by Yusra Ahmad

Created on: May 13, 2009

In recent years we've all gotten used to the extravagances of a boom economy including but not limited to fast cars, luxury holidays and basically anything that was highly over-priced. When you're feeling flushed it doesn't matter if a bottle of water costs $5, it is after all from a small natural spring somewhere in Austria and you're worth it right? Well not anymore it recession time! The world has changed and we all need to start holding in our breaths and our over-stuffed stomachs, which will be markedly more difficult for some of us. For this exact reason if you're wondering how to get through this global recession (global = there's nowhere to hide) then read on, you might just pick up a few tips.

In these times of uncertainty we need to start looking at our expenses and trimming the fat literally and metaphorically. In other words no more luxury just the basics. So let's start with food shopping. There will be no more eating out or shopping from high-end supermarkets. As a relief increase your "surprise" visits back home to once a week instead making sure to stock up on those leftovers before you leave. Don't forget to take your laundry with you you'll save a considerable amount off your electricity bill, detergent and you're parents will finally stop complaining that you don't visit enough. You might consider surveying your old room (aka your dad's new office or den) because if the financial situation doesn't improve you may just end up back there again.

Now just because you're broke doesn't mean that you have to make do without all luxuries, there is still a way to wear designer without spending. If you run out of toiletries visit your local high-end shopping mall and stock up on testers, they want you to sell of their perfume, you're a walking advertisement. Need new clothes? This might test your skills of persuasion. Pay a visit to those still working friends or older siblings and suggest that perhaps they need to update their outdated and ragged style. If they need extra room in their closets then you'd be more than happy to help out and take them off their hands. Just because we are going through a recession doesn't mean that they shouldn't enjoy themselves, right?

Another large expense to consider is transportation. This has become increasingly more expensive. We have all been affected by the extortionate hikes in petrol prices and combined with car loans and insurances, owning any car, let alone the super-cars that some of you have been driving, is a massive liability and hence one that needs to be addressed. Here's a tip to save massively on your car bill each month, walk! Not only will you save money, you'll lose weight and if you're enterprising enough you could even sell your "secret" to those serial dieters. Needless to say that if you own more than one vehicle it might be time to downsize to one car. If you really can't bear the idea of walking then it might be time to make friends with the neighbours. They might have previously made you want to wax your ears shut and poke your eyes out but at least it's free.

On a serious note, these are hard times for all although it is a natural part of the economic cycle so things will return to some sort of normality in due time. If that doesn't help then just think at least you won't have to see your boss's annoying, dictatorial, may as well have "please slap me" written on it face again.

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