Having money problems is stressful and uncomfortable but while there may be some things outside of your control you can
- Keep your spending to a minimum until you can afford to spend more. Do not pretend that you can afford things when you cannot. Don’t pretend you have money to spend when you don’t (even to yourself). Yes you may need a few more clothes, shoes, bags, accessories, etc. but resist the temptation to buy especially just because you want to be on trend. And stop going to restaurants: buy groceries and prepare your meals at home. Take your lunch to work, even if it means having leftovers. Also, stay away from shopping apps or unsubscribe from them.
- Stop paying someone else to do things you can do yourself. Paying someone may save a little time and work, but when you’re financially strapped, you just can’t afford to pay for these things. If you can barter for them, that’s a different story but do certain things yourself like wash your car yourself, do the house cleaning, or cut the grass yourself. Also, do your own nails (or ask a friend) and even if you may not necessarily be able to give yourself a haircut, you can go a little longer between cuts.
- Resist the temptation to keep up with ‘who-ever’ by buying new electronic devices even before you have had time to break in the device you own now. The newer version x ‘who ever’ bought might be more lightweight and with a better screen but sometimes the changes are so minor that you really don’t get a significant benefit by switching to a newer version.
- Watch your electricity and water consumption. These are two utility services whose price you can control so turn off lights you’re not using. Don’t let the water run and fix taps and any leaks as soon as possible. Oh and talking about energy saving, also do not drive to places unnecessarily: Combine errands and minimize your driving time to save money on fuel. You can also take public transportation or walk to reduce the amount of money you spend on fuel.
- Not gamble at all: Gambling is never really a good idea – it can drive financially well-off people to poverty really quickly. And when you are watching your finances or are already broke, gambling is not going to change your situation. It’s too risky – no matter what form of gambling you choose. Like sport betting or subscribing to lotteries for what looks like a very small fee per day which is really your money being deducted from your airtime every single day.
