in for the cost of gasoline and maybe a little extra to cover the driver's auto insurance.
Clothing
It's entirely possible to be stylish on a budget. You just need to know where to shop and how to make selections.
Keep your wardrobe within a certain palette that complements your complexion and coloring. Choose styles that have classic lines. Shop at thrift stores for gently worn clothing that has little to no obvious wear and tear. Ask for a discount on the garment if you just can't live without it. Even a few cents help when pennies count.
It's also amazing how many clothing choices are available at dollar value stores.
Food and Hygiene
Eating out is not a huge option. It's better to buy fresh from a ranch market (or, again, from the dollar value store). Only buy as much as you know you can consume until the next shopping trip so that you have as little spoilage and loss as possible.
Learn how to stretch recipes. For example, two scrambled eggs will only last for one meal. Two eggs scrambled into half a bulb onion and a diced potato will yield at least three meals. It's amazing how bloated your belly can get on two cups of rice.
The grocery deli has hot and cold food for bargain basement prices. Rather than stopping off at the local fast food (with their abundance of grease), stop at the ranch market deli to grab a quick snack or fast meal.
Education and Knowledge
If you love reading but simply can't afford to buy a newspaper or books, sleuth out your nearest library and get a card. You will not be penalized for sitting in a comfortable, over-stuffed chair while reading the news. No one will stop you from reading a book nor borrowing several for two or three weeks.
The library also has resources that raise awareness of workshops and classes that are either free or charge a nominal fee for attending.
Wages
Earning money can be a challenge if you don't have a regular, permanent job. Freelance work is a little difficult but is still an option.
If it's like killing a mammoth as far as finding a full time job, look for seasonal work. Temporary jobs are available. There are also short-term contract jobs still available as virtual or Internet jobs.
There are other jobs of a nondescript nature such as mechanics, electronics technician, crossing guard, proctor, playground supervisor, reader for the visually impaired. The only limit on these types of situations is the creativity you have in regard to coming up with ideas for them and searching for those types of situations.
It's Possible
It is definitely possible to survive on less than $9,000 a year. Just don't expect to be going to the movies, concerts, or plays. However (big however), you and your family can make your own!
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