Frugaling

Save more, live well, give generously

  • Home
  • Start Here
  • Popular
    • Archives
  • Recommended
  • Contact
  • Save Money
    • Lifestyle Downgrade
    • Save Money with Mindfulness
    • Save at Starbucks
    • Psychological Trick To Reduce Your Online Shopping
    • Best Freebies
  • Minimalism
    • 8 TED Talks To Become A Minimalist
    • We Rent This Life
    • Everything Must Go
    • Lifestyle Downgrade
    • The Purchase Paradox: Wanting, Until You Own It
    • Nothing In My Pockets
  • Social Justice
    • Destroy The 40-Hour Workweek
    • Too Poor To Protest: Income Inequality
    • The New Rich: How $250k A Year Became Middle Class
    • Hunter Gatherers vs. 21st Century Desk-sitters
  • Make Money
    • Make $10k in 10 Months
    • Monetize Your Blog
    • Side Hustle for Serious Cash
  • Loans
    • 5 Rules To Follow Before Accepting Student Loans
    • Would You Marry Me?
    • Should I Have a Credit Card If I’m In Debt?
    • $50k in Scholarships in 70 Minutes

Stop Sharing REI’s #OptOutside Campaign

By Frugaling 17 Comments

Share This:

IMG_0066

Ads are forcefully injected into our daily lives, without permission or explicit consent. We didn’t explicitly sign up for them and never agreed to the terms. And yet, we live alongside these glossy pages, commercials, and billboards every day.

They are ubiquitous. Ads are everywhere from our public schools to smartphones. Frankly, it’s easy to get fed up with the onslaught. To crave peace, tranquility, and minimalism is only natural. People are forcibly removing ads from view and saying “enough is enough.”

Marketers have noticed the resistance among consumers. Their old methods don’t seem to work. Print is dying, television is increasingly losing out to on-demand, and people are using ad blockers for the Internet. In response, they’re changing their methods, mediums, and messages. They’ve cleared the drawing board and developed new ways to attract us.

For marketers, the times are a changing. Consumers are living in this strange epoch of technology, social networking, and the “sharing economy.” Growing numbers of people are eschewing ownership, as technology has minimized our book cases and empowered us to pool resources. Selling us products has become a difficult proposition: what will we buy?

Amidst changing demographics, economic interests, and consumer preferences, growing numbers of companies are creating inspirational, aspirational, and ethically driven advertising. They know that if they inspire, touch, and/or move us we’ll share, tweet, fave, and like. The strategy is complex, but if advertisers can appeal to causes you believe in, you’ll be more likely to spread the word. As a bonus, articles and ads that are shared by consumers aren’t tagged with “advertisement” or “sponsored;” instead, they sneak behind the consumer wall and get peers to market to each other.

Even people who believe in anti-consumption, frugality, and simple living are being psychologically duped into sharing advertisements. And we seem to be accepting that our friends’ updates and tweets now include these reminders to buy, buy, buy. We are volitionally advertising to those we love most.

By now you might be looking for some examples. Most recently, REI created a massive social networking ad campaign centered on boycotting Black Friday. USAToday’s Hadley Malcolm wrote, “In an unprecedented move for the modern-day holiday shopping season, REI’s 143 stores will be closed the day after Thanksgiving.” REI even inspired a creative hashtag: #OptOutside. How fun! This outdoor and recreational company’s value driven campaign appeals directly to those who hate the co-opting and consumerism of that day.

REI-OptOutside-Black-Friday-e1445944915341-590x443

Malcolm’s article has been shared over 200,000 on Facebook alone. That’s one article for the company’s decision. Many in the simple living community have written about the decision – highlighting how it meets their values. It’s been shared all over Twitter.

REI is bucking a trend, but it’s not the first company to say they’re not supportive of post-Thanksgiving mass shopping. Last year, Patagonia published ads that said, “Don’t buy this jacket” in regards to Cyber Monday (the week after Thanksgiving). Again, the anti-consumptive ads were shared massively. It was a viral success — just like this year’s ads.

After Patagonia’s advertising campaign, they received huge press attention and their sales skyrocketed. It worked. REI’s advertisements have already worked, too.

They’ll reduce sales for one day: Black Friday. And then, the sales will greatly increase as those remember REI meets their values. To the company, money is money – doesn’t matter if it comes on Friday or next week.

Ultimately, it’s our power not to share. Companies know how to captivate us with their messages – even if they say “Don’t buy me.” We can’t help but respect these values and click tweet. In this economy, we choose what brands, products, and companies win. The responsibility is ours, but we needn’t do the work for them.

Filed Under: Minimalism, Save Money Tagged With: ad, ads, advertising, Black Friday, Cyber Monday, marketers, Marketing, OptOutside, REI, Thanksgiving, USAToday

If I Were Rich, Would I Still Be Frugal?

By Frugaling 7 Comments

Share This:

Thanksgiving Dinner, Wishing I Was Rich

For my first year of graduate school in Iowa City, I wasn’t able to get back to see family for Thanksgiving. Motivated by the irony and sadness of spending the holiday alone, I watched a sappy movie and ate a cold turkey sandwich. This sorry state was only amplified by my linoleum/concrete floors that were like permafrost ice blocks for my feet, and the dingy, yellowish light of my apartment. All I could think was, “If I were rich, how would this be different?”

Dreams of a vacation I didn’t have

Presumably, I would’ve sat near the front of the airplane — speeding to my destination. The service would’ve been better, too. Maybe I could’ve afforded a first-class ticket. Perhaps this could be a regular weekend getaway. Luggage fees wouldn’t have been usury and awful — just mere pennies to my millions. Although, I probably would not have needed to pay for those fees anyways, as my credit cards and connections would lead to waivers. Either way, I would’ve been wealthy enough to afford whatever outcome. I would never stand in front of a ticket counter, after buying a ticket online, and be surprised that there’s an additional bag fee — breaking my budget and robbing me of my little available savings.

Finally at my destination’s airport, I would’ve rented a car. Not just any car, but a luxury vehicle to speed around the mean streets — something familiar and like my lifestyle. Again, I would have enjoyed the whisk and breeze of skipping lines, priority rentals, and free upgrades. My parents, family, and friends wouldn’t have needed to worry about me; I’d show up on time, no help and reliance necessary. Time would continually be on my side, as waiting would be heavily reduced.

As I walked through the airport, and saw the nice luggage and bags, I could have looked them up on my phone and instantly purchased my own. I wouldn’t need to hesitate to buy something so practical and helpful. Why not get some class with a Louis Vuitton set? Throw in those shoes, too! Traveling in style feels better.

Going home, I would have been excited to see all the friends and family I could. But I’d have to look sharp. Maybe I could stop by my favorite barber for a cleanup? My photos would be filled with the material goods that ooze success. I could show my parents, in person, what they had raised — that I had picked up my bootstraps and become a capitalistic achievement. They could be proud of my wealth and ability.

Thanksgiving without family, but not without heart

Reality is a cold shower. I can’t remember the last time I purchased something and didn’t feel guilty, nervous, and anxious for the added expense. I had looked at plane tickets for this Thanksgiving, but at nearly $500 plus airport shuttle fees, I couldn’t afford it. In a way, it felt like I was forced into frugality, without a choice (unless you consider debt to be an option, which I don’t).

As my friends and the rest of this consummate college town fled their studies and small-town lives for another location, there was a powerfully isolating feeling to my thriftiness and decision to stay. I fully expected it to be another cold turkey sandwich and night alone, but that all changed when a co-worker invited me to dinner. He knew I’d be here, without plans, and suggested I tag along.

What really matters

In that moment of deep gratitude, the Louis Vuitton dreams subsided. Pictures of first-class comfort and VIP lines faded. Suddenly, I felt humbled by his generosity and honored to be included. I was truly thankful — without any need for material goods, money, or proof of my worth.

Wealth is a funny target. If I only wanted to make money, I should’ve chosen a different career. Instead, I was motivated to help others and temporarily delay earning potential. My path to occupational success likely won’t include boatloads of cash.

Undeniably, if I had enough money available, I would’ve flown to Colorado to see my family. And honestly, if I had the money, I would’ve loved the creature comforts of first class. Both of these decisions would get me spending more money and being less frugal.

But at the end of the break, it was clear and simple: I just wanted to enjoy the day with people who are kind and open-hearted. Wealth just didn’t matter. If I were rich, I would’nt have wanted anything more than to share that moment with those I care about.

Filed Under: Save Money Tagged With: airport, cash, flying, holidays, money, rich, savings, Social Class, Thanksgiving, Travel, Wealthy

4 Charities For Thanksgiving

By Frugaling 5 Comments

Share This:

Thanksgiving Dinner
Thanksgiving dinner. Photo credit: Satya Murthy/Flickr

Thanksgiving is four days away! It’s a time for unusual abundance and tradition, with food nearly spilling off the sides of tables and soon-to-be ballooning stomachs. Yes, we Americans are fantastic at recognizing those we care about on this national holiday.

There’s a special energy around this day, as it tells us to be thankful for what we have and share with others. These are the most humble, honorable thoughts you can have, and they directly affect everyone around us. It’s kindergarten all over again — share your toys and candies. But we needn’t make this a brief aside in our otherwise short and busy lives.

This day can inspire us to act, change, and provide for those who need help most. Last year I wrote about 3 charities you should consider supporting in this day of thanks. I have a brand new list this year!

The following are 4 charities for Thanksgiving that I’ll be donating to:

1. Doctors Without Borders

A couple years ago I watched a brilliant documentary entitled Living in Emergency. This soul-crushing film captured the difficult and dangerous world of war-torn countries. And there are a select few helpers — non-violent humanitarians — that run towards these struggles and help the suffering people of these countries.

Doctors Without Borders has a history of exceptional success and medical advocacy for those most in need — internationally. They are mostly active in African states and failed nations, and I’m happy to be supporting this organization this year.

Donate here: http://www.doctorswithoutborders.org/

2. Wounded Warrior Project

I have had the fortunate opportunity to work with a deluge of veterans recently. I’m immensely honored by their service and dedication. There are various organizations and charities that provide support, but none has reached vets quite like the Wounded Warrior Project.

The WWP aims to help vets return to civilian life by approaching solutions that are both education-related and emotionally supportive. This strikes a powerful balance that’s necessary to help vets recover. We owe it to these heroes that served — regardless of the political turmoil that surrounded the decisions to put these men and women in harms way.

Donate here: http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/

3. The Always Remember Never Surrender Endowment

About four to five years ago, I was deeply affected by suicide. A resident of mine in a college residence hall died by suicide, and I have been forever changed by this event.

To honor this man’s life and provide an outlet for suicide prevention, I created the Always Remember Never Surrender Scholarship Endowment. Now, around 4 years into fundraising and giving, the endowment has raised nearly $35,000. Each year, that money goes to undergraduate students looking to reduce stigma, create research, and/or provide services for those suffering from thoughts of suicide.

Donate here: https://advancing.colostate.edu/ARNS

4. Shelter House of Iowa City

This year I’m working in a homeless shelter for my counseling psychology doctoral degree. Before this experience, I thought I understood the “facts” about homelessness. I thought I was understanding and empathetic to the plight of those with less. But being here, seeing their faces, and hearing their stories, I’ve been activated more than ever.

We need to make more of a fuss about how we treat those with the least. We need to stand up for them and support their educations, basic shelter needs, and respect the diversity of mental health functioning within this population. Shelter House provides a wealth of services to the homeless in my community, and I’m happy to be able to donate to help them this year.

Donate here: http://www.shelterhouseiowa.org/want-to-donate/financial-contributions.aspx

Filed Under: Save Money Tagged With: Charity, donate, Giving, Holiday, scholarship, Thanksgiving

3 Charities You Should Support This Thanksgiving

By Frugaling 2 Comments

Share This:

First Class Flight On American
First-Class View On American

As I flew home to enjoy the holiday with family, my feeling of privilege couldn’t have been greater. I sat in a cozy first-row seat of first-class on American thanks to a rewards credit card with bonus miles. While the seat may have been “free,” the opportunity was afforded to me.

While my Thanksgiving has been a bit non-traditional, as a number of family members are being asked to work the holiday, I’m fortunate that those around me are healthy and well. Likewise, I’m fortunate to be healthy, temporarily-abled, and to be in graduate school.

With this wonderful privilege, I cannot help wondering how I can give back. As the cheesy line in Spiderman goes:

With great power comes great responsibility. –Stan Lee

Despite being in massive amounts of debt, I decided to donate to 3 special causes. The following are three organizations that I’d ask you to support with me:

No Kid Hungry Logo1. No Kid Hungry

The actor, Jeff Bridges, has a mission to end child hunger. No Kid Hungry is a charity that’s supported by the actor and helps feed children nationwide. Just $1 of support equals 10 meals for children.

This is the perfect charity to give to this Thanksgiving, as you think about those who may have less. Food is a necessity, and the charity helps aid the people that need it most. Donate here: http://www.nokidhungry.org/

Feed Hungry Kids This Thanksgiving

Always Remember Never Surrender Scholarship Endowment2. Always Remember Never Surrender Scholarship

This is a scholarship endowment that will always be near the top of my list. The Always Remember Never Surrender Scholarship supports undergraduate students in psychology to research, study, and pursue a field that helps prevent suicide. This issue is very dear to me, and I always like to give to help support the educations of others.

Each year, $500 is awarded to a student that applies for the scholarship. You can give to the endowment here: http://www.alwaysrememberscholarship.com

ACLU3. American Civil Liberties Union

The ACLU is famous for supporting individual liberties and protecting the most vulnerable people in our society. The famed organization is currently advocating in four major arenas: “Keep America Safe and Free,” “Fair Justice, Smart Justice,” “Defending Targets of Discrimination,” and “Protecting Civil Liberties in a Digital Age.”

The ACLU has long been a champion of freedom, liberty, and social equality. They have a long history of fighting for free speech and empowering minority groups. Please consider giving here: https://www.aclu.org/

Filed Under: Save Money Tagged With: ACLU, Always Remember, Charity, Giving, Hunger, Jeff Bridges, No Kid Hungry, Thanksgiving

Follow

  • Facebook
  • Google+
  • Pinterest
  • RSS
  • Twitter

Subscribe

Best Of

  • The New Rich: How $250k A Year Became Middle Class
    The New Rich: How $250k A Year Became Middle Class
  • 8 TED Talks That Will Inspire You To Become A Minimalist
    8 TED Talks That Will Inspire You To Become A Minimalist
  • 5 Tricks To Save Money At Starbucks (Updated)
    5 Tricks To Save Money At Starbucks (Updated)
  • Going Green Is A Scam
    Going Green Is A Scam
  • Mark Cuban's Horrific Student Loan Debt "Solution"
    Mark Cuban's Horrific Student Loan Debt "Solution"
  • The Real Reason Poor People Can’t Save
    The Real Reason Poor People Can’t Save

Recent Posts

  • How to Pay Off Medical Debt
  • 5 Ways to Save Money Before a New Baby
  • 4 Ways to Save Money on Streaming Services
  • 5 Ways to Save Thousands in Mortgage Interest
  • Why Professional Maintenance on Your Vehicle Saves You Money in the Long Run

Search

Archives

  • January 2023 (1)
  • March 2022 (3)
  • February 2022 (2)
  • November 2021 (1)
  • October 2021 (2)
  • August 2021 (4)
  • July 2021 (5)
  • June 2021 (3)
  • May 2021 (2)
  • January 2021 (2)
  • December 2020 (2)
  • October 2020 (2)
  • September 2020 (1)
  • August 2020 (3)
  • June 2020 (1)
  • May 2020 (2)
  • April 2020 (1)
  • February 2020 (2)
  • January 2020 (1)
  • December 2019 (1)
  • November 2019 (5)
  • September 2019 (4)
  • August 2019 (1)
  • June 2019 (1)
  • May 2019 (1)
  • April 2019 (1)
  • March 2019 (3)
  • February 2019 (1)
  • January 2019 (3)
  • December 2018 (1)
  • September 2018 (2)
  • July 2018 (1)
  • June 2018 (2)
  • May 2018 (1)
  • April 2018 (5)
  • March 2018 (6)
  • February 2018 (4)
  • January 2018 (1)
  • December 2017 (10)
  • November 2017 (3)
  • July 2017 (2)
  • June 2017 (5)
  • May 2017 (2)
  • April 2017 (8)
  • March 2017 (4)
  • February 2017 (3)
  • January 2017 (2)
  • December 2016 (2)
  • November 2016 (4)
  • October 2016 (2)
  • September 2016 (1)
  • August 2016 (4)
  • July 2016 (1)
  • June 2016 (3)
  • May 2016 (3)
  • April 2016 (4)
  • March 2016 (5)
  • February 2016 (2)
  • January 2016 (2)
  • December 2015 (3)
  • November 2015 (5)
  • October 2015 (5)
  • September 2015 (4)
  • August 2015 (6)
  • July 2015 (8)
  • June 2015 (6)
  • May 2015 (14)
  • April 2015 (14)
  • March 2015 (13)
  • February 2015 (12)
  • January 2015 (15)
  • December 2014 (10)
  • November 2014 (5)
  • October 2014 (6)
  • September 2014 (7)
  • August 2014 (12)
  • July 2014 (11)
  • June 2014 (12)
  • May 2014 (16)
  • April 2014 (13)
  • March 2014 (13)
  • February 2014 (9)
  • January 2014 (20)
  • December 2013 (9)
  • November 2013 (18)
  • October 2013 (15)
  • September 2013 (11)
  • August 2013 (11)
  • July 2013 (27)
  • June 2013 (18)
  • May 2013 (16)

Best Of

  • The New Rich: How $250k A Year Became Middle Class
  • 8 TED Talks That Will Inspire You To Become A Minimalist
  • 5 Tricks To Save Money At Starbucks (Updated)

Recent Posts

  • How to Pay Off Medical Debt
  • 5 Ways to Save Money Before a New Baby
  • 4 Ways to Save Money on Streaming Services

Follow

  • Facebook
  • Google+
  • RSS
  • Twitter

Copyright © 2023 · Modern Studio Pro Theme on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in