How many times have you set your goal for the year to save money and fail to follow up? Well, here’s some simple and fast ways to save money. Although, you may have heard it before, if you truly want to save money, than stop spending it on things you know you do not need. When you find you self shopping for the latest gadget, think to yourself, is this a “need” or a “want”? And please do not convince yourself that it is a need. You know that you know you don’t really need it. Most people have bank accounts and if you don’t, open one and make a commitment to deposit, not withdraw a certain amount during you pay period. You should also considering investing, I know the market it not good right now, but there are other things you can invest in, such as saving bonds, gold, collectible items, rental property. Take some time to evaluate your expenses, is there something you can remove or minimize. For example, do you really have to spend $500 on grocery shopping in one week? Can you find alternative ways to save money, like coupons, waiting for sales and discounts, buying in bulk? Another way to save money on shopping is by asking your friends and family to purchase you a gift card for your birthday at your favorite stores, instead of them buying you a gift that you may not like or use. Consider keeping your change, yes keep your quarters, dine and pennies and change them at a local bank for cash! Another thing, do you really need to use all these credit cards, try paying for some things in cash and you will quickly see how you will not spend your money on certain things, because now you are using your own money! Keep you credit card use to the minimum, because remember you have to pay that back; which take out extra money from your pocket. For example, if you paying 5 credit cards $20 each, that is $100 out of your pocket into someone else’s pocket. Think about it, before you swipe. Reduce you bill expenses, such as electric, air condition, cable bill, movie rentals, etc. If you are not home, there really is no reason for you to leave the lights on all day. Do you spend most of your money dining out, movies, etc.; well then consider cooking a nice dinner, having a BBQ, watching a movie at home. Where there is a will, there is a way. You don’t have to allow your habits to break your bank. Money is a tool, so use it wisely and save your money. Set your saving goals low, so you won’t get discourage quickly, For instance, if you wanted to save a $100 a month, but can’t, start with $20 a month and increase it as you $ increase. Save your money and spend wisely.
