I'm already doing most of what I can, but I could do more of it. Eating out would pretty much cease. Thermostat would be lowered, rooms closed off when not in use, wearing more layers and using blankets and so forth. I started drying veggies like squash and zuccini this summer and could do more of that. I already don't buy much in the way of clothing and nothing in the way of makeup and don't get my hair or nails done, don't do much driving that can be avoided, don't go out and spend a lot on entertainment, have only one phone and no internet at home, and am paying off debt at a pretty rapid rate. However, as someone who lives alone (hence has a one-income household), it feels like I'm flying without a net - I have to have enough income to cover my rent, insurance, and minimal utilities no matter how good I am at stretching my food and clothing dollars. Rents and housing prices are going up here, and I absolutely cannot afford to buy anything. My small house is currently cheaper than most apartments, and I am desperately hoping that the owners do not either sell it or raise the rent radically. I could try to rent out the extra bedroom, but have no idea what success I might have, and know that I would deplore having to live with certain behaviors that are common in my town (an awful lot of people drink alot, are boisterous, fight alot, etc.) I also know that if I rent part of my house to someone else, my utilities are likely to more than double because most people just aren't willing to live like I do. Then again, maybe I could find someone else who is a little strange about conservation like I am.
