Let’s face it; we could all use a little extra money through saving it or earning more of it. Try these simple ideas to increase your cash flow and improve your finances.
Nine ways to improve your finances
1. Start a circle of giving. Are you living paycheck-to-paycheck? Is it hard to afford the things you need? Well, it should come as no surprise that many people are in the same boat. Maybe even your friends and family. Much like the adage “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” People you know may have something you need that they don’t and vice versa. Building a group of people that lend, swap or give items away can help provide clothing, furniture, electronic devices and more. You may even consider expanding your close-knit circle into a community group. Facebook makes it easy to bring people together and post things you need or have available.
2. Unplug. Many electronic devices, even when turned off, are actually in standby mode and still consuming power. Such appliances may include TV’s, computers, printers and a myriad of others. Think of them as little electronic vampires consuming your hard earned money. While you can’t stake these vampires, you can cut off their power source, reducing cost and electricity waste and that’s sort of the same thing. Cutting off a power source is as simple as unplugging the device (or switching off a power strip) but let’s face it, while we love the idea, in theory, the reality is it can be a real pain to remember to unplug everyday devices. If this sounds familiar, we recommend a smart power strip. A smart power strip cuts power to your device automatically when certain conditions are met. Conditions may include motion detection, idle time or switching the device off, depending on what type of smart power strip you purchase and your particular setup.
3. Live simply. Cut back on things that are unnecessary. Don’t buy expensive body washes, lotions, potions or perfumes when a basic soap and deodorant will do. Cleaning products are expensive (and sometimes toxic) so make your own cheaper, healthier cleaning products. Ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, lemon, borax, salt and castile soap will clean almost anything! Cutting back on pricey cleaning and personal care products will keep your money in the bank and create a healthier environment.
4. Cancel subscriptions. Yes, mailers, catalogs, and magazines can be fun to look through, but they also encourage impulse buying and lead to mail clutter and collecting things you don’t need. Coupons are great, but only to purchase items you use regularly (not just because you have a coupon). It is for this reason we recommend canceling your subscriptions and unsubscribing from retailers. Instead, search for specific coupons on store or manufacturers websites, or perform a simple online search.
To stop receiving unsolicited mail, go to the Direct Marketing Association’s (DMA) consumer website and register with DMAchoice™ an online tool developed by the Data & Marketing Association to help you manage your mail. There is a $2 processing fee, and it is good for ten years. https://dmachoice.thedma.org/register.php.
You can also opt out of credit card and insurance offers for five years or permanently by going to https://www.optoutprescreen.com/opt_form.cgi.
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5. Plan your weekly menu. Food is an expense that can quickly balloon out of control, especially with the addition of pre-made food, take-out meals, and restaurants. Instead, make simple meals with whole foods. Take advantage of kitchen tools that make cooking easier, such as a crockpot. Prepare your meals in advance and freeze them to make meals effortless throughout the week. Planning meals will also make it easier to repurpose ingredients and leftovers. Meal plans are a great way to save both time and money.
6. Find cheaper hobbies. Visiting free public spaces such as community gardens, museums, community events or going out into nature on hikes are among the free or inexpensive activities that can replace more costly ones. Local blogs and websites make it easy to explore options.
7. Share your space. Do you have an ailing older family member or a fledgling college graduate? Consider moving them in and splitting the bills. Living with family members will help everyone find their financial footing. Sharing the household responsibilities is a bonus.
8. Start a side business. With online technology and the ease at which you can reach vast amounts of people, there has never been a better time to explore entrepreneurship. Turn your baking hobby into a business, or your knowledge into an online instructional book. Whatever it is you love to do or excel at; it can be turned into a small business, often with low overhead. Now is a great time to bring in extra income and take control of your financial life.
9. Don’t accept the posted price. Surprisingly, even in mainstream stores, prices are more negotiable than you think. If you’ve seen a lower price listed elsewhere, don’t hesitate to ask the store clerk if they can match it. Ask if there are any “in-store” coupons available at the register when you check out. If you see product packaging is damaged, ask if they will discount it. The worst-case scenario is they’ll say “no.”