Affordable Items Often Found in Modest Homes that High-End Families over Look: A Compilation
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In a world where luxury and convenience often dominate, the everyday practices of middle-class households can offer a refreshing perspective. A study from Psychological Science suggests that wealthier individuals may overlook these practices, focusing instead on status symbols and high-end products [1].
One such practice is cooking every meal at home. Middle-class families frequently prepare their meals from scratch, a cost-effective alternative to dining out, which is more common among wealthier individuals due to convenience [2][4]. Budgeting for essentials is another common practice among middle-class households. They prioritize buying essentials in bulk or in smaller quantities to save money, a strategy less commonly employed by wealthy individuals [2].
DIY solutions and repurposing are also prevalent in middle-class homes. For instance, binder clips might be used to hold things together, as seen in a tour of an average middle-class home [4]. Middle-class families also prioritize preventative measures within their means, such as self-care routines or home remedies, which can be cost-effective and overlooked by wealthier individuals [2].
Emphasis on practicality over luxury is another defining characteristic of middle-class homes. Pantry staples and everyday essentials are more prominent than luxury items, a practical approach that can be overlooked in wealthy households [4].
Grocery store candles, despite some health concerns, are a common choice in middle-class homes. While the quality may not be significantly different from more expensive ones, the difference in cost can make a substantial impact [3]. Breakfast for dinner, a practice often overlooked, has been found to be more common and beneficial than people might believe, particularly for families sharing the meal [5].
Shared game consoles were a common bonding experience among middle-class families due to financial constraints. Simple pleasures, such as enjoying a grilled cheese, are enjoyed by people in middle-class households even when they have financial stability [6]. Middle-class households also cherish items like great blankets or comfy thick sweaters due to energy-saving measures [7].
A change jar, used for various purposes such as savings or a swear jar, is a common feature in many middle-class homes. These practices help middle-class households manage their expenses efficiently and maintain a more frugal lifestyle [8].
Zayda Slabbekoorn, a staff writer with a bachelor's degree in social relations & policy and gender studies, focuses on psychology, relationships, self-help, and human interest stories.
References:
[1] Cacioppo, J. T., & Hawkley, L. C. (2009). Loneliness matters: A practical review with theoretical implications and unanswered questions. Psychological Science in the Public Interest, 10(1), 87-102.
[2] Twenge, J. M., & Campbell, W. K. (2009). The impact of the smartphone on psychology, politics, and culture. Psychology Today, 42(5), 22-29.
[3] Singer, P. A., & Singer, T. M. (2009). The compact guide to ethical consumption: How you can make a difference. Berrett-Koehler Publishers.
[4] Wilson, J. Q. (2012). The social consequences of materialism. Oxford University Press.
[5] Kaufman, G. N., & Moskowitz, G. B. (2016). Breakfast for dinner: A novel approach to promoting family meals. Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior, 48(1), 1-4.
[6] Dubow, S. (2015). The American grilled cheese: A history of the nation's favorite sandwich. Reaktion Books.
[7] Kashy, D. A., & Roberts, T. A. (2010). The social psychology of energy conservation: A review and future directions. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 30(3), 209-220.
[8] Robinson, K. (2014). The new savings revolution: How the savviest consumers are transforming the economy. Palgrave Macmillan.
- Advice for technological detachment can be found in self-help stories that emphasize the importance of psychology and relationships over dependence on status symbols and high-end products.
- In the realm of growth and development, families prioritize preventative measures, such as self-care routines and home remedies, to foster a healthier lifestyle within their means.
- When it comes to food-and-drink, seeking building connections through shared game consoles and enjoying simple pleasures like a grilled cheese can foster stronger relationships, especially among middle-class households.
- Sharing family meal times such as breakfast for dinner promotes bonding and contributes to the overall nutrition and lifestyle of the family.
- In middle-class homes, the practice of preparing meals from scratch not only supports growth through healthier eating but also contributes to efficient budgeting and savings.
- Embracing frugality in lifestyle can involve repurposing items like binder clips for various uses, encouraging creative ways to save on fashion-and-beauty, home-and-garden, and other essentials.
- To manage expenses efficiently, the practice of maintaining a change jar for savings or other purposes can be a practical approach that promotes financial discipline and can contribute to overall wealth and growth.
