Things to Do While You're Naked

We all hope for financial stability, don't we? I mean, when was the last time you heard someone say "gee I'd love to be penniless and homeless". But we all know that the truth is, it could happen to any of us. Everyday, we do everything within our power to fight to keep it from happening. And while it's not the best situation to have to face, I've come up with a few ideas of what you can do should you ever find yourself in this situation, starting with the least horrible scenario.

Home with no furniture/decor - Really? Get over over it. Be grateful for the roof over your head and be patient for what's to come.

No clothing - Go to Goodwill, Salvation Army, or a local thrift store. You'll find some inexpensive and often times irressistible items there. Or, learn to sew and make your clothing from donated clothes. This is called upcycling and it's actually becoming a mini-trend. You can create the look you want by piecing together parts from many different garments.

No personal transportation - Use public transportation. I know where I live it's pretty cheap. Invest in a bike. It doesn't need gas, you'll get exercise, and it's low maintenance. Start walking...need I say more?

No friends - Start talking to people that strike you as interesting. Spark up conversations online. Go on Craigslist and plan meetups in your area based on shared interests. Go to the library and make friendly conversation with people browsing books that you like too.

No job - Do odd jobs around the neighborhood. Wash cars, babysit, organize, or cook for your neighbors. Use your skills (everyone is good at something) and work for yourself. Even if all you know how to do is talk, you could sit with the elderly and keep them company for a few hours a day.

No food - Buy or make a fishing line and catch your food if you live near water. Start a garder or even better a garden coop if you can get some help. Go to local homeless kitchens. Eat at friends and relatives houses until you can get back on track. Also, dare I say it, give foodstamps a try until you're back on your feet.

So there. If you're down on your luck, all hope is not lost. You can always pick yourself up out of the trenches. These are just a few things to get you thinking positively. I find that if you plan for the worst and hope for the best, you get more out of life and you will find yourself ready for anything.

Now it's your turn! What would you add to this list? Try to name one thing you would do if you were stripped of everything you have right now. Share your thoughts below. Be sure to subscribe to comments to follow this discussion.