Cutting the budget
FRANKLIN LIVING—The biggest obstacle to cutting your budget: self-control!
You can have the best laid plans, the most organized budget and all the financial apps you can think of, but when it comes right down to it, spending or not spending ultimately comes down to you.
Distinguishing between what is a necessity and what isn’t is tough. We all have different ideas about needs verses wants. As a self-proclaimed “social media guru,” fast internet and high-speed data feel like a necessity to me – then the internet and cellphone bills come due, and suddenly I second guess that need for speed.
So how do we determine where to cut costs? I’m here to tell you, those decisions are going to be unique to everyone.
As a starting point, here are some common cuts that can make a difference in your budget. Hopefully this will provide you with a jumping off point to start considering what expenses you have that might could be reduced or even eliminated.
- Energy bills! We all know Alabama summers (and winters for that matter) can be harsh. Keeping a check on the thermostat can save you a lot of cash. Studies show you save or cost yourself around 3 percent for every one degree you adjust your temperature. Adjusting the temperature while you’re away from home can also account for major savings.
- Dining out! Everyone can be guilty of this one. Often times it actually does feel more cost effective to just eat out than to have a large grocery bill. The trap we fall into is buying groceries, eating out anyway and throwing food away we didn’t cook.
This decision on how you can save gets really personal. If you know you won’t cook, cut down on the groceries and focus on purchasing non-perishables. If you like to cook, but just can’t make a habit of it, try meal prepping. There are tons of “meal prep experts” on social media who are constantly sharing tips and tricks to aid you in getting started. Focus on it for a month and see how it goes. (You can search the hashtag: #mealprep).
- Entertainment/activities! This one doesn’t need much decision making. It easily falls into the “not a necessity” category. The hardest part is just having the self-control and forethought to plan for what you will spend. Going to the movies? Could you do the Sunday matinée for $5 instead of Friday night for $14? Do you have a coupon that could be used? Are there specials available that you could take advantage of?
The way to save here is to avoid spur-of-the-moment purchasing. Plus, fitting in a little research ahead of time doesn’t hurt!
Last but not least, the hardest part is just saying no. Whether to yourself or your kids, “not getting” to do something can be a bummer. You can cushion the blow by looking for fun, cost-effective alternatives.
In the end, it’s all what you make of it. If you’re down in the dumps and begrudging every cut you’re trying to make, then this can be a pretty awful process. Likewise, if you can view it as a financial challenge or competition, it will be a lot more fun!
Emily Mays is vice president/senior marketing director at Community Spirit Bank in Red Bay, working in finance for 13 years. She is an enthusiastic social media marketer, financial literacy advocate and go local supporter. She lives in East Franklin and has one daughter, Lola, 10.
