A New Approach to Reduce Gasoline Usage - By: Kim Bleeker

Don't let OPEC rule your life. In order to use less gasoline, the single most important command at your disposal is to raise your consciousness of how you spend fuel. Every practical tip for reducing usage comes from one simple command: BE AWARE!

Of course, to reduce your gasoline bills, drive less, drive slower, and if you're going to be stopped for more than thirty seconds at a traffic light, turn off your engine. Listen while you drive: the harder you hear your engine working, the more gasoline you are consuming. Be aware of how quickly your car is drinking up this common but scarce, and increasingly precious resource.

A major part of awareness is to address your driving habits as if they are an addiction. Addiction is a disease of denial. The first step is to admit you have a problem over which you are powerless. Repeat after me: I AM A GASOLINE ADDICT!

Once you have accepted the problem, your own common sense will start throwing countless solutions your way. Look for opportunities to carpool. (This includes not only commuting to work or school, but cooperating with neighbors and carpooling to shop, which has the hidden benefit of developing friendships) If you can arrange your schedule, walk! (This has hidden health benefits, as well!) Ride a bike. Take a train.

Map out your routes to avoid left turns, which usually involve greater waiting time. When running errands, plan ahead and consolidate; a warm engine consumes less fuel than a cold one. Of course, avoid jack rabbit starts and sudden stops; this also involves planning ahead, which arises from the simple basic command: BE AWARE.

Visualize your engine gulping your hard earned dollars. A V-8 engine is a glutton; go smaller. Buy a hybrid. Be the first on your block to invest in an electric car. Do not feel that you owe anything to Big Oil. Remember, a hundred years ago, electric cars were competing for a market share, and they lost, temporarily, because battery technology was not ready.

I AM A GASOLINE ADDICT, BUT NOW I AM AWARE!

About the Author

Kim Bleeker is a writer who enjoys sharing her experiences, knowledge, and advice on a number of different subjects. For more information about reducing auto costs, Financial Advice Help gives readers tips on how to spend less on auto insurance each month.

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/Kim-Bleeker/175373

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