Tuesday, September 28, 2010

How to Spend Wisely with Money Saving Tips

Money Saving Tips
In today’s economy most of us are trying to save money any way we can. We are all aware of ways to save such as buying in bulk, discount sales, and using coupons. Here are a few money saving tips that we hope will be useful.

Shop alone if possible; and if not, pretend you are alone. Image is everything, right? We are all concerned with the image we portray even when we shop. If we shop with friends we tend to select a pricey brand over a more economical choice. Be on the alert if you are shopping in a crowd.

Don’t let temptation get you. Rid yourself of the barrage of catalogs and emails from your favorite stores. These tend to create the urge to splurge. You can stop the catalogs, direct mail ads, and store emails by visiting dmachoice.org. You can also unsubscribe from most email lists individually by following the instructions that are usually at the bottom of each email message.

Before you splurge, ask yourself “What does this really cost?” If you stop and think about how many hours you have to work in order to earn the money to pay for each item you consider buying, you will make better decisions about your purchases.
Don’t be average. Nielsen Company research shows that average Americans watch TV 153 hours per month. A study in the Journal of Consumer Research says people who watch a lot of TV tend to crave more material possessions since many of today’s popular shows portray an upscale lifestyle.

Resist mega bargains. Overspending is overspending even if you are getting a designer dress originally priced at $200 for $50. If you don’t absolutely love the dress, don’t buy it. A dress hanging in your closet that never gets worn is no bargain at any price.

Keep your eye on the prize. If you are saving for a great vacation, a new car, or a hot tub you will be more likely to stash the cash to reach your goal if you are constantly reminded. Put pictures on your refrigerator, the visor of your car, or in your wallet to help stave off impulse buys.

Free is always good, right? Wrong! Avoid free trials like the plague unless you are confident you will follow through with the usual required cancellation. Most of us are too lazy or forgetful to take the necessary steps when the free trial ends. Using cash pays. Leaving your credit cards at home when you shop so that you have to take a moment to think about each purchase will help curb overspending. People are more likely to buy only basic necessities when spending good old dollars and cents.

Ask yourself “Do I really need all the bells and whistles?” Whether you are buying a mini-van or a flat screen TV the extras add up. Consider whether the added features will still be desirable after the new wears off. Buying only the features you really need can save big bucks.

Follow this useful information; and watch your savings grow. Remember, as Ben Franklin would say “A penny saved is a penny earned”.

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