7 ways to live a life with a strong mindset that helps you save better:

Frugal living is basically living a life where you are cautious about how you spend your money and how you are creative with the way you spend and save your money.

I am the type of person who likes saving and actually having something to rely on. But I also get times where I want something badly, it can be books or clothes or sometimes I just buy things and end up comforting myself by saying I only live once and do it. I am not a crazy spender, but I don’t save a lot either.

I haven’t started working yet, So this money that I am talking about is basically my life saving from collecting pocket money. Usually, living frugally is very hard.

But if you are a person who is working and actually has a chance of saving a good amount and want to have a good amount of investment to fall back on, you need to save. It is not easy I will tell you. But you can learn a few tricks that make you want to save and live your life happily without actually feeling like you are giving too much.

As we live our daily lives, we often forget that we have to save or even forget to learn how to stop our impulse buys.

1. KEEP A SCHEDULE:

Schedules help us plan out the things we want or should do beforehand so that we can get things done easily and also help us get our acts together. When you plan out things you suddenly realize you actually have time or even extra to spare to get a few things done. For example, groceries, working out, etc. You see you can plan out by even categorizing groceries into healthy items if you prefer to eat healthily. Just in general having a proper schedule can help you reduce eating out or actually feel productive at the end of the day.

2. DECIDE HOW MUCH YOU ARE GOING TO SAVE:

When you plan out a proper schedule you usually get enough things done and also be productive. But it does not always pan out properly if your schedule says to go shopping, it can still lead to impulse buying. You don’t need to plan out for a year, take it month by month, decide that you will save a particular amount on how much you can, subtract your expenses and rent, etc. Try your best to not touch that money. Because once you have realized that you have saved a certain amount that you had decided, you will not only gain satisfaction but also feel productive at the end of the month. This way when you want to buy something, you will think twice about whether you actually need it or not.

3. FIND CREATIVE ALTERNATIVES:

It is way easier to eat out or just do things that come easily. I mean even if I am like that, I try to eat out because the option seems easy, give a certain amount and buy it. But even if I eat something small from the cafeteria, every day because that seems like an easier option to me. It will still make a difference in my savings. Because I can cook something easier or even eat healthy to keep me full. Not only do I save money but I am actually, living a healthy life as well.

Try to do things yourself, DIY, that will help you find a cheaper and affordable option. You see, I do understand that this might take time, sometimes you don’t have it, or you want the easier version. For example, take furniture per se, if you need a table, either you can find a table that is used or at least second-hand or try to make it yourself at home using the help of someone. That may be an easier option to save. Try to party less and try not to drink out more.

4. LET PEOPLE AROUND YOU KNOW:

What I mean when I say let people know around you is that, once you say people, they can remind you to spend less money. More specifically, parents can help a lot. Friends can be reliable at some point but end up spending money together. But parents know the usefulness of actually saving and how much it will help in the future. So keep a list of things you spent and also inspire others to spend less, that way you can also listen to your advice and follow through.

5. READ ARTICLES:

Sometimes it is easier said than done. Because it sounds good when you plan out certain things, but it is really hard to motivate yourself and actually follow through. Take your time to read articles or even ted talks that can help you to save money and show alternatives to what you can do with that money. This way you have a plan for the money you saved, and it will help you to boost up the motivation to help more. You need to realize what you prioritize and what you really need, it will be worth the wait and the hassle of saving. Sometimes a habit can come a long way.

6. PURCHASE AT THE RIGHT MOMENT:

There are things that you actually need and the things that you want for now. Try to always think of longevity. Longevity is key. So when you need something, remember to think twice and thrice, whether you need it for the right reasons and do you actually need it at the moment. Because sometimes you buy things and forget that you have bought them and end up buying them again. Like I said, buy something when you really need them at the moment. You will feel the satisfaction, and it will be worth the wait.

7. BUY THINGS AT LOWER COSTS:

We often want things that are the best and always want branded items. But it's not worth it if you plan on buying things that are always costly. For example, you buy groceries that are costly when there is obviously a reliable option that is way cheaper and good. Try to go for cheaper options and learn to categorize what you prioritize. Because if things that you buy often are already so costly, you don't have room to save at all.