I, like most women, have two personalities when it comes to money. On one hand, I can't resist a sale, and use shopping as my stress relief. Then on the other hand, I am a number crunching fool.
So how do you pay bills, live a good life and find extra to save? Some might say it's simple-stop spending money! Well, for me, it's easier said than done.
In an effort to live this good frugal life, I will give u a short list of things we have done to cut back.
1. Thrift shop- I have been thrifting since before it was socially acceptable. This is my first stop when I need a particular piece to either my or my kids' wardrobe. Anywhere I can ball on a budget is alright with me.
2. Couponing- I'm not very successful with clipping coupons on a regular, but when online shopping I always check out couponing sites like retailmenot.com before I make my purchase.
3. Say no to regular groceries stores- I do most of my shopping at Aldi and Sam's Club. I only go to my regular grocery store when I need that specialty item that the other two stores don't offer.
4. Create a budget for everything- And I do mean everything: groceries, bills, date night, gas, clothes, etc. Once you reach the max, your done.
5. No emotional shopping. Forget emotional eating, I'm an emotional shopper because nothing makes me feel better than a new dress or pair of shoes when people are getting on my last good nerve.
6. Stay off of social media- Facebook and Instagram may be a fun way to pass the time, but please don't let what you see fool your mind. People don't post that they living check to check or they had to borrow money from they mama. What they do post are the clothes, the gourmet dinners and dream vacations. Don't get caught up in the keeping up with the Joneses mentality.
7. Talk openly and honestly about what your spending with your mate. I used to be really good about sneaking those shoes in the house that were purchased during my emotional shopping spree. But, when I noticed my husband was doing the same thing, I realized that us keeping these purchases a secret was doing more harm than good.
8. Limit your take out. Bring a lunch to work and eat at home. We usually only get take out on the weekend, so that works for us.
9.No more gym memberships- I wish I would sign another contract to just give my money away for a year. Gym memberships have not been good for me, just ask my credit report, so I will work out at home or take some classes at the Y or community college.
10. Go on a spending diet/fast. Every now and then I will limit my spending by going on a "no shoes till spring" or "no makeup this month" fast. It's truly a test of wills, but it makes me take a look at my spending habits and put it in check.
And if you want a real test of your will power, you can take the 21 Day Money Challenge. I went to a financial seminar at my church last week and in addition to other money saving tips like refinancing loans, the presenter suggested this money challenge and it is my spending fast on steroids.
Basically the main rule is- no spending unnecessary money.
Other items not allowed:
-No shopping (except for groceries) or using your credit card.
-No going to the mall or window shopping.
-No restaurant meals.
-No buying gifts or gift cards.
I'm optimistic about this challenge. I do have some pre planned purchases that I'm not counting, but other than that, I think I'll do fine. I'll keep you guys updated and let you know whether it was a success or an epic failure.
Do you have any money saving tips to share? Do you want to join me in the challenge? Please share!
Forever loving my B.A.D.D. Kids,
Rhonda
