Cutting down spending vs supporting the economy

[tectonicplates]

I know many of us have been thinking through our spending and seeing how much of our stuff we really don't need. There's been numerous posts here about things you no longer want to do or buy.

How can we support the economy? All of these non-essential shops have thousands of employees. How can we find a balance?

Even things like supporting local restaurants is a discussion in itself because I now realise just how many calories they add. I've lost 9lb of weight since the lockdown, as well as saving money.

In a bizarre about face, I now feel guilty for deciding not to re-employ my cleaner when they re-open. I've saved a fortune by doing it myself and the whole situation has made me realise the importance of having some savings to fall back on if something like this were to happen again.

2 be brutally honest, "supporting the economy" can do one.

People who approve of the Lockdown & have secure jobs, children's futures & finances -- they can fucking "spend to support the economy". I've done far more than a large fair share supporting covid-19 response & the entire pantomime that I don't even think is best way to respond.

It depends on why you don't want to buy as much - are you trying to save money or create less waste? If you need to spend less there's not much you can do about that and it's sensible to concentrate on your own situation first before worrying about the economy. Perhaps you could buy some of the things you need from independent shops rather than chains, if it's feasible.

If you're trying to reduce waste you could buy fewer but more expensive items - e.g. instead of several cheap dresses, get one expensive handmade one. Or spend money on experiences instead of 'stuff'. Doesn't have to be extravagant holidays but things like the cinema/theatre (when it's possible), day trips, alcohol so you can have friends round for cocktails, video games, evening classes, even books and craft things - basically anything that's more about doing something, rather than items you own for the sake of having them. I don't think you should feel guilty about cancelling your yoga membership if you don't get anythig out of it! But perhaps there's something else you'd like to do instead?

Since lock down I am trying to buy British goods, even food.