Think Big. Buy Local.

In the book “Going Local, Creating Self-Reliant Communities in a Global Age”, Michael H. Shuman says "Going local does not mean walling off the outside world. It means nurturing locally owned businesses which use local resources sustainably, employ local workers at decent wages and serve primarily local consumers. It means becoming more self-sufficient and less dependent on imports. Control moves from the boardrooms of distant corporations and back into the community where it belongs.”

As consumers, we are faced with the decision of where to buy what we need on a daily basis.  We all know how easy it is to sit behind our computer screen or tablet and order things with a click or a tap, but who are we really supporting when we do this?  How are we benefiting from this purchase other than trading dollars for a product?    

When we shop local we are keeping more money in our local economy.  Small businesses employ a lot of people.  Maybe you know some of them.  It could be a friend, a family member, an acquaintance, a neighbor. 

Supporting local business also encourages a sense of community.  Get to know the folks who work in these businesses and benefit from their expertise.  A local artist will be thrilled that you purchased a piece of their art for your new home.  A local author would love it if the community supported their latest book, and so would the bookstore you buy it from.  The business you support also supports other businesses in the community and this has a ripple effect that can’t be denied. 

The next time you go shopping give the local shops in your area the opportunity to impress you with their products, knowledge and service.  It will be a rewarding experience for everyone!