If you’re trying to get a grip on your spending habits, it’s not always a particularly fun or exciting task! Trying to save money often feels like you have to cut back on all the fun parts of life, like saying no to going out with friends, sacrificing those everyday treats, or not being allowed to splurge on something you really love.
However, saving money doesn’t always have to mean living frugally. In fact, if done well, you can cut back on your spending and still have a great social life. Here are some sneaky ways to save without cutting back on the joys of life.
Take a look at the fine print
One of the simplest ways to start saving money is by taking a closer look at the hidden charges and fees you might be paying out currently and getting a little smarter about them. Bank fees and charges are notoriously difficult to decipher, but over time, those small, regular payments can really start to add up. Take some time to look at the fine print and details on any accounts or memberships you might be paying for, and see if there are any unnecessary charges you can cut out.
Don’t forget to count up your savings afterward, as it can feel really great to save without having to do a thing!
Make a tiny change to your daily life
Saving or budgeting doesn’t have to mean cutting out all the fun things you enjoy doing. However, making a small change to your everyday routine could end up making a surprisingly large difference. For example, if you love starting your day off with a takeaway coffee, take a look at what options you have available at your local coffee house. You might want to swap out that expensive pastry and fancy coffee for a simpler option one day, or maybe even try making your own coffee to take in a flask once a week. Or, if you find yourself driving everywhere, take a look at other travel options to get around once or twice a week. Those small changes can ultimately turn into major savings.
Look out for deals
For those of us who are serious shopaholics, having to cut back on purchases can be excruciatingly tough. However, you don’t have to go cold turkey straight away. Look out for ways you save on spending by signing up for discounts. Using Ulta coupon is an excellent way of saving on some of your favorite items, with some brilliant money-off deals.
Take time to think over a purchase
If you’re an impulsive shopper who makes snap decisions in a store, train yourself to take a step back to think about the item before you buy it. A good way of doing this is by giving yourself a day before you make a final decision. If, after a day of waiting, you realize that you don’t really want or need that item, then you can let it go. Or if you’re still thinking about it, then you know it’s worth spending money on.
