8 Money-Saving Hacks for Young (& Broke) Adults

Saving money when you are young and broke can seem like an impossible task. With the right mindset and strategy, you can save money despite the hurdles ahead. Putting your spare cash each month can make a world of difference. All you need to do is be willing to commit to your financial goals! The following hacks can help.

#1: DRINK MORE WATER

You will save more money if you stop buying bottles of soda and cups of take-away coffee. Bottled water is cheap and tap water is cheaper. There are many great options for filtering your water if you are not a fan of water from the tap. Nonetheless, eating out with a family of 3 can easily save you money just by drinking water alone.

#2: GET A PART-TIME JOB

If you just graduated and you are trying to reach a goal that seems to be taking longer than expected, you can get a part-time job. This job can be a temporary solution to get past whatever situation you are in. Moreover, it is a wonderful way to pay off your dues and debt. If you are building an emergency fund, having another source of income can aid your quest. Market your skills online to boost your job search.

#3: CREATE A MEAL PLAN

Whether you are living alone or living with your roommate, you can save more money by planning your meals. It eliminates food wastage and helps you create more affordable meals. Rather than buying what looks good at the grocery store, you can opt for budget-friendly alternatives to complete your dishes.

#4: CANCEL YOUR UNNECESSARY MEMBERSHIPS AND SUBSCRIPTIONS

You are cash-strapped! You do not need your hefty gym membership or subscriptions to different music and entertainment apps. Think about all the wasted money because of not taking the time to cancel the things that you no longer use.

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#5: ALWAYS BRING A SHOPPING LIST

One of the easiest ways to go over budget is going inside the grocery store without a plan! If you do not want to spend too much money in one place, always bring a shopping list with you. Only go down the aisles that you truly need to grab what you need. Skip the rest!

#6: KEEP YOUR SAVINGS ACCOUNT SEPARATE

Are you breaking because of your shopping habits? Keeping this from happening again by having your savings completely separated. Find an online savings account or open a separate checking account. Make it a little more challenging to take money out of your savings. Your future self will thank you.

#7: EMPLOY THE 30-DAY RULE

When you are considering making large purchases, use the 30-day rule. If you still want it just as much after 30 days, consider saving money for it. Having a waiting period eliminates impulsive purchases made out of excitement or other overwhelming emotions.

#8: DO REGULAR CHECK-INS

Before spending a large amount of money on a significant purchase, have your trusted partner or friend assess the situation with you. Have regular check-ins to look into your current financial situation. This might sound silly at first, but it can keep you from spending money impulsively on things that are not in your budget. Find someone that can help make you accountable for your spending.

Sources: 1 & 2

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7 Possible Reasons Why You’re Broke

Aside from cultivating an expensive taste or keeping up with your neighbors, here are 7 reasons why you are currently broke.

#1: YOU LOVE MONEY TOO MUCH

You are excessively preoccupied with the thought of gaining and spending money. Instead of focusing on the fulfillment of building a career or business, you gain satisfaction by flaunting your wealth.

#2: SAVING IS NOT YOUR PRIORITY

For many people, saving does not come naturally. It is a conscious decision to stick to your assigned budget or financial plan. If you are not making savings your priority then, you are at risk of financial stagnation.

#3: YOU ARE ADDICTED TO SALES

Who does not love scoring an item for a cheaper price? I know I do! For avid bargain hunters, there is a fine line between needs and wants.

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For instance, you just spent S$30 on an As Seen On TV product. How much did you actually save on this unnecessary sale item? Well, you saved nothing! You just spent S$30.

#4: SAYING “NO” IS DIFFICULT FOR YOU

You accept every invitation or each responsibility that comes your way. Sometimes, declining or disagreeing with other people is tantamount in protecting your finances. Consider saying something along the lines of: “No! I will not be able to lend you money right now.” or “No! I am not interested in that business venture.”

#5: YOU SPEND MORE THAN YOUR MEANS

It goes without saying that you are creating a mountain of debt by consistently spending beyond what you make. Others spend money based on what they perceive to earn that month. However, some people never actualize that financial vision.

#6: “LEGENDARY” INVESTORS DICTATE YOUR CHOICES

Self-claimed legendary investors are prevelant due to social media. These type of investors have potent skills in marketing and poor skills in managing their investment portfolio. Be careful with whom you worship!

#7: YOU NEVER LEARN

Taking a wrong financial turn is forgivable but, continuously repeating the same mistake can take a toll on your finances. Many people who suffer from financial difficulties never learn from their experiences. Instead of admitting that they were wrong, they have a tendency to ignore the issue or blame others for it.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Sources: 1 & 2

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