Living in a busy world filled with so many things to do along with combatting rising costs and shortages can be more than challenging.  Below mentioned find some tips to try and make your life a bit easier.   1.  #PackYourPatience.  Every industry is hit by shortages in supply and workforce.  So when you call or visit an establishment, please be sure to utilize kindness and patience.  Be gracious to those that have showed up to work because many are overworked and underpaid . A gesture as simple as offering to take the trash out as you leave an establishment would be helpful and appreciated. 2.  If you are able to donate time, money, or goods, please do so as often as possible.  This is one way to ease some of the tension on employees, and allow clients to receive better customer service. 3.  Are you handy or creative?  There are many goods that come from oversees that are greatly impacted by shipping or covid related issues.  Maybe you can consider making goods to help with shortages

       Ways to survive increasing prices and shortages by evaluating your Needs vs. Wants. Start by Recycling, Reusing, Trading, Upcycling, & Volunteering. Evaluate your needs vs. wants when shopping .  Making lists can help avoid over spending or double buying.  Add to your lists when you begin to run low on items in your household. Consider digital lists so the entire family can help with maintaining the lists and shopping as it will be in real time.  Although, a list on the refrigerator works just as well.    Key tips when shopping are to have a meal before heading out.  We tend to buy on impulse and not pay close attention to our lists/evaluate sales when shopping on an empty stomach .  Plan your trips, utilize coupons (put key sales/coupon expirations on your calendar with reminders.) Driving -  When possible, carpool to save time, gas, and wear and tear on vehicles.  Fill your gas tanks when the weather is cooler, usually in the morning.  Avoid going below a half a tank to ma