I get it, living in this economy feels like walking up the down escalator. Rent’s skyrocketed, eggs cost what steak used to, and saving for retirement seems like a pipe dream.
Frustration? Valid.
But here’s the thing: frustration is only useful if you turn it into action.
And tough economies aren’t new. History shows us that people have faced seemingly impossible challenges, found creative ways to survive and even thrive.
History also seems to favor the bold. So, if you’re ready to channel your frustration into action, here are three radical ways to turn your struggles into rocket fuel for success.
Change your location
If you feel like you’re not making it in your current city, maybe it’s time to relocate. Cheaper cost of living, better job opportunities, or an improved lifestyle could await you somewhere else.
Research the world of options that are out there for you. If remote work is in the cards, consider living internationally for a while. Imagine renting out your house, moving to Southeast Asia, and cutting your expenses in half.
No change of location has to be forever. But a bold move like this could rocket you from just surviving to thriving.
Go Full Minimalist
Adopt a minimalist lifestyle for a while. Doesn’t have to be forever!
Downsize your living situation. Could you move in with roommates, family, or into a smaller space. Declutter and sell items for extra cash. Try a ‘no spend’ year, learn to take cheap vacations and make simple meals at home.
Want to go really radical? How much could you save if you sold your car and only biked for a year? It could propel you out of debt, or fast-forward your savings!
A year or two of austere living now could set you up for decades of financial freedom later. And, it could make for some good stories later in life.
Create instead of consume
Don’t consume – create! Instead of spending your time, money and attention consuming from the world, start thinking of what make, build, or contribute.
Instead of scrolling through shopping apps or bingeing shows, write, paint, code, craft, or problem-solve.
Your creations, whether they’re digital products, handmade goods, or knowledge shared, have the potential to add value to people’s lives. And, they have the potential to add value to your life! Leading to not just financial benefits but personal growth, a new career path.
Creating gives you a sense of purpose and forward momentum. Every project, idea, or skill you develop helps turn frustration into fuel for forward motion. And hey, even if you don’t make a lot of money, at least you won’t be shopping!
Perspective Check: How bad is the Economy?
It feels like the most unaffordable time in history, and for many, it is. But context matters.
In the late 1970s and early 1980s, inflation soared to 11%, and mortgage rates hit 18%. Buying a home felt as unattainable as it does now.
During the Great Depression, families stretched every penny, traded goods and services, and leaned into community resilience to survive. The saying “so poor they don’t even have a pot to piss in” came from this era. Because people literally sold their urine to tanners to make ends meet. Imagine that the next time you’re tempted to complain!
The takeaway? People found ways to adapt and thrive, even in dire circumstances. And while today’s economy is tough, you have tools and resources (hello, internet!) that previous generations could only dream of.
Taking my own advice
You might be thinking, easy for her to give this crazy advice! But I have actually walked the walk. I’ve house-hacked, used geoarbitrage, sold almost everything I owned, and shared my creations. Going bicycle only, though…no, that is too radical even for me.
These bold actions did supercharge my finances. They gave me the freedom to embrace adventure, try out new career paths, and ultimately build a life I love.
All of this happened during some of the toughest economic times: the Great Recession, Covid, and whatever name we’ll eventually give this current era. If I could carve out a path during those storms, you can, too. The key is to start, even if it feels messy or imperfect.
But, but, but…
Maybe you’re thinking, “But I can’t do this because of [fill in the blank].” You’ve got kids, your job isn’t remote, or you don’t feel creative. Fine. Then find something that does work for you. Your solution doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.
And even if you can’t take bold action, I bet you can take some action.
Got an idea? Drop it in the comments – I would love to brainstorm with you. Frustration can be fuel, or it can be quicksand. The choice is yours.
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