The Compact Group

The compact group started in San Francisco under the premise that members would refrain from buying into the consumer culture for a year. It has since increased its membership to more than 9,000 members. As economic worries continue to increase, more and more Compact Groups are being established around the U.S.

What exactly is involved with a compact group?

Number one on the list of Do Not's is to stop buying the frivolous items. These would include stops to Starbuck's, dry cleaning all of your clothes, shopping binges at electronic and clothing stores. No more scented lotions, specialized shampoos, cell phone or ipod accessories, and definately no more entertainment games for the kids. Forget buying the latest Madden Football PS2, Xbox game.

However, the group will be the first to acknowledge that there aren't really any rules, other than to just try to curb your spending. The assumption is that by curbing the unrestricted budgets of yesterday, today the savings begin. For the most part, common sense prevails as consumers make necessary adjustments. Instead of making 2 or 3 trips for certain items, combine the trips to save on gas. Walk instead of drive. Trade the SUV or Truck for a hybrid or more economically suited mode of transportation.

In short, the Compact Group adheres to the policy of "Think before you spend." Do you really need it or is it more of an unnecessary want. Saying "no" is okay. It will be the little changes that will save the most money. Don't drive thru the fast food lane, instead go home and make an easy, affordable dinner using items in your pantry.

Once you begin to make the small changes in your spending habits you will notice a difference in your mind set. A whole new perspective opens up and making wise spending choices becomes easier and, more importantly, more economical.