Get a library card for your local library. Find out what they offer. Many library networks offer more than just books to lend. You can often get media (movies, music, ebooks, etc), museum passes, internet access, access to community events, etc. Take advantage of this free resource.
finance
#117 – use coupons
You don’t have to go crazy, but spending a few minutes searching for an online coupon code, using an offer received in the mail, or asking a sales clerk or checkout person if there are any discounts you are eligible for, could save you some money. If it takes too long to find an active code, or the process to get the discount is onerous, it may not be worth the aggravation, but a few seconds to save real dollars? Definitely worth it!
#108 – free shipping & returns
Take advantage of free shipping & returns offers from online stores. That is a great way to compare items in different sizes, colors, and even from different stores. Make sure you make any returns before the time limit is up though, otherwise you could get stuck with something you don’t want; a waste of space and money.
#104 – learn to cook
Everyone should be able to make some simple meals. If you are new to the kitchen, start with meals that involve little cooking (i.e. salads, sandwiches), and/or that don’t have a lot of ingredients. Take a cooking class to gain confidence. Watch instructional videos (cooking shows, Youtube videos, etc.). Order from a meal kit service if you aren’t sure what to buy. If possible, make extra and freeze or save your leftovers for the next day.
#102 – eat eggs
Eating eggs with breakfast will help keep you full all day. Make an omelet. Eat eggs with toast or potatoes. Buy an egg sandwich or breakfast burrito. Keep hard-boiled eggs in your fridge. Eggs are delicious, inexpensive, and nutritious!
#101 – buy basics discounted
Buy basics (underwear, undershirts, bras, pantyhose/tights, socks, leggings, etc.) on sale or at discount or outlet stores. Since these are items that are worn year-round, and sizes tend not to fluctuate as much, stock up when you find something you like for a good price. With coupons and clearance racks, you should be able to get these items for at least 50% off.
#99 – do a 30 day challenge
Whether it is a 30 day challenge to encourage you to read more, exercise, eat better, or get better at a hobby, 30 day challenges are less intimidating way to develop habits, skills, or just try something new. Track your finances (to the cent!) for 30 days. Run or walk outside 1 mile every day for 30 days. Cut fast food from your diet for 30 days. Get up 30 minutes earlier every day for 30 days. The options are endless.
#96 – eat leftovers
Instead of throwing away food left over after a meal, wrap up and eat the leftovers later. You’ll save money in the long run, and reduce food waste. Make sure you properly reheat any leftovers that need to be warmed up. Using the appropriate reheating technique (on the stove, in the oven, in the microwave, etc) will ensure your meal is just as good (or better!) the second time around.
#92 – don’t tailgate
Tailgating wastes gas, because you are constantly having to hit the brakes, and then step on the gas pedal to get moving again. If you back off a bit, you will need to brake less, and can coast more.
Tailgating also puts you at higher risk of rear-ending another car, and if that happens, your car insurance could skyrocket. Just don’t do it. Don’t tailgate.
#87 – pets aren’t a right
Please don’t have pets if you can’t afford to take care of them. If you struggle with the cost to provide them with food, vet visits, litter, grooming, care, medicine, treatment for injury or illness, or have to make sacrifices to your life to afford those things (not paying bills or feeding yourself), then you should not have a pet. Having a pet is not a right, it is a responsibility.
