Way back in January 2008, I challenged myself to go an entire month without buying anything we didn't absolutely need. A month-long No Spend Challenge. The only things I allowed myself to pay for was groceries and monthly bills. My husband and I were newly married in 2007 and at the time I was working a seasonal job with winters off.
It wasn't because I wanted to become "the frugal person." I wasn't trying to make a statement or see how little I could live on. I simply wanted to take a closer look at where our money was going and stop buying useless junk that I usually ended up decluttering. I had a feeling we were spending more out of habit than necessity.
I expected the month to feel very restrictive. I imagined constantly telling myself "no" and counting down the days until it was over.
Instead, something unexpected happened.
The challenge forced me to slow down before buying anything. I started shopping my pantry and making meal plans before heading to the grocery store. I found creative ways to use what we already had. Instead of browsing the stores, I decluttered our house. I rekindled some hobbies. (I found uncompleted sewing projects while I was decluttering!) I realized how many of my purchases had been automatic rather than intentional.
By the end of those thirty days, we had saved money. But that wasn't the biggest surprise.
The biggest surprise was how much lighter I felt. I wasn't constantly chasing the next purchase or wondering where our money had gone. I realized that living frugally wasn't about deprivation. It was about being intentional with the money we worked so hard to earn.
That one month experiment ended, but the mindset never did.
Over the past 18 years, my version of frugal living has evolved. Some of the things I used to do no longer make sense. New tools and technology have changed the way I save money. But many of the habits I developed during that very first no-spend challenge are still part of my everyday life.
Looking back now, I've learned what truly saves money, what wastes time, and what purchases are worth every penny. If you're curious about what nearly two decades of frugal living has taught me, here's an honest look at what has changed, what hasn't, and the habits I still rely on today.
Table of Contents
What Frugal Living Looked Like 18 Years Ago
When I first started living more frugally, things looked a lot different than they do today.
There were no grocery pickup orders, cashback apps, or browser extensions that automatically searched for coupon codes. Forget about frequent Amazon deliveries! If you wanted to save money, you had to be much more hands-on.
Every week, I'd live for the coupon booklets (remember SmartSource?) and flyers that came in the Sunday newspaper. I'd sit down and cut out all the coupons, compare prices, and make my shopping list based on what was on sale. I would match the coupons up with items that were on sale, planned meals around store sales and often visited more than one grocery store if the savings made it worthwhile.
Meal planning quickly became one of my biggest money saving habits. Before heading to the store, I'd check the pantry, fridge, and freezer to see what we already had. Instead of deciding what sounded good for dinner, I'd build meals around ingredients that needed to be used first.
Cooking at home became the norm. We packed lunches, made coffee at home, baked more often, and stocked the freezer with freezer meals for the days I didn't feel like cooking. Leftovers were almost never wasted because they usually became lunch the next day.
We became experts in borrowing and accepting free things. Most of our furniture was given to us. We didn't care about aesthetics! We borrowed baby clothes from family and friends. Streaming services like Netflix and Prime didn't exist back then so we borrowed shows and movies. It was great because we could just give everything back when we were finished. Or donate our furniture with zero regrets.
We also found lots of free entertainment. Movie nights borrowed from the library, afternoons at the beach, hiking trails, and free community events became regular parts of our lives. Looking back, some of our favourite memories didn't cost much at all.
Of course, not everything I tried was a success. Like many people starting their frugal journey, I experimented with homemade cleaners, DIY projects, and every money saving tip I could find online. Some became lasting habits, while others quietly disappeared after I realized they weren't saving enough time or money to be worthwhile.
What I remember most, though, wasn't any specific trick or tip. It was the shift in how I thought about spending. Instead of asking, "Can I afford this?" I started asking, "Do I actually need this?" That one simple question probably saved us more money than any coupon ever could.
What Has Changed
While the heart of frugal living has stayed the same for me, the way I save money has definitely changed over the past 18 years.
Technology has made many things easier. Instead of flipping through paper flyers, I browse digital ones from my phone. I can compare prices online in minutes, order groceries for pickup to avoid impulse purchases, and use cashback apps and rewards programs without carrying around a stack of coupons and loyalty cards.
Shopping has changed too. Years ago, finding a good deal often meant driving from store to store. Now I can quickly compare prices, set price alerts, or wait for a sale without leaving the house. It saves both time and money.
I've also become much more selective about where I put my energy. I know that my time has value too.
Saving $2 isn't worth an extra hour of my day. Sometimes paying a little more is the better choice if it saves time. Besides, I've since learned that if I stop at another store for a deal, I usually end up buying more than more than I intended!
One of the biggest changes is that I no longer focus on being as cheap as possible. Instead, I focus on getting the best value.
For example, I've learned that buying a well made pair of winter boots that lasts for years is often cheaper than replacing inexpensive ones every season. A quality kitchen tool that gets used several times a week can be a smarter purchase than the cheapest option on the shelf.
I've also become much more intentional about what I bring into our home. In the beginning, I was excited whenever I found a great deal. Now I know that a bargain isn't really a bargain if it wasn't something I needed in the first place.
Perhaps the biggest change is that frugal living no longer feels like something I have to think about every day. It's just our way of life and doesn't feel restrictive.
The habits I worked so hard to build during those first few years have simply become part of how we live. Meal planning, checking the pantry before shopping, waiting before impulse purchases, and looking for good value all happen almost automatically now.
After 18 years, I've realized that frugal living isn't about constantly finding new ways to save money. It's about creating habits that make spending intentionally feel effortless.
What Hasn't Changed
Even though the way I save money has evolved over the years, I've been surprised by how many of the simplest habits are still the most effective.
Meal planning is still one of the biggest ways I save money. Taking just a few minutes each week to decide what's for dinner helps me avoid last-minute takeout, lessens food waste, and makes grocery shopping much less stressful. Eighteen years later, it's still one of the best returns on the small amount of time it takes.
I also still check my pantry, fridge, and freezer before making a grocery list. It's amazing how often I already have the ingredients for several meals hiding in plain sight. Using what we already own has always been one of the easiest ways to spend less.
Shopping with a list is another habit that has never gone out of style. I have a notepad on the fridge where I jot down the things we run out of right away so I don't forget something we use all the time. Whether I'm walking through the grocery store or filling an online cart, having a plan helps me stay focused and avoid impulse purchases.
Waiting before buying something I want has also saved me countless dollars over the years. Most purchases don't need to happen immediately. Giving myself a little time to think usually helps me decide whether it's something I'll truly use or just something that caught my attention in the moment.
We have probably saved thousands over the years by shopping secondhand or borrowing items. Often, we end up with better quality than we could have afforded buying new.
This leads me to my next topic. We avoid debt as much as we can. This means we buy everything we can, including used vehicles with cash. The only debt we have had is our mortgage, which we have since paid off by putting down the maximum allowed once a year on top of our monthly payments.
Another habit that has stood the test of time is taking care of what we already own. Cleaning, maintaining, and repairing things whenever possible helps them last longer and delays the need to replace them. Thanks to YouTube, my husband has fixed our washing machine, dryer and air conditioner! Looking after what you have is one of the most overlooked ways to save money.
More than anything, though, what hasn't changed is my mindset.
Frugal living has never been about saying "no" to everything. It's about spending with purpose. It's asking whether something adds real value to our lives instead of buying it simply because it's on sale, trendy, or convenient.
After 18 years, I've realized that the biggest savings rarely come from complicated tricks or extreme sacrifices. They come from small, consistent habits repeated over and over again. Those habits may not be exciting, but they've made a lasting difference in our finances. They've become such a natural part of life that I hardly think about them anymore!
The Habits I still Use Every Week
Here's a checklist of the habits I still use 18 years later:
I always meal plan. Not because I enjoy it. But because every meal I don't plan usually costs me more. Some weeks, I only have a rough idea and that still helps! I have a dedicated notebook for meal plans and I find it's helpful too look back at old plans when I need inspiration.
I check my pantry, fridge and freezer first. It's amazing how often dinner is already sitting there!
I wait before buying most things. With the exception of groceries, very few purchases need to happen in the end if I wait. I'll find I don't need it, have something similar already or I'll fix what I already have.
I compare prices. Not obsessively, just enough to know if I'm overpaying. This is also handy for you when I share deals in Instagram stories or Facebook!
I search for deals on family activities. If it's not a free activity, you can bet I will try my hardest to save us some money! This includes any flights or hotels we may need for travel.
I look for the best value, not just the lowest price. Especially at the grocery store.
I check Checkout 51 and Caddle for cashback offers that I can use as well as Rakuten if I'm making online purchases.
Here's my personal Weekly Frugal Checklist:
✓ Plan this week's dinners
✓ Check the pantry before shopping
✓ Make (and stick to) a grocery list
✓ Review upcoming sales
✓ Wait before buying non-essentials
✓ Use leftovers for at least one meal
✓ Declutter one small area before buying new
What I No Longer Bother Doing
When I first started living frugally, I was willing to try just about every money-saving tip I came across. But over the years, I have learned that some things just aren't worth it to me anymore. Here's what I don't do anymore:
drive across town to save $2
make everything from scratch
keep hundreds of coupons
buy things just because they're on sale
feel guilty about spending money
stocking up on things we won't use
buy cheap products that wear out
trying to be a "perfect" frugal person (confession: we don't budget and I really love spending money on restaurant meals and coffee out.)
Where I Happily Spend Money
Yes, frugal people absolutely spend money! Here's what our family chooses to spend money on:
Good shoes. But almost always on sale!
A quality vacuum. If you maintain it, a good quality vacuum will last years!
Kitchen appliances we use daily. When you buy good quality, you don't have to replace them very often! Our KitchenAid stand mixer and toaster are still going strong after almost 20 years!
Travel. We love to travel! We save money in other areas of our life so we can splurge a bit while we travel. But I live for travel deals!
Extracurricular activities. We highly value extracurricular activities. These days, that looks like competitive dance and gymnastics for our daughters. A lot of money goes towards these but the benefits far outweigh the price. My husband is currently dealing with a knee injury, but he also plays soccer.
Experiences. Our family often does free or cheap activities, but love to do the occasional amusement park or similar activity!
High-quality winter clothing. It's not fun being cold or wet in the winter. The sorels I bought as a young adult are still in excellent condition, no regrets!
Coffee with a friend and dinner/lunch out. I mentioned that I love a meal or coffee out. Firstly, I don't have to cook or clean up after. But secondly, I love the time spent connecting with someone I care about.
Books. I love borrowing books and audiobooks from the library, but my husband and oldest like to buy books.
What I'd Tell Someone Starting Today
If you're just starting to live more frugally, my biggest piece of advice is this: don't try to change everything all at once.
When I began my month long no spend challenge 18 years ago, I had no idea it would completely change the way I thought about money. I certainly didn't adopt every frugal habit overnight. The biggest changes happened gradually, one small habit at a time.
Start with one thing that feels manageable. Maybe it's meal planning once a week. Maybe it's making granola bars instead of buying them. Maybe it's checking your pantry before grocery shopping or waiting 24 hours before buying something you want. Small habits may not feel life changing in the moment, but when you repeat them week after week and year after year, they add up in ways you can't imagine.
I'd also encourage you to stop comparing your journey to anyone else's. Frugal living isn't a competition to see who can spend the least money or make the most things from scratch. It's about making thoughtful decisions with the money you have and building a life that reflects your priorities.
Finally, remember that frugal living isn't about deprivation. It's about freedom. It's about creating breathing room in your finances, reducing financial stress, and spending confidently on the things that truly matter to you. If you can shift your mindset from "What am I giving up?" to "What am I gaining?" you'll find that living frugally feels far more rewarding than restrictive.
Looking back, I'm so grateful I decided to try that no spend challenge all those years ago. I thought I was learning how to spend less, but what I was really learning was how to live with more intention. And that's a lesson that's been worth far more than the money we've saved along the way.
After 18 years, I'm still learning, still adapting, and still finding new ways to spend more intentionally. Frugal living has never been about having less. It has always been about making the most of what we have.
Now I'd love to hear from you: What's one frugal habit you'll never give up? Share it in the comments below!
Simply Frugal Weekend Deals is here to bring you the best discounts and deals across Canada!
Whether you're hunting for home essentials, fashion finds, or something else, I've rounded up the best offers to help you stay on budget without sacrificing what you love.
From limited-time sales to secret coupon codes, I'll make sure your shopping is both fun and affordable.
Want this post to hit your email inbox? Sign up for the Simply Frugal Deals Email. You can do so here. It normally goes out every Friday.
Let's get started shall we? Get ready to shop smart and save more!
Like all of my other deal posts, this post contains affiliate links. You can read my disclosure policy here.
Well.ca
Take a look at some of the brands that are on sale this week at Well.ca: Owala, Attitude Home, Roar Organic, Yumbox, Blume, Sisu, Rogaine, Bob's Red Mill, Eucerin, Ferosom, One Degree Organics, Baby Gourmet, Neutrogena, Manitoba Harvest and more! (ends September 13, 2026)
The Gap Jeans Event is on: Save 30 - 50% off all jeans online at Gap Canada! Plus, save up to 50% off sitewide and an extra 40% off sale items. Also, use the coupon code BEST to save another 10% off! (ends September 15, 2026)
Today only! Save 60% off Fall steals online at Old Navy! (ends September 11, 2026) Also, save 50% off your order of $100 or more! (ends September 11, 2026)
Have you checked out the “We Made Too Much” section online at Lululemon? I recently learned that they update this section every Thursday. They’ve got so much on sale with steep discounts! Men’s, women’s, bags, accessories, shoes and even an under $50 category!
Save 30-40% off everything, including jeans and pants from American Eagle! Find $39 jeans and sweatshirts & sweatpants $49 and under. (ends September 14, 2026 at 5am ET)
Build School Bus Organizer! If you are looking for a fun activity to do with the family, The Home Depot has a great workshop for kids that will teach them about building. Kids can learn how to build their very own School Bus Organizer! Free workshop is September 12, 2026 anytime between 9am – 12pm.
Still need some school supplies? In my experience, Walmart has consistently been the place to get the lowest price on most school supplies. If it's not on sale, it's probably a good price anyways!
I'm trying something new with Amazon Deals and you'll have to let me know if you like it!
Amazon deals are incredibly time consuming to share the way I was previously with lists organized into categories. It always felt like by the time I finished, some deals would no longer be valid! That's not fun for you, and maybe feels misleading if something goes off deal sooner than anticipated.
So, because I have the ability to create lists directly on Amazon, I thought, why not send you there! It's a lot easier to keep updated. Perhaps more visually appealing too since you can see a picture of each item. Ultimately, I hope it's less frustrating for both of us.
You can check out my Canadian Amazon Storefront here. This is my storefront main page. As the seasons change and different holidays/occasions approach, I add new lists to cover those things.
But because I know you appreciate some organization. I have created separate lists for each category I had before. Here they are:
How to Live on One Income: 10 Things You Need to Do
Learning how to live on one income is about much more than finding a few ways to save money at the grocery store.
When one income supports an entire household, you need to think differently about your money. There isn't another paycheck to fall back on when the budget gets tight, and there may be less room for unexpected expenses.
That doesn't mean living on one income has to feel restrictive. It does mean you need to be intentional.
After almost 18 years of living frugally, I've learned that the families who successfully live on one income aren't necessarily the ones who are the best at finding coupons or never spend money. They're the ones who have systems and habits that make their money stretch.
If you're wondering how to live on one income, here are some of the things I think you really need to do.
1. You need to know exactly where your money is going
This is the place to start. You can't successfully live on one income if you don't know how much money is coming in and where it's going.
Take a close look at your last few months of spending. Don't just look at your regular bills. Look at everything. How much are you actually spending on groceries? Takeout? Clothing? Kids' activities? Amazon purchases? Entertainment? Home improvement? Random little purchases?
You don't need to judge yourself for what you find. The goal is simply to see the reality of your spending.
Once you know where your money is going, you can decide whether that's where you actually want it to go.
2. You need a budget that works with your real life
A budget shouldn't be a list of numbers that looks great on paper but falls apart two weeks into the month. If you're learning how to live on one income, your budget needs to account for the things that actually happen.
Birthdays happen. Cars need repairs. Kids grow out of their clothes. School expenses come up. Christmas happens every year.
Instead of treating these things as unexpected expenses, start planning for them.
Create categories for expenses that don't happen every month and set aside money for them throughout the year.
For example, if you know you'll spend approximately $600 on Christmas, saving $50 a month makes that expense much easier to handle when December arrives.
A good budget doesn't just tell you what you can spend. It helps you prepare for what's coming.
3. You need an emergency fund
When you're living on one income, an emergency can put a lot more pressure on your finances.
That's why having some money set aside for unexpected expenses is so important.
You don't have to build a huge emergency fund overnight. Start with whatever amount you can manage and keep building it over time. The first goal might be $500. Then $1,000. Eventually, you can work toward having several months of essential expenses saved.
The important thing is to actually keep this money available for genuine emergencies rather than treating it as extra spending money. When something goes wrong, having savings can keep a bad month from becoming a financial crisis.
4. You need to stop depending on credit for everyday expenses
If you're regularly putting groceries, clothing, entertainment or other everyday expenses on a credit card because there's not enough money in your bank account, it's time to take a hard look at your budget.
Credit can make a tight month appear easier than it really is.
But eventually, those purchases have to be paid for and interest can make them cost even more.
Living on one income means learning to work within the money you actually have available.
That may mean saying no sometimes. It may mean waiting until you have saved enough to make a purchase. And it may mean adjusting your expectations when the budget doesn't allow for something. That's not always easy, but it's an important part of making one income work long-term.
5. You need to know your family's priorities
You can't spend money on everything. And honestly, you shouldn't try.
One of the biggest lessons I've learned from frugal living is that saving money becomes much easier when you know what you're actually saving for.
Maybe your priority is being debt free. Maybe it's travelling as a family. Maybe it's being able to afford dance lessons, sports or other activities for your kids. Maybe it's having enough savings that an unexpected bill doesn't derail your month.
Once you know what matters most, it's easier to decide what doesn't.
You don't have to cut every enjoyable expense. You simply need to stop spending money on things that aren't important to you while telling yourself you can't afford the things that are.
6. You need to become comfortable saying "not right now"
This is a surprisingly important skill when you're living on one income.
There will be things you want that you can't afford right now. That doesn't necessarily mean you'll never be able to afford them. Sometimes the answer simply needs to be: "Not right now."
Maybe you wait for a sale. Maybe you save for it. Maybe you buy it secondhand. Maybe you put it on a Christmas or birthday wish list.
Learning to wait instead of immediately buying something can completely change your spending habits.
And sometimes, after waiting a while, you'll realize you don't even want the item anymore!
7. You need to plan for the expenses you know are coming
Some expenses aren't emergencies. They're just expenses that don't happen every month.
Car insurance. Property taxes. Back to school shopping. Christmas. Annual memberships. Home maintenance. Clothing. Birthdays.
If you know they're coming, they shouldn't be a surprise.
Make a list of your larger annual expenses and figure out approximately how much you'll need for each one. Then divide that amount by the number of months you have to save.
Even setting aside a small amount every month can make these expenses much less stressful. This is one of the biggest differences between being surprised by your expenses and being prepared for them.
8. You need to learn how to make things last
When you're living on one income, replacing things every time they get a little old can get expensive.
That doesn't mean you should keep something that's unsafe or no longer functional. But before automatically replacing something, ask whether it can be repaired, cleaned, maintained or used a little longer.
Take care of your car. Maintain your appliances. Repair clothing when it's worth repairing. Look after your furniture. Keep your home maintained.
And when something genuinely needs replacing, look for a good quality option at a reasonable price rather than automatically buying the cheapest thing available. Frugal living isn't always about buying the cheapest option. Sometimes buying something good and taking care of it is the more frugal choice.
9. You need to have a plan for "fun money"
This one is important because living on one income shouldn't mean that every dollar is accounted for and nobody gets to enjoy anything. Build some fun into your budget! It doesn't have to be a lot.
Maybe it's a family restaurant meal once a month. Maybe it's money for each person to spend however they want. Maybe it's a vacation fund that you contribute to every month.
Having some money set aside for enjoyment can actually make it easier to stick with your budget because you don't feel like you're constantly depriving yourself.
You're allowed to enjoy your money! The goal of frugal living isn't to spend nothing. It's to spend your money intentionally.
10. You need to have a plan for what happens if your income changes
When your household depends on one income, it's worth thinking about what would happen if that income suddenly disappeared or decreased.
This doesn't mean living in fear. It simply means being prepared.
An emergency fund is part of this. So is keeping your monthly expenses manageable and avoiding unnecessary debt.
It's also helpful to know what expenses you could immediately reduce if you needed to. Which subscriptions could you cancel? What spending could you temporarily stop? Which expenses are essential and which could wait?
Having a plan before you need one can make a difficult situation much easier to navigate.
Learning How to Live on One Income Takes Planning
Living on one income isn't about becoming the family that never spends money. It's about creating a financial life where your one income can cover your needs, prepare you for future expenses and still leave room for the things your family enjoys.
And you need to become comfortable making intentional choices about what gets your money, and what doesn't.
Some months will be harder than others. There will be unexpected bills and times when it feels like there's too much month left at the end of the money.
That's normal.
The goal isn't to create a perfect budget where nothing ever goes wrong. The goal is to build a financial system that gives your family some breathing room when life doesn't go according to plan.
And that's really what learning how to live on one income is all about.
How to Get Your Finances Under Control: 8 Simple Steps to Feel More in Charge of Your Money
Do you ever look at your bank account and wonder, “Where did all my money go?”
Maybe you're making enough to cover the bills, but there's never quite enough left over. Maybe unexpected expenses keep throwing your budget off track. Or maybe you simply feel like you're working hard for your money but aren't really in control of it.
I've been living frugally for almost 18 years, and one thing I've learned is that to get your finances under control, it's not about becoming super restrictive or never spending money again. It's about knowing where your money is going, making intentional choices, and creating a little breathing room.
You don't have to fix everything at once. Start with one step, then work your way through the rest.
Here are 8 simple ways to get your finances under control and feel more confident about your money.
1. Figure Out Where Your Money Is Going
Before you can change your finances, you need to know what's actually happening with your money.
For at least one month, track your income and expenses. Go through your bank and credit card statements and write down your regular bills, subscriptions, groceries, transportation, debt payments, spending money and everything else.
Don't worry about judging yourself while you're doing this. You're not trying to prove that you're "good" or "bad" with money. You're simply gathering information.
Once you can see where your money is going, you'll probably start noticing a few things you can change.
When money feels tight, it helps to prioritize your spending.
Start with the things you genuinely need to keep your household running: housing, food, utilities, transportation, insurance, basic household needs and other essential expenses.
Then look at everything else.
This doesn't mean you can never spend money on fun things. It simply helps you understand the difference between "I need this" and "I want this." That distinction can make a surprisingly big difference.
Negotiate or compare some of your regular household bills?
Small changes add up.
And remember: saving money doesn't always mean spending less. Sometimes it means spending more intentionally to get better quality/value.
4. Build Some Emergency Savings
One of the best ways to feel more in control of your finances is to have money set aside for the unexpected.
Because unexpected expenses aren't really unexpected. Eventually, the car needs a repair, the appliance breaks, the dentist bill arrives or something else comes along that you didn't plan for.
If you have no savings, those expenses can quickly turn into credit card debt.
If you're starting with nothing, don't worry about building a huge emergency fund overnight. Start with whatever amount feels achievable.
Your first goal might be $500. Then $1,000. Eventually, you can work toward having several months of essential expenses saved, depending on your circumstances.
The important part is getting into the habit of regularly putting money aside. Even a small automatic transfer every payday can help.
5. Make a Plan for Your Debt
If you have debt, don't simply make the minimum payments and hope it eventually disappears.
Take a look at what you owe, the interest rates you're paying and the minimum payments required.
Then choose a repayment strategy that works for you.
Some people prefer the debt avalanche, where they focus on the debt with the highest interest rate first. Others prefer the debt snowball, where they pay off the smallest balance first for those motivating early wins.
Neither approach has to be perfect. The best strategy is the one you can actually stick with.
And don't forget that paying down high-interest debt can be an important part of creating more room in your future budget.
As you pay things off, resist the temptation to immediately replace that payment with new spending. Instead, consider redirecting some of that money toward savings, future goals or other priorities.
6. Give Your Money a Job
One of the biggest changes you can make is to stop thinking about your money as one big pile.
Instead, give it a purpose. Your income might need to cover:
Monthly bills
Groceries and household expenses
Debt payments
Emergency savings
Annual or irregular expenses
Short-term goals
Fun money
Long-term savings
This is where sinking funds can be incredibly helpful. A sinking fund is simply money you set aside little by little for an expense you know is coming. Christmas. Property taxes. Car repairs. Back to school shopping. Annual memberships. Home maintenance.
When the expense finally arrives, you're not scrambling to find the money because you've already been preparing for it.
7. Stop Trying to Be Perfect
This might be one of the most important pieces of financial advice I can give you.
You don't have to be perfect with money.
There will be months when you spend more than planned. There will be unexpected expenses. You'll occasionally buy something you didn't need. You'll have birthdays, vacations, holidays and other occasions where your spending looks very different from an ordinary month.
That's life.
Getting your finances under control doesn't mean you never overspend or make a mistake. It means you notice what happened, make adjustments and keep going.
A bad financial week doesn't have to turn into a bad financial year.
8. Focus on Increasing Your Financial Breathing Room
Sometimes there simply isn't enough room to cut.
If you've already reduced your expenses as much as reasonably possible and you're still struggling, the answer may not be another $10 expense to eliminate.
That could mean asking for a raise, taking on occasional freelance work, selling things you no longer need, picking up additional work or finding another way to bring in extra money.
And if your financial situation is complicated or you're unsure what to prioritize, consider getting advice from a qualified financial professional who can look at your individual circumstances.
Remember, frugal living isn't about squeezing every last dollar out of your life.
It's about making the most of the money you have.
What Does Being in Control of Your Finances Actually Look Like?
It doesn't necessarily mean having a huge savings account or being completely debt-free.
It might simply mean:
You know how much money comes in each month.
You know what your regular expenses are.
You're not constantly wondering where your money went.
You have some money set aside for unexpected expenses.
You're making progress on your financial goals.
You're spending on the things that matter to you.
You're not letting every sale or tempting purchase make the decision for you.
That's financial control.
You don't have to achieve it all at once either. Start by looking at your numbers. Find one expense you can reduce. Set aside a small amount of savings. Make a plan for one debt.
How to Save $2000 a Year: Simple Ways to Save $2000 to $5000
Spending money can be fun, but there’s something pretty satisfying about saving for something you really want and then paying for it with money you’ve already set aside!
Maybe it’s a vacation, a new piece of furniture, a family outing, or simply having a little more breathing room in your bank account. Whatever your goal, saving money feels a whole lot better when you know exactly what that money is for.
If you're wondering how to save $2000 a year, you might be surprised by how achievable it can be. You don't necessarily need to make huge changes or give up everything you enjoy.
The key is to look for small expenses you can reduce, eliminate, or rethink. A few dollars here and there can turn into hundreds. Several small changes can add up to thousands over the course of a year.
And once you've figured out how to save $2000 a year, you may find that reaching a $3000, $4000, or even $5000 savings goal isn't as far away as you thought.
So let's look at some realistic ways to save money and keep more of it in your pocket.
Start With a Savings Goal
The first step in figuring out how to save $2000 a year is to break that big number down into smaller, more manageable amounts.
To save $2000 over 12 months, you'd need to put aside about $167 a month, or roughly $38 a week.
Want to save more?
$2,000 a year = about $38 a week
$3,000 a year = about $58 a week
$5,000 a year = about $96 a week
Looking at your goal this way can make it feel much less overwhelming.
And remember, you don't have to save the exact same amount every week or month. You might have a month where you save $250 and another where you save $100. What matters is working toward your overall goal.
Take a Close Look at Takeout
You don't have to give up takeout completely to save money. Instead, try cutting back.
Take a look at how often you're ordering restaurant food, grabbing fast food, or using a delivery app. It's easy to underestimate how much these purchases cost when they're spread throughout the month.
If you spend $40 on takeout once a week, that's about $2,080 a year.
You don't necessarily have to eliminate that spending entirely. Cutting it in half would still free up more than $1000 a year.
You could keep a few inexpensive convenience meals in the freezer for those nights when cooking feels like the last thing you want to do.
Review Your Subscriptions
Take a few minutes to look at your monthly subscriptions.
Streaming services, music subscriptions, apps, memberships, meal kits, gaming subscriptions and other recurring charges can quietly take a pretty big bite out of your budget.
You don't have to cancel everything. Instead, ask yourself:
Would I sign up for this again today if I wasn't already paying for it?
If the answer is no, consider cancelling it.
You could also rotate streaming services rather than paying for several at once. Keep one for a month or two, cancel it, and switch to another when there's something you really want to watch.
Cancelling subscriptions that total $30 a month would save you $360 a year.
Make Coffee at Home More Often
I'm certainly not going to tell you that you can never enjoy a coffee from your favourite coffee shop! But if you're buying coffee several times a week, this can be an easy place to find savings.
Instead of stopping every morning, try making coffee at home most days and saving your coffee shop trips for when you really want one. Like a Friday treat or something.
For example, saving just $5 per coffee shop visit and doing that four times a week would add up to more than $1,000 a year.
You can still enjoy your favourite coffee. You're just being more intentional about when you buy it.
Try a $5 Savings Challenge
Here's a simple savings idea that doesn't require you to completely change your budget.
Whenever you receive a $5 bill, put it aside instead of spending it. You can use a jar, envelope, or separate savings account.
Of course, how much you save will depend on how often you receive $5 bills, but that's part of the fun. You might be surprised by how quickly the money accumulates.
If you don't use much cash, you can create your own version of the challenge. Every time you would normally make an impulse purchase, put $5 into savings instead.
Save Part of Every Raise or Bonus
If you receive a raise, bonus, tax refund, or other unexpected money, consider putting at least some of it toward your savings goal. You don't necessarily have to save every dollar.
If your income increases by $2,000 a year, for example, you could decide to save $1,000 and use the other $1,000 for something else.
The important thing is to avoid automatically increasing your spending every time your income increases. Lifestyle creep can make it surprisingly easy for extra money to disappear.
Look at Your Cell Phone Plan
When was the last time you checked your cell phone plan?
Phone plans change all the time, and the plan that made sense a couple of years ago might no longer be your best option. Take a look at:
How much data you actually use
Whether you still need all the features you're paying for
Whether your current phone is paid off
Whether another carrier has a better deal
Whether you're paying for add-ons you don't use
Even finding a plan that's $20 cheaper each month would save you $240 a year.
Don't assume your current plan is the cheapest option. Shop around.
Become a Better Grocery Shopper
Your grocery bill is another area where small changes can make a big difference.
You don't need to completely overhaul the way your family eats. Instead, try a few simple habits:
Plan meals around what you already have.
Check flyers before shopping.
Compare prices between stores.
Buy sale items you regularly use.
Use loyalty points and rewards.
Shop your freezer and pantry before buying more.
Choose less expensive alternatives when it makes sense.
Reduce food waste.
Keep a list and try to stick to it.
Saving just $50 a week on groceries would put $2,600 back into your budget over a year. You don't have to save that much every week for grocery savings to make a noticeable difference.
Use Loyalty Programs for Purchases You're Already Making
If you shop regularly at stores with loyalty programs, make sure you're taking advantage of the rewards available to you.
For example, PC Optimum can be useful if you regularly shop at participating Loblaw banner stores and Shoppers Drug Mart.
The important thing is to use loyalty programs strategically. Don't buy something you don't need just because you're earning points. The goal is to earn rewards on something you were already going to buy.
Transportation can be one of the biggest expenses in a household, so even small changes can add up.
Instead of trying to completely eliminate driving, look for ways to reduce unnecessary trips. For example:
Combine errands into one trip.
Carpool when possible.
Walk or bike for short trips.
Use public transportation when it's practical.
Keep your vehicle properly maintained.
Compare gas prices before filling up.
Work from home when your job allows it.
Even reducing your driving by a few trips each week can save money on gas and help reduce wear and tear on your vehicle.
Learn to Do a Few Things Yourself
There are plenty of household tasks that you can learn to do yourself rather than paying someone else.
Simple examples include things like basic home maintenance, changing windshield wipers, replacing air filters, sewing a button, doing basic repairs, or tackling small painting projects.
For anything involving safety or specialized equipment, especially vehicle repairs, make sure you know what you're doing and follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Sometimes paying a professional is absolutely worth it.
The goal isn't to DIY everything. It's to recognize that there are some jobs you may be perfectly capable of learning to do yourself.
Reconsider Your Gym Membership
If you have a gym membership that you rarely use, it might be time to rethink it.
Before cancelling, though, consider whether the gym genuinely helps you stay active and whether it's something you enjoy. If it is, the membership may be money well spent.
But if you're paying every month and rarely going, you're essentially paying for something you aren't using.
You could try walking, hiking, cycling, recreational activities, or free workout resources instead.
And remember: frugal living isn't about eliminating every expense. It's about spending your money on the things that are actually worth it to you.
For one week, don't spend money on anything except your regular necessities such as groceries, transportation, bills, and other essentials.
Use what you already have. Make meals from your pantry and freezer. Watch something you already have access to. Borrow books from the library. Find free activities in your community.
You may not save hundreds of dollars in one week, but you might discover just how often you spend money out of habit.
And that awareness can help you save long after the challenge is over.
Find Ways to Earn a Little Extra
Sometimes, the easiest way to reach a savings goal isn't just to spend less, it's to bring in a little extra money.
You could sell things you no longer use, pick up occasional work, babysit, pet sit, take on freelance work, or find another flexible way to earn some extra cash.
You don't need to start a second full-time job.
Even an extra $50 or $100 here and there can make a difference if you put it directly toward your savings goal.
For example, earning an extra $100 a month would give you $1,200 over a year.
Don't Forget About the Little Expenses
One of the biggest lessons I've learned from years of trying to spend less is that the little things really do add up.
It's easy to look at a $5 purchase and think, It's only five dollars. But if you're making that purchase several times a week, it's no longer just $5.
That's why tracking your spending for a month can be so useful. Look for patterns. Where is your money actually going?
You might discover that the biggest savings opportunity isn't something you've been thinking about at all.
How to Save $2000 a Year by Stacking Small Savings
Here's where things get interesting.
You don't have to find one magical way to save $2000. Instead, stack several smaller savings together. Maybe you save:
$25 a week by eating at home more often
$20 a week by shopping more carefully
$15 a month by changing a subscription or bill
$50 a month by reducing grocery waste
$50 to $100 a month from occasional extra income
Individually, these changes might not feel huge, but together, they can make a big difference!
That's one of my favourite things about frugal living: you don't have to make one enormous change to make a meaningful difference.
How Much Could You Save?
Here's an example of what some small changes could look like over a year:
Money-saving change
Potential yearly savings
Cut takeout by $40/week
$2,080
Reduce coffee shop purchases by $20/week
$1,040
Cancel $30/month in subscriptions
$360
Reduce a phone bill by $20/month
$240
Save $50/month on groceries
$600
Earn an extra $100/month
$1,200
You don't need to do all of these. In fact, some of these examples overlap, so don't add them together and assume you'll automatically save that entire amount.
Instead, use them as inspiration to find the changes that make sense for your household.
You Don't Have to Save $5,000 Overnight
If your goal is to learn how to save $2000 a year, start there.
Once you've reached that goal, you can decide whether you'd like to keep going.
Maybe you'll discover that $2,000 is enough to cover a particular goal. Or perhaps you'll find that the changes you've made are easier than you expected and you want to aim for $3,000, $4,000, or even $5,000.
The important thing is to start somewhere.
You don't have to stop enjoying your life or never spend money again. You simply want to become more intentional about where your money goes.
And there's something so satisfying about reaching the end of the year and realizing that all those little choices added up to something meaningful.
What Will You Do With Your Savings?
Don't just tell yourself you're going to "spend less." Give your savings a purpose.
Maybe you're saving for a vacation, Christmas, a home renovation, a new vehicle, debt repayment, an emergency fund, or more financial breathing room.
Knowing why you're saving makes it much easier to stay motivated.
And there's something incredibly satisfying about reaching the end of the year and realizing that all those little choices added up to something meaningful.
If you're trying to figure out how to save $2000 a year, don't feel like you need to completely change your life.
Start with one expense. Find one thing you can reduce. Put that money aside. Then find another.
Those small decisions can add up to much more than you might expect.
What are your favourite ways to save money? I'd love to hear what works for you! Leave a comment below and share your best money saving ideas.
20 Ways to Treat Yourself for Free (Because You Deserve It!)
Being frugal doesn't mean you can never treat yourself.
In fact, I think it's important to build a little fun into your life when you're trying to spend less. If every day is about cutting back, saying no, and sticking to the budget, eventually you're going to get tired of it. That's where frugal fatigue can creep in.
The good news? Treating yourself doesn't have to mean spending $50 at a restaurant, booking a spa treatment, or going on a shopping spree.
There are plenty of ways to give yourself a little pick-me-up without spending any money at all. Sometimes, the best treats are simply about giving yourself permission to slow down, enjoy something you already have, or do something just because you enjoy it.
So the next time you're thinking, "I deserve a little treat," try one of these 20 ways to treat yourself for free.
1. Read somewhere you love
Grab a book or magazine you've been meaning to read and find a nice place to enjoy it.
Head to the backyard, sit on the balcony, visit the park, or take your book to the beach if you're lucky enough to live nearby.
You don't even have to read the whole time. A little people watching can be part of the entertainment! (I could sit for hours people watching!)
2. Take a long, relaxing bath
If you already have bubble bath, bath salts, or other bath products at home, put them to good use.
Turn down the lights, put on some music, grab your favourite book and give yourself permission to soak for a while. It's amazing how luxurious an ordinary bath can feel when you actually slow down and enjoy it.
Sometimes the best way to treat yourself is to do absolutely nothing.
If you're tired, give yourself permission to take a nap. Put your phone away, get comfortable and enjoy some uninterrupted rest. Not every treat has to be productive.
4. Go for a walk
Get outside and take a walk without turning it into an errand.
You could walk around your neighbourhood, explore a nearby trail or simply wander somewhere you've never walked before. Pay attention to the little things around you instead of rushing from one place to another.
Fresh air, movement and a change of scenery can be a pretty great free treat.
5. Give yourself an at home spa night
You don't need an expensive spa appointment to have a little pampering session.
Use what you already have at home. Take a shower, do a face mask, moisturize, paint your nails, wash your hair or put on your comfiest pajamas.
The key is to make it feel like an occasion rather than just another item on your to do list.
6. Have a movie marathon
If you already have access to a streaming service, choose a movie or a few episodes of a favourite show and make an evening of it.
Make some popcorn, grab your favourite blanket and get comfortable.
Bonus points for choosing something you've been wanting to watch but haven't made time for.
7. Visit a free community event
Check your community calendar, library, recreation centre or local social media pages for free events.
You might find free concerts, outdoor movies, festivals, markets, library programs or community celebrations.
You don't have to spend money to get out of the house and do something fun.
8. Have a clothing swap with a friend
Feeling bored with your wardrobe? Instead of shopping, invite a friend or two over and swap a few pieces of clothing you no longer wear.
You'll get the fun of "new" clothes without buying anything.
Just make sure everyone is comfortable with the arrangement and agrees on what they're willing to swap.
9. Grab a notebook and journal
Sometimes treating yourself means giving yourself some quiet time to think.
Grab a notebook and write down whatever comes to mind. You could journal about your day, make a list of things you're looking forward to, write down some goals or simply get some thoughts out of your head. There are no rules. This is your journal!
10. Enjoy that treat you've been saving
You know that chocolate bar, fancy tea, bath product or other little treat you've been saving for "someday"? Today could be the day!
You don't necessarily need to buy something new to treat yourself. Sometimes you just need to actually enjoy the things you already have.
11. Bake something from your pantry
Craving a treat?
Before heading to the store, take a look through your pantry and freezer. You might already have everything you need to make cookies, muffins, brownies, a cake or another favourite dessert.
And if you have enough to share, invite someone over and turn it into a little get together.
12. Have a picnic
You don't need a fancy picnic basket or special picnic food. Take whatever you're already planning to eat and bring it outside.
Have lunch in the backyard, eat dinner at a nearby park or spread a blanket on the grass and enjoy a snack outdoors.
Sometimes simply changing where you eat can make an ordinary meal feel like something special.
13. Do something kind for someone else
This might seem like an unusual way to treat yourself, but doing something kind for someone else can be incredibly rewarding.
You could:
Write a "thinking of you" message to a friend.
Give someone a genuine compliment.
Bring a friend some baking.
Help a family member with a task.
Let someone go ahead of you in line.
Send someone a funny message to make them smile.
Share a skill you have with someone who could use it.
Kindness doesn't have to cost anything.
14. Learn something new
Have you ever wanted to learn how to do something but kept putting it off? Learning something new can be a great way to spend an afternoon without spending a dollar.
Use the free resources you already have available. Check out a book from the library, find a free tutorial, learn a new recipe or finally try that hobby you've been curious about.
Look at your schedule and, if possible, protect a few hours where you don't have anywhere to be. No errands. No unnecessary chores. No rushing around. Read. Watch a movie. Sit outside. Listen to music. Do absolutely nothing.
You don't always have to fill your free time.
16. Rediscover an old favourite
Instead of looking for something new, revisit something you already love.
Pull out an old board game. Listen to a favourite album. Look through old photos. Rewatch a favourite movie. Read a book you've enjoyed before.
There can be something really comforting about returning to things you already know you love.
17. Have a backyard or living room coffee date
Invite a friend over for coffee or tea using what you already have at home.
Sit outside if the weather is nice or make yourselves comfortable inside.
You don't need to go to a coffee shop to catch up with someone. Sometimes an hour around the kitchen table is even better.
18. Declutter one small area
This might not sound like a treat, but hear me out...
Pick one small area that's been bothering you. A junk drawer, bathroom cabinet, kitchen counter or your nightstand. Then spend 15 minutes making it better.
You don't need to declutter your entire house. Sometimes clearing one annoying little area can give you that wonderful "ahhh, that's better" feeling.
19. Say no to something you don't actually need to do
Your time is valuable, too.
Sometimes our calendars become filled with things we feel like we should do because they're good, useful or expected.
If something is genuinely optional and you don't want to do it, give yourself permission to say no. You don't have to earn rest.
20. Give yourself permission to enjoy your frugal life
This might be the most important one.
Frugal living isn't supposed to mean constantly depriving yourself.
If you're working toward a financial goal, it's easy to become so focused on saving that you forget to enjoy the life you're living right now.
So take the walk. Read the book. Bake the cookies. Have the picnic. Take the nap. Watch the movie.
You don't have to spend money to make an ordinary day feel a little more special.
Treating yourself doesn't have to cost money
One of the best things about frugal living is learning that you don't have to spend money every time you want something fun, relaxing or special.
Sometimes the best treat is simply time. Time to rest, time to enjoy something you already have, time with people you love or time to do something just because it makes you happy.
And if you can give yourself that little boost without spending a cent? Even better.
What are your favourite ways to treat yourself for free? I'd love to hear your ideas in the comments!
