Everyday Life and Saving Money
Saving money can start with what you do and use in everyday life. Small changes can put more money into your bank account and without you feeling deprived.
Following are some tips to help you save:
* Instead of buying expensive books, borrow from the library. To expand on this and add a little to your social life, you could start a book club in your home. A wealth of friendship and enjoyment for free!
* Pay bills online and save on the cost of stamps or gas to drive to businesses. I love online banking. You can transfer money from one account to the other or pay bills without ever stepping out of your home.
* Rent movies. Some libraries have movies you can borrow. It’s much cheaper than going to the movies and especially for a family. Create a movie night and let each person choose a movie. Add some popcorn or other refreshments and you have a free or inexpensive evening of quality entertainment and time together.
* Combine trips out. Plan grocery shopping and other errands for one day a week. This cuts down on gas usage quite a bit.
* Eat at home more. Eating out not only dips into your wallet, but also can add extra pounds.
* Don’t be quick to throw out that shampoo bottle or laundry detergent container when it appears empty. Add water and you can get at least one, sometimes more uses.
* Don’t teach children that fun comes in the form of spending money. An afternoon in your own back yard playing badminton, volleyball or whatever you choose, along with a picnic can be loads of fun. Allow them to invite friends over occasionally to join in.
* Hiking can be very enjoyable and great exercise. Pack up water, trail mix, fruit or other healthy snacks.
* Barter! If you need a service, find someone who needs something you can provide and exchange services where no money is involved. Your neighbor might need someone to mow their lawn, while you need someone who can type.
* Children grow out of clothes and toys very quickly. Start an exchange with other parents. I know some who have done this and rarely have to buy anything new and the clothes, toys and furniture look as good as new.
Saving money doesn’t have to hurt. It’s about awareness to your everyday habits and making changes that are lasting.
Saving Money on Regular Monthly Bills
Saving money doesn’t have to be a dreaded task. Start with looking at your regular monthly bills for utilities and services.
Make a list of monthly bills such as electric, gas, water, phone, etc. With each item, give thought to how you can reduce that bill.
Examples:
Electricity: Turn off what isn’t being used. Sounds simple, but if you aren’t using something, there’s no use paying for the electricity that it costs to generate that item. Wash full loads of clothing. Use cold, instead of hot water. Close off all drafts and insulate your home.
Phone: Phone companies offer appealing packages, but do you use or “need” all of the features? How much are those features worth to you in comparison to being able to save? Cutting down to the basics can save a substantial amount. Also, is a cell phone truly necessary? Sure, they are convenient to have, but you once lived without them and can do it again. I know people who are paying $200 - $300 (sometimes more) a month just for phone service. That’s a pretty big chunk of money each month and most of the time more for convenience than necessity.
Water: Check for leaks. I had a leak coming from my kitchen faucet and when that was repaired, my water bill was cut in half. Be conservative. Two showers a day per family member might feel great, but it runs the water bill up quite a bit. Don’t leave the water running while brushing your teeth, shaving, etc. Turn it on as needed.
TV: Do you really need or watch 500 different tv channels? Sure, they are nice to have “just in case”, but you are paying a lot of money to have these channels. Call your cable company and compare packages. Pay for only what you will use. Better yet…get the basic service and find other things to do in the time you usually watch tv.
Internet: Think about your usage. If you only browse the internet on occasion, you may want to try dial-up. Sure, it isn’t as pleasant as DSL or cable, but you’ll be saving a good bit of money. If you use the internet a lot, call around and compare prices for what is available in your area.
These are some examples. You may have other services I haven’t listed, but the main point is to break each item down and be fully aware of your personal usage, how much you are paying and what you can do without. Remember…the objective is to save money!