Dear Money Lady: I attended one of your seminars and was telling my daughter about how she should save more this year. I was wondering if you had any other tips for saving.
Dawn
Dear Dawn – Future Saver!
There are many ways that you can save every day. Thanks so much for asking and thank you for your support.
We really just need to be more conscious about how much we are spending day to day, so we can eliminate some of the little things that continually add up and limit our ability to save for the future. Here are some simple tips to help you get started.
Don’t pay a higher price for things just because the store is nicer inside. Beware the ambiance and shopping “mood” that stores work so hard to create. Don’t get enticed to pay more for items just because you are romanced by the surroundings and the staff.
When doing home improvements that require expensive tools, rent instead of buying.
Cut down on your phone services. Consider eliminating your landline at home if you use your cellphone all the time.
Cut down on your cable service. Beware all the upgrades and bundle services that soon add up to a hefty monthly charge.
Reuse your stuff. Find new uses for things that you want to replace. Paint it, change it, what could you use it for now?
Stop buying. Value your items. It was cherished when you first bought it, why did you lose interest?
Drive your cars longer. Repair your car when needed instead of trading it in just because of high mileage.
Buy generic brands when you can. Consider buying used for everything and keep your things longer. Resist the desire to upsize and upgrade.
Cut out the pet groomers and cut your pet’s hair and nails yourself. Buying the right grooming tools is a one-time investment into future savings. Stop the high costs on your pets – they don’t need it. Pets just want your attention and that’s free.
Use points programs that are offered by retailers. Collect points throughout the year and then use them to purchase gifts for Christmas and birthdays. The gifts are free, but the receiver doesn’t have to know.
Stop the take-out and restaurant meals. Take lunches to school and work. There is nothing better than a home-cooked meal. Restaurant meals make your waistline wider and your wallet thinner. Eating out should be restricted for special occasions only.
It feels good to get a deal! Have that feeling more often! Start looking for opportunities and become addicted to saving.
Good Luck and Best Wishes,
Money Lady
Written by Christine Ibbotson, Author of “How to Retire Debt Free and Wealthy”. Chris is a Canadian financial planner, chartered investment manager, insurance broker, commercial and residential mortgage broker, estate planner and taxation expert, with more than 25 years in Canadian banking. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram.
