Saving Money Like a Boss - Budgeting and Saving Tips

Budgeting and saving can be challenging at times, but here are some tips to get you started!
  1. Create a budget - you telling your money what to do. 
  2. Stick to the budget - really use it to limit extraneous spending.
  3. Watch out for wasteful spending. Do you need that? Put it back!
  4. Try to go a week without making extra purchases - During a typical week, I'm back and forth to work. I rarely spend any money during the week. 
  5. Bring your lunch and snacks to work - limit going out to eat and trips to the vending machine. 
  6. Buy Groceries - While you may be spending money on groceries, grocery shopping can amount to big savings. This typically means that you're cooking and eating at home which usually is less than money you would spend in restaurants. 
  7. Stay home some weekends - If you're anything like me, a day out usually means spending money. Picking up items here and there, going out to eat, throw in a movie and drinks and there goes your money!
  8. Find free activities - If staying home will not work for you and your family, research free activities and outings. Take snacks.
  9. Buy things when they're on sale - If there is something you need (or want) do some research to find the lowest price. The savings may surprise you.
  10. Use Coupons or Cashback to increase savings on purchases - I don't do much clipping of paper coupons, but many stores now have digital coupons. Combined with a sale price, the savings add up. When shopping online, especially for bigger ticket items, I always check Rakuten to see if there are any cash back offers. There are other similar sites as well. 
Small changes can lead to big savings. Spend less, save and invest more!