Bartering in America has deep roots that go way back to the 17th century. These were the sort of times where colonists had no choice but to rely to a considerable degree on the exchange of goods and services such as food, clothing such as deerskin (where we get the phrase “buck” meaning “dollar” from), and shelter. This was definitely a time where people had to, and in fact did come together in order to survive as a community.
Then we can look at a time a little over a century later (1930’s), a period were money was scarce. People went so far as to start barter groups like The Unemployed Citizens League of Denver and the National Development Association.
And again in the early 1980’s, during a recession, bartering regained its prevalence. Many book and magazine articles featured stories which increased the popularity, and hundreds of “barter clubs” were created throughout America.
While there is a lot of fascinating history on this topic, I only mentioned a few quick facts of barter history to prime us into a mindset that will be prepared to look ahead at our own future, and more specifically how bartering can offer us assistance in different areas of our life.
Slowing down or even reversing our ever-decreasing standard of living by initiating creative opportunities for the working individual is a topic of discussion that can benefit greatly by taking into consideration the feedback of the people who are actually experiencing these financial difficulties first hand.
Take a minute and think. “Are there projects that I know of off the top of my head that I would finish if I had more disposable income?” Then think. “What am I capable of doing well enough that I could get paid for but don’t?” It doesn’t matter how unique or broad this list you are compiling will end up, we have the medium to introduce your skill-set to someone in need no matter how uncommon you believe your strengths to be.
Taking these first two steps not only puts you in the best position to commoditize the work you are good at doing, it will eventually cause a shift in your thinking from one of possible panic, despair, and anguish. To one of empowerment, excitement, and success, because now you will be able to find and retain a tutor for your daughter’s math class, fix that engine problem with your vehicle, or whatever else you are in need of but don’t feel you can afford. You won’t be overwhelmed at all these legitimate needs being added to the backburner indefinitely, just because you need all the cash you have to pay for the essentials.
What are some other ways you think bartering will help with your life? What are some things that you pay money for now that you may be able to receive through a barter?How else do you see creative negotiation (bargaining without having to use cash) incorporated into your lifestyle? The lifestyle of those you know?
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