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2.1 HOW TO DECIDE WHAT IS WORTH YOUR WHILE - PART 2 - DO IT YOURSELF - DIY

For example, if you like to cook, you might consider cooking more: perhaps cooking large quantities and freezing them, instead buying take-out food.

== Learning or enhancing skills can have many additional benefits.

You will gain a feeling of control over your life. These skills will not only save you money on regular maintenance and repairs, they will save you money and aggravation in the event of an emergency.

I have experienced the sense of hopelessness when my car broke down, and I was at the mercy of tow trucks and strange mechanics. I have also experienced the pleasure and sense of pride when I fixed the car myself and drove back down the highway.

== Safety is the number one consideration when performing a physical task.

If you don't know the rules of safety, learn them before you attempt to do anything. If you don't have the patience to learn these rules, then don't do it.

I can't tell you how many "shade tree" mechanics I've seen who used a bumper jack to lift the car they were working under. A bumper jack is only meant for changing tires. To work under a car you need to jack up the car and then lower it down on jack stands. Otherwise, you risk being crushed by the car when it falls off the jack.

== There are more products today for the do-it-yourselfer than ever before.

Many products are easier to work with and require fewer tools than in the past. These products often require fewer specialized tools. For example, fitting PVC plastic pipe is much simpler than fitting copper pipe.

Lumber companies and hardware stores may carry videos, books and instruction sheets as well as hold workshops. Ask.

== Attempt simple, easy-to-accomplish tasks at first -- don't try to do too much. Start small.

Don't be overly enthusiastic in the beginning. Everyone has seen people who jump in with both feet. They spend a lot of money on tools that never get used. As you become more skilled, you can do more tasks, buy more tools, and be more realistic about what you can accomplish.

== Advertising and marketing have tried to portray home-made products as old fashioned or not up-to-date.

The ads may also claim that they are not as good or safe or healthy or sanitary as store bought. This is simply not true much of the time. Make sure you decide for yourself; don't swallow the advertising hype.

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