OVERVIEW

Years and years ago most high school aged girls, and even some boys, were required to take a course entitled Home Economics (knowledge concerned with the production, distribution and consumption of goods for and in the home). Part of the curriculum was “How to make and stick to a Budget”, learning the basics of how to economize grocery /home needs, how to manage a checkbook, and the real costs managing a home. At that time, home economists saw a well-run home as essential to human health, happiness and prosperity. “Home Ec”, as it was nicknamed, sadly fell out of fashion in the US during the turbulent 1960s that ushered in a feminism that discarded much of what had been taught and taken for granted for nearly half a century. One of these important concepts is Home Budgeting.

CLASS #1: HOW TO MAKE A BUDGET

We give you a simple monthly budget template taken from the internet as an example of how to set up a monthly budget. Generally, the first section of a budget lists the income for the month usually through paychecks or possibly other sources such as rent, social security and other sources. Below the income, the expenses are listed generally starting with housing, life logistics, healthcare, car payments, and discretionary spending.

CLASS #2: HOW A CAPSULE WARDROBE CAN POSITIVELY IMPACT YOUR BUDGET

Based on the idea that less is more, have you ever considered applying that concept to the clothes in your closet? Do you ever look at a closet full of clothes and say, “What can I wear; nothing looks good?” Have you ever removed the things from your closet that you have not worn for more than one year (even items with the original price tag!) and thought, how much money is sitting in my closet unused? Consider trying the Capsule Wardrobe idea for organizing your clothing. Here is a concept that is easy on the budget, can add up to a world of good looks for work and life, and give your closet a break with room to spare.

CLASS #3: STRATEGICALLY STOCKED PANTRY IMPACTS YOUR BUDGET

Cooking is faster, simpler, and can be more economical when you already have the ingredients on hand. The concept of a pantry, that encompasses refrigerator, freezer, cupboard and a dedicated space if you have the room, has eternal logic. It makes sense for all types of cooks from the beginner to the experienced to take the time to stock their pantry.