5 Ways to Challenge Yourself to Save More Money this Year

Jan 3 | Money Saving Tips, Frugal Living

5 ways to challenge yourself to save more money this year:

Whether it's January or June, there is no better time to start saving more money than right now. Perhaps you've got some money goals that seem so far off or even impossible to reach. Added to that, saving money is never easy. Am I right? We are born to want things, whether we need them or not.

Today, I've got some easy challenges that will have you saving money in no time flat. You'll be seeing your bank account grow quickly when you thoughtfully implement these money saving strategies.

#1. Pack Your Lunch, Every Single Day

This is a bit of a no brainer, but think about how much money you spend throughout the month eating out. Not just for dinner though, think about lunch too. Do you buy snacks from the vending machines in the lunch room? Do you find yourself heading out for lunch to the nearest fast food joint, or even buying meals off the break truck? It may only be one meal a day, but 5 days a week, and four weeks out of the month can really add up! Challenge yourself to pack your lunches every day. It helps to prepare your lunch the night before, so you will not be able to use the excuse of oversleeping. I challenge you to pack your lunch every day to see how much you can save.

 #2. Ponder Your Purchases Ahead of Time

It is important to consider your purchases before forking over your hard-earned money. When it comes to non-essential items, I suggest waiting three or four weeks before making your purchase. (A few days, at the very least!) This allows you time to really think about whether you need the item, or if it is just something that you really want. You’d be surprised at how much money you can save, when you really ponder your purchase before you say yes. Most often, you'll find yourself saying no instead.

 #3. Use Cash Every Chance You Can!

It is so easy to just whip your debit card out of your wallet at the register, but try carrying cash, to make your purchases instead. (These printable Cash Envelopes for $3.99 are awesome at helping you allot your cash to the categories in your budget!) Paying with cash will limit how much you will be able to spend and help you cut down on picking up extras at the store.

 #4. Drink More Water

Probably not the tip you want to hear. However, drinking more water throughout the day is great way to help you eat less. Start each meal by drinking a large glass of water. This will help fill you up, so you will not have to go back for a heaping plate of seconds, which most of us do not need anyway. Then you can save the leftovers for lunch the next day, or freeze them for another time. Not to mention, getting soda or another type of drink, when eating out or at home, can really add up. Be smart and stick with water, your wallet and waistline will thank you.

 #5. Know When to Purchase Quality

There are times that it is okay to shop at the dollar store, but there are also times when it would be wiser to spend a little extra on quality items. For example, instead of getting a new couch at the local discount furniture store, head out to one of the more expensive stores for a quality one that will last you many more years than the cheap one. Don’t get me wrong though, you can still look for the best couch deal, just spend your money on a couch that has a lot more quality.

Related money saving articles:

• How to painlessly save money
• Free printable monthly budget form
• When you are tired of being frugal
• Reusable household items that will save you money
• 101 ways to save on everyday purchases

These 5 tips are easy challenges to help you save more money this year. How are you planning on saving more money in 2021? I’d love to hear your tips.