Thomas Kim

Behavior

A Change of Attitude

I was laid-off in May 2009. I luckily made a 2009 resolution to save more money and I am happy that I did. My lifestyle and attitude of consumerism happened months before my lay-off. Having worked in the retail industry, I saw monthly sales trends (from my previous employer and other companies) fall steadily and then crash in September 2008.

One of the biggest changes in my life is to ask myself, "Do I really need to buy this?" I wanted to reduce the amount of things I owned for a few reasons: to save space in my small apt., moving and hauling things is expensive and heavy and last most things I just did not need.

In my industry, management always asks "How much more can we sell next week, month, year?" I am challenging this idea of capitalism - to always provide a desire to buy more. I often recall President Bush Jr. telling us to "go out and shop" as a means to recover after 9-11. How stupid.

I reduced my consumption tremendously. I canceled my cable TV, my expensive gym membership (I now work out in the park and at home), reduced my bar nights (I "pre-game" at home with home brewed beer), ride my bicycle instead of using the MTA, cook most of my meals at home (I bought a cookbook on sale and now I know what goes in my food, most satisfying and some dishes are very delicious, a new found talent).

The NY Times has a section "Frugal Living" and from there I learned and suggested many ideas to live frugally. Next on my list is to learn how to bake my own bread. I also use the public library more and more.

My new attitude on consumption has saved me money, introduced me to new activities, embraced an environmentally responsible attitude (canvas bags, reuse bottles, jars, use less in general, etc.). I actually have some money to save from unemployment benefits.

I do miss the benefits of making a good salary. When I get a job, I will save more money and keep this new lifestyle. Treat myself once in a while and most of all, give to charities and organizations that keep the needy in mind.

My time off has made me more aware of politics. Most people do not have "time" to keep up with politics. I used to listen to the Brian Lehrer show all of the time and when i was working full-time, I never had time.

That's all I can think of and I hope this is 200 words or less.

Bedford Avenue & Greene Ave Brooklyn NY 11216