Today, money often feels like it doesn’t have a real value, it just flows through our hands without us really understanding where it comes from or where it goes. But even if we don’t really grasp it, it still drives our daily lives, making us happy, or unhappy, and determining our standing in society. It can be our undoing, but we still rely on it. Here are some tips to help make sure it doesn’t rule your life:
1. Pay with cash not card
Try this test: go to the ATM and withdraw some cash. Keep it in your wallet and leave your cards at home for a month. Compare this month’s expenses with the one previously. You will be amazed at the difference. Using a credit card is so simple, it becomes automatic.
And now with contactless payment, the process is so quick, we’re almost unaware that we’re spending money, which can lead to some surprises at the end of the month!
And on top of that, you have to know that the more you use your card, the more it benefits your bank…
2. Stop over-consuming
If you want to go shopping, start by opening your closet and looking at the clothes you already have. When you see how many outfits you have (even approximately!), hopefully it’ll dissuade you from going on a shopping spree (and help protect your bank account).
Adopt the same strategy when it comes to food shopping. Firstly, don’t go to the supermarket when hungry otherwise you’ll want to buy everything that you don’t need. Check your fridge, make a list and stick to it.
3. Create days «without» to get days «with»
Rather than just denying yourself the opportunity to spend money, give yourself the chance to do something different instead. Not going shopping this Saturday? What about going for a beautiful walk by a lake? If you want to avoid watching TV with the temptation of adverts always pressuring you to part with your hard-earned money, why not have a relaxing bath with candles instead?
This will have an impact on your spending and will also allow you to spend more precious time with your family, your partner, or yourself.
4. Ask yourself THE question
Each time you’re about to buy something expensive, ask yourself «Do I really need this?» To start with, you’ll still find excuses to buy the product. But with time, by repeating this question, you’ll realize on your own that you need to curb your shopping habits.
It’s possible to live a good life without spending a lot of money, and above all, it’s possible to be very happy. In order to avoid having your bank account as a source of stress, put a brake on needless expense and just enjoy your time — freely. You’ll live a totally different life!
