My mother used to say that you should never burn money.
Of course, she didn’t smoke!
But what she really meant was never pay someone else to do things you can easily do for yourself.
She was – as were many of her generation – an industrious person.
Learn to cook.
Learn to clean.
Learn to sew.
Learn to fix simple things around the house.
Learn to be more independent than you are at present.
Yes, everyone can do with an inexpensive hobby. If you are young or socially inclined, choose one in which you can meet others with the same interest.
How does this save money?
It’s about spending less by gaining more. If you are not doing something enjoyable and profitable – playing a sport, joining a book club, learning a skill and meeting people etc., – you are likely going to spend time on much more expensive pursuits: drinking, smoking, shopping, filling in time…and missing out on a lot as well. A vicious circle.
The most successful people I know are out there doing things that cost a lot less that making the publican or local fashion retailers rich!
This is a life-long commitment to be more of a doer than a don’ter.
Don’ters consume more!
Don’t waste money on harsh abrasive metal cleaners.
Just google “clean microwave lemon” and do as they say!
Most people never think to do this. But it will keep your machine running better and much, much longer.
Refer to your manual.
You will probably be shocked at how dirty it is underneath when you do what the manufacturer recommends!
Mix baking soda (1 part) to cornstarch (6 parts).
Mix and shake in a container. Use a powder puff to add like talcum powder.
Milk is expensive. Good for you, sure, but costly over time.
Substitute with whole milk powder – that is with full fat. (Skim milk is a total rip-off that makes you fatter over time, not thinner).
Or learn to take your tea and coffee black.
The trick to making up milk powder is to use cool water and stir.
You can also add a drop of vanilla essence to give it a fresher taste.
Buy a good quality hip flask.
Fill it with tap water, and carry it with you at all times.
The more water you drink, the healthier you are (within reason), and you will eat less and save more.
And over time you’ll save on drinking expensive beverages such as sugar water (sodas etc.)
If you get bored with water, occasionally you can always add a drop or two of Angostura bitters.
Good old dishwashing liquid works just as well!
Of course, use sunshine when you can.
But when you must use the drier, add a thick, dry towel to a wet load.
The clothes dry quicker.
Make an effort to discover when your cheap time periods kick in and kick out for electricity.
Ask your electricity provider. Write them down and keep them in view to remind you.
Observe them.