Josh Elledge - Chief Executive Angel
After nearly eight years of helping people save, I've learned one thing: there is no one right way to save. Ideas that work fabulously for some people completely confound others.
We each need to find the method that works for us, and our personality and family plays no small role in determining that savings strategy.
Check out these practical suggestions for some common personality types.
The no-time-to-talk, gotta-run parent
Are you busy, busy, busy? Then you need to find savings methods that will keep money in your pocket while you and your family are on the go.
Try these on for size:
·Make grab-and-go snacks ahead of time and keep some in the car to avoid the temptation of a fast food or convenience store snack stop. Use a thermal container in hot weather or for snacks that might spoil.
·Designate one day as an errand day or otherwise group trips to save on gas.
·Look for admissions coupons when going places like amusement parks, museums and fairs.
The creative crafty person
For the person who lives for the DIY Network, there are oh, so many ways to save. No need to buy anything when you can make your own version for cheap or free!
If you are a creative type, here are some savings options for you.
·Buy used furniture and “upcycle” it into something fabulous.
·Make your own coffee drinks, baking mixes and cleaning supplies.
·Head to Pinterest (I know, you're already there) for make-at-home gift ideas and home décor.
The make-it-easy-please saver
Does upcycling furniture and making snacks ahead of time sound like too much work? Some people would prefer to have the savings come to them. If it isn't easy, it isn't happening.
Saving money doesn't get much easier than these suggestions.
·Set up your direct deposit so a portion of your paycheck is put into your savings account.
·Use digital coupons, such as Meijer mPerks and Target Cartwheel.
·Score the best deals for eating out, entertainment and other expenses on daily deal sites like Groupon and Living Social.
The frugal zealot
Who's read The Tightwad Gazette? Author Amy Dacyczyn was the self-proclaimed Frugal Zealot who wasn't afraid to do practically anything to save a buck.
If you're a kindred spirit to Dacyczyn, you might be willing to try anything if it means more money in the bank. Here are couple “out there” suggestions.
·Hire someone to negotiate lower bills to you. BillCutterz.com is one such service. I have no personal experience with the site so I can't endorse it or guarantee they'll be able to reduce your bills, but the company does have an A rating with the Better Business Bureau.
·Consider a medical sharing ministry for health care. You're required by law to have health insurance coverage, but you can opt out if you are part of a medical sharing ministry. Although similar in concept to insurance, these ministries operate a little differently and you should definitely do your research before switching. If you have chronic medical issues, traditional insurance may be your best bet.
·Downsize your house. If you really want to save big, go extreme and move into a small house. Generally, that means smaller utility bills, lower property taxes and less discretionary spending because there is less room to store stuff.
So what's your personality type and how are you going to start saving? Head to theAngelForums at SavingsAngel.comto continue the discussion regarding how best to start saving today.
