Today is World Savings Day. I didn’t know that was a thing until… well until today actually. I’ve written a post before about ways that you can save your money but I thought today I would focus on some slightly less traditional ways. I know that saving money can be difficult but it really helps in the long run. I’m also not saying that you should change your entire life but these are just some ideas if you’re looking to save a little bit of money:
Add Savings into Your Budget
You know when you create a budget at the beginning of the month? Well, if you don’t then start now! But also, add savings as a separate category. That way you know that you already have some money allocated to your savings account and it gives you a bit more freedom with the rest of your money.
Barter
People used to do this ages ago and in some places they still do. Trades good and services amongst friends. Find the things that everyone is good at and allow a fair trade for something. There are so many options: goods for goods, services for services, goods for services – find something that works for you.
Do Free Activities
There are a lot of hobbies and date ideas that don’t cost a lot of money and in fact there are also loads that are free. Plan one or two activities a month that cost money and try and make the rest free, or as low cost as possible.
Find Specials
Instead of just going to the first shop you see and buying whatever you needs, shop around and find the best option. This has been made a lot easier with online shopping because you can find the cheapest items from the comfort of your couch. Also look for shops when they have 3 for 2 deals or buy 1 get 1 free. That’s when you should stock up! Sometimes it takes longer but it can be so worth it.
Grow Your Own Food
I understand that not everyone has space for a vegetable garden, but almost everyone has space for a small herb garden. This is something that you can place on your windowsill and it keeps working for you. It might take some time to start helping you save money but it’ll save you more than you even realise.
Make Your Own Lunch
If your job provides you with free food, take it. It’s a small thing that can make a big difference seeing as that’s 5 meals a week you don’t have to pay for! If your job does not provide you with food then take your own. Make extra dinner the night before and take leftovers. This one saves so much money that you don’t even realise. You think it’s just a small amount until you add up how much you’ve spent in a month.
Savings Challenge
I know you’ve probably seen the envelopes on social media where people save a certain amount of money each day and that’s a great way to go. But it also doesn’t have to be that formal. You can decide to save R5 a day (or something in your local currency) and it’ll add up. I know looking at that over a month it looks like you’ve saved practically nothing, but every bit makes a difference, no matter how small.
Separate Your Savings Goals
Have different accounts for every different goal you’re saving for. This allows you to actually see how far away you are from a specific goal which is super motivating. It also means that you’ll have to prioritise your savings and first put your money where you need it the most.
Share Food
Joey Tribbiani would hate this one but it’s not what it sounds like. You and your friends can get together and all bring something small and have a lunch get-together. When everyone brings something there always seems to be way too much food leftover and you get a decent meal, even though you just took a small dish. It saves money and you can spend time with your friends.
Stop Shopping
I do realise this one sounds a bit ridiculous, but what I mean is instead of buying 5 slabs of chocolate maybe just buy 4 and put the money from the other 1 in a jar. I’m not saying stop buying food, but I am saying maybe forgo a treat or two.
Sometimes saving money seems like a chore, but honestly if you’re able to then it makes life so much easier.