We see some tough times on the horizon. With longer life expectancies, higher inflation and not enough income – the time is NOW to buckle down and watch your spending.
You don’t have to live like a hermit or make drastic changes to your lifestyle, but here are a few suggestions to help you think about how you spend.
- Don’t go shopping without a list. Stick to the items you need so you don’t impulse by.
- Cut down on eating out. It may be fun to take turns creating a new recipe. Or take turns hosting on Saturday nights with friends – you can play games or cards for an inexpensive form of entertainment.
- Use debit cards instead of credit cards. You’ll only spend what’s actually in your bank account and won’t run up your charge accounts with high interest charges.
- Consolidate your errands so you use less gas and less of your free time.
- Think about writing out your bills instead of automatic debits. It makes you more aware of what things cost.
- Go shopping in your own “store.” Your closet and drawers probably have clothes you forgot you have or have not worn in a while. Change it up with a scarf or vest or by layering. Guys too!
- Go out for appetizers instead of dinner! You’ll get a lot more variety and won’t overeat.
- Have one glass of wine or one drink when you go out, and the rest at home! You can probably purchase a bottle for what you pay for 2 drinks in a restaurant. And besides, you shouldn’t drink and drive anyway!
- Be kind to your environment – use aluminum water bottles and refill them. Also, less exposure to plastics, which can break down and may be harmful to your health.
- Use washable containers instead of baggies, aluminum foil and disposable containers.
Small changes in your spending habits can really add up over time and may give you that little bit of extra cash when you really need it.
Kind of like cutting calories during the week so you can indulge a little on the weekends!
-Kathy
Lady Fi
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