Guest post from Liz of The Quick Journey
As a momma to four kiddos and one handsome hubby, I am always on the lookout for ways to stretch our money and still live well. Many people think that giving up the “two-income” lifestyle means that everything else goes with it.
Sure, you’ll probably need to pare down some, but life doesn’t need to be boring and stifling. I have found 5 tried and true ways to save our pennies and still enjoy a good life:
1. Set Goals
It is so important to set goals for your family. When you have goals in place, it makes it easier to save those pennies because you get to dream about the reward at the end of the journey.
Goals also add resolve when things might get tough. Remember, pennies add up to dollars and dollars to hundreds of dollars. So every penny counts toward your family goal!
2. Find Free Family Fun
Instead of spending a lot of money going on expensive family trips, find ways to enjoy each other without spending the money. Some great ways to “stay-cation” would be to gather around a campfire and roast s’mores with the fall season coming up. Or, go to the park for a family picnic.
Then, when you do get to experience a “true” family vacation, it will be well appreciated and the experience will be much sweeter.
3. Eliminate Desires
It is simple: the less I see, the less I want.
When we transitioned into a one-income family, I had to eliminate desires from our home. That meant eliminating TV so commercials didn’t create the “I want” effect for both my husband, myself, and the kids. The less we saw, the less we wanted things.
I also limit my time on Pinterest and websites that drive my desires. When I go shopping, I avoid those areas that encourage me to spend on things I don’t need.
4. Limit Shopping Trips:
The more I go to the store, the more I buy. Because of this, I only go to the store twice a month to prevent extra buying opportunities.
I also go with a list and stick closely to the list. Not only does this help with “little” purchases here and there, but it saves on gas!
5. Utilize Bargain Shopping
Aldi has been mentioned here on the blog many times. I love shopping Aldi and reaping the rewards that go along with that!
I also think a great way to purchase products is second-hand. Whether it be thrifting or garage saling, it saves money and still allows the shopper to enjoy “new” items without breaking their budget!
These are simple ways to pinch pennies and not feel too restricted. They have worked great for our family and I hope they work for yours as well!
What would add to my list?
Liz is a stay-at-home, homeschooling momma to four precious kiddos. She finds joy in the little moments and enjoys spending her evenings snuggled up with her handsome “high school sweetheart” hubby. Liz blogs at The Quick Journey where she shares her journey through motherhood.
<!–
–>
Source: moneysavingmom.com