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Originally Posted by maryrose One easy way to keep a frugal lifestyle is to right down every purchase and keep tabs on the where the spending is going every month. Every gas fill up. Every Starbucks latte. Every order from a company. Right it all down. When you see where your money is going, you can make changes in your spending patterns.
I try to put a lot of frugal tips on my blog, but here are a few more:
* Stop magazine subscriptions and impulse buys at the checkout. Use your local library instead!
* Get your inspiration from the internet rather than trips to the store...it's a lot cheaper!
* Do not succumb to the temptation of the craft store coupon. When you enter the store, you will be lured into buying things you don't need!
* Ribbon shares and paper shares are a great way to get a sampling of a product without needing to have a huge quantity. |
I agree. Use the local library. They ALSO have DVDs available for borrowing!! Cheaper than the $1 rentals and Netflix!
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In regards to other non-craft-related things I've done to pare down expenses in my own life, I made a deliberate decision to have no kids, no pets, no plants. I have an old but reliable Toyota, and just bought an old, cheap house, keeping an eye on what was paid in property taxes the previous year. All of this significantly lowers the major bills in my life: home loan and insurance. The things I don't hesitate to spend money on are preventive maintenance (home, car, health, dental), because that will save money in the future. If I was the gardening type, I'd have a garden to save money on veggies too.
One other major factor in saving money is good health. If you are fortunate enough to have good health, guard it closely (exercise, quit smoking, etc.) because medical bills and prescriptions could wipe out tons of savings.
Another thing is to find business people you trust and stick with them. Good mechanics, good electricians, plumbers, general contractors, etc. will charge a fair price and not take advantage or upsell.
You can also read things online. I subscribe to Everyday Cheapskate.
