8 Easy Ways to Save Money That Actually Work

How I view frugality

I see frugality as a challenge, looking into each area of expenses and finding a creative solution to get the same result at a lower cost. Creating an emotional attachment to why I’m saving money gives me the motivation to use my money intentionally.

By spending less, I have more financial security, which gives me peace of mind. I’m worried less about money in an uncertain economy.

The less money I spend, the more money I can put towards goals like travel and retiring comfortably. Here are my eight tips for saving money.

1. Using cash

Using cash is a trick I use to bring awareness to how much I spend and what I spend money on. Online shopping allows us to mindlessly put items into our cart which adds up to a big charge. I like the tangible feel of cash in hand. I’m very aware that my wallet is thinner when I hand over money.

2. Intentional shopping

I’m mindful about purchases, and I buy the things I love, like flowers and fresh fruit, that will improve the quality of my life. Being aware of my purchases eliminates impulse shopping. 

3. DIY salon

My at-home beauty salon works well for me. I do my own mani-pedi and I have embraced my own silver hair color. I cut my own hair, as well. A good alternative to a DIY salon is to go to your local beauty school for nails, haircuts, and colors that will cost a fraction of the price. 

4. Capsule wardrobe

One thing that has changed how I shop for clothes is to keep things simple with a capsule wardrobe. I color-coordinate my clothes so that I can mix and match several outfits.

I choose natural fabrics in solid colors that will go with anything in my closet. I add simple accessories. This gives me plenty of clothing options without feeling the need to buy more things. 

5. Cleaning my own home

I do not outsource my household duties. Throughout all the phases of my life, whether it was raising small children or working outside the home, or running my own business, I ran the ins and outs of my house. I clean it, do the laundry, buy the groceries, do the cooking, and handle the yard work–of course along with the help of my husband. 

6. Upcycling furniture

I am very crafty and love to lose myself in a project. Instead of buying new furniture, I prefer to upcycle or refurbish old pieces. This may not be everyone’s favorite activity but for me, it’s an absolute joy. I love the process of making something beautiful and seeing its transformation from old to new. 

7. Inexpensive date nights

My husband and I have always been good about finding creative ways to spend little to no money on date nights. Dates are about spending quality time with one another and it doesn’t matter where we are at. Some of our favorite dates are picnics, enjoying a free summer concert, or even taking in an old film at the historic movie theater. 

8. Substitute expensive subscription options

Settle in for a Netflix binge night. A great way to save money is to switch from expensive to cheaper subscription options. The average cost of cable is $220. Lower-priced streaming services, like Netflix or others, range from around $10 to $20 a month.

Ways to save money

I hope these life hacks to save money inspire you to start living frugally. I have found these money hacks save me the most money. Which of these tips do you use now and how have they worked for you? Let me know in the comments below.