None of us are perfect, but all of us can save

Let’s face it, none of us are perfect, especially when there’s money involved. I admit that occasional retail therapy can be just the thing after a really bad day, but then I get home and usually say, “What did I just buy?” and “What in the world am I going to wear with purple shoes?” It’s easy to rationalize purchases as they’re being made, but those purchases often lead to regret and can make saving money an almost impossible task!

If you’re interested in overcoming any retail therapy urges and saving some money too, here’s some absolutely easy advice for doing just that. Oh yeah, and keep the receipt for that recent impulse purchase and you'll have no problems returning it.

*Stash the Card and Use Cash
One of the best ways you can put a halt on your dollars flying out the door is to drastically cut down your use of credit cards. The “swipe now and pay later” game can lead to an unhealthy habit, a ton of fees and a mountain of debt. Instead of paying with credit, budget out a set amount of cash you’ll need for the week, and try to stick to it. The next time you get the urge to pull out the old credit card, just use the cash in your pocket for the things you really need. You might even try leaving your credit card(s) at home.

*Keep Track and File Away
Organize your finances and bills. This won’t take much time and will really save you the hassle of missing a bill payment here and there. Create a filing folder or cabinet for all your bills and keep track of when each bill is due. If possible, try to get your bills paid a few days early so there’s no chance of being charged a late fee. After you have paid a bill you can write ‘paid,’ the date, and the check number on it so you have a clear record that it’s done and then stick it in your filing folder for at least a year.

*Do You Really Need That?
Trim some fat by canceling unnecessary subscriptions to monthly magazines, organizations, clubs, or other memberships. The money you save from these might not seem like much at first, but a year’s worth of subscriptions can be a good start on a savings plan.

*Be Choosey
Do some comparative shopping for things like phone, television, and internet service to find the best rates around. More often than not, these providers usually offer some kind of special discount. Voice-over-internet (VOI) service providers like Skype provide phone service over the internet for less than $3 per month, which is a great deal if you don’t mind logging on to make your calls.

*Record and Reflect
Keep a record of your daily expense for one week. This will make it clear exactly where your money is going. Then you can decide whether or not you really need to get that double mocha latte every morning. Eating out for lunch every day can cost you an average of $40 or more a week ($8 per lunch), so try packing a lunch instead. You’ll be surprised what $40 worth of groceries can get you if you’re a smart shopper. You can still enjoy a meal out once in a while, but to really see the savings, try limiting dining out to once a week.

*Stash it and Forget about It
The best way to save money is to start saving! A good rule of thumb is to set aside 10% from you paycheck for a retirement fund or savings account. If you can’t do that, try putting 5% away. If you can do more, go for it, you’ll only reach your goal quicker! After a year or two you’ll find that paying yourself first is extremely beneficial and you’ll have a great base from which to build a long-term retirement plan.