Image from frugalmom
If you’ve been living in the Philippines your whole life, you know saving money is always a must. At least, that’s what your Nanay and Lola always said. Money is always an issue; it’s either you need it, or you’ve just spent it. Being a mother, you know that finances are never easy. It’s an everyday challenge, especially if you’re also trying to earn money. Making ends meet is the norm in most households after all.
Now, it’s easy to forget the dos and don’ts of being thrifty, so here are a few easy-to-remember tips you can follow to keep that saving streak going:
1. Buy your food from the market. This means you’ve got cheaper vegetables and cheaper meat. As much as you don’t like to do your pamamalengke the old way, it’s actually the best place to find awesome deals for fresh food.
2. BYOB (Bring Your Own Bag). If you ever do your market runs, or shop at grocery stores or basically anywhere else, it’s best if you bring your own shopping bag. Some grocery stores, like the SM Supermarket, have banned the use of plastic bags. Hence, if you’re travelling by public transportation, you’ll be forced to buy extra plastic bags or their shopping bags so you wouldn’t have to carry your grocery items in a box or, worse, in a paper bag.
3. Schedule your purchases. If you’re making lists of what you have to buy, might as well schedule shopping dates as well. And when we say shopping, we mean buying the necessities. Training yourself to spend at only specific dates allows you to keep a tight grip on your budget throughout the weekdays or weekends.
4. Make electricity-saving practices a norm in the house. Unplug appliances when not in use. Turn off lights when they’re not needed, or when no one is in the room. Constantly remind everyone to practice this so you wouldn’t have to go running around the house just switching off light switches and electric fans. Everyone should share in the responsibility.
5. Always go for the recyclable. Use cloth towels instead of paper towels. Use cloth diapers instead of disposable ones. Thinking long term is always the key. Knowing family life with children will last for decades, make sure you aren’t wasting valuable items like plastic bags, containers, eco-bags, and hand-me-downs.
6. Limit your Yeses. Exercise your Nos. It can be hard to deny your little darlings (or even your spouse) something they really want. When the requests are seemingly “simple,” you’re always tempted to just say yes because it’s not that big of a deal, right? Well, if you count all these little things, you’re going to end up with a huge total. Saying no might sting now, but it’ll definitely be rewarding later on. That’s why it’s most important to:
7. Shop around for insurance. Whether it’s life insurance or car insurance, it pays to do some research before choosing a policy. Don’t just go for the most convenient or the cheapest choice. Do your research and compare pricing offers so you get the best value for your money when you pay for insurance.
It’s not impossible to live a thrifty family life in this expensive world. With the right attitude towards money, and the help of everyone in the family, saving wouldn’t be as hard as it seems. Using resources available to you carefully and wisely will definitely pay off in the long run. Soon enough, your children will be thanking you for teaching them the importance of money early on in life—now that’s one of the best things about being a mom!
AUTHOR BIO:
Kyle Kam is an online marketing specialist for Moneymax, the Philippines’ leading financial comparison website. Whenever he’s not working, he’s busy at home watching MMA videos the whole day. You may follow him on Twitter @undisputedkyle
P.S. My very first e-book is finally here. You can buy it using the Buy Now button at the right or via bank deposit. Only Php 150.00. Purchase your copy now.
P.P.S To those doing the 52 Week Money Challenge, it is Week 4 already! Did you deposit the next amount yet?
P.P.P.S Want to know more about investing, savings, stock market and more, check out my reference here. You can download free ebooks and resources too.
P.P.P.P.S I am also sharing my stock market secrets and information via these resources.
P.P.S To those doing the 52 Week Money Challenge, it is Week 4 already! Did you deposit the next amount yet?
P.P.P.S Want to know more about investing, savings, stock market and more, check out my reference here. You can download free ebooks and resources too.
P.P.P.P.S I am also sharing my stock market secrets and information via these resources.