If you had abusive parents, they likely controlled many aspects of your life. They might not have allowed you to get a job or make your own money, let alone teach you how to manage or save money. This is their way to make you dependent on them.
Hopeful Panda isn’t a financial blog by any means. But it is a blog focused on helping abuse survivors heal and thrive. Part of thriving includes being financially stable and independent.
We’ve all heard the phrase, “Money doesn’t buy happiness”. While that may be true to an extent, financial security and stability are needed first to be able to achieve any kind of happiness. So while money doesn’t guarantee happiness, no money does kind of guarantee misery.
In the world we live in, money plays a huge role in having a better life, even if we don’t want it to. Everything involves money. It can be difficult to heal from your past abuse or take care of yourself when you’re struggling to afford necessities or pay the bills.
Knowing how to save money can also help you better escape your abusive parents if you’re still living with them or are dependent on them.
Although I can’t provide any secrets or easy ways to make money, I hope the little ways to save money provided in this post can still help. Please note that the information provided in this post is not to be taken as professional financial advice.
General Little Ways to Save Money
Live within your means
Let’s start with the biggest rule of all: Avoid spending money you do not have.
This is pretty self-explanatory, but so many people seem to struggle with it. Some people have the idea that if they pass away with any amount of debt, then they’ve come out ahead.
But is always owing money to somebody really how you want to live? Besides, when you’re repaying debt, you’re paying interest – money you didn’t have to pay in the first place.
It’ll feel much better having savings and funds put aside for different purposes, not just for peace of mind but for feeling accomplished and secure.
Make a plan and create a budget
How much money do you want to save? And what can you do to make it happen?
Think about your current money situation. Then, think about what your goals are. Create a budget along with an investment or savings plan based on your current financial situation to better reach those goals.
Many professionals recommend the 50/30/20 budget for your income: 50% for needs, 30% for wants, and 20% for savings/debt repayment.
But if you have specific financial goals, like needing to save a specific amount of money by a specific time, the rule might not work for you. If so, adjust how you distribute your costs based on your goals.
Setting up a budget puts you in control of your money and gives you a better idea of how and where your money should go. And once you have your budget, stick to it! That’s the whole reason you made one.
Save with a purpose
Rather than just saving to save, when you save with a purpose, like for college, retirement, or a home, you start approaching everything like a saver. That purpose becomes your motivation to be more mindful about your spending.
Save automatically: Set up your account to automatically transfer a certain amount or percentage of your income or deposits to an investment or savings account so you don’t manually have to.
Build an emergency fund: Try to set aside at least 6 months’ worth of your income for unforeseen expenses that your budget doesn’t cover. It covers you in the event of an unexpected financial blow and can help prevent you from going into debt.
Start saving for your retirement as early as possible: The earlier you start to save for retirement, the better and easier it’ll be as you get older. This doesn’t mean you never get to enjoy life. My mentality is to save for the future but also enjoy life in the moment. Spend when it matters.
Save for college if it’s down the road: Look into starting a college fund that can help you or your child cover tuition. Even if it’s only a possibility, you should still start saving for it. It is much better to pay for college with money you have rather than take out loans and be in debt.
Take full advantage of retirement plans: If your employer offers retirement plans with matching like the 401(k), take full advantage of it. Also, look into other retirement plans that don’t require an employer like Roth IRAs.
Save unexpected bonuses or windfalls: When you come across a big amount of money all of a sudden, you may be tempted to spend it without thinking. If it’s not needed at the moment, put it aside to think carefully about what to do with it, whether it’s spending it wisely, saving it, and/or investing it.
Consider investment accounts: When saving money, consider putting your savings into an investment account, preferably index funds held for long periods (10+ years). It gives your money the potential to grow faster than it could in a savings account.
Compound means that not only do you get a higher rate of return on investments, but your earnings from the investment will also earn money over time.
It’s ideal to start saving as early as possible so that compound interest and regular yearly or monthly investments can give your funds the chance to grow over time so you need to put less aside in the long run.
Track your spending, especially splurges
Try to keep track of where all your money is going. If you have trouble, use an app to help. You’d be surprised how much you are spending once you start tracking every cent.
It’s especially important to track your splurges because those tend to be more impulsive. It’s okay to treat yourself sometimes but keep track of how often and how much you’re splurging.
Tracking my expenses religiously has allowed me to be aware of exactly how much I’m spending on various things in a certain time frame. It makes me reevaluate if it’s necessary or what to cut back on. It also helps me instantly notice when expenses or costs have gone up so I can quickly address them.
Determine which payment methods are better for you financially
Whether it’s cash or card, you likely have your preference. But this isn’t so much about preference as it is about choosing the method that keeps you the most financially responsible.
Personally, I use both, though I prefer credit cards mostly for the safety aspect but also to earn rewards and build credit. I usually only use cash if it comes with a discount or to avoid processing fees.
Credit cards are great at earning rewards, cashback, or sign-up bonuses. And as long as you make sure to pay it off in full each month, then it’s an amazing perk. However, if you typically rack up credit card debt, then it’s probably better to stick with cash.
If using an ATM to get cash, make sure it’s your bank’s or credit union’s to avoid processing fees.
The good thing about cash is that if you limit the amount in your wallet, you can physically see how much you’re using and not using. For some people, having physical cash leave their hands is also more impactful than a credit card tap or swipe.
Putting a certain amount of cash in your wallet each time you go out is like setting a budget for yourself.
You can prefer either or both. But try to objectively gauge whether you are responsible enough for a credit card if that’s what you want. Take advantage of all its perks; don’t let it take advantage of you.
Think before buying
Before you purchase something, think about it. Will it enhance your life? Does it make your life easier, healthier, or better? Or will it just take up space, be forgotten, and waste your hard-earned money?
Try to do this before every elective purchase to develop a more mindful spending habit. Remind yourself to buy what you need rather than what you want.
A lot of the time, people have trouble with finances because they spend what they don’t have on things they don’t need.
If you can easily afford it, then you have the right to treat yourself. But if money’s tight, please think carefully before spending. There are cheaper or even free ways to treat yourself.
Try not to let the excuse of “treating yourself” run your wallet dry. If “treating yourself” hurts you financially, then that’s not self-care, it’s self-indulgence and potentially a bad habit.
Extra money-saving tips to remember when shopping
Use the 24-hour rule: While shopping, you might feel tempted to make a purchase. Instead of purchasing it right away, give it 24 hours to see if you still want it. We usually make better decisions when we sit on it for a bit.
Keep track of costs: When you’re physically in a store, have a calculator handy and track the costs of all the things you’re adding to your cart.
Think twice about sales: While some sales seem like good deals, some are a tactic, selling at retail price. Something that costs $40 sounds more appealing if you’re told it used to be $70. But is it even worth $40 to begin with?
Seek out the best deal: Examine all your options before paying for something at full price. You might find the same or a similar product at another location for less. You can use Google Lens if in-store or Reverse Image Search if online to compare prices for the same product.
Use money-saving apps or programs: Whether on your phone or computer, some apps or programs (like Ibotta or Honey) will help you save money, earn cash back, or earn other rewards.
Calculate your spending by hours: Before you spend on something, think about how much time you spent making that money. For example, if you make $20/hr, think of how a $100 item is worth over 5 hours of work (taking into account taxes). Then decide whether it’s worth it.
Use a credit card that gives cashback or rewards: If you are responsible enough for a credit card and tend to spend a lot in a certain category, apply for a credit card that’ll reward you the most.
Ask for discounts: Many places offer senior, military, student, or group discounts. Some may not be written, so feel free to always ask.
Don’t buy just because it’s cheap: You might be tempted to buy something just because it’s on sale or because it’s cheap. However, cheap in price could also mean cheap in quality. If you’re buying it just to buy it, you might as well save that money for something better.
Join their free loyalty program: Many stores have a loyalty or rewards program that’s free to join. Take advantage of their benefits, perks, and discounts that you’d otherwise miss out on.
Check your receipt before leaving: After checking out, review your receipt to make sure everything was rung up accurately. It’s easier to address the error while you’re still in the store.
Don’t be afraid to return or exchange: If a food is spoiled, something doesn’t fit, something doesn’t work, or you’re simply not happy with your purchase, don’t be afraid to return it for a refund or exchange it for store credit or another item. As long as you don’t abuse this, most stores are willing to do that for you.
Plan ahead for big purchases
Plan major purchases around sale periods: If you’re about to make a major purchase, like a game system, annual passes, vacation, or appliance, try to do it around sale periods.
Buy used: Used things are almost always cheaper than brand-new (of course, there are exceptions). And a lot of the time, they’re not that different. Our car, most of our furniture (not fabric), and 99% of my clothes were bought used, which probably saved us thousands.
Compare multiple quotes: If you have recurring or a big expense coming up like moving, renovation, insurance, or purchasing a car, it’s always ideal to shop around for the best quotes and prices.
Learn skills you’d otherwise pay for: Simple car repair and maintenance, plumbing, and some handy or lawn work can be easy to learn. Think about what skills you’re paying someone for and whether it’s worth it to learn to do it yourself.
Take advantage of resources
Take a free financial literacy course: This can teach you all the ins and outs of how to manage your finances. Khan Academy currently offers a free Financial Literacy course covering topics such as budgeting, spending, borrowing, and more.
Use a free program to file taxes: To get an actual free program (because I’ve fallen for so-called “free” programs that make you upgrade or pay after you’ve done all the work), go to the IRS website and use one of their recommended free tax software. Make sure you’re eligible or qualified to use it before starting.
Get free debt counseling: Debt counselors offer specific advice on how to manage your money to more efficiently pay down debts over time. They can help you negotiate lowered interest rates, reduced monthly payments, and more with your creditors, which could save you money.
Participate in a local IDA program: The Individual Development Accounts Program helps refugees and other eligible individuals save toward an asset, like a car, home, business, or school.
Join a money-saving forum online: A lot of money-saving tips in this post are from various little corners of the internet where folks gather to share money-saving tips and ask for advice. If you have any questions or issues financially, there are plenty of online communities you can browse or reach out to for suggestions.
Apply for government assistance: If you are really struggling, there’s nothing wrong with getting some assistance from the government whether it’s for food, healthcare, or other essential costs (as long as you’re eligible).
Visit a food bank: If you’re struggling, please don’t hesitate to go to a nearby food bank or pantry. There is no shame in getting free food. It’s there for you. Besides, they sometimes even have excess that ends up going to waste.
Maintain a good credit score
A good credit score gives lenders a sense of how likely you are to pay back what you owe. So a good score can help you get lower interest rates and help you save thousands of dollars on auto loans, student loans, or a mortgage.
Here are some simple tips on how to maintain a good credit score:
- Always pay your bills on time
- Keep your credit card balances low (within 30% of your credit limit)
- Keep old credit cards open to maintain a longer history
- Manage your debt
- Avoid applying for new credit too often
Don’t skimp on your health
Being healthy can get expensive depending on your needs, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. And really, staying healthy now is ultimately, significantly cheaper than paying for health issues down the road.
Eating healthier, going to the doctor, taking your needed meds, and such are not worth skimping on. Think about how minuscule these costs are compared to a giant medical bill you could get if you suddenly end up in the hospital.
Do self-care yourself
Self-care is essential for your healing and well-being. Just because you don’t pay for the services needed for self-care doesn’t mean you have to neglect it. You can practice self-care for free or at a low cost right at home.
Also, we deserve to treat ourselves from time to time. But rather than paying for these treats regularly, do them in moderation so they feel even more like a treat.
Relax for free: There are plenty of free ways to relax like meditating, reading, taking a bubble bath, strolling in the woods, or having a spa day at home.
Paint your own nails: Rather than regularly hire someone to do your nails for you, consider limiting the number of visits or at least do touch-ups yourself.
Cut your own hair: Ever since the pandemic, we’ve all been cutting our own hair. And honestly, my husband prefers how I cut his hair better than most professionals.
Get creative with exercise: Consider canceling your gym membership and taking those workouts home or to a free location like a nearby park or trail. You can also often find cheap or free used exercise equipment on Facebook or Craigslist.
Other little ways to save money
Declutter and organize: If your home is disorderly, you might end up buying duplicates of things you already had. Decluttering and keeping your home organized can help you maximize the use out of everything you own. It’s also better for you mentally and emotionally.
Sell things you want to get rid of: While this is more so making money than saving it, getting rid of things you no longer need and potentially making some extra income from it helps your wallet and your home.
Find cheaper gas: When you know you’ll need gas soon, check gas price sites/apps and/or cashback apps like Upside to locate the cheapest gas near you. Certain credit cards also give cashback or points on gas.
Get hand-me-downs: If you know someone who’s planning to get rid of some things you may have a use for, offer to take it off their hands or even offer a small price for it. Buy Nothing groups on Facebook usually have a lot of random freebies.
Throw parties at home: Entertaining at an outside establishment or venue can get real costly. You can host an event at home just the same, whether it’s a BBQ or dinner party. My wedding celebration took place at my husband’s grandmother’s house. With the help of everyone to DIY everything and us only paying for catering, we actually made money from it because of the gifts!
Go thrifting: Thrift stores can be full of hidden gems and superb deals. It just requires some browsing and patience. But be aware that just because something’s at a thrift store doesn’t mean it’s a good deal. Try to opt for local stores that tend to have lower prices and keep a lookout for discounts or sale days.
Consider your transportation options: Commutes can get expensive, especially if using a ride-share service. Consider walking, biking, public transportation, or carpooling if possible to save on fares, fees, and possibly parking. You can also likely find a cheap or free bike online.
Avoid storage units: If you’re renting a unit just to store things you won’t be using anytime soon or just because you have too much stuff, it might be time to declutter.
Plan gift-giving in advance: This allows you to buy things on sale or have time to research a gift that’s most affordable and fitting.
Give homemade gifts: Gift-giving can get expensive for some, and not participating might not be an option. If so, there are many wonderful gifts you can cheaply make like a handmade card, a gift basket you put together, or something yummy you cooked or baked. It’s more thoughtful, too. My most treasured gifts are handmade.
Little Ways to Save Money on Food & Groceries
Eat at home
Keep eating out to a minimum: Cooking at home from scratch is almost always cheaper than eating out. It’s also healthier and better for you.
Make your own coffee: Instead of buying coffee outside every day, consider investing in a coffee maker.
Stop drinking bottled water: Get a filter and a reusable bottle (or thermos for hot/cold drinks) or a bottle with a filter attached. It’s better for your wallet, health, and the environment.
Bring your own lunch: Packing your own lunch doesn’t have to take much effort. Prep in bulk and freeze or refrigerate out portions. Or simply make a sandwich in the morning or night before.
Focus on whole foods when cooking
Cook from scratch: Cooking from scratch means using whole ingredients. Not only is it cheaper than eating out, but also often cheaper than buying processed or premade items or meals.
Incorporate more inexpensive ingredients into your menu: Bread, rice, pasta, potatoes, chicken, and beans are inexpensive and filling. I need a low-carb diet so my diet mainly consists of whole grains, chicken, eggs, cabbage, and various other inexpensive vegetables.
Eat less red meat: Red meat is generally considered unhealthy, but it’s fine in moderation. They are usually expensive though, so it might be best to limit them.
Avoid processed meats: Deli meat isn’t cheap and isn’t good for you. Consider frying an egg, shredding a chicken, or slicing your own beef to make a sandwich.
Avoid prepackaged, precooked, or pre-prepped food: Prepackaged (e.g. frozen dinners, salads), pre-cooked, or pre-prepped (e.g. chopped fruits, marinated meats) foods are almost always going to be more expensive than making or prepping it yourself.
Keep dinner simple: Dinner doesn’t have to be a four-course feast. It can simply be one dish and a side. Even a sandwich, breakfast, or small meal can be considered dinner.
Plant your own produce: This can be time-consuming depending on what you want. However, everything you need to start is cheap. You can purchase seeds or seedlings, buy an already thriving plant, or plant ends or seeds of store-bought produce you have.
Ways to save with grocery shopping
Make and stick to your grocery list: Going into a grocery store with no plan on what to get is a bad idea for your wallet and meal planning. So before you go, make a list of everything you need and try to stick to it. Or if available, opt for free curbside pickup to better avoid temptations.
Don’t shop when hungry: When you’re hungry and you go grocery shopping, everything looks good so you end up spending more than you normally would. Research also suggests that shopping hungry also means you are more likely to purchase high-calorie items.
Plan your menu around sales and coupons: Most stores have weekly ads available online where you can check for upcoming sales and coupons. It’s also a great way to try new foods and experiment cooking with different ingredients.
Clip coupons: Clipping coupons have gotten much easier now that you can do it digitally. You can also try to stack store coupons with manufacturer’s coupons and offers on rebate apps like Ibotta to maximize your savings.
Buy value packs or in bulk: Value and bulk packs are almost always cheaper per unit, but check the unit per price to be sure. If it’s too much, depending on the item, portion it out and freeze it or freeze it after cooking. But only buy it if you’re confident you can consume it all, because if not, you’re just wasting money and food.
Shop at more than one store: Try to notice prices on items you frequently purchase and see which store has it cheapest or what sales are going on. If it doesn’t waste too much time or isn’t too inconvenient, grocery-hop to get the best bang for your buck. Do it all at once if convenient or make different trips for different purposes.
Bring your own bags: Some grocery stores charge for their bags. It’s also better for the environment.
Compare prices to multiple brands: Generic or store-brand is usually the cheapest, and a lot of it comes from the same manufacturers. The best way to tell is to check the ingredients. But also be aware that some brands while on sale could be cheaper.
Shop in season: Fruits and vegetables in season are often cheaper and overall better tasting.
Join a wholesale club: Wholesale clubs like Costco can easily pay for the membership in the savings you get from groceries, essentials, and many other various things like gas, insurance, furniture, or travel.
Avoid food waste
Eat leftovers: Some people refuse to eat leftovers and that boggles my mind. I love leftovers because I’m too lazy to cook sometimes. Cooked foods can last up to 3 days in the fridge (or more really) and months in the freezer. If anything, trust your nose.
Get creative with food near its best-by date: Cook up or freeze food near or even past its best-by date if possible.
Freeze or preserve and store extra food: Portion it out and freeze it, raw or cooked. You can also preserve fruits and vegetables.
Invest in a chest freezer: It takes minimal electricity but can store tons of food you either got on sale or at a cheap bulk price. It’s been a game-changer for me. Having a place to store the excess stuff we get on sale saves us a lot on groceries.
Reduce spending when eating out
Drink water: Beverages at food establishments are extremely marked up, especially alcohol.
Don’t use third-party apps when ordering out: Order takeout directly from the restaurant and pick it up yourself if possible. Menu items might be less expensive, you get to avoid extra fees, and you’re better supporting the restaurant.
Use cashback or reward apps: Many restaurants participate in various cashback or reward apps and programs like Upside.
Don’t dine in: If you just don’t feel like cooking or just feeling a treat, order takeout instead of dining in to avoid paying service fees or tipping. Or stick with fast-casual places that don’t provide that kind of service.
Look into discounted gift cards: If you frequent a particular restaurant or know you’re about to go to one, look into discounted gift cards that might be on sale for that place. But compare to see if it’s worth it rather than getting the credit card points and/or cashback app rewards for the meal.
Little Ways to Save Money on Essentials
Stock up: If it’s an item you’ll need to buy at a later date anyway like toilet paper or aluminum foil, then buy it in bulk or stock it up when it’s on sale.
Comparison shop for meds and supplements: Check out different stores and brands. Also, check if your store participates in a discount program for prescription meds. I also recommend checking out CostPlusDrugs for medication with fair, affordable prices.
Buy generic or store-brand for OTC meds: Look at the ingredients to make sure they’re the same.
Use the minimum amount needed: Whether it’s laundry detergent, shampoo, or dish soap, you can usually just use the smallest amount they recommend or suggest.
Clean with ingredients you already have: You can easily use ingredients like baking soda, lemon juice, or white vinegar to clean. It’s cheaper, healthier, and more natural.
Cut out the paper: For instance, instead of using paper towels, use a washcloth or towel for hand drying, dish drying, or cleaning. Or like me, you can also use old clothes cut into rags for cleaning and wiping.
Get it at the dollar store: The dollar store has everything from essentials like soap, shampoo, and lotion to seasonal items like decorations, cards, and party goods. However, do note the quality and unit per price to make sure it is worth it.
Little Ways to Save Money on Home & Car
Do it yourself
Maintainance keeps a bigger repair, which will cost significantly more, from needing to be done. So although maintaining your home and car will cause you to shell out costs more often, it will cost less in the long run.
Maintain your home: Change out filters, fix leaky pipes, change out rusted parts, take care of the appliances, and water and mow the lawn if you have one. This protects your home’s value.
Maintain your car: Regularly change the oil, rotate the tires, maintain tire pressures, and perform regular inspections. This allows your car to keep running for years to come.
Fix it yourself: If there are things in your home or car that need fixing, if possible, learn to repair them yourself. YouTube has many videos you can follow.
Wash your car: Why pay for a car wash when you can do it yourself?
DIY Before spending money on certain things, as long as the initial cost is low and the process isn’t too difficult or time-consuming, see if you can just make it yourself.
Upcycle: Instead of completely replacing the old with the new, get creative and transform it, whether it’s a simple paint job or using old parts to build something new. My father has broken down many old furniture (or found on the curb) to build new ones.
Reuse: Whether it’s food containers, boxes, bags, or whatever packaging an item has come in or that you got for free at a fair, there are creative ways to use them around your home rather than buy something for the same purpose.
Reduce utility costs with some tweaks
Little ways to reduce energy usage and costs:
- Shutdown or unplug electronics you’re not using
- Use a power strip to turn off all devices at once
- Turn off lights when they’re not being used
- Switch to LED light bulbs
- Install a ceiling fan to cool off rooms
- Switch the ceiling fan direction depending on the temperature
- Remember to change AC air filters regularly
- Purchase energy-efficient appliances
- Open or close the blinds to keep the sun out or let it in depending on the season
- Install a programmable or smart thermostat
- Insulate your home
- Seal air leaks around your home
- Use natural light
- Turn off or lower the air conditioner or heat when not at home
- Hang dry your laundry
- Use a microwave or toaster oven instead of a conventional oven
- Set your AC to an economy setting if possible
- Turn off the AC or heat in rooms you rarely use
- Keep your freezer full
- Switch to solar
Little ways to conserve water and reduce water usage and costs:
- Take shorter showers
- Turn off the water when brushing, shaving, or washing dishes
- Use a dishwasher instead of hand-washing dishes
- Only run the washing machine or dishwasher when you have a full load
- Check and fix leaky faucets and pipes
- Use cold water for laundry
- Install water-saving showerheads or flow restrictors
- Install a dual flush or low flow toilet or put a conversion kit on your existing toilet
- Don’t overwater lawn during peak periods
- Make sure sprinklers are efficiently watering the lawn and not sidewalk or gutters
- Install a rain barrel for outdoor watering
Ways to save on insurance
Shop for new quotes every year: Loyalty is pointless with insurance companies. Rates can and will still go up regardless of how long you’ve been a customer. So it’s helpful to always shop for new quotes every year.
Compare rates: It’s not just important to shop for new quotes but to shop around and compare them. Go for options that would be the most beneficial to you, not just in terms of costs but in what it covers and the quality of their services.
Bundle your insurance: Some companies offer a discount when you buy two or more policies from them.
Take advantage of discounts: Whether it’s having solar panels, a fire extinguisher, wind mitigation windows, or a new roof, check with your insurance company to see whether certain features in your home can get you a discount or if it’s worth adding them for a discount.
Keep a record of everything you own: If you have home or renter’s insurance, take precautions and keep a record of everything you own in case of a loss, whether using a video, pictures, and/or digitized receipts. It makes filing a claim easier.
Ways to save on a mortgage
Refinance your mortgage: You can trade in your old mortgage for a new one and possibly a new balance. It could lower the interest rate on your existing loan.
Rent out a room or more: To lessen the burden of a mortgage, you can rent out a room or even the whole home through something like Airbnb.
Little Ways to Save Money on Entertainment
Utilize the library: The library offers books and many other things like magazines, comics, games, movies, and TV shows you can check out for free. They also tend to host many free events and provide many resources for more than just entertainment.
Play or get free and discounted games: Sites like Free Epic Games offer one or more free games every week. Humble Bundle also often has great sales. There are also many free mobile and online games you can play.
Check out game subscriptions: For a monthly price, you can play a bunch of different games for free. You may also get a discount when you want to purchase a game.
Try out free trials: Look into what movies or TV shows you want to watch. Then, try out free trials of the streaming services that have them. It’s also a great way to test if that service is worth paying for.
Watch YouTube: YouTube itself is free and contains many movies, TV episodes, or creator-made content that can be a great source of entertainment.
Look for free events and activities: Many attractions like aquariums, gardens, zoos, and museums offer certain days or hours when you can visit for free or at a discounted price. Some are also pay-what-you-want or free for people with certain statuses like resident, military, student, or senior.
Get an annual membership: Whether it’s membership to a particular place or a collection of places (like this garden pass I got that gives me free access to hundreds of gardens across the U.S.), it might be worth it to get a membership that pays for itself just after a few visits.
Stick to a select few subscriptions: You’re probably not using all or even most of your subscriptions. If you do, try to rank them and keep the top 3 you use or like the most. You can always cancel one before starting another.
Wait for sales: Games often go on sale, especially on Steam when there are expected sale periods.
Share streaming services: Share accounts with family and friends if possible. Make an arrangement where each person pays for a specific service but everyone has access to all of them. Or reach out and see if anyone has an unused profile or account you can use.
Avoid getting the newest tech: Whether it’s a phone or game system, you don’t have to get the newest thing that comes out. Wait a bit. The hype will die down and so will the price.
Switch plans: Oftentimes, cell phone carriers have some kind of special deal or sale that likely costs less than your current phone plan. This can also apply to internet companies.
Conclusion
Being able to save money is a habit everyone should develop. Unless you’re a multi-millionaire with loads of income flowing in, you should be more mindful of your spending.
You don’t have to follow every tip in this post – that’s a little excessive. But adopt a few that work for you to start developing a frugal mindset. And there is a difference between being frugal and being cheap.
Also, again, it’s totally okay to treat yourself sometimes! You deserve it. Just make sure that self-care doesn’t end up becoming self-indulgence. Find that balance.
Basically, be able to save money while also enjoying yourself. But also remember that enjoying yourself doesn’t have to cost money or be expensive.
I hope you can implement some of these little ways to save money in your current life as you continue on your healing journey. You deserve to be physically, emotionally, and financially stable.
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