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 Today, we are living in tough times. The entire global economy is on a downswing and we must do what we can to save our money as much and as early as possible even if it wants us to “force” ourselves for doing it. Yes, we can't change the big scenario alone, but we at least can take hold of our own circumstances and make changes now to help ensure the security of our household.
Here are some major steps you can take in order start saving money.
1-FOCUS ON SPENDING
I-Write down every penny you spend on a daily basis and regularly so that you can see and check what, where and why you are spending your money on.
II-Do away what you don't need, look around your house, search and select those things that are not needful, sell them.
III-Refinance the mortgage on your home to decrease your house payments by several hundred dollars.
IV-Cut back on entertainment expenses. For example, instead of purchasing your favorite DVD, you can either look online for used versions or rent the movie. You can do the same with music and video games.
V-Educate your kids about how to save money. Make them understand how important money is and the impact that it will have on their lives.
2- DEPOSIT AT BANK
I-Open a savings account and determine how you will be saving everyday, month, quarter, mid year and every year and you will be well-prepared and equipped economically, especially when unseen circumstances arise.
II-You can ask your employer to put at least 10% of payment into a high interest bank account, after a while you won’t miss it.
III-Consider putting your money into a term deposit so as to lock it in there for x months and you won’t get it out.
IV-If your spouse is good at saving then ask him / her to setup an individual bank account where your money can be safely stored and you won’t have access to it.
V-Using an interest-based current account will give you an advantage of withdrawing with cheques or ATM. You will have to always leave some balance in the account daily and it will yield interest.
3- GET DISCOUNTS
I-Get the best discounts on the things you buy and need to buy so that you do not over pay and you are satisfied with your purchase.
II-Look for freebies, rent instead of buying and buy things in bulk, use recycle papers and look for used good off the internet.
III-Utilize package deals on cable, internet, and phone from cable companies at a discounted rate.
IV-Clipping and using coupons is a great way to save money on everyday expenses. Coupons are abundant through local newspapers and the mail and are very easy to collect, and you can really get quite a few fairly quick.
V-While shopping, take advantage of sales and other consumer schemes e.g. buy one get one free. For grocery shopping, check if you can search for some big whole sales stores instead of making expensive purchases at typical retail shops.
4-SAVE ENERGY AND FUEL
I-Reduce your electricity bills by turning off the lights when not used or turning up the temperature of your refrigerator. Use florescent light bulbs in your house. Only use the dishwasher when it is full.
II-Think of replacing your old appliances with energy-saving devices which carry labels being an energy saver.
III-If you insulate your home, it will reduce the cost of heating and cooling.
IV-If you're a homeowner, consider converting over to a gas water heater. They are much more efficient which will help save money over time.
V-Save gasoline for your automobile by check tires regularly, accelerating and decelerating slowly while running and removing unnecessary weight. Keep filters/converters clean and if possible, try to keep windows and sunroofs closed especially at high speeds.
5-INVEST WISELY
1-You can lend money to financial institutions for a specified time so that, later, your money can be repayed to you with interest. A lot of investing options are available nowadays, such as bonds, insurances, stocks, etc.
2-Avoid being in debt and manage your investment plans well. Refrain from debts that involve high interest rates.
3-If you prefer a long term saving option, the insured account of money markets can be your choice. Since it is for a long term basis, the financial institution gives a high interest rate.
4-You can also invest your money in collectibles and other items that will grow in value over time. You know that they are going to grow, so you hold on to them until the time comes that you need to sell them.
5-You should also focus on the primary investment areas e.g. stock market, share market, real estate, business, partnerships, joint ventures etc. Choose an option that suits you the best.
Summing up, if you know the right ways, it is easy to make money. With little imagination, creativity and self-discipline, you can help yourself in holding your hard-earned money to a great extent.
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