The Power of Our Wallets: How Supporting Small Businesses and Local Artists Can Change the World

What Do You See, What Do You Want:

Take a moment to survey your surroundings. Take note of your residence and recreational areas. Have you considered that you possess the power to shape the physical environment around you? Frequently, individuals lament the establishment of corporate giants like Walmart within their communities. However, in the face of competitive pricing, consumers may prioritize convenience over the small, beloved businesses they have patronized for generations. Similarly, one might sing praises to a local artist's skill, yet purchase decor from a chain store to match their furniture.

Your Actions Help Determine the Outcome:

I acknowledge that these choices are all valid, and I am in no position to cast judgment. Instead, I wish to encourage you to recognize that each decision you make contributes to the landscape of your world.

In a world dominated by multinational corporations and big-box stores, it's easy to feel powerless as an individual consumer. However, we often underestimate the impact of our financial decisions. By supporting small businesses, local artists, and small service providers, we have the power to shape our world and make it a better place.

You are the Key:

It's no secret that small businesses are the backbone of local economies. According to the Small Business Administration, small businesses make up 99.9% of all businesses in the United States and employ 47.1% of the private workforce. When we choose to shop at small businesses instead of big corporations, we're not only supporting our local economy but also helping to create jobs and promote entrepreneurship.

But supporting small businesses isn't just good for the economy – it's good for the environment too. Small businesses tend to have a smaller carbon footprint than large corporations. They're often more invested in their communities and more likely to use sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By choosing to support small businesses, we can reduce our environmental impact and promote a more sustainable future.

We are Part of the Community:

When it comes to art, supporting local artists can have a similar impact. Artists are often the heart and soul of a community, bringing beauty and inspiration to our daily lives. However, many artists struggle to make a living, and their work often goes underappreciated. By purchasing art from local artists and attending their shows and events, we're not only supporting their livelihood but also helping to enrich our community.

Similarly, choosing small service providers over big corporations can make a big difference. Whether it's a local plumber, electrician, or landscaper, small service providers are often more invested in their work and more likely to provide personalized service. By supporting them, we're not only getting better service, but we're also helping to build stronger and more resilient communities.

What can We Do?

So, what can you do to support small businesses and local artists? Here are a few ideas:

- Shop at local farmers' markets and small businesses instead of big-box stores and chain restaurants

- Attend local art shows and events and purchase art from local artists

- Choose small service providers over big corporations

- Spread the word! Share your favorite small businesses and artists on social media and encourage others to support them too

We have the power to shape our world through our financial decisions. By supporting small businesses, local artists, and small service providers, we can promote a more sustainable, resilient, and vibrant world. Let's use our wallets to create the world we want to live in.

References:

- Small Business Administration. (2021). Frequently Asked Questions. Retrieved from https://www.sba.gov/document/support--small-businesses-faq

- EPA. (n.d.). Small Business Impacts. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/small-business/small-business-impacts

- Balle, J. (2016). Why Supporting Local Artists is Good for Everyone. Retrieved from https://www.huffpost.com/entry/why-supporting-local-arti_b_11816422