Quick Ways To Save - Big Y® World Class Market®

We’ve all experienced the “so many things to buy, so little money to buy with” blues at one time or another – there’s that new CD you’ve been wanting, a fantastic outfit for the dance on Friday, the big blowout sale at the Gap or the $10 for pizza you’ll need Saturday night. But before you install a deadbolt lock on your piggy bank, take a look at these quick tips. With just a few changes in your current spending plan, you can become a savvy money-saver in no time.

Save Your Change. If you’re truly serious about saving a little money, why not start with your pocket change? Set up a jar in your room and throw all of your daily change into it. The only rule: You can put change in, but not take it out. When the jar is full, cash it in for the big bills. You might be surprised – a little change can turn into a lot of cash!

Set Goals. There is no doubt you have a ton of things on your “want” list, but how do you turn a “want” into a “have?” Make a list of short-term goals for yourself, including CDs, clothes or a meal at that new restaurant. Then, make a list of long-term goals like a car or college tuition money. Pin these goals up somewhere visible in your room where you can be reminded of them every day. And keep these goals in mind when you’re about to spend $10 on something that’s not on your list – that $10 could instead be spent on turning one of your real “wants” into a real “have.”

Budget. Now don’t be intimidated by the “B” word – budgeting is simply an easy way to manage your money. Since you work hard for your money, it makes sense to budget how it’s spent! Just take a few minutes with a pen and paper and write out a spending plan: How much money do you need a week for necessities (gas, lunch, etc.)? How much will cover your entertainment or “other” costs (movie ticket, pizza with friends, etc.)? How much is left over to save? Use these figures as a guideline and try not to spend more than what you’ve budgeted for each category.

Compromise. If there’s one specific goal you’re aiming for but just don’t think you can make it alone, consider a compromise. Ask your parents or grandparents if they’ll split the cost with you, and in return offer your help with something around the house. For example, say Prom is coming up and you just don’t think you’ll have your finances totally together to afford your outfit or the dinner. Your parents might be willing to help you fund your important Prom night if you offer to pay half the cost and wash your parents’ cars for a month. Not only will they realize how important the event is to you, but they will also see that you are responsible in budgeting and managing your money.