There are no steadfast rules for saving money. Everyone’s financial situation is different; people earn different amounts, need to save different amounts and have varying expenses. Luckily, the following tips can apply to anyone.
Budget
Planning ways to cut your expenses and save money is important if you want to save but at the same time, it’s important not to over-restrict yourself otherwise you’ll burn yourself out. Be realistic in your budget, if you earn $500 a week, it’s probably unrealistic to say you will save $450 a week. Start with a budget that’s achievable and work your way up.
Track expenses
One way to stop spending on things you don’t need is to keep a list of all your expenses. There are so many things you spend money on because it’s cheap and you think it doesn’t matter, but it all adds up. If you record each time you buy a $3 coffee, or a spend $15 on lunch instead of packing your own, you’ll realise how it all adds up. You will be amazed at the money you spend on things you can go without.
Change the way you view money
So many people look at money as a barrier, despite how much they have. Regardless of how much money you earn, if you are ruled by money you will always find yourself in a position where you blame money for not being able to afford the things you want or resent that you have to use half your paycheck to pay your bills and living expenses. When you free yourself and stop looking to blame money for all the things you can or can’t afford, you are more likely to relax into saving and not feel the need to spend as much.
Be more materialistic
This may seem counterproductive, but if you view materialism in the true essence of the word, you are bound to save money. True materialism means placing value and appreciating the materials you do have; it means buying what you need and not spending frivolously on things you don’t.