It’s funny how little changes can have such a big impact! Let me share a few things I've been doing that have kept my wallet fuller.
Morning Coffee at Home
First up is my coffee game. I used to be a regular at Starbucks; I had to grab a latte on my way to work in the morning. I realized that my daily coffee habit was expensive, lol besides dehydration (that's a story for another day)! It was really adding up, let's do the math, about $7 a day six days a week for 52 weeks = $2,184 a year. So, I’ve taken things into my own hands, literally, haha, by making my coffee at home. I bought a few cute to-go cups from the discount store, I think I spent $3 on 12 cups with lids. Not only is it more affordable, but it’s also a comforting way to start my mornings. I typically sit with my cup and take a few sips while I read my morning devotional and bible.
Picking Up a New Hobby: Guitar
Another unexpected money-saver? Learning to play the guitar! I started weekly guitar lessons in September, and it’s been amazing. Since then, I’ve spent a lot of my evenings practicing at home instead of spending money going out. Practicing at home has become a little evening routine for me, giving me something fun to focus on. Also, playing guitar is surprisingly therapeutic and relaxing! I get to develop a new skill, have a great time, and save on entertainment costs because I’m perfectly content to stay in and "play". My goal is to play my favorite Corrine Bailey Rae song by January.
Cooking More, Spending Less
This one was a real mental shift! If you know me, you know that I am a foodie. I love checking out new restaurants for the food, the décor, the vibes, but I had to tell myself what do I want more? A great meal or to by my own home? (Side bar, the cost of rent in New Jersey, NYC, and Connecticut has become way too high) To jump us back on track, I’ve been loving cooking at home more often. Not only am I eating better, but my fitness and energy levels have also improved. Knowing I have a home-cooked meal waiting for me is the best motivator to skip takeout, plus for some reason lately the food at restaurants have not been that great. I love trying new recipes and I’ve noticed that by cooking my meals, I’m not only saving money, but I also have so much more energy. It’s amazing how a homemade meal can make you feel so much better than takeout.
Saving and Savoring
At first, I didn’t think these little changes would make much of a difference financially, but there were days when I would not spend anything at all. I started leaving all my credit cards at home and only taking my debit card. At first it was hard because I was so used to carrying them, but I loved not using credit cards. Making coffee, practicing guitar, and cooking at home might sound simple and boring, but they’ve helped me save some money! It’s a great reminder that sometimes, saving money isn’t about depriving yourself but finding ways to enjoy life with a little creativity and intention. If you’re looking for ways to save money, I highly recommend trying some small lifestyle shifts. You never know what unexpected joys (and savings) they might bring!
~Charlie
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