*Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. We do not guarantee that you will become debt-free by following our money management tips. Please speak to a financial advisor for specific guidance.
To save or not to save—that really is the question most of the time these days, isn’t it? One of the not-so-fun things about becoming an adult is having to deal with responsibility. Financial responsibility being one of the trickiest.
Even when you’re up to your eyeballs in debt, you still receive the credit card applications through your mail and every retail store associate asks—no, begs—you to say yes to their promotion.
You’ll get 10% off, you know?!
As if 10% is going to persuade me to overpay and regret later. Even if it was 30%, it is still a no.
The opportunity to overspend is constant and you really have to be headstrong to beat it. It is easy to give-in to temptation. The credit offers that come through your mail are easy to rip in half but it is harder to say “no” to someone in person, especially if they have enticements (10% off).
We know the struggle and we are here to help and equip you with some guidelines to help you through your next credit attack. Keep reading for some money management tips on when to save and when to spend.
Money Management Tip #1 | Wardrobe
As fashion experts, we encourage you to save your money for the pieces that will last. Do not be tempted into buying a cheap blouse. You’ll wash it once and it won’t be the same again.
Instead, spend a little more and invest in your wardrobe staples—a dress, a blouse, a pair of trousers or a skirt. Spend more on the pieces that you wear over and over again. They will last longer and be worth the extra money.
For more work-wear advice, read: What Message Are Your Clothes Sending?
For more information on fast-fashion, read: How to Manage Money | Tips for Working Women
Money Management Tip #2 | Drinks
Another way to save is to forego the coffee shop trip. Although some treat is as a ritual, it is a luxury and the amount of money that you will save by not going will surprise you. Try cutting your trips down by half so instead of going 5 days a week, go 2-3.
Use the extra money to purchase a thermos (or two) that keeps drinks cold or hot for long periods of time and make your espresso at home.
Money Management Tip #3 | Food
Going out to eat is an expensive habit. Even with take-out for two, you’re leaving $40 poorer. Not to mention, you don’t know what all of the ingredients are and the extra butters and oils that make it taste so good are bad for your health!
Stop spending your money at restaurants and start spending at supermarkets. Good food can also be expensive but this is where you splurge! And you should splurge. Nourishing your body with healthy food is important to keep a sharp mind and a strong body.
Read more: Healthy Meal Prep for a Busy Work Week
Money Management Tip #4 | Technology
Do you remember the song “Material Girl” by Madonna? You know the one — “we are living in a material world and I am a material girl…”
It was released in 1984, by the way, making it 35 years old.
Ironic though, because we are still living in a material world. A material and technological world. As we stated above, our lives are constantly bombarded by promotions, advertising, and special deals. It is hard not to want the latest and greatest technology.
This is another area in which you need to be strong-willed; the promos are persuading. You do not need the latest technological gadget or a phone upgrade. If your device works well and you don’t need the upgrade, don’t take it.
Just remember, you are in control. Nobody else. And you need to be because you are the only one that knows your finances. The retail sales associate does not care if you rack up $5,000 in debt. You might have been their only sale that day but they have since forgotten about you. But guess what’s not forgotten—the debt.
Money Management Questions
When you find yourself questioning whether to loosen the purse strings or not, ask these questions of yourself:
- Do I need it or just want it?
- How will it better my day-to-day life?
- Do the pros outweigh the cons?
- Would it benefit you or a family member in a significant way?
- Is it financially feasible?
We hope you have found money management tips beneficial, whether you are starting a debt-free journey or just reading for information.
September 30th, 2022 at 1:44 am
I work a stable office job with a steady income, and since I’ll be in my mid-30s soon, I was thinking of saving up for my retirement funds soon. I found it interesting when you mentioned how we can manage our money when it comes to clothing expenditures by buying wardrobe staples since they last longer and are more worth the extra money. I’ll be sure to keep this tip in mind while I look for a wealth management advisor to help me out soon.