i'm not afraid nor shame to admit that i'm kuripot. it's just that i value my hard earned money.. a lot!
from seventeen mag (sept ish) there's an article that says 'how to save for real!' this is really something useful and helpful for me, not sharing what i have read will be bad ;p
here are the 12 tips:
1. stash the cash - it is important that we have two accounts. one is the basic savings account. this is the touchable account. a card that has an ATM-slash-debit card you can use for everydayneeds (needs NOT wants). second will be your untouchable; it is the account into which you will deposit a set of amount each month.
2. dip your toes in the stock market - don't be scared! Absolute traders holds seminars to teach people of any age. visit http://www.absolutetraders.com/.
3. don't pull out that credit card - unless it is a legitimate emergency - as in stranded in Thailand-and-need-to-buy-an-airline-ticket kind of emergency. for my personal advice, i did not get myself a credit card. it is my way of saving money more effectively. because if i want to buy something expensive, i will save. as easy as that. no more bills to think every end of the month.
4. challenge your inner stylist - do not buy clothes that you really don't need. stop saying "i have nothing to wear!" the truth is, you HAVE. learn to mix and match.
5. talk yourself out of buying - be in charge, not your impulses.
6. cut waaay down on mall time - this is soo hard! i'm in the mall several times a week. but i'm not there to shop--just to window shop! but for some people, they tend to buy things that they actually need.
7. make a list - and keep checking it - don't quit shopping. just advise yourself what you're buying and why you're buying it.
8. save and earn - you can find extra source of income. tutor kids, babysit, or even classes for senior citizens on navigating the internet or a cell-phone keypad. or use your talent in baking and cooking.
9. save to give - you can pick a charity that you can help. saving for someone needy may teach you to save better, and think about how to take better care of the privileges you have.
10. quit the sale obsession - not all that's on sale is a good buy. please check your list on #7 and walk away if it's not there.
11. read lots of books on personal finance - you will be inspired on how to save money on haircuts, movies, and more. try Suze Orman's The Money Book for the Young, Fabulous and Broke.
12. what are your dreams?
let me share with you some dreams that motivate me why i save money.
- i want to have my own charity for cancer patients.
- travel all over Italy.
- buy a new car.
- get a food business.
in this way, i'm more future-oriented and focused in achieving it.
very good! you value your money. keep it up!
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