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Financial Spending Habits That Save You Lots of Money!

Updated on January 21, 2021
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Rebecca loves sharing what she knows about alternative medicine, health, frugal living, fun, animals, and how to live a better life!

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Financial independence

Saving money and being financially independent isn't always about stacking up mountains of cash in an account. or socking money away in the walls and mattress. Financial independence comes from being smart with money, spending wisely, making it work for you, not against you, being a smart consumer, and focusing not only on saving but on additional ways to grow your income to achieve comfort and stability. Here are more ideas on how to keep that happening in your life...

Don't buy new

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Habit number 1# buy used or borrow

We throw millions of dollars a year to the retail industry, and most things are bought on a whim, or even worse...later meet buyers' remorse, not to mention we crowd our homes with a lot of extra junk we really don't need.

Buy used-not only will you save money, but you'll have a lot more time to think about what you are purchasing, which gives you time to really determine wants vs. needs, all while saving you money!

Borrow-when possible, borrow or exchange items with family or friends. You'd be surprised at how much people really don't mind loaning or lending items as long as you take good care of them and return them. Again...saves you a ton of money!

And for heavens sakes quit buying junk you don't need or don't use!

Habit #2 declutter

eBay, Craigslist, Garage sales, Facebook Market Place, you have options!

De-clutter your home. This includes going through closets, attics, pantries, garages, basements, and everywhere in between. If you have items you have not used in the last 12 months sell them! Donate them if you can't sell them. But get them out of your space so you can free your mind and life.

Items can be listed and sold absolutely free on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace. You have no more excuses to hold on to items you don't use, and you don't have to throw a huge garage sale to make a few bucks. Make this a regular habit and the income will pile up!

You can also sell, buy, and trade for free on most social networking sites. And don't forget Ebay.

Ride your bike!

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Habit #3 change your mode of transportation

The USA is a country full of bicycle ownership, yet we barely ride them. Most trips and errands are made in 2 miles or less from home. Strap a basket on your bike and get moving! You'll save a ton in wear and tear on your car, get exercise, and keep pollution down. It's a win-win-win.

Also, don't forget scooters, and rollerblades!

Saving can be fun

Pay off debt or save for that dream vacation, $1 dollar at a time if needed!
Pay off debt or save for that dream vacation, $1 dollar at a time if needed!

Habit #4 Make saving a game

Having unrealistic savings goals can feel overwhelming and put them out of reach. Challenge a friend or family member and make saving a game.

Every week, for 52 weeks (1 yr) set a goal to save. Maybe the first week, you only save a dollar but add to it as the week's progress. By the end of a year, you'll have saved a pretty penny, which could come in handy for a special vacation, a home project, a great night out to a fancy dinner, pay off debt, or plan your dream vacation. Saving small amounts over time will feel less like a burden and more like an attainable goal.

Ask for help!

You won't get help if you don't ask!
You won't get help if you don't ask! | Source

Habit #5 Ask for help

I'm not talking about asking for handouts. I'm talking about asking fellow friends, community, and neighbors for help with minuscule tasks that cost everyone a lot of money. Most people are more than happy to help, it builds self-worth for all and creates community harmony. So, carpool, have a community laundry group (spend time with others while doing that mundane task of washing clothes and ironing), just rotate weeks at different locations. Throw a monthly potluck at your home and even invite an elderly neighbor that may be lonely and in need of some good company. Fix things that are broken instead of replacing, or trade with others. All you have to do is ask! And most people are happy to comply.

Habit #5 Do something different

The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. If you find yourself in a financial rut, it's time to do something different. Take on a part-time job, Make jewelry, crafts, or soap and sell it, write for Hubpages, Try www.fiverr.com, use talents you already have, and find ways to make money off them. If you're good with filing taxes, offer to do someone else's for a small fee, you get the idea.

This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and is not meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional.

© 2013 Rebecca

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