Christmas Cash

If you're like me and you spend money the second you get it, no matter how much or how little you have, then you'd know that saving money is just one of those things that you can never do. Every year around Christmas, I try my hardest to save money, but most of the time I just give up and spend it on something I won't end up using or wearing. What I've decided to do this year, though, is make a list of all the things I can do to save my cash. I figured some of you would want to read them, so here ya go!

Keep the change
Literally- keep the change. Everytime you pay for something using a bill, you're handed back a bunch of coins. Instead of keeping those coins lying around in your purse or wallet or anywhere, keep them in a piggy bank. You may think that you won't get much out of it, but it really adds up in the end. I started keeping my change about a week and a half ago and I'm already at $16. Once they're in the piggy bank, you aren't very tempted to take them out and spend them.

Reward Jar
I have heard of a lot of people who put a dollar in a jar everytime they lose a pound so they can save up for a sort of reward once they reach a certain weight. You can do the exact same thing, even if you aren't losing weight! For instance, everytime you do a chore, put 50 cents into a jar, or everytime you get an A on a test, put a dollar in. Just like the piggy bank, your change will add up in the end. This is also a good way to motivate yourself to do a lot better in things!

Girls Night In
Instead of going out for dinner with your friends and spending a load of money, take it inside! Grab some movies, make some snacks, paint each others nails. This way you can still have fun and not spend a fortune.

Make Your Own Meals
We all have those moments where you're in such a rush that you don't have enough time to make yourself something to eat, so you always end up in the drive thru ordering a burger and some fries. If you know you'll be short in time, prepare ahead. The night before a busy day, make all of your food you'll be eating and store it in the fridge. This way, you can just grab 'n go. It's also a great way to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Set Goals
When you have a goal that you are determined to accomplish, it's much easier for you to save up for it. Put post- it notes wherever you usually keep money to remind you not to spend it if you're looking to buy something pricey.

Budget
Limit yourself to a certain amount of money you want to spend every week. Say you only get $20 a week; only spend $10 of that and put away the other $10 for savings. Also, don't bring all of your money with you when you go out somewhere. If you have a load of money in your wallet, you're much more tempted to spend it.

Coupons
These little babies are amazing to have around. Before buying something, always check to see if there is a coupon you can use to save a couple bucks. If you've ever watched TLC's Extreme Couponers, you'd know that having enough can really help you keep your money in your wallet.  


I hope these tips help you in saving money!

xx Mandy