Cut The Costs And Keep The Change: Part 6
A way that I have helped myself recently with spending money is to ask myself 5 questions with just about every purchase I make. They questions are:
1. Do I really NEED that?
2. It is worth the amount I will pay? ( mentally, physically, and emotionally)
3. Can I afford this?
4. Is there anything better I could do with this money?
5. Have I compared other prices and am I knowledgeable about the purchase?
As I am making purchases, even on food, I ask myself these. In the last couple months, so many things I have put back, waited on buying, or didn’t even consider buying because of these questions. Asking yourself these questions will make you really are think bringing a lot of stuff into your home that may be just a good deal.
When I started couponing, I thought I had to take advantage of EVERY good deal out there. I couldn’t pass it up. It is a great deal! I was spending still $50-$60 a week on groceries for my family of 4. better then before but still more then I should be. When I decided to become a bit more serious about my money spending so we could save more for the car, I realized how much I was wasting just because it was a good deal. Everything that goes on sale, will go on sale again. and if you pass it up now because you don’t really need it doesn’t mean it is gone forever.
This has been a big change for me and has kept me from overspending and helping me to even underspend. I am now taking my grocery budget even lower then it was so we have more to put towards the car.
The other tip that connects with this is that when making big purchases wait at least a week to consider if you really ned the item. Some people even suggest waiting up to 30 days so you are really sure you need the item and it isn’t just a want that you have made into a need. This also gives you time to shop around and make sure you are getting the best deal around. This doesn’t have to be done with all purchases, just the big purchases you make that usually are saved up for.
These 2 things will change your thinking and save you tons of money!
