Does it feel like your money just isn’t stretching as far as it should. Maybe you’re living paycheck to paycheck and you just can’t figure out where all the money is going each week.
The dollar outperformed gold, making it worth more than many of the other world currencies, the beginning of this year. That means your money is worth more, so why not make it do more for you?
Here are a few great tips on how to help stretch your money a little bit farther so that you can make it last longer and do more for you.
Start With A Budget And Stick To It
Probably one of the best ways to manage your money is to budget. With a budget you determine what is coming in and what is going out. Start out with the bills you must pay every month. Then determine the amount you need to spend on food and toiletries.
Your last thing on the budget should be your entertainment stuff, and is the area where you’ll probably make most of your deductions. Although you can work to bring down the cost of monthly bills too, by using less electricity and dropping costly TV plans.
Use Lists When Shopping And Always Have A Plan
Never go shopping without a list for the items you need, and only purchase the items on your list. This way you are sure you get what you need and you can avoid overspending on impulse buys or junk food.
It also helps to have a plan of attack, such as you are school clothing shopping or summer wardrobe shopping. As well, plan meals out prior to a trip to the grocery so you get what you need and less food goes to waste in your home.
Save, Save, Save
Just because you have a little extra money left over after the bills are paid and the food is bought, don’t run out and spend it. Put it away for a rainy day. You never know when you may need even just an extra five bucks.
You can also work to save on things like groceries by watching for sales and clipping coupons. Take some time to look into the best days or months to shop for big ticket items to help you save more as well.
There is always a way to spend less, you just need to set your mind to it. Stick with your budget and give yourself a savings goal that will help you make your money last longer.
Also, don’t just buy something because it is on sale or on clearance. If the item is not on your shopping list then you probably don’t even need it.
