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Rutendo Gwatidzo, Changing Perspectives
Saving money can be impossible sometimes if not a lot of times for many and all the time for others.
Living sustainably usually comes with a hefty price tag. Is it really possible to live a comfortable life when funds are never enough?
At what point can one feel that life is comfortable and enjoyable? Is budgeting real when what you earn is not even enough?
This past week I participated in a workshop that was discussing budget issues. The interesting part of it was that almost everyone in the workshop looked up to me for answers yet, I also needed answers.
I am a multi-award winning leader as such some people tend to think that I have it all under control. The truth is that I also get to face similar challenges that many others are facing and just like everyone else I need certain answers to life.
We do not just become in life; we are a product of what we intentionally thrive to be in most cases.
Others may have people who fight for them to lead a triumphant life. The bottom line though is that someone has to be deliberate in shaping the desired path of life.
Since I also needed answers to the questions asked, I then facilitated a discussion and the ideas that were shared were helpful.
I believe they can help someone too. Allow me to share some of the ideas that were given.
Mindful consumption
Before buying anything new, ask yourself the question “do I really need this”? Reduce impulse buying and focus on planned purchasing.
Do not waste food
Throwing away food is not a sign of abundance or good living as others see it. If anything, throwing away food while others sleep hungry can be a sign of selfishness. But then, there are others who throw away food not as a result of abundance but, probably because the food would have gone bad. Plan your meals and utilise your left overs effectively and creatively to avoid food wastage.
Use energy efficiently
Reduce your electricity bill by applying small savings on a daily basis. For instance, embrace natural light. Instead of using electrical lights most of the time, open curtains and let sunshine in, unplug chargers, appliances and electronics when not in use. In place of electrical ones, use solar geysers and solar lights if you can.
Small savings can eventually have big impact.
Shop second hand
Do not allow unnecessary pride to lead you into stress. One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Go ahead and save money as you buy pre-loved items as long as they save the purpose. Do not allow people’s opinions to drown you. Lead a life that you can afford. It is not like whatever you buy as second hand will be written second hand wherever you go. Pre-loved items can still save the same purpose as brand new items.
Short term borrowing
There are times when you probably need to use something once off. Instead of buying something and be stuck with it you may need to consider borrowing if it is an option. Swallow your pride, humble yourself and go ahead and ask.
Be sure though to return to owner in good shape and within the agreed times.
Shower power
Shorter showers or baths can make a significant difference in saving water and electricity. Imagine a family with seven or more people, just picking a random number. If everyone spends say 30 minutes bathing in the shower, that requires a lot of water and electricity to heat up the geyser water. On the other hand, if everyone does less than 10 minutes then by the end of the month it will be significant savings. The same savings apply even in rural areas, you still save water and firewood.
Adopt re-usable and re-pairs
Instead of buying single use bottle drinks or shopping bags for instance, adopt those that you can use again. Also consider repairing broken items instead of purchasing new ones.
Do not be lazy
There are times when you can easily walk instead of catching a lift or driving. Whenever possible, choose active means of transport for instance biking, walking/jogging or simply consider public transport to those who drive. Instead of using fuel for US$10 you probably require US$1 for public transport. Do not allow unnecessary pressure to lead you into a stressful life.
So many ideas where shared even beyond what I shared in this article. I really enjoyed the session as it came so helpful to me. It always amazes me how I get to learn in the process of teaching. I just could not keep the information to myself, I decided to share and I know it will help someone.
Organisational status
One of the challenges in many organisations is that of running businesses without a budget and proper planning. You may find operations being done anyhow. In as much as resources may be strained, it is better most of the time to plan around the limited resources and to operate strategically. I encourage management to engage their teams in coming up with most effective ways to use profitably what is available. Often times, teams can share amazing ideas that can transform organisations. Managers should share the relevant information though regarding what the company has so that effective strategies can be applied.
Rutendo Gwatidzo is the managing consultant at The HUB HR Consultancy – as a culture and change management specialist. She is a multi-award winning leader, consultant, speaker and coach. She is also an Author of Born to Fight and Breaking the Silence books. Gwatidzo recently received the business transformation leader of the year award at Megafest Women’s Awards.
Feedback: 0714575805/ [email protected] / Rutendo Gwatidzo_Official fb public page.
Peter Tanyanyiwa
Online Reporter