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Many times, people focus so much on being thrifty with tangible resources, like money or recyclables, that they forget to think about a resource that is just as valuable – their time. Time is a resource we can’t replace. Once a minute is gone, it is gone.
Surveys, Reward Programs and More
One way many people who are trying to be thrifty really end up wasting time is with surveys, reward programs, paid to read email programs and similar programs. Some of these programs are wonderful and definitely worthwhile. Others, not so much.
If you have to read a hundred thousand emails to get a $5 gift card or answer a 30 minute survey for a sweepstakes entry, you’re really spending pretty much time on something that will bring in little or no income. A guaranteed $50 honorarium for a survey or a rewards program that offers a decent reward for the time you put in is probably worth your time.
Revenue Sharing Sites
Revenue sharing sites are the new trend for people who write, chat, share photos, etc. online. Some of them can end up paying a mortgage payment. Others won’t buy you a cup of java after a year’s hard work. Be smart with the sites you invest your time in. Look for feedback from other people who are actually using the sites and making cash. Ask about traffic, revenue percentage and payout amounts. (Not all sites are willing to share dollar figures, but most will tell you what percentage of that secret figure they give to writers.)
Reusing Items Around the House
It is great to reuse and recycle items as much as possible, but not if you are losing two or three hours of quality time with your family each day to reclaim those items. How long does it take you to rinse out a sandwich bag, dry it and fold it for re-use? If the answer is too long, think about using a container you can toss in the dishwasher to hold your sandwiches instead.
photo by zbyszek80/Stock Exchange
Just as you have to budget your money to track where it’s going and where it might be used more resourcefully, maybe you should consider doing the same with your time!
Keep a written account – quick overview – of what you do each hour. Is there any area where you could multi-task, like folding laundry during your TV shows, cleaning the kitchen while dinner cooks, or even cleaning the bathroom during your child’s bathtime?
I tried the idea of using containers instead of plastic zip lock bags for freezing meats or other things — I found that, containers sometimes popped open in the freezer and in some cases freezer burn on the foods, especially meat, was a bigger loss than going back to plastic bags. Also some of the reusable container tops CRACKED – so they were a waste of money. I have gone back to using ziplock bags and washing out the ones that have veggies in them but throwing away the ones that are used for meat or chicken.
I’m curious about revenue sharing sites ~ could you give us a couple url’s to take a lookee? Thanks!