Introduction: How to Save Money for Future
Although "living in the moment" is a great and motivational thing way to live, it is beneficial to think of the future and financially plan it before it is too late. The guide below provides tips and advice on how you can make small changes today and profit in the future.
Step 1: Write Down Your Cost
Before you go shopping, make a To-Buy list and calculate the total you need to spend. This way you will keep track of your expenses on things you need to get. Try buying cheaper brands and cut down anything that you think you can live without. Stick to your short and strict list and treat yourself to something small and nice once in a while for all the savings you did.
Step 2: Consider Buying Used Items
Buying a new car may seem like a good idea, however, if you feel like you can get a used one and live with the fact that it doesn't have that "new car smell", than you will be amazed on how much money you could save. Try purchasing other used items, too, for example buy clothes from second-hand shops or furniture from yard sales. There are also many online yard sales and below are a few examples:
Step 3: Eat-In
Eating-in is less expensive than going out to fancy restaurants. Try bringing in your own food home or making homemade dinners and lunch for work. Imagine how much money your are spending on every meal during lunch breaks at work. Another way to save money from home is to invite your friends over once in a while instead of going clubbing and ordering overpriced drinks.
Step 4: Limit Your Monthly Bills
Limiting or lowering down your monthly bills will not only keep money in your wallet, but will help you be more environmentally friendly. Cut down your water expenses by taking showers instead of baths, or turn off all the unnecessary lights. Below are websites showing how you can save money for future by going green:
Step 5: Say No Once in a While
Saying no to your friends that are about to head out and go clubbing can help you stay in track with your plan. Furthermore, say no to frequent treats, such as shopping and booking expensive holiday trips. Instead of going to the movie theatre, choose a cheaper alternative by renting DVDs and staying home.
Step 6: Start a Roth IRA
Roth IRA stands for Individual Retirement Account, which is a special type of account designed to people who wish to save up for retirement. One of the benefits of IRA is that contributions can grow tax-free and you can generally make withdrawals tax- and penalty-free after you reach a certain age.To find out more on Roth IRA withdrawals and how to set up the account, check http://roth-ira.net/ira/ .
Step 7: Save Your Loose Change
Start Saving every penny in your wallet. Purchase a piggy bank and put in all loose change. Open or break only when needed for emergency. Saving all your change will help you control your savings and you may end up having a small fortune lying around in coins.
Step 8: Use Public Transportation
Start saving money by choosing a cheaper transportation alternative. If you drive to work, consider taking the bus or getting a lift from your friend. On warmer days, why not peddle your bike to work? Changing everyday habits and saying yes to cheaper decisions starting today can save you a bundle in the future.
All pictures used in this article are licensed under CC0 1.0 Universal (CC0 1.0) Public Domain Dedication. This article was created as a part of an educational program in overseas high schools aimed to improve English language. Thank you for reading!
