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So you want to become an embodiment of frugal living? You
want to save cash, free yourself from the constraints of the
evil green and consume less, ultimately making the world a
better place?
Well that's fantastic and I applaud you for joining us
frugalists. So next step I guess is where can you start...
Here are six killer tips to get your new frugal living
lifestyle off the ground.
- Turn off all lights and unplug all appliances
when not in use. You may be amazed at how much cash this
will start to save. Even plugged in appliances use a little
electricity.... This does not mean you can unplug the fridge
when you are not taking food out of it?
- Cook
in large batches and freeze them in portions to be reheated.
Cooking this way saves cash as you can buy bulk items, it
saves you time and can ensure you don't splurge and eat out
too often. There is a whole movement that follows these
ideas and often cooks for a whole month in one go.
- Start growing some of your own food. Start with
herbs. Basil and mint grow really well by a window with some
sunlight. Then move onto some veggies, maybe starting with
tomatoes one of the mainstays of my frugal diet! Before you
know it half of your home food consumption will be coming
from what you grow. Even if you live in an apartment you can
grow a substantial amount of food in window boxes or on a
balcony.
- Eat less! I know this sounds like a
stupid thing to say but work it out. How much extra do you
eat than you need to? Why eat 2 full turkey sandwiches when
one and an apple will be fine. Often we eat because the food
is there but smaller quantities will not curb enjoyment and
will save money.... oh and maybe a few pounds in the long
run too!
- Walk, Walk, Walk. Save a few dollars
and skip the car / bus / train / metro or tram. Even if you
need to go 5 miles, go for it. Work out some other things
you can do on the way like going to the post office, picking
up some shopping or popping by an old friends house. You
will save cash, feel more relaxed and become more efficient.
If you need to go further then jump on your bike. A mid
priced bike or a good second hand deal can pay for itself in
no time at all. Just be safe and wear a helmet!
- Organise nights in instead of hitting the bars. Pot
lucks, poker nights, football nights in any excuse to have
your friends round for some wine and beer on the weekend.
Your house will become a fun place to be and you will save a
lot of cash in expensive drinks.
These are just a few ideas but there are hundreds, if not
thousands of things you can do to cut back on money spending
and consumption.
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