We’ve all been there. It’s time to pay the bills, and somehow, our bank account is a lot lower than expected. Where did the money go? You didn’t make any large purchases, go on any vacations, or spend any extra money this month. But regardless of how much money we think we didn’t spend, the evidence is there, staring us in the face, in the form of an empty bank account. If this has ever been you, these five tips can help save money everyday, and you can kiss those empty bank accounts goodbye!
1. Don’t use your credit card.
I know. A credit card is so easy. Pull it out, swipe, sign, repeat. There is no change to keep up with, you don’t have to worry about cash, and it is the most convenient option in our ‘oh so convenient’ world. But, if you’re looking to save money, put the credit card away. Experts say that when people use credit cards, they have no idea how much money they are actually spending, and are much more likely to spend more than they intended. So, if you really want to save, deal with the cash. Know how much you have in your wallet, and don’t spend more than is there.
2. Take your lunch.
Ok. This is not only meant for lunch, but all the tiny little buys that we sneak into our day. For example, let’s say that we buy a coffee on the way to work for $3.00. At lunch, we go to the nearest McDonald’s and get a meal, averaging $5.00. After work, we stop at the convenient store and buy our favorite soda for a pick me up for $2.00. If that’s all we spend in the day, which is extremely unlikely, then our total for the day is $10.00. Sure, that doesn’t seem like much. But how about $50.00 a week? $200 a month? What could you do with an extra $200 a month?
3. Conserve trips.
Yes, a few years ago going to work, home the store, and gym could all be done in separate trips. Gas prices were reasonable and we could fill up a tank for $20 or less. Nowadays, if you really want to save money, the smartest thing is to conserve trips. If you need to go to the gym, store, and pick up the kids after work, then be prepared for a long day. Take your gym clothes to the office, and have your list ready to go to the store. Saving the extra trips can save big bucks at the gas pump. An even better way, if it’s possible…car pool!
4. Know what you spend.
It seems obvious, but a big way to save money is to simply know how much you spend. If you have to, write down every time you spend money. After doing this for only a couple of days, you’ll start to see how much wasteful spending you do.
5. Don’t be afraid to say no.
Another obvious, but sometimes the hardest thing to do is to say no. So, the girls are going shopping this weekend, and you still need to pay the phone bill? Just say no! Everyone is going out for drinks after work and you have 3 birthdays this month? Just say no! If you have trouble saying no, find an excuse to help you. No thanks girls, I have to catch up on work this weekend, or I can’t go out for drinks tonight because I owe my husband a home cooked meal.
Whatever your case may be; whether it be too many nights out, too many electronics, or snacks all day; re-evaluating your situation can make a big difference. Paying attention to the small things can lead to big results and a lot more money in the bank.