Step 13 in our 18 Steps to Getting Out of Survival Mode is stocking up. Here’s what I wrote in my original article:
“13. Buy extra at the store if you can and go shopping less often
If you can, buy two or three dishwashing detergents, jars of spaghetti sauce or hair spray when you go shopping. I’ve had too many times where I ran out of something and had to do an emergency run to the grocery store. Not only is that an extra outing, but it’s done with the stress of having to run out and run back. Double whammy energy zapper.”
Stocking up on things you need can be a great time saver. There will be times when you are too overwhelmed, busy, or tired to get things done. During those times, it’s great to look at your pantry or gas tank and know it can wait if it needs to. Here are some things to stock up on when you can:
- Non-perishable food like canned, boxed or packaged goods.
- Gas in your car. Top the tank off if you find you have time and energy.
- Birthday or note cards are great to have when you realize a bit late that a relative’s birthday is coming up.
- Stamps just in case you need to mail out a last minute card.
- Change. You never know when you might need to break a $20 bill.
- Printer paper and ink, especially if you use a lot of it.
- Notebooks and pens. If you are a writer or love to make lists or even just need to write things out to figure out what to do about something, it’s always nice to have a supply of extra notebooks and pens/pencils.
- Batteries. Nothing like getting caught in a blackout with no batteries for your flashlights. Especially the sizes you use most: AAA, AA, and C.
- Specialized batteries for things like your mouse, wireless keyboard, and hearing aid if you have one.
- Meds. Make sure you keep track of your meds and order them long enough in advance before you run out.
- Wood for the fireplace, especially in winter.
- Matches, candles, flashlights…
Those are just a few suggestions. Think about things you use the most or would present the most problems if you didn’t have enough. Make sure to plan ahead and stock up on those items that will allow you to live a bit more stress-free.