Money Saving Tips (A generic title, I know)
There is a post up on The Consumerist on 12 Ways to Save Money Without Scrimping.
There are a few that I think are especially good, and are more of tweak to the way you think rather than a way to save money. The first tip is an important fix for people who like to spend time shopping. If you’re idea of a fun time is to spend money then saving money is going to be a major problem.
The second tip is a way of thinking that has helped me and my wife to spend less money. Every time I think about spending money, I think about having a larger bank account balance or a lower credit card balance. It doesn’t work all of the time, but it works enough to help.
Use the things you own
One tip I would like to add is to use the things you own. When I think about buying new stuff I look around and think about the things I have that I haven’t used lately. When I think about buying a new book I look at the ones I have. Books can take a long time to read, and I admit that sometimes I lose interest in a book before I finish reading it.
Before buying a new movie decide if you can watch one at home instead. If there is a new video game out decide if you would rather play one you have already.
Sell the stuff you don’t use
Because I don’t like the number 13, I thought I would add one more tip to bring the total to 14. If there are things in your home that you don’t get regular use out of, sell it on Craigslist or eBay. I have been putting stuff up on Craigslist and it’s nice to not only free up space but to also get some cash on the side.
I encourage everyone reading this to think about one way they can save money this week. Is there something you could put up on Craigslist to make a quick $40? Could you spend some time at home watching a movie on your shelf instead of going to the movie theater? Could you cook dinner and use your home kitchen instead of going out to eat? Hopefully everyone can find something this week.
If you have any ideas or stories, please post them in the comments!
