Our family is taking a very special vacation to London this winter, so I'm in saving mode these days. We would like to put away enough in savings prior to the trip to minimize bringing home the "extra grande visa bill" souvenir. I'm finding numerous times throughout the day that I can pause, think, and save cash instantly.
Here are a few spare dollars I've put into my pocket in the past two days by just saying "no" to myself:
- Fancy coffee drink at Starbucks – $4
- Women's magazine at the checkout stand – $3
- Numerous "bargains" in those irresistible dollar bins at Target – $5
- Pack of Altoid gum my kids will eat in two days – $1
- Clearance pants that don't really look great now but will fit perfectly when I lose 5 pounds – $12
$25 saved and in my pocket, and guess what – I survived the deprivation! By just examining our spending habits more closely and exercising a little self discipline, it's easier to set our sights on attaining those lofty financial goals like being able to afford a few nights in a London hotel. Just like anything else of worth in this life, the tiny sacrifices we make today will make reaching the goal even sweeter.
Home-work for Today:
- Catch yourself making impulse buys or spending money on needless items this week and document the savings you accumulate when you stop yourself from spending that money. Multiply that amount by 52 and consider the possibilities for investing that money in something worthwhile, taking a special trip or sharing it with charity.
On the Bookshelf:
The Total Money Makeover: A Proven Plan for Financial Fitness
