A smart woman saves money, no matter what bills are due. We find ways to save money, no matter how small the amount is. We use coupons, we barter, we hit tag sales, shop at consignment stores and we even find free stuff that others want to give away. We collect cans and turn them in for nickels. We need to take those pennies that we generate and save and actually save them. Put that money aside and have the determination that it stays there “until hell freezes over.” Let those funds accumulate and they will grow.
BUDGETING
If budgeting is the problem, then LearnVest.com is a place you can visit to learn how to create a budget. Once you do that, then the goal is to stick to it.
List all of your expenses, then divide them by 12. This is your monthly budget. Write down your income and subtract what comes in from what goes out, then you know exactly what you are dealing with. Makes sure that one of your line items is SAVINGS!
CREDIT
If credit debt is excessive, then cut up all of your credit cards – maybe keep just one. Then make a plan to pay them all down starting with the smallest balance first. Once that card is paid off, close the account and apply the extra funds to the next credit card. Do this until all of your debt is paid off.
UTILITIES
Most of the utility companies allow their customers to get on a budget plan where they will charge a fixed amount every month based on your usage. This will protect you from heating and cooling bills that can fluctuate widely during hot summer and cold winter months.
INSURANCE
If you have car insurance, choose a higher deductible. This lowers the amount that you pay instantly. Ask your insurance carrier about any other discounts that you may qualify for.
GROCERIES
Set up meal plans for the week, then create your grocery list from that plan. Do you really need those cookies and sugary cereals for the kids? Steel cut oats are very healthy for the body and helps to avoid all the artificial colorings and flavorings in processed food. So, give extra thought to what you are buying, serving and eating. Create a healthy meal plan, generate your shopping list, go into the store with your plan and stick with it. You would be surprised at how much you will save by not throwing random items that appeal to you in your carriage.
Use coupons! Coupons really do work and help you save money.
If grocery shopping with your young children is an issue because they want everything, then involve them in your research where you learn about the food that your family is eating. Help them to find healthier choices! This could be a really fun project!
Grow your own food. It is amazing that several decades ago this is how people fed themselves. Now, we don’t give it a second thought. We’re all conditioned to buy what has been mass-manufactured and put on grocery shelves for us to buy and feed to our families. You and your children will be delighted by watching and caring for your growing vegetables. And they will be more receptive to healthier eating practices!
Finally, when it comes to grocery shopping, never shop while you are hungry. Because then you walk around eating with your eyes and buying extra stuff. Create your list and stick to it.
SHOPPING IN GENERAL
Stay out of the mall. Stay out of stores. If you need to purchase something that is an actual need – buy that one or those two things and get out of the store. Stick with your mission.
A SMART WOMAN SAVES MONEY
Save money, even if it’s a penny, a dime, a nickel. Collect it in a can or a jar. When you have several dollars, deposit them into the FREE savings account that you will set up. Make sure the bank you are using will not charge a fee. Pick a day of the week when you go and deposit all of your change into the bank. If your children are working with you, they’ll be happy to pitch in! It can be a family project.
If there is an end game, or a reward for you or the family after you’ve saved a certain amount, imagine how great everyone is going feel after they’ve reached that goal. But remember the goal is to have money saved. If you are saving toward something, make sure you set a minimum amount that you need to keep in the bank. For instance, if the family wants to buy – let’s say a small row boat and the cost of that is $300, you must have a goal of saving $100 first. Once that $100 is there, then start saving toward the purchase of the boat. Once you have the boat, then up the ante a little and say that the savings goal is $500, for instance and keep it going.
A smart woman saves money. We are creative and find ways to make this happen. Once you develop the habit of saving, it will help you to create a solid foundation for future financial success.