Do you desire to live a more frugal lifestyle in certain areas (or even all areas) of your finances? It is easier than you think!
Well, maybe. You must be willing to evaluate your lifestyle realistically and rationally. And, you may need to possibly change a few habits (gasp!). I know, I know, it’s not popular or easy. But, when it comes to being a good steward of our money, particularly if our purpose is for the glory of God, we should be willing to honestly and earnestly evaluate our heart on the matter and make changes as necessary. Read below for my top ten frugal living tips. I hope this guide will help give you ideas about how you can move further down path of saving. Plus, you’ll probably end up blessing your family in the meantime!
1. Evaluate your priorities.
Is cable television a necessity? Do you need a cell phone—or texting? (Or a land line? Which one is less expensive?) Do you eat out frequently?
Despite what our culture says, by “depriving” yourself of some “normal” things, you won’t miss out on life. Promise! We don’t have cable. We just recently bought a pay-as-you-go phone for emergencies. And we rarely eat out. We are a happy, well-adjusted family living a full life. At least we think we’re well adjusted 
.
2. Before purchasing, ask, “Do I really need this?”
This is huge! This has helped me so many times when I see something cute or that I would just like to have. It will help you put that cute purse back on the shelf! This money saving strategy is a must.
3. Replace paper towels with microfiber cloths or rags.
Use microfiber cloths to wipe down counter tops, clean the bathroom, mirrors, and windows. I always keep a roll of paper towels on hand for emergencies, but I am saving $7 a month or so by not purchasing a big package!
4. Clean with vinegar and baking soda instead of expensive cleaning products.
It took me a little while to get used to the smell of it until it dries. But now, it doesn’t bother me at all to clean with vinegar. I’ve been thrilled with the effectiveness of this everyday item. The secret for a great shine on your sinks and bath tub is to clean with vinegar AND baking soda.
5. Keep a budget.
Very unpopular, but very necessary! Do you know how much money you spend on different items during a month? Do you know if you are living within your means? Are you able to give generously? If you answered no, then I would highly encourage you to start keeping a budget with your husband. Check out my husband’s site that has the exact budget template that we use. He made it himself and it is so easy to use!
6. Menu plan.
Whether by the week or by the month, this will help you from taking countless last minute trips to the grocery, saving you lots on your monthly grocery bills and gas bills.
7. Keep a grocery list on the fridge.
When you run out of something, you can write it down as soon as you use the last bit. This will save you from those last minute trips to the store also, AND from impulse buying on those last minute trips.
8. Eat out less.
We eat out maybe once a month? It’s true! First, eating out doesn’t really fit well with our nutritional lifestyle, and second, we are usually disappointed with what we order due to the taste and the amount we get. It is not worth what we pay! I can usually make tastier meals for less money! When we “eat out” we usually order pizza, which we all love!
9. Buy in bulk.
Whether it’s grains or shampoo, it’s usually cheaper to buy items in bulk. Check out places such as Amazon.com
10. Delay gratification.
My husband always tells me to wait a week and see if I still feel the same way about something—usually pertaining to a certain issue I am dealing with and how to address it. However, I think it certainly applies to making significant purchases, too. You might change your mind about what you thought you wanted or needed! Waiting a week is much better than experiencing buyer’s remorse a day later.
These money saving tips are only meant to be a cursory introduction to help you as wives and moms evaluate your own spending habits since you are probably the primary money spender in the family. Think of how blessed your husband will be after you spend time evaluating and making adjustments!
