Money is at the center of our way of life in the civilized world, and understanding how to manage it is necessary for even modest success. Often, people neglect saving because they feel they simply can't save due to daily expenses that are too high. In most cases, it is possible to save a little bit even with the high cost of living. Here are a few suggestions to help you set a little something aside each month.
Make your own beverages at home. Start with water. Don't buy bottled water. It is not regulated and more often than not, it just comes from a tap somewhere. Support your regulated local utility and save a fortune by simply filtering your tap water with an affordable carbon activated filtration pitcher. Carry a reusable stainless steel water container with you at all times to avoid spending money on beverages while you are out.
Learn how to cook well instead of ordering take-out or purchasing frozen prepared dishes. Vary your diet and make it healthier and more affordable by learning about and using protein sources other than meat. Substitute eggs, cheese, beans, legumes, tofu and many other less expensive sources of protein for meat, and you will probably save money at the doctor's office as well as the grocery store.
Save the planet and your money by choosing alternate means of transportation. Even a smaller gas consuming vehicle, such as a scooter or small motorcycle, can save you money on gas. Using public transportation is also an excellent alternative to driving your own gas powered vehicle. To add a component of good health and save even more money at the doctor's office, walk or ride a bicycle.
To save even more money, make an investment in a freezer. With a freezer, you can stock up on meats and other freezable items when they are on sale. Meats are quite expensive, and if you can find a way to save money on these, you will have a lot more money in your pocket.
Saving money is difficult for many people. For some, making ends meet means spending every last cent of their paycheck. But saving money is important, so to make it less painful and start small. Set aside a small amount each payday, and put it into a savings account. You can start with as little as five dollars per week. Soon, you won't miss the money, but you will see a little nest egg starting to grow. That is a good feeling.
Track your spending habits to see where the money goes. Take a month, and write down everything you spend money on. Save your receipts. At the end of the month, review your expenses to see where you can cut back. Make a goal to save a small amount each month by cutting out something unnecessary.
It is important to have goals to work for. If you are planning a vacation, tell yourself you deserve it, and save for the vacation you really want. Then enjoy it. You may even be saving toward something large, like the down payment on a new home. When you have a clear goal in mind, saving becomes a piece of cake.
It may seem daunting, but it is never too late to change bad spending habits. The result will be a brighter future for you and your family. Keep these tips in mind, and you will be able change your spending habits into saving habits!
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