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Step 1
Develop a realistic budget. Don't just estimate what your costs are. Take a month to write down every cent you spend from your house payment to your morning cup of coffee. Once you have set up a realistic budget to live on, then you can begin to set up a realistic goal to save money each month.
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Step 2
Wait before you buy. In order to break the habit of wasting money on impulse purchases, impose a waiting period on yourself. Wait for a month, and if you still really want that item, then buy it if you have the money.
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Step 3
Put a limit on how much you will spend each month on things such as entertainment or morning stops at the coffee shop. Divide money that you have allocated for Starbucks or entertainment into envelopes. Once your envelope is empty there are no more dinners out or morning lattes. This allows you to continue to have access to the things you enjoy but stops you from overindulging by setting limits.
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Step 4
Have money automatically deducted from your paychecks. It's an easy way to save money each month. If you don't see it, you don't miss it.
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Step 5
Look into making lifestyle changes that will help you save money each month. Take public transportation, quit smoking or buy some necessary items at thrift stores or consignment shops to save a little money each month.
Comments
bahr94 said
on 10/24/2009 Great article, Helpful check out some of my articles I just posted. (:
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bgzbyk said
on 10/3/2009 Well this article is really helpful,at least I have benefited.
Thanks a lot...
tammiemozelle said
on 9/21/2009 great tips i am going to start tomorrow
lawyerlarry said
on 4/17/2009 Good tips -- I save money through my bank's keep the change program. It really adds up and the first 6 months they match, then they match some percentage. 5*