Budgeting for most people entails sitting down, and creating a spreadsheet showing all the incoming and outgoing funds on a weekly, monthly or yearly basis. For others it’s the envelope system, allotting cash for every category where money is needed. Whatever you choose to do, budgeting is really about saving money wherever you can, and who doesn’t love saving money?! Well, for some reason, most people don’t budget unless it’s “easy” to do. So, to all those who find that budgeting spreadsheets equal headaches, envelopes should only be used to mail things , or to those that just want to find more ways to save, here are some “easy” steps to take.
When it comes to food..
-Walk/ride a bike to the store; then you’ll only buy what you can carry home.
-Buy fresh food as compared to frozen; it’s better for you and it’s cheaper!
-Make a list before you go grocery shopping and stick to it!
-Do NOT go shopping when you are hungry. Hungry tummies equal empty pockets.
-Plan for lunches/dinners to avoid eating out (make menus for the week and shop accordingly)
When it comes to your house…
-Open windows and close curtains before you turn on the air conditioner
-Use blankets and wear layers before turning on the heat
-Turn off your lights, and any other electronic devices. If you’re not using it, don’t leave it on!
Random ways to save…
-Go to your local library to “rent” movies.
-Wait before buying the “high tech” items…fools buy first. 10 years ago a Plasma TV rolled in at over 10,000 dollars! Today’s price? About 1,500
-Got a lot of junk? Have a garage sale! Remember, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure
However you decide to budget your money, or however you choose to save, just make sure you do it. Being financially savvy never runs out of style, so keep your money in check, and spend what you can when you can afford it. Don’t forget to set aside some play money too though, because everyone needs a break now and again 
Although fresh food is better and cheaper for you, It might be a waste of your money if you don’t eat it before it goes bad! Make sure if you don’t plan eating it right away, it might be your best bet to buy frozen to ensure you wont waste any money!
I absolutely love your suggestions! I’m trying to be sure I have a menu anytime I go to the grocery store. My friend and I text each other anytime we find a really good deal. This buddy system has saved both of us money time and time again.
The whole turning off what you’re not using is really some of the best advice. Why do you need lights on in your house if nobody is home to use them? Turn them off!
I once heard that it is a good idea if you have a power stip to turn that off at night. Electronic devices still use power when they are turned off.
Renting movies from the Library is awesome! I don’t know about libraries in other counties but the Provo Library’s movies are free and at the Orem Library movies are a dollar AND they have all those old movies you used to watch when you were a kid which are fun to revisit occationally. I love the Library! You know it also has books:)
Great advice. I think we can all cut back in a couple of ways to save money. thanks for the advice!
I rented 2 movies yesterday and It cost my 10$ I was shocked! I guess I will head to the library from now on!
Just do it!
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