ladyscorpio
01-09-2010, 11:32 PM
It's a new year and time for a fresh new start... and that includes new money habits. If you've resolved to meet your financial goals in 2010, this selection of our top tips can help you succeed. Just a few small changes can quickly add up to big savings-it's easier than you may think!
* Set a weekly budget. Review how much you spent weekly last year on groceries, gas, entertainment, etc. and reduce that number by 10% to determine your new budget-and your savings. Resolve not to spend more than the budgeted amount and open a bank account to stash the money you save. Paying cash instead of using credit cards can help keep spending in check.
* Check the flyers every Friday. Most stores issue their flyers on Fridays, For the hot specials, you'll want to shop early. Remember to ask for a rain check if an item is sold out.
* Plan your menus around specials. Before you determine your menus for the coming week,check your flyers. Once you know what's on sale, create meals around the best deals.
* Try different stores. You may be able to get better bargains on brand name products at the discount food chains, so shop and compare.
* Shop the end of season sales. The Boxing Week sales have been outstanding this year, but be sure to visit your favourite stores in February or March for even more discounts at the winter blowout sales. This is the ideal time to save on big ticket winter items and avoid the rush next fall.
* Find free (or cheap) activities. Enjoying a day with the family doesn't have to cost a bundle. Check the events calendar in your community newspaper or search the Internet for "free activities" plus the name of your city to find sites featuring lots of fun things to do locally.
* Plan a cooking day with friends. Many people have a signature dish that everyone loves. Make a plan with family and friends to cook up a big batch of their best recipe and swap. It's usually cheaper to buy ingredients in bulk, and everyone gets a variety of meals they can freeze for the week ahead.
* Set a weekly budget. Review how much you spent weekly last year on groceries, gas, entertainment, etc. and reduce that number by 10% to determine your new budget-and your savings. Resolve not to spend more than the budgeted amount and open a bank account to stash the money you save. Paying cash instead of using credit cards can help keep spending in check.
* Check the flyers every Friday. Most stores issue their flyers on Fridays, For the hot specials, you'll want to shop early. Remember to ask for a rain check if an item is sold out.
* Plan your menus around specials. Before you determine your menus for the coming week,check your flyers. Once you know what's on sale, create meals around the best deals.
* Try different stores. You may be able to get better bargains on brand name products at the discount food chains, so shop and compare.
* Shop the end of season sales. The Boxing Week sales have been outstanding this year, but be sure to visit your favourite stores in February or March for even more discounts at the winter blowout sales. This is the ideal time to save on big ticket winter items and avoid the rush next fall.
* Find free (or cheap) activities. Enjoying a day with the family doesn't have to cost a bundle. Check the events calendar in your community newspaper or search the Internet for "free activities" plus the name of your city to find sites featuring lots of fun things to do locally.
* Plan a cooking day with friends. Many people have a signature dish that everyone loves. Make a plan with family and friends to cook up a big batch of their best recipe and swap. It's usually cheaper to buy ingredients in bulk, and everyone gets a variety of meals they can freeze for the week ahead.