How You Can Create More Jobs for Americans

Now that Halloween has passed, it's just about time for folks to start shopping for Christmas decorations and gifts.  Over the last year I've been acutely aware of the lack of products made in the U.S.A., but most recently have begun furtively searching the labels of EVERYTHING I buy to see where it was manufactured (not distributed). 

It's no surprise to any of us that almost everything is made in China.   Especially all of the plastic "crap" that is polluting our environment and ending up in our landfills.  These are things we never needed to begin with.  They clutter our lives and our homes.  It empties our wallets of money that could be much better spent to give ourselves and others a better life.  

When I shop (for anything) the first thing I do is search the label.  If it says "distributed by" , I won't buy it.   That's a red flag for NOT made in America.  If I absolutely need something and can't find American made, then, and only then, will I purchase the item. 

While watching the evening news last week, I heard that about $70 Billion was spent on Halloween.  They said it averaged out to $70 per person!   A large percentage of that was spent on things made in China.    I know, there will be those of you who tell me that also creates jobs and revenue, and I won't dispute it.  But, for the most part, the jobs created are part-time, low-paying, no-benefits sales clerks jobs.  Some jobs are generated by the transportation of those goods, and yes, there is the tax revenue that is created. 

Think about this.  If more Americans had jobs that actually allowed them to earn a real living and not just skimp along, the tax revenues needed would be significantly less because people wouldn't need government assistance.  

My point is, when you're in the store next time, why not take the time to really think about ALL of your purchases.  Ask yourself:  Do I need this item?  Is it made in America?  What will happen to this item when I am done with it?  Can my money be better spent on something that will actually enhance my life or the lives of others?  I'm not saying not to buy anything made in China....it's not possible anyway. 

There's much talk throughout our nation and in Washington about ways to create jobs.  Well, here's a news flash........you, the consumer, are the creator of jobs!  You hold the key, the power, with your consumer dollars.   How you spend those dollars can create jobs for Americans, or we can keep building other countries up with our insatiable appetites for more unnecessary "stuff"  to put in our homes.  

Remember, millions of Americans can begin working when we spend our money wisely.  It's the simple equation of supply and demand. 

With Christmas coming, there's never been a better time to shop with care and buy things manufactured in America.   I know that isn't easy.  Almost all of the Christmas decorations, trees, ornaments, etc. are made in China.  However, there are a few things made in America, and we might want to think about the actual quantity of things we buy.   American companies can grow larger, hire more employees, and produce more revenue if we all do our part. 

When you shop, talk to the store managers, write to their corporate offices, email their headquarters.   Let them know you want more American made goods.  If they hear it often enough, they will respond. 

We don't really need the government to supply jobs....they're the one's who have made it difficult for companies to produce here in America.  We simply need to exercise our "people power".   Every single person who buys something is a consumer.  Are you going to be a patriotic consumer?   The choice is yours!  If you change your buying habits just a little, it can make a big difference.  You've worked hard for your money, so think about spending it wisely.

A good example for me is when I buy food and treats for my dog, Lola.   I only buy things produced in America.   If I can't find anything on the label regarding the origin of the product, it goes back on the shelf.  There are very few dog treats, etc. made here, but I find them and then look for that brand in the future.  And, believe me, I'm not talking about expensive, gourmet products.

Recently, when I was at Jewel buying some fall paper products, I was thrilled to find really cute plates and napkins that were not only made in the USA, but of recycled paper!   Now, I'm careful to look for those because it's good to know that manufacturer.  I made a point of telling the Manager how happy I was to find this.

And, if you have any good tips for me in that regard, I'd love to hear about them. 

As always, live an inspired and patriotic life!