Tips and Advice
Tips to start saving
Is one of your New Year's resolutions to start saving? Don't wait for the midnight bells to start taking care of your money. Follow these tips to make your paycheck stretch further and finally start saving.
Create a budget for the whole month. First things first. Calculate all your expenses and subtract them from your income. This way, you'll know how much money you need to allocate for bills, rent, and transportation, and how much you can use for food.
Plan your menus weekly. Forget about improvising every day. Start the year by making a weekly menu. Think of dishes that include more or less the same ingredients, so you won't have to buy so many things and you'll waste less.
Make a list before going to the supermarket. Never go to the supermarket again without knowing exactly what you need in the kitchen. After planning your meals for the week, check your fridge and pantry to see what's missing. And when you go to the store, stick to buying only what you find on the list.
Have a snack before shopping. A super tip on how to save that never fails is: don't go to the supermarket on an empty stomach. Many times we end up buying things we don't need just because of cravings. To avoid this, eat something before shopping, so you won't fall into the temptation of the cookie aisle.
Buy seasonal fruits and vegetables. Not only is it much cheaper, but it also allows you to enjoy fresh and tastier products. Research which fruits and vegetables are in season and design your meals using these ingredients.
Prepare your lunch and snacks at home. Visits to the convenience store and meals from the quesadilla stand may seem like minimal expenses, but in the long run, they end up costing you more than a meal at a good restaurant. The best way to save and take care of your health is to prepare all your food at home.
Now, start the year off on the right foot and begin saving today.
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