If you think it’s tough out there in the job market, you should try starting a business amidst this economic sh*t storm! Money is tight right now and jobs are becoming rarer and rarer. With all this happening, the team at PLRG has been getting pretty creative in finding ways to not just survive these times, but actually flourish.

I have recently become our only “full timer” on the website and have been mostly living off the money I get from selling my possessions (and maybe mooching off my BF a bit, sorry honey!). On the opposite end, Eryn is working full time at her “real job”, but is still scraping by. She devotes her nights or her “second shifts” to PLRG, like a super-hero with a double life.

Then there are some of us who, due to this recession, have become “Jill’s” of all trades. Noelle left her full time gig for a part time one so she could devote more time to the site. She makes extra cash by picking up shifts at a local boutique and also throwing jewelry parties (not to mention that she is able to stay super up to date on fashion trends). Lindsey is a part time Marketing Associate, our Director of Communications, a soon to be documentary film maker…oh, and she is also a world class sailor. Then there’s Jaqueline. Since she was laid off from her full time job, she has fallen back on dancing to pay the bills. No, not that kind of dancing! She teaches hip hop, cardio dance, etc. at various places around the city. 

My point is when life gives you lemons, you’ve got to try to make lemonade. Whether you’re desperately hanging on to your job or you’ve already lost it, creativity and resourcefulness are what you’re going to need to survive in this job market. This month, we’ll be doing what we can to help you succeed in your job and also help you find a new one if your on the prowl. We’ve got interviews with local female entrepreneurs, job experts and maybe even some advice on the so called “power suit.”

So stay tuned to PLRG for some great career advice and don’t forget to check our new blog. There you can read more about our everyday struggle to live large and save money.

Lacey Brenly

Editor in Chief

Whatever you do, do not turn on the news. Lately, all you will hear about is how the markets are in the tank, the sky is falling and an economic Armageddon is inevitable. Ok, we get it- a recession is on its way, if we aren’t already there. But, at PoorLittleRichGirls we say “Recession, smeshion!” We already know how important it is to live within your means. And, you know you can always come to us as your one stop shop on how to survive times like these and look damn good doing it too!

This week we laugh in the face of the economic crisis and show you how to keep some semblance of your current lifestyle in the midst of all this uncertainty. We wanted to take on financial issues in a way that made sense for PoorLittleRichGirls. First, there’s the “trickle down” theory. Chicago is home to a ton of great consignment and vintage shops, so as long as the ladies in the Gold Coast keep cleaning out their closets, there are plenty of designer digs that will “trickle” their way down to you. Then there is the idea of being “fundamentally strong.” With our cheap (and some even free) home workouts, your body and portfolio are sure to survive this crap economy. Last, we know you need to stretch your dollar, but to be sure you aren’t doing more harm than good check out our story on how long is too long to hoard those cosmetic goodies.

With all of the craziness in the financial world lately it is important to stop every so often to take a deep breathe. Remember that the economy is cyclical, and right now the market is about to get its period. No doubt it won’t be pretty and will be a total pain in the ass. But, it’s nothing an overnight maxi can’t handle, and in time, you’ll be foot loose and cramp free. The important thing is to be prepared- keep being smart about your money and always have a spare tampax in your purse.

Lacey

Lacey Brenly
Editor in Chief