by Marielyse

Created on: January 25, 2007   Last Updated: May 19, 2007

Saving money requires a change in mindset before a change in practice. If you find yourself buying things to fill an emotional void, you need to examine why. What are you missing in life that you think a new pair of shoes is going to fix? And if a pair of shoes could fix it, then wouldn't you have felt better years ago?

So, if you've embraced the mindset that you don't need to spend to be happy, you'll have an easier time in general cutting back.

However, here are some easy ways to spend less every day, by category:

At Home

1. Bundle your utilities. If you have one provider that can give you multiple services, such as phone and cable, you can probably save some money. Call and see what kind of specials they have for new customers.

2. Cook. Take-out is expensive, and it adds up. Buy some chicken breasts, for example, in bulk, and prepare them a package at a time. You can get some dinners and even some brown-bag lunches out of it.

3. Be your own artist. Home decor can get pretty pricey. Tap into your creative side, buy some canvases and start splashing some color onto them. You'll save money and you'll be able to hang something you're proud of.

At Work

1. Bring a drink and snack, in addition to your lunch. The vending machine is a money trap. Avoid it. Consider asking your employer to install a coffee/tea machine that everyone can use for free.

2. Carpool or take mass transit. You'll save big, and you're helping the environment. It's a win-win. In addition, some companies even participate in a rebate program so you might even get reimbursed for being so environmentally friendly.

3. Take advantage of free money. News flash: That 401(k) company match is free money. Invest at least as much as the maximum that can be matched in your 401(k). Otherwise, it's like giving money away. You'll be thankful at retirement time.

Shopping

1. Bring department store coupons. You'll find them in the newspaper, or sometimes you can ask one of the store's cashiers if there are extras.

2. Think about the purchase. Sure, you see something and you want it. But think about it-are you really going to wear/use that sweater/appliance/makeup? If it's an article of clothing, think of at least two places you can wear it to, and, more importantly, what you can wear it with.

3. Speak up. You thought it was on sale, but it's ringing up full price. Ask the clerk. Maybe you picked up the wrong item, but another one is available for the price on the sign. It can't hurt to find out.

In a Social Setting

1. Alcohol is expensive. Don't be ashamed to ask your bartender or waitress what sort of happy hour/drink specials are available on a given night. And, for added savings, alternate your alcoholic drink with water or soda.

2. Coupons. Restaurants, golf courses, amusement parks all print 'em. You just need to find 'em, and use 'em.

3. Skip the add-ons. If you can, park your car yourself and forgo the valet. And, hang on to your coat and save the coat-check fee. A couple extra dollars can go a long way.

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