When you cannot afford something, sometimes you can replace the cash with your time or skills. Many organizations would be happy to allow you to work for them in exchange for their product or service. It almost takes us back to the old bartering systems of long ago.
Is there a big concert or theater production coming to town that you would love to go to, but the tickets are too expensive? Contact the promoters and see if you can work the event in exchange for the price of admission. In addition to saving you money, sometimes event volunteers also get a chance to see some of the behind the scenes action and even meet the artists.
Maybe you love the zoo or the local amusement park. Often these places love volunteers and you can exchange your hard work for free admission. Even younger family members can join in.
What about volunteering your services for a break at your child’s private school admissions? The kids are there all day anyway, and the school might need some extra office help. It could be a win-win for both to pay you through reduced tuition.
If you have your own business, you can exchange your products or services with another business. A massage therapist I know does this regularly, exchanging massages with other business owners. If you are a writer, you can offer to put together a newsletter for a local company in exchange for something they offer that you need. This sort of bartering is good for your pocketbook and your networking.
The key to utilizing your time in exchange for products and services is to figure out what your skills are and where there are needs in your community. This is a good time to think out of the box and come out ahead.
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