Top 10 Ways to Curb your Spending ~ Champagne Living

Friday, November 20, 2009

Top 10 Ways to Curb your Spending

I tend to yack on & on about spending money. In reality, I am careful about what I spend. I believe in quality vs. quantity (well- except when it comes to shoes - that's my personal downfall). I like nice things, but I make a CONSCIOUS decision when it comes to spending my money.

Would I rather have a new pair of jeans or would the money be better put towards that cruise that I've been dying to go on? Here are some EASY or NO BRAINER ways to save money this holiday season.

1. Don't go shopping, just to go shopping. We've all done it. A little retail therapy feels good for the moment, but if it's something that you don't really need....FORGET IT.

2. Enjoy what you've got. Sometimes we forget about all of the wonderful things that we already have.

3. Live within your means - enough said. We ALL know what that means.

4. Honor the things that you already have. If you bought QUALITY, it should last forever. That gorgeous handbag may just need a bit of leather cleaner to restore it back to the way it was.

5. Anticipate what you'll need in the future. Don't wait until you absolutely need something to buy it at full price. If you know that you're going to need shampoo and it's on sale (or you have coupons), get it in advance so that you spend less. Keep a mental (or written list) of what you'll need.

6. Do it yourself. Instead of buying ready made foods, cook from scratch. Can you sew, knit or fix things? Why pay to have these done when you have the talent.

7. Is quality ALWAYS better? Consider the options and usage before plunking down a whole lot of money. If a cheaper alternative will do, then go for it. If it's something that you want to last forever - go quality.

8. Always have a financial goal. Whether it be buying a house, a vacation in Paris or saving for retirement - goals are important to keep you on track.

9. Wear it out. Don't replace things that don't need replacing.

10. Give up what doesn't make you happy. Or more importantly - find something that REALLY enriches your life and pursue it. That way you'll stop trying to fill the void with STUFF.