Frugal Ways to Live and Love Your Lifestyle Without Sacrificing a Thing
Frugal does not mean cheap nor does it mean that a frugal person has to detract from their livelihood. On the contrary, saving money is smart, but it does not happen automatically. Saving money may require a few tweaks and changes regarding one’s lifestyle. Here are some ways to be frugal without taking away from happiness or sacrificing too much.
Program the Thermostat
Don’t readily accept the price of your energy bills. Most people are absentminded about modifying the temperature of their home, especially when they are not there. Rather than keep present temperatures, try to save by adjusting the thermostat a few degrees in addition to investing in a smart thermostat. The savings will justify and compensate for the upfront cost.
Stop Paying for the Gym
It’s positive to stay in shape, but you don’t need the gym to stay healthy. Rather than lift weights do pushups, pullups, and situps, at home. Rather than use the gym’s cardio equipment, go for a jog or a long walk in your neighborhood. Consider the appearance of Greek statues; there were no gyms centuries ago, yet people were able to stay in shape. Sure, the gym is a way to get in shape but it’s not necessary, and canceling your membership will save you money each month.
Plan Meals
Does this sound familiar? You arrive home and feel hungry. You open the refrigerator, and nothing in there seems appealing, so you open the drawer filled with menus and get food delivered. If this happens a few times per week, you’re paying much more than needed for food. Plan your meals ahead of time. For example, write down your meals for the week on Sunday. Later that day, go to the grocery store, prepare a large portion of food, and dishes in the fridge.
Wash Your Car
You don’t have to take your vehicle to a car wash or a detail shop to keep it looking great. Invest in equipment and clean the interior and exterior of your vehicle at home. The small details count; for example, get Shear Comfort covers to protect your seats and keep the interior looking fresh and new.
Use Craigslist
One man’s trash is another’s treasure. Don’t feel awkward about buying used furniture, equipment, etc. A lot of people make purchases, seldom use the items, and then figure they can make back some of the money spent. Focus on the quality of an article rather than worry about it being ‘used.’ For example, a new sofa can cost thousands of dollars, but a used one may be a fraction of that cost. Maybe you’ll have to put a cover over it to hide stains or signs of wear, but it will still serve its initial purpose. Stop buying needed items new and start thinking about utilizing a site like Craigslist.
Stay Local
Vacations to remote destinations are fun and attending concerts, sporting events, and festivals are viable options for entertainment, yet these forms of entertainment cost a substantial amount of money. Rather than travel far or pay money to entertain yourself, keep it local and check out some parks, trails, and points of interest in your immediate city or state. Check out your town or state’s tourism website and find an array of suggestions.
Trade Clothes
Personalities are widely varied, but it’s likely that you have a few friends or family members that are your size. Rather than buy new clothes each season, trade clothes with others. That way, you can keep your wardrobe looking varied while saving money. Alternatively, head to a consignment shop or Goodwill store to get your hands on vintage clothing. How many times have you noticed that other people are wearing the same styles found at popular stores at the mall or outlets? When you shop at Goodwill or a consignment shop, you’ll find unique items that no one else is wearing.
[info_box type=”pale_box”]Archie Gibbs is a guy in his thirties who is loving life. He may not have enough money, but he enjoys finding ways to make things happen! He has recently started sharing his ideas and tips through his articles.[/info_box]
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