9 Clever Ways to Save Money on Your Daily Coffee Fix

As someone who occasionally drinks coffee, I consider myself a moderate coffee drinker, finding myself somewhere between my friends who are frequent visitors of coffee shops and those who have never tried a cup of joe.

Although I can easily spend S$3-5 on a delicious coffee beverage at a cozy coffee shop to start my day, I understand that this can quickly add up if done on a daily basis.

For those who can’t live without coffee, exploring money-saving strategies is worth considering. After all, daily caffeine consumption can be costly, and taking steps to save money can have a significant impact in the long run. Start with these 9 hacks:

#1: SIGN-UP FOR LOYALTY PROGRAMS

Many coffee shops offer loyalty programs to encourage their customers to come back for their special brew. While it’s not going to save you tons of money in a day, your cumulative savings and freebies can be worth it.

For instance, Flash Coffee Singapore has three rewards tiers, namely Bronze, Silver, and Gold. Bronze members can redeem a free drink after every 10 purchases. Silver members can redeem a free drink after every 7 purchases. Lastly, Gold members can redeem a free drink after every 5 purchases. Another brand that offers rewards to its members is PPP Coffee. As a PPP+ Rewards Member, you can enjoy a 3% cashback on your coffee purchases at its retail outlets, plus all food and beverages at participating cafes by PPP Coffee in Singapore (T&Cs apply).

Combining your utilization of loyalty cards with other saving strategies such as brewing your coffee at home can save you extra money on top of getting a free cup.

#2: SHOP AROUND

Kopi at Kopitiam can give you the caffeine kick you need, but for a fraction of the cost of cafe coffee. Sure, you’re missing out on the fancy latte art. But if you are drinking it down during a workday, you may not have time to savor coffee art anyway. Drink the foamy heart art coffee when you have time to indulge it.

#3: GRIND IT YOURSELF

Did you know that coffee beans retain their freshness and flavor better when stored as whole beans compared to pre-ground coffee? This is because pre-ground coffee often contains additives and fillers that can compromise its quality.

Coffee that has lost its aroma and flavor may end up going unused or being discarded, which means that you’re essentially pouring money down the drain along with your brew. By grinding your own beans, you can enjoy fresher coffee and lessen your waste.

#4: MAKE BETTER COFFEE

Perhaps, your own brew does not appeal to you because of its taste. If you’re not satisfied with the taste of your homemade coffee, it might be time to invest in higher quality coffee beans. Spending a little more on quality beans can save you money by providing you with a more satisfying, enjoyable coffee.

To get the most out of your beans, start by selecting the right grind size for your coffee brewing method. For instance, a coarse grind is ideal for a French press, while a medium-coarse grind is suitable for automatic drip. Next, experiment with different coffee-to-water ratios to find your preferred strength. Lastly, make sure to use the best water temperature for your chosen brewing method.

#5: INVEST IN QUALITY COFFEE MARKER

Don’t set yourself up for failure by using a cheap coffee maker. Get a coffee maker that you are excited about! It will inspire you to drink more coffee at home and improve your overall coffee experience.

#6: DRINK YOUR COFFEE BLACK

Drinking your coffee black may seem like a simple choice, but it can actually help you save money on buying milk, sugar, or creamer. By drinking black coffee, you can avoid these additional costs and appreciate the true flavor of the coffee. Plus, black coffee is a healthier option that eliminates the added sugar and calories from milk or creamer.

#7: ORDER THE SMALLEST SIZE

The difference between buying a small and a large-sized coffee can set you back by S$1 or more. For example, %Arabica Singapore’s Caffe Latte is priced at about S$7 for a short and S$8 for a tall order. Opting for a smaller size can save you approximately S$5 in a week or a yearly savings of S$240. Can you imagine what you could do with the S$240 you save?

#8: ASK FOR GIFT CARDS

For special occasions such as birthdays or anniversaries, include a coffee gift card on your wishlist. A Starbucks gift card in Singapore can be purchased with a minimum value of S$10 and a maximum value of S$300. Use your gift card to fuel your weeks’ worth of coffee fix, or to treat yourself to a special drink without worrying about the cost.

#9: SEARCH FOR PROMOTIONS AND FREEBIES

To make the most of your coffee budget, keep an eye out for freebies and exclusive discounts at your favorite coffee shops. One way to do this is by following their social media pages, where they often announce monthly specials and offer freebies to their loyal customers.

Another way to save on coffee purchases is to download apps such as the CoffeeBean SG Rewards App by The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Singapore. These coffee shop apps often provide discounts and coupons that can be used on your purchases, allowing you to enjoy your favorite drinks without going over budget.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Use all these nine strategies to maximize your caffeine savings and indulge in your favorite beverages, guilt-free!

Sources: 1,2, & 3

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How to Live Like a Millionaire on a Small Budget

Do you dream of living a luxurious lifestyle like a millionaire, but feel like your bank account just won’t cut it? The good news is that you can still enjoy the finer things in life without having to break the bank.

By adopting a few straightforward lifestyle changes, you can indulge in luxury without worrying about overspending or debt. Here are some of the smart financial choices that you can begin with.

TRACK YOUR SPENDING

One of the first things you can do to live like a millionaire on a shoestring budget is to learn how to budget effectively. By examining your expenses and prioritizing your spending, you can ensure that your money is going towards things that matter most to you.

Do you value childcare over new gadgets? Do you prioritize training or travel? Assessing your spending habits will result in cutting back on unnecessary expenses and focusing on things that bring you joy.

ADOPT A MINIMALIST LIFESTYLE

When you’re trying to live like a millionaire on a budget, it’s crucial to invest in high-quality items. This doesn’t mean spending a fortune. Instead, you must choose items that are worth the investment and will last a long time.

For instance, you could invest in a classic white button-up shirt that costs S$100 and wear it to different work events, rather than buying a cheap shirt that you’ll only wear twice and dispose of due to its poor quality. While you’re at it, consider building a capsule wardrobe to simplify your life. By cutting out clutter, you can create a more luxurious and clean-living environment.

GO FOR FREE OR LOW-COST EXPERIENCES

Take advantage of free or low-cost experiences. Look for free events in your community by browsing social media groups or marketplaces. You can also join DIY or home improvement projects initiated by your community.

Indulge in some free group activities, such as visiting ArtScience Museum‘s “Future World: Where Art Meets Science” exhibit. Guests can enjoy complimentary entry for up to four children under 12 years old on Fridays, except during Singapore school periods or public holidays.

You can also go to the Singapore Heritage Fest, which highlights the country’s rich history through a series of exhibitions, talks, and performances. Many of the festival’s activities are free. By being resourceful and creative, you can have fun and feel fulfilled without spending a lot of money.

WATCH OUT FOR PROMOTIONS

Expand your collection of high-quality goods and services by seeking out deals and discounts. Many luxury brands offer clearance events or seasonal promotions, so keep an eye out for those.

INVEST IN YOURSELF

Knowledge is an investment that yields the highest returns, as it is something that no one can ever take away from you. Take classes and learn new things to add value to your personal and professional life. When you have more skills and knowledge, you can negotiate better deals and increase salary. Sign-up for some classes today at SkillsFuture Singapore (e.g., Introduction To Personal Investing for S$20).

TRAVEL SMART

True luxury is often found in experiences and not in material possessions. Travelling can be a great way to experience luxury as perceived by diverse cultures. Don’t forget to travel smart! Instead of staying in expensive hotels or resorts, consider renting an apartment or house. This will give you more space and privacy for less money.

When it comes to dining out, eat like the locals or choose restaurants that offer good value for your money. Read online reviews to be guided, especially when you are in a place you have not been before.

GO YACHTING

Have you been on a yacht before? Yachting may seem like an activity reserved only for the wealthy elite, but at The Yacht Club, you can enjoy the experience at an affordable price. With one of the largest fleets of yachts in Singapore, The Yacht Club offers a variety of options for a great value of yacht rental to fit your budget. The most economical choice starts at S$635 and provides an elegant, powered single-hull that can accommodate more than 10 passengers in its spacious lounge area. Check out their website for special rates.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF REWARDS

Credit cards offer a variety of rebates and rewards, allowing you to purchase items on your wishlist for a fraction of the price. However, it’s important to use these cards with discipline and wisdom. You don’t want to end up in debt just to satisfy your lavish taste.

SPLURGE ON LUNCH OR BRUNCH

If you love eating out, opt for lunch instead of dinner. Many restaurants and cafes offer lunchtime promotions or set menus at lower prices than their dinner offerings. The food is just as delicious.

MAKE ARTISINAL COFFEE AT HOME

For a coffee enthusiast, savoring a delicious cup of coffee is a luxurious experience. Fortunately, many grocery stores offer a wide range of high-quality coffee beans to choose from. By purchasing whole beans and grinding them at home, you can save a significant amount of money on your daily latte. Whiff the aroma of freshly brewed coffee in the comfort of your own home while also being budget-friendly.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Living like a millionaire on a tight budget is all about adopting a mindset of abundance and focusing on the things that truly matter. By simplifying your life, being resourceful, and budgeting effectively, you can create a life of comfort without draining your savings!

Sources: 1 & 2

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How to Negotiate a Salary Increase in Singapore

Negotiating a salary increase can help you maximize your earnings in the Lion City. Although Singapore’s salaries are among the highest in the region, the cost of living is also high. If you are considering a salary negotiation, here are some ways to increase your confidence and make the task less nerve-wracking.

#1: BE PREPARED

Before entering any negotiation, it is crucial to do your research. Preparation can help you reduce your nerves. Research the industry’s average salary for your designation, the company’s financial performance, and any related economic factors.

You can use Salary Comparison tools online, which are designed to give you a comprehensive overview of key roles and their respective salaries. For instance, you can check out MOM’s Salary Comparison feature to compare your salary across organizations of various industries, establishment sizes, and employee types. This free feature comes with colorful graphs, which makes the information easy to understand.

#2: DESCRIBE YOUR ACHIEVEMENTS

When negotiating a salary increase, display your accomplishments to underscore the value you bring to the company. Highlight any projects you have led or have been involved with as well as the recognitions or awards you have received.

Do not forget to focus on the numbers! You can try to deny it as much as you want, but businesses revolve around making profits and growing numbers. Use statistics as direct proof of your contributions to the company. For example, in the past two months, I have brought in three new clients, which resulted in an 80% total increase in the company’s sales.

#3: IGNORE YOUR PREVIOUS SALARY

Ignore your previous salary. While it is always better to earn more than in your previous job, using your last drawn salary as a benchmark is by no means a good gauge. You have gained so much experience, skills, and knowledge since then. Instead, look at your objective value to the company.

#4: IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS

When talking about value, your added skills and abilities can help the company to flourish. Turn the tables into your favor by having appropriate education, expertise, and experience. Start by focusing on investing in seminars, workshops, and courses.

Best of all? Most of these resources are available at no cost. In the comfort of your own home, you can acquire Google and Microsoft certificates online. There are other online platforms that offer free courses such as Centre for Excellence and Coursera.

#5: BE SPECIFIC

When stating your intent for an increase, you need to be specific and provide a realistic range. This will give the company some flexibility in meeting your expectations while also opening the floor for negotiation.

#6: CONSIDER OTHER BENEFITS

As an HR Consultant, I often give a brief background about the company and emphasize its company benefits to draw candidates closer to the organization. If your company is unable to meet your desired salary increase now, you can consider negotiating other benefits such as flexible working hours, childcare allowance, improved health plans, training opportunities, or additional vacation leaves. Can you imagine having your company shoulder half of your childcare fees or overseas workshop costs? These benefits add to your overall compensation package.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

BOTTOMLINE

In conclusion, negotiating a salary increase can be challenging. However, with sufficient preparation and the right approach, it can also be a rewarding experience. Remember to do your research, highlight your accomplishments, be specific, invest in knowledge expansion, and consider other benefits. With these tips, you can successfully negotiate a salary increase and maximize your earnings in Singapore.

Sources: 1 & 2

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Communicating your desire to return to work after childbirth

mom and baby

Congratulations on giving birth and finishing your postpartum confinement.

If you’ve been a “career woman” all your life, you may be eager to get back to work after your 30-day confinement period.

So here comes the question:

Should you feel guilty about leaving your baby in the hands of a helper or not?

Well, I don’t think you should be because there’s nothing wrong with wanting to go back to work.

But, if you’ve never had a proper conversation with your spouse about the decision, it might pose a little conflict there.

It’s not always about financial issues

While having a single-income arrangement can put a strain on family finances, I think it’s not always about the money.

Let’s say your spouse has a decent-paying job and can support the family without you working, should you then make the “sacrifice” to stay home and take care of the baby?

Call me selfish but I won’t do it.

Yes, kids grow up fast and I may potentially miss the key moments of their growth if I’m a full-time working parent.

But, I didn’t come this far in my career to give up just because of family commitments.

So here comes the issue: talking to your spouse about it.

Share why returning to work matters to you

My reason to return to work after childbirth may differ from yours but ultimately, you want your partner to understand your stance.

Maybe you have big plans to upgrade from an HDB to a private property.

property showroom viewers

Image Credits: edgeprop.sg

Or perhaps you’re an extreme extrovert that thrives on being outdoors and having a work routine to look forward to.

Whatever the case, share why returning to work matters to you and come to a compromise if necessary.

Key considerations to have during the planning stage

There are inevitably many things to talk about but here are two I think should be settled:

  • Analyze your finances

Let’s say your husband’s income is satisfactory if you stay home to look after the baby 24/7. But if you decide to find a job, this means you will need someone to watch the baby.

Whether it’s leaving your little one to their ah gong/ah ma, considering half/full-day infant care, or hiring a full-time helper, that will mean some additional expenses every month.

Sit down and analyze your personal and family finances together, and see how to work things around.

  • Splitting the childcare responsibility

You’re only going to tire yourself if you parent alone. And you shouldn’t, anyway.

The baby belongs to you and your partner, and since you’re also heading out to work, then core childcare responsibilities should be laid out and split.

It’s impossible to spilt right down the middle but the main idea is to share the burden.

For instance, who’s going to drop off/pick up the baby after infant care hours, and how many “time-offs” does one get in a month (social life stuff)?

Seek parenting advice from others who’re on the same journey

You’re never alone.

Cliche but it’s true.

There are many people out there on the same journey as you are and I believe you will gain a lot from listening to the stories of others.

I found this active, private Facebook group called Stork’s Nest Singapore that has been around for more than a decade with over 14K members:

Stork's Nest Singapore Facebook page

Their posts are centered on babies/children/family/full-time helpers so I think it would be of great relevance to you.

As we close, I just want you to know that there’s nothing wrong with wanting to head back to the workplace. Gender-dictated roles have come so far and what our parents have gone through doesn’t have to dictate our future footsteps. It’s your life ultimately so whether you choose to be a “career woman” or a full-time mom, no one should have the right to point a finger at you and tell you what you should or shouldn’t do.

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How to get better at planning ahead in life

planning in a diary

Yes, I don’t deny that living in the moment is cool.

Life is short after all and there’s nothing wrong with wanna grab it by the horns and steering it in whatever way you deem fit.

But…

Planning ahead in life is equally important too.

You can’t just always leave it to luck to determine your course or go with the flow all the time.

It’s time to find out ways to help you get better at planning in life—short- or long-term.

What’s your “now”?

To get started, you need to know how to get started.

So I want you to access what’s your present situation, your “now.”

Simply put, where you are in currently in life and where you want to get to. Maybe it’s furthering your education, getting promoted to a managerial position, or making use of every public holiday to travel out and see a new place.

Aha, which brings me to bring this to your attention:

Travel Thursday: 3D2N Itinerary to Miri, Malaysia at $204.20/pax (flights + hotel)

It’s a new series I’ve started yesterday and if you love traveling as much as I do, but trying not to spend too much, check out the above article.

Okay, so back to the topic.

Wait, we’re still on point.

You see, planning also applies to traveling.

I used to plan for my travels months before so I get the best deal. But sometimes, life gets busy and we don’t have extra time to sit down and plan the nitty gritty.

And that’s okay.

That itinerary is prepared in view of Labor Day’s long weekend so we’re still some time away from it.

Buy your plane tickets and book your hotel ASAP if you want to avoid price hikes!

Where do you want to get to?

For those who are not travel freaks, let’s look at another example, shall we?

For instance, maybe you want to get promoted at work.

promoted at work

Image Credits: theladders.com

That’s one big goal, right?

It’s time to break down that goal into actionable mini-goals you can take to move closer to your destination.

If I were you, I would find out the criteria to get promoted.

Speak to your hiring manager about their plans to hire a manager or senior manager and what they are seeking in terms of qualifications, etc.

Or you can simply search job portals to see if your company has put up any hiring notices.

These job ads and their relevant descriptions are your blueprints for getting promoted.

That’s because you know what is required for you to be considered for a more senior position.

Just take a look at this recent job ad put up by Hilton for a senior manager position:

Hilton job ad

Whether it’s a degree, a graduate degree, or top-up certifications, you know where your next goal should be—start studying.

Are 5-year plans necessary?

I’ve read much advice asking people to draft a 5-year plan.

Honestly, I don’t have one and I think I’m doing not too bad. But it ultimately depends on you.

If you can’t even keep to a simple list of new year’s resolutions, then a 5-year plan is just going to flop.

I would rather have actionable plans for the first 6 months and then add more along the way than craft an ancient scroll that I won’t even relook at.

Okay, so let’s sum things up. To get better at planning ahead in life: reevaluate your present situation, think about where you want to get to and write down actionable steps you can take within the next 6 months to get things moving. One step at a time works better in the long term than trying to sprint and tire yourself out halfway, yeah.

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