I went in with a plan and I can honestly say that I haven’t went through a drive thru one single time this month. And my cravings are gone.
But the thing is, since I’ve been concentrating on this one goal I’ve seen amazing results in the rest of my finances. That’s because saving begets savings.
When you improve one area of your life the effects spread to all other areas.
Here’s what I’ve been working on this month to save money and live on less. (You know, besides not eating out.)
Saving on Food
Since I’m not eating out and I’m not a huge fan of cooking (well, actually I’m just not a huge of cleaning up kitchen messes) I’ve gotten a bit creative.
We’ve ate a lot of sliced fruit and veggies, sandwiches, yogurt, and other grab and go snacks.
In addition, I’ve also been…
Using the Crockpot – The crockpot is a lifesaver in the hot summer months. Unlike cooking on the stove you don’t have to heat up an already hot house. Plus I love the set it and forget it crockpot style.
Grilling Out – My number two weapon has been the grill. We’ve been grilling out 3-4 times per week over the past month.
Using Coupons – When extreme couponing got really popular I pretty much swore off coupons. I hate following fads. But since I’ve been trying to save on food I have been taking advantage of all the coupons Kroger sends me. I usually receive 2-3 coupons per month for free items.
Using Random Credits/Gift Certificates
Earlier this month I found a foreclosed home that I think would be the perfect investment property. I’ve started saving for a down payment and have been looking for ways to save every dollar possible.
Because of this I’ve been pretty creative. I’ve went through all my accounts to see what kind of credits I have available.
I found that I had $16.42 in Amazon credits which I used to buy food. I had $21.95 in Thred Up credits (an online consignment shop) which I used to purchase a new bathing suit that I was desperately in need of. And I’m also near cash out amounts in my Swagbucks and InboxDollars accounts which I’ll use next month.
Saving First
Since I’m super motivated to get this investment property I’ve been transferring my money to savings and then budgeting around what I have leftover.
By doing this I’m forcing myself to be creative and making sure that I’m saving the money I need to be saving.
This strategy works wonders.
Final Thoughts
It’s funny how concentrating on one financial goal makes you want to improve your overall financial situation.
I’m hoping that my new found money-saving motivation can stick with me over the next few months as I continue to save for a property.
How have you been saving lately?