Hello everyone! This is Anna, and I'm back to talk about the art of saving money. Yeah, I know, this is something a little different from my usual topics, but this is the curveball that real life throws you when you turn 25 and need to think about your future while managing your current budget.
As a 25-year-old, I'm just at the beginning of my way toward building a career and taking on more responsibilities in my personal life. And I bet I'm not the only one who finds it a bit challenging. But this is the time of my life when effectively managing my finances is more important than ever. And luckily, I gradually discovered that saving money doesn't always mean sacrificing your lifestyle. Today, I'm going to talk about non-obvious ways to keep more money in your pocket without feeling like you're missing out. Moreover, I also have some useful tips on making more personal savings for those who love to steep in the wonderful world of books and movies. Let's get started!
1. Use Cashback Apps
Cashback apps are a great way to earn money while you shop. Apps like Rakuten and Ibotta give you cash back when you make purchases at participating stores. You just need to simply link your credit or debit card to the app to get started. The application will automatically track your purchases and give you extra cash on qualifying items. This is a simple way to save money without changing your shopping habits.
2. Opt for DIY
Of course, delegation is good. But sometimes it can be better to do things yourself instead of paying people to do them for you. For example, you can save money on a monthly gym membership and start working out at home or outside. There are plenty of online workout classes that you can join absolutely for free. Whatever your fitness level is, you can find a class that will suit you. Also, you can save money on eating out by cooking your own meals at home. In addition to making personal savings, you will also learn new skills and become self-sufficient.
3. Buy Used
Buying used items can help you save a lot of money, especially when it comes to big-ticket items like cars and furniture. Websites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace make it easy to find gently used items for a fraction of the cost of new ones. Plus, buying used is better for the environment as it reduces waste. Thus, you can kill two birds with one stone.
4.Take Advantage of Free Entertainment
To be honest, entertainment can be expensive. But there are plenty of free options available. When I first started my research, I was pleasantly surprised with the number of museums, parks, and cultural institutions that offer free admission on certain days or have suggested donation policies. Check your local listings for free concerts, festivals, and other events. You can also check out books, movies, and music from your local library for free.
5. Use Discount Codes
Before making a purchase online, be sure to search for discount codes. Websites like RetailMeNot can help you find coupon codes for your favorite retailers. Thanks to this option, you can save from a few dollars to a significant percentage of your purchase amount.
6. Reduce Your Energy Use
Reducing your energy use can save you money on your utility bills. Try to turn off lights when you leave a room, use a programmable thermostat to regulate your heating and cooling, and unplug electronics when they're not in use. Small changes can add up to big savings.
7.Negotiate Your Bills
Many people don't realize that they can negotiate their bills. Call your cable or internet provider and ask for a better deal. The worst they can say is no, but you might be surprised at how much money you can save by simply asking.
Options to Save on Your Hobbies
As book lovers and movie buffs, we all know how expensive it can be to keep up with our hobbies. Purchasing books and movie tickets can be more expensive than you expect. But don't worry. There are many ways to save money while still enjoying all of the content that we love.
Here are some tips on how to make savings while indulging in your love for books and movies:
1. Utilize Your Local Library
Your local library is a great resource for books, movies, and more. Most libraries now have online systems where you can place a hold on a book or movie from the comfort of your own home. And the best part? It's completely free!
2. Use Discount Bookstores
Many cities have discount bookstores where you can purchase gently used books for a fraction of the cost. These stores are great for finding books that may be out of print or no longer available at your local bookstore. Moreover, you will receive a book with a unique story and energy.
3. Check out Online Streaming Services
With the rise of online streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime, it becomes easier than ever to watch movies and TV shows from the comfort of your own home. You can save money by subscribing to these services instead of going to the movie theater. Of course, the subscription is not free. However, it can really help you save money in the long run.
4. Take Advantage of Book Sales
Bookstores and online retailers often have sales. Thus, you can purchase books at a discounted price. Keep an eye out for these sales and stock up on your favorites. Also, you can combine this tip with those mentioned above and search for a discount code or use a cashback app that partners with your favorite book retailer.
5. Use Ebooks and Audiobooks
Ebooks and audiobooks are a great way to reduce your hobby-related expenses. They are not only cheaper but also more convenient to read if you like reading on the road, for example. Various apps like OverDrive can provide you with access to unlimited ebooks and audiobooks for free or for a reasonable fee.
6. Borrow from Friends
If you have friends who also love books, consider borrowing from each other. This option allows you not only to save money but also to share your favorite titles with each other.
As you can see, saving money doesn't have to be a chore. Our world doesn't stand steel. By applying some modern solutions, you can easily save money while still enjoying your hobbies and maintaining a normal lifestyle. There are many options available to you, even if you're temporarily on a low budget. So go ahead and make a few smart decisions to enjoy your life while creating an emergency fund without breaking the bank.
I hope you found these tips helpful. Until next time!
