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Saving money is easier than you think
Megan Logan, FCS/4-H Extension Educator
Some people may believe that it is hard to save money. What many consumers do not realize is that saving money is easier if steps are taken slowly and thoughtfully.
Sissy Osteen, Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service resource management specialist, said the mistake some people make is they believe saving can be done only in large increments.
“Getting your finances in order can be obtained by making small, simple changes,” Osteen said. “For some people, just getting up an hour earlier can save money in the long run. Using the extra time each morning gives them time to make lunch to take to work instead of rushing out the door and telling themselves they will just eat out that day.”
Another way to save money without even noticing is by using less of your health and beauty products such as shampoo, toothpaste, soap, mouthwash and conditioner. Many consumers use more of these products than necessary. Manufacturers encourage consumption because it sells more products. Try using half the amount of shampoo than normal and see if you can tell any difference. A small, pea-sized bead of toothpaste is plenty. Simply using half of what you normally use results in needing to purchase half as much, which results in money in your pocket.
Now that cooler weather is on its way, it may be tempting to take long, hot showers every morning. In an effort to cut down on water and energy consumption, limit showers to no more than 10 minutes.
“Since you’re now getting up earlier, you’ll have time to fix breakfast at home,” she said. “Eating a healthy breakfast at home is cheaper and more nutritious than running through the drive-through at a local fast-food restaurant. An added bonus is the healthy breakfast will give you the stamina and energy level you need to get through the day and might even provide enough time to enjoy talking with family members.”
Another energy drain that consumers often overlook is phantom electricity. Even if an electronic device is not in use, it is still using electricity. Electronics such as a VCR or microwave oven usually have a clock that requires electricity, even when not in use. It is a good idea to plug such products into a power strip that can be turned off when you leave the house or even use a timer that is set to come on when you are there and go off when you leave.
Although the vending machine at work can be very tempting, it is much more economical to keep your own stash of snacks. This will allow you to have healthier options and the cost per item is much lower than vending machine prices.
“Anytime you’re cooking a meal at home, plan to have leftovers that you can take to work for lunch later in the week,” Osteen said. “It can be tempting to just grab lunch at a nearby restaurant, but those costs can add up quickly. What’s important to realize is that savings can add up over time by making a few changes you probably won’t even notice. For encouragement, try putting the amount you save into a jar for a week at a time. Count savings each week and deposit them in the bank. It won’t help to save the money until you take this step. Getting into these habits can help with development of more personal control and build the bank account at the same time.”
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Oklahoma State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture, State and Local Governments Cooperating: The Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, or status as a veteran, and is an equal opportunity employer.
