Wednesday, July 8, 2015

July 8: Writing Prompt #189-Barter System

If the world worked on a barter system, how would you fare? Would you have services to barter? Would you be successful, or would you struggle?

Actually, I think I would fare okay in a barter system. Over the years, I have become fairly adept at making soap and lotions, weaving baskets, and throwing and hand-making pottery. These are all things I have not done in quite some time, but with regular practice, I know I could get back into it and possibly use these goods to barter for what I needed. If these were the only services I had to barter, I might struggle a bit (pay check to paycheck type deal), but my greatest services would be anything to do with writing and editing. I could create marketing materials for a business, edit business or personal written materials, assist with resumes, letter writing, or tutoring students in English and writing.  I could also trade my speaking or teaching skills for other goods. If, for example, a store manager needed someone to create and/or lead a specific training course for the employees, I could do that on a variety of training topics because of my job experience over the last several years. I think offering a trade for these services would push me more into the successful realm of bartering.  I am also fairly good at party and event planning for small groups, so we could add this to the list of things to trade, and I’m sure there are other things I haven’t thought about too. It’s hard to know what things come natural and easy for you which do not for others and/or are “chores” for some and “fun” for others.  These are the types of services that end up being successfully traded once you discover there’s a need or want for them. Back in the real days of bartering, a lot of my skill set would NOT have been useful, but given today’s world, I think the services I have to offer would be very valuable to a wide range of people.  

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