In this life, we all have things we cherish and want to be able to know how to handle. Our projects, each other, and precious moments just to name a few. We know that, if we’re not careful, we can lose the things we have and potentially never regain them ever again. A little lapse in concentration or a stupid decision can be super costly. These particular things that we hold so dear to us are often handled with the utmost care and decency.
Another aspect of our lives that we treat wisely is money. The stuff we need not only for our own health and living situation, but for the moments we might want to create, and the dreams that we need to bring into reality. Yes, there are many people on this planet that are careless; they often throw away the money they receive like none of it matters, but those aren’t reflective of the society and the communities we’re in.
Unfortunately, for many families and individuals, even a healthy amount of money is seemingly not enough to pay the bills or maintain a decent livelihood. This kind of terrible situation always leads to crazy decisions and wacky lifestyles in order to make ends meet. This line of erratic thinking is completely understandable, however, because people need to do whatever they can to make sure they and everyone around them are doing fine in this mad world. Not everyone is an expert on life; even fewer people know much about economics and the money-handling.
Okay, some people are stuck in crazy situations that are almost impossible to get out of, but that accounts for a fraction of a percentage of instances. The vast majority of us out that can all save money or build on what we have quite plainly and simply. Of course, these actions aren’t completely menial because they may require some time and effort, but the ideas aren’t something you won’t be able to grasp.
Those at the top and those that are able to live comfortable lives aren’t anything special. We, as a society, like to put them on a pedestal, but really they’re just like you and I. They just managed to figure a few things out whereas you’re not quite at that stage yet – that’s pretty much it. If you want to be able to be smarter with your money, then that’s a good first step. Every journey begins with a single step, and choosing to change things up a little is a good start. If you have a few minutes, then why not read on as we go through a few things you should do and change? It may turn out to benefit your life massively from here on in.
Gain Some Perspective
The first thing you need to do before you make actual, tangible changes is to recognize why you have to and just what all of this means. The way somebody is with money is more than just a simple earning, saving, and exchanging of notes, coins, and bank details. Their behavior in this manner lies much deeper; it’s their entire way of viewing life displayed through this one particular facet.
It sounds as though we’re getting a little too into the psychological side, but really what we’re talking about here is that you must adopt the right mindset and attitude towards life as a whole. You have to value everything that you receive and put a lot of worth into what you have around you. If you can do that, then you’ll be mentally set for the future in terms of your money. You don’t exactly have to adopt the mentality of a minimalist, but simply recognizing the value of dough will stand you in good stead going forward.
Get Yourself Sorted Out!
Getting into the right frame of mind in terms of perspective is one thing, but you also need to get yourself sorted out on a holistic level. When you’re not yourself, you often make rash decisions.
You’ve probably done this heaps of times before regarding less serious topics. Struggling with money is understandably a bit of a nightmare, but if you can get everything operating right in your head and with your body, then you’ll be better prepared to do the right things. Eating properly, trying to get enough rest, practicing positivity, and all of that good stuff should do you some good before.
Don’t Be Impulsive!
Okay, the first actual task you need to actively do is practice inactivity! It’s so easy to see something you might want or need – don’t act on it without thinking it through. In this day and age, with things available with a simple press of a button, we can get a little carried away. It’s also difficult because of the way things are advertised online: large flashing lights and attractive messages don’t help our self-control.
Do your best not to make any rash judgments. Talk through things with your family or friends first. This obviously applies to silly impulse buys regarding small purchases. It also means not making huge decisions based on scarcity or fear.
Cancel Unnecessary Subscriptions
You definitely have some! We all have those silly, unnecessary ties to memberships we don’t need or streaming services we barely watch. If you’ve managed to get rid of them, then that’s fab. If you’re still walking around with those stupid bill payments falling out of your account every month, then you should probably do something about it. We often keep subscribed due to a couple of reasons. Reason number one is that we feel comfortable with the subscriptions; the idea of unsubscribing might be a silly idea because we MIGHT want to use it again in the future. The second reason is down to sheer laziness. It takes about five minutes to get it all over and done with, but because it’s quite a tedious thing to do, we often just ignore it and get on with other things we have planned.
Fewer Nights Out!
Going out and socializing costs money. Some can get away with spending very little, but in order to have a good time, you need to exchange money for the services! It’s crazy because life is about living, so not making the most of it sounds stupid, but it’s pretty necessary if you want a healthier life overall. One fewer night out won’t hurt your memory bank, but it could do some serious damage to your actual bank.
Work On Your Negotiating
This is obviously a skill that needs a bit of practice and honing, but we can all do it. You don’t have to be an expert haggler to get what you want. For instance, you can get a better deal on things like gas and electric bills by simply stating that you wish to leave for a rival company. If you explain to them that they’re offering you a much better deal, then they might convince you to stay but better what was proposed to you. The same applies to TV and the internet. Imagine what you could do once you build up a little confidence in this particular area.
Always Be On The Lookout For The Best Rates
This might be a small victory, but it would be a victory nonetheless if you could get it right. Every so often, the interest rates on your savings are going to drop. You want as much money as possible, right? So you’ll have to scan for the next best thing. You can look online and read about banking with Bank of America, Capital One, and a ton of different places. Idling could mean you miss out on some extra cash – keep on your toes.
Sell Things You Really Don’t Need
Much like with the subscriptions, you’re definitely hoarding things you don’t need. You might think you’re going to use certain items again, but you’re not, and they’re just lying around gathering dust. Sell them online, at a yard sale, or somewhere that’ll take what you have. Let go and make a little more money.
Drive Less
A car costs and absolute fortune. Running the thing also costs a bomb. Gas, repairs, insurance, and yearly test all take its toll on your numbers. If it’s possible to do so, you should probably walk or cycle more. Walking costs nothing. Unnecessary laziness could cost you more than you think.
Look For Bargains Without Going Too Crazy
When you’re out shopping for your groceries and other necessities, you often opt for what you’re used to and what you’re comfortable with. That’s fine because we all have our comfort zones and we like to stick with them. But if you can get pretty much the exact same stuff for less, then that’s probably the right thing to do. If might taste SLIGHTLY different, or it might take a LITTLE getting used to, but it would be worth it if your monthly outgoings start looking a lot healthier.