How to Save More Money

Saving money often feels like an elusive goal that everyone else seems to understand, but perhaps you have never really grasped how exactly people accomplish this. The truth is saving money is simple, but it is not easy. It takes self-discipline, plain and simple. But, because it is not complicated, anyone who is willing to learn new habits can start to save more money and ultimately build wealth over time.

Let's look at a few simple things you can do that will really start to save you more money.

Eat At Home

You have probably heard this one before, and that is because this is a tried and true way to save money. Even with the rising cost of groceries, it is still cheaper to cook at home than it is to eat out. However, there is one important thing you should note. Eating at home is only cheaper if you are planning simple meals carefully, using leftovers wisely, and actually sticking to the plan.

What many people wind up doing is planning to eat at home, spending money on groceries, and then giving up mid week and still spending money on more out to eat. This does not save you money. In fact, this will actually cost more money than if you just ate out like usual.

To truly eat at home cheaply, plan simple meals, only buy what you need, cut back on snacks, eat all of your leftovers, and stick to your menu.

Do A Gas Mileage Makeover

Is your vehicle getting the best possible gas mileage? You may think so, but there are hidden gas sucking habits that you might want to check up on. Hauling junk around in your vehicle, going too long between oil changes, low tire pressure, and breaking and accelerating hard are all habits that eat into your gas mileage. Correct those bad habits to start seeing a break in your gas expenses.

Use your newfound money from this article to start saving in sinking funds categories! This will help plan ahead for large and infrequent expenses>>

Start Thrifting

A lot of what eats into money we could be saving is the imagined need for new. For instance, if you need new shoes, that does not necessarily mean you need "new" shoes. You simply need shoes and you might be able to find the shoes you need at a thrift store. Buying gently used items can dramatically change how much money you spend over a month or a year. As an experiment, dedicate a month to not buying new. If you need something, find a used option. Not only does this help to save money, but it also creates less waste on our planet.

Start A Savings Job

Today the gig economy makes it possible to earn money in tons of unique ways. It is no longer necessary to take on the commitment of a second job to earn extra money. Rather, you can earn money in your spare time. Often, people take on gig work in order to pay for expenses. But what if you took on a side job just for savings? Do you have a savings goal in mind? Perhaps you want to finally have your 3-6 months of expenses saved up like money experts advise. How long would you need to work a side job to put that money away? Taking on side work specifically for your savings goals is a great way to change how you think of your money, and to create more financial stability in your life.

Jenn writes at her blog healthyhappyimpactful.com. She’s a mom of three looking to learn and grow. Check it out if you love helpful tips on health, family, and personal growth.