Following the Duggars' Example Could Lead to More Comfortable Lifestyle

You may recall a previous article I wrote about Michelle and Jim Bob Duggar, who had just welcomed their 17th biological child into the world. Over the years, the family has received much harassment for their large size, so I tried to point out the many positive attributes of the Duggar family.

Well, this didn't go over so well; people couldn't seem to get away from focusing on their size rather than their values. Well, this year, as some had anticipated, the Duggars recently announced that they would be welcoming yet a new member into the clan. Baby #18 is due to arrive on New Year's Day, January 1.

No doubt in this time of hardship when people face economic issues such as home foreclosures, increased cost or shortage of food, overpriced gasoline prices, etc, the Duggars may be in for even more ridicule with their forthcoming addition. In this article I hope to point out a few things I've learned from researching the Duggar family that may help us all fare a little better and stand more comfortably by this time next year.

The Duggar Family Lives Within Their Finances

Though they are quick to credit God for their successes, Jim Bob Duggar made through smart investments and frugal living, have no house or car payments and don't use credit cards. Much of their clothing is purchased at a thrift store and they also shop at auctions, both government and online at eBay.

The Duggar Family Works Together

Though not always rigid, the Duggar family does run on a schedule, which helps things run smoothly and insures everyone's needs are met. They have a daily routine and everyone does chores. Throughout the day, smaller children have an older sibling as a buddy to help them with everything.

The Duggar Family's Entertainment Expenses

All the Duggar children learn to play a musical instrument and practice daily. The children are home schooled, and much focus is placed on their religious studies. But they also spend time socializing in their church community where there are other large families they spend time with. On occasion, when the Duggar family does eat out they take advantage of the dollar menu at most fast food restaurants.

Living within your means, keeping to a schedule, and socializing with people rather than electronic or digital devices, which cost money to run are simple but tried and true practices. These simple practices have worked for the Duggars, a soon-to-be family of 20, so probably they will work just as well for anyone else. Best wishes for a comfortable 'new' year.