Resolving to Buy American Made

Photo: Berk2804 on Flickr

New Year's resolutions are pitiful little things really. They start out all shiny and bright on the first of the year... full of good intentions and lofty ambition. Then, as time goes by, they become a little neglected. Instead of shiny and new, they start to look crumpled and worn. By the end of the year, they're gathering dust bunnies in some forgotten corner. In fact, a recent poll found that 35% of made resolutions never even make it past the first of the year. But with a few tweaks on the old way of thinking, resolutions can stay shiny and new all year long.

Odds are, failed resolutions are a result of unrealistic goals or lack of short-term milestones. This year, give your resolution a fair shake. Instead of looking only at your long-term goal for the year, set a reasonable and achievable goal for each month.

Weight loss, smoking cessation, getting your finances in order... these are all good resolutions. But this year, why not set a resolution that will benefit many others besides yourself? Resolve to buy American.

There are so many benefits to buying American. The quality of the product is often higher and you can be assured that the product was made in a safe and well-regulated facility. When you see the price difference between a product -- say a t-shirt -- made in the USA and one made elsewhere, just stop and ask yourself why the cost is so different. Often, manufacturing practices in other countries ignore laborer's rights in favor of making cheap product. Do you really want to support that practice? What's more, American-made products support American jobs. And in these times of economic struggle, it's a caring act to support the jobs of your neighbors. Beyond those reasons, the safety of products themselves is often at stake. For example, toys made in USA are free of lead-based paint and other other common concerns with imports. You can also consider the environmental impact of buying American. Think of all the miles your oranges from Brazil had to travel, when you might have been able to purchase one from Florida or California instead.

But when most of the products on the store's shelves are made anywhere but the US, how can you reasonably resolve to buy American? First of all, don't expect to go cold turkey. Awareness of the issue is half the battle. As more Americans buy more American-made products, demand for products will increase. When you make this resolution, know that it probably won't be a 100% change. Try these short-term milestones in order to make your resolution a reality:

1. Read the fine print. For a starter, just read the fine print when making a purchase. See where your chosen product is made or shipped from and choose American-made when available. Be aware that an American-based company does not mean the product was manufactured here.
2. Do your homework. Once you're more aware of your purchasing habits, start researching products before purchasing them. There are many online companies selling only American-made products. While you might not be able to find American-made products on store shelves you can find them online. Also research stores and support those who make an effort to carry more American-made products.
3. Buy handmade. While many mass-produced items may be made overseas, handmade goods like those sold on Etsy are a great way to know where and how your product was manufactured.
4. Go local. Especially for food items, going local can save you money and is a great way to support your local economy. Buy in season at farmer's markets or roadside stands. Canning and freezing are environmentally-friendly ways to make your products last throughout the year.
   

Sources: Time, MSN Money