I am constantly amazed at how much we waste in America.
Yet, in a strange way, it makes it easier to get ahead if you are motivated.
A person with little can dress well in clothes from the Salvation Army. Shop carefully and stock up on great deals from grocery stores, or better, bargain grocery stores.
A person who is looking ahead can get fantastic deals in distressed property that most overlook because of cosmetic flaws.
I once got a $400 leather bomber jacket for $37.50 by careful shopping of clearance sales combined with coupons. :-)