Shecky’s

Toss out your econ books and get your nose out of the financial section, because the best real-world lessons for surviving a recession aren’t in any textbooks or newspapers. They’re staring you down on Jersey Shore—the MTV reality series about eight 20-somethings struggling to find their true selves while living in a world awash in recession.

Okay, so the actual focus of Jersey Shore might not entirely be on educating people about the recession, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t lessons to be learned from watching it.

Start performing at work or you will be replaced. Slacker employees may have had more leeway in the past, but employers have the advantage in a recession where the unemployment rate is skyrocketing. Take it from Angelina, who got fired from her gig at a T-shirt shop for failing to show up and was subsequently booted from the show.

Invest in your career. Sure, it’s important to stay frugal during a recession. But that doesn’t necessarily apply if you’re spending money to further your career. Look at JWoww, the Long Island “model” who reportedly would get a breast augmentation “every year if I could” and considered a second breast augmentation for the current season.

Choose where to save and splurge. Decide for yourself where you’re willing to cut back, and then use the money you saved to finance the things you enjoy the most. Mike “The Situation” certainly understands the concept, which is why he and the rest of the cast save money on expensive group meals by eating at home during filming and spend their extra cash on drinks at the clubs.

Buy in bulk whenever possible. When it comes to everyday staples, buying in volume can save you time and money. Just look at Pauly D, the Rhode Island DJ who says he buys his I-C-E Spiker hair gel in bulk just in case it ever gets discontinued.

Become your own brand. Personal branding is important these days, as Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi certainly appears to understand. From her unique dance moves to her signature poof, Snooki has already started parlaying her act from reality TV star to club host and university lecturer, thanks in part to the completely unique personal brand she developed on the show.

-Stephanie Miles for Recessionwire

Recessionwire is a user’s guide to change. We look for the upside of down times, offering positive, practical advice about work, fulfillment and how to live well for less, plus personal essays, humor, and cultural insights.