some thoughts on the economy
I have been thinking of the economy and the upcoming election as of late, much like everyone else. After trying to sit watch and listen to the debate. Hoping to at least gain some new insight from the candidates on how the bail out plan is going to work. It made me think of something that neither presidential candidate mentioned as a way we as a collective whole can help to repair our floundering economy. I am getting on my soap box to say what I am sure you have already heard.
We can choose where our hard earned cash goes. If we are unsatisfied with how the big businesses are going to spas and living lavishly on our dollar and how tax credits are being given to businesses that outsource over seas then we don’t need to support them. I remember as a teenager rolling my eyes when my father would say over and over again buy American. As an adult I realize how right he is (shhhh! don’t tell him, it will ruin my reputation).
What I am trying to say is try to vote with your wallet whenever possible, by buying products better for the global community. As a person who runs a small business, I see how community support can make a difference. Be it through buying local products or a larger community of buying handmade products can really make a difference. I took a pledge to buy handmade last holiday season and have done my best to carry it over the year. But at this time I am making it again. As an artist I prefer the thoughtfulness of handmade gifts and intend to share it with others. No, I am not expecting everyone to come knocking on my studio door, but I want to be the little bird on your shoulder when you are out shopping, but really wanting to save money. Think of quality and items made with care meant to be enjoyed for years to come.
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You are so right.
People need to “vote” with their wallet. Private industry is light years ahead from government on many issues.
For example, my company offers domestic partnership benefits. This allows my parter to have health care. A lot of companies do, but few governments. It allows companies to be more competitive. It allows them to raise the playing field and gain talent that may go to a different employer if they didn’t offer the benefit.
If everyone in the US stopped buying a foreign-made goods, we would see a lot more jobs move back to this country.
The problem is, sometimes government doesn’t catch up in time. I have to pay income tax on over $8000 worth of “extra income” because my employer pays my partner’s benefits. The government in this case is a barrier.
I guess it’s also why I’m not a Walmart hater. I never go to Walmart. Instead, I go to local places that offer a more “personal” service. However, I understand why Walmart exists.
One thing I learned from economics back at UMD…actually it was the Darwinian theory class that discussed Thomas Malthus, things try to migrate towards an equilibrium. People will get sick of Big box retailers and will head towards Mom & Pop shops…a bad economy could accelerate this. If the dollar devalues, mom and pop shops can be more nimble(if they stay in business). They can offer barter business. “I’ll do this for you, if you offer me this.” But that is really if they try to remain in business and keep an open mind.
I’m a small business owner as well. When things get rough, I expect my customers to offer creative solutions. I just hope I’m open minded enough to see the benefit.
Here. Here.
I hope people get that….
Wallmart Shmallmart.
Shop on Etsy!!!