More Smart Spending Ideas

Now that you’ve changed your financial mindset — and you’re committed to making it a lasting change — here are a number of other concrete ways you can spend more wisely and value your hard work.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vwjubecM2IM

· Make a shopping list — and stick to it! For example, grocery shopping makes up a significant part of your spending. Before you go, make a list of what you need. Plan the week’s meals. Then buy only what you need — don’t bother with the “just in case” stuff or be tempted to pick up a few impulse items. And don’t go grocery shopping when you’re hungry — you’ll almost always spend more!

· Plan ahead for purchase you’ll make. If you wait until the last minute, you’re at the mercy of whatever is available, at whatever the cost. Even if you still have a quarter tank of gas, fill up if you’re near the lowest-price gas station in your area. If you’re out of milk and your only option is a convenience store… you’ll pay too much.

· Delay purchases. You may think you need — or maybe you just want — something right now. But do you really need it? Wait a week… or better yet a month… and see if you change your mind. Often, our emotions drive us to get something now. If you let yourself “cool off”, that desire may go away, saving you a lot of money.