So often we get into habits, some good and some not so good and before long some of those habits can actually turn into a black hole of spending without us realizing it. The spending may not just be with your hard-earned cash, but can be a waste of time, energy or money. Once you realize a wasteful spending habit, you may be able to make a simple substitution which can yield immediate savings in your pocket. I have listed 7 easy changes, but there are so many more once you get started.
#1 Drink Water as Your Main Beverage
On of the most obvious things in our homes in the kitchen sink faucet. Turn it on, fill a cup or bottle and drink it down. The cost? Virtually nothing. Beverages from water to sodas, energy drinks, protein shakes, juice, milk or alcohol can cost several dollars per drink. Even just cutting out a couple a day can add up quickly.
#2 If Your Water Tastes Bad, Get a Water Filter
In some places the tap water is less than palatable. If that is your situation, consider purchasing a water filter. If you drink several beverages a day, it won’t be long before the cost of the water filter is absorbed by the cost savings to you from using tap water.
#3 Call Your Auto Insurance Company
This may seem like an intimidating step, but it is really not. Most insurance companies have simple online forms with step-by-step questions that you answer. Within minutes you will have a quote in your hands without having to speak to anyone. Locate 3 different companies and compare their prices. You may be surprised at how much you may be able to save.
#4 Check out a Nearby Thrift Store for Clothing or Small Appliances
Are you in need of some fresh clothes for the upcoming season, or for a crockpot or toaster oven? Check first at your neighborhood thrift shop. Many times, you can find great deals on brand new or gently worn clothing and appliances that are still in their boxes.
#5 Make a Grocery List Before Going to the Store
The shelves are bare, and the refrigerator is empty! Time to hit the grocery store, right? Before grabbing your keys take a moment to assess what you really need. It is so easy to get sucked into impulse buying once you hit the store. If you know exactly what you need you won’t get home with lots of things you don’t need. For extra savings, check out the stores sales ad for the week and see if you can find extra savings on similar products that you use.
#6 Make Ahead Meals
We all have our favorite meals, so why not make up a larger batch of your meals and toss the extra into a freezer bag or perhaps a plastic container and put it in the freezer. Next time you don’t want to cook, reach into your freezer and grab your premade meal and put it in the microwave for a few minutes. Less mess and faster results.
#7 Get a New Email Address and Sign Up for Rewards Cards with It
Almost every store has a rewards program anymore. The only drawback is the spammy emails that you get. So, create a brand new free email account with Google for example and use that email account only for your rewards accounts. Just log into that email account once in a while to check for birthday bonuses, coupons and special sales.
These are some easy ways to start saving on your spending, time and energy. There are hundreds more once you put your mind to it. Make it a goal to look for a new way to save on something each month and by the end of the year you will be surprised at how much you have saved.
If you find that you are still running short of cash each month, consider contacting Stained Glass Homes. We may be able to help you get some money back out of your home to get you caught up on your bills. We can give you a no-obligation CASH offer on your home and close on the property in as fast as 14 days. Click on the link below and fill in your information or call us at 520-200-3334. We will be in touch with you quickly!
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