photo by ms.Tea

If you don’t have to be frugal, you probably let some of your penny-pinching strategies slide. But eventually you’ll notice that your budget is taking a hit because you’ve been slacking. You might even start wondering where your money is going. Don’t wait until you absolutely have to buckle down, because when tough times hit, you want to have little to no debt and a decent financial cushion. There are a few frugal practices that are most often set aside. The good news is, they’re some of the easiest to pick right back up again and add to your routine.

FOOD PLANNING: It’s easy to fall into the habit of eating out, not packing a lunch, wasting leftovers, using convenience foods and not planning your food shopping. Vending machines, drive-through windows and boxed snacks are a decision away. Keep your money in your wallet, and don’t get lazy. Plan ahead by scanning your pantry and creating meals based on food you already have. Work toward stocking up on a few nonperishable items to build up your pantry. Consider starting a backyard garden or planting fruit trees. Compile and try new budget recipes. The frugal alternatives don’t take hours of your time. It’s a mere few extra minutes. Not enough time every day? No problem. How about once or twice a week? Looking for a new hobby? Try couponing, shopping your local farmer’s market, home canning, preserving or dehydrating. Think about your health, too.

UTILITY CONSUMPTION: Letting this area fall by the wayside makes a big difference in your budget. Be mindful of your usage of electricity from appliances, lighting, computers and televisions. Notice how much water you’re using, too. When you pay attention to utilities, you become more aware of wastefulness. If you haven’t switched to compact fluorescent bulbs, make the leap.

DRIVING: With current gas prices, senseless driving can put a sizable dent in your finances. Combine your errands so you’re not doing any unnecessary driving. Consider biking, taking the bus, walking and carpooling, too. Empty your car of items you don’t need, keep tires inflated and drive the speed limit for better fuel economy.

TREATS: It’s nice to treat yourself from time to time, but are you overindulging? Even bargain shopping can be a money leak. Too often, garage sales and thrift stores end up as excuses for excessive recreational shopping. Think through each deal before buying it. Don’t “save” yourself into bankruptcy.

NO-SPEND DAYS: Challenge yourself to have days that you don’t spend any money at all. It’s an essentials-only adventure. Stay at home and be proud that, through planning, you’re not doing any extra spending. Do you really need money to entertain yourself or be fulfilled? Find out.

KEEP TRACK: Keeping track of where your money is going identifies your weak areas. Look at your options, and make decisions daily on whether you want to save money that takes time or save time that costs money. Frugal living is conscious living. Even if you can afford not to be frugal, it doesn’t make sense not to want the most for your hard-earned money.

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