What are some easy ways to save money everyday?

by Marisue Alsobrook

I'm going to be short, succinct, and dare I say brief, because most of the time, I'm not.

-----------------

For most of us, our wants exceed our needs. Newer high paying jobs are hard to come by and new hobbies or 2nd jobs often cost more than you get. Cutting back does not mean no fun. It means smart fun. And, folks, you don't need me to tell ya, we're in for some hard times -- we might as well start buying what we "have to have" and doing without the "wants." Come ON! We can do it!!

Save More by Spending Less. Just Stop it - wherever you can....you'll give yourself an instant raise.

13 Simple Tips: (add more of your own!)

1. Before every single item you buy, every meal you eat out, every penny you spend, think:

• "Do I really need this?"
• "Can I purchase it for less somewhere else?"
• "Can I postpone this?"
• "Can I do without?"

2. Next, keep money out of your pocket. Instead of larger amounts, carry $20.00, and your debit/credit card for emergencies. On your debit/credit card, tape a small note that says "Pause - Should I do this?"

3. Count your money every 2 days -- seeing what's in your "hideaway" makes you feel good, as you see it NOT dwindling away.

4. Stop yourself from window shopping.

5. Stay out of the malls.

6. Stop yourself from saying "I want." It's an addiction we all have.

7. Stay busy with exercise or service to others.

8. Take on a home do-it-yourself clean up project. ONLY if it is cost free.

9. Fill your evenings with games, talk, tv, music, radio. Less TV than any of the others, mute commercials.

10. Make a game, goal, contest of how much of your paycheck you can keep.

11. Read up on saving energy tips for the home. Basically, turn up the AC temp - 2 degrees makes a huge difference and turn on the fans; turn down the hot water temp; buy lower wattage bulb with the exception of the one you read by; turn off stereos and tv's when not in use - silence is ok, really;

12. Re-cycle; Re-use

13. Try to add another way to save every week; think about it often and use other people's brains and tips. Call Grandma.

Author's Note: Don't blame me if none of this works. (HA!) Now, "git er done!"