10 Ways to Save Money In 2009

1. Use Coupons.


2. Use the library, it's free.

3. Learn to tell the difference between want and need.

4. Pay off credit card balances so you're no longer paying high interest rates.

5. Stop buying fast food.

6. Stop buying processed foods.

7. Don't buy new clothes or shoes unless they are an absolute necessity.

8. Keep track of your expenses. Write down what you spend every day so you see where your money goes.

9. Cut your utility bill. Turn off the lights when the are not needed. Use energy saving light bulbs. Turn down your thermostat in winter and turn it up in summer.

10. Learn how to cook and make cheaper and more nutritious meals at home.

Need vs. Want

With the new and tougher economic times people are trying to figure out how to spend less money. Americans have had a drunken spending binge for the last twenty years. I have seen it with many people I have worked with who just plain had too much stuff. No one needs 150 pairs of shoes or 250 sweaters.

It's time to figure out what you need vs. what you want. We all need the basics of food and shelter and clothing. Beyond that start to ask yourself simple questions.

Is this something I will use regularly? Do I have other similar items? Do I have other similar items that I don't use? What will happen to me if I don't have this item? Will something happen to me if I don't purchase it or will I be just as well, or better off? Am I buying this to gain status in the eyes of others? Do I really need this?

Start thinking in a different mode.