Lifestyle Changes to Save Money in 2023

With the arrival of the new year comes the arrival of new resolutions, most of which will probably deal with money in some way. If becoming more frugal is your goal, then there are plenty of things you can do in 2018. Try putting these suggestions to good use to see if you can end up in a better financial position this year than you did last year.

If you adopt these healthier financial habits, there will be more money to put away for retirement or put towards a fun vacation like an Alaskan cruise or trip to Disney World.

Separate Fixed Expenses From Variable Expenses

Monthly bills like internet, car insurance, credit card payments and music service subscriptions might be the same at the end of every month. This means you have a solid idea of what you need to save up to take care of them. Then you might have a phone bill, water and electricity bill that go up and down. Have one savings account devoted to fixed expenses and another for variable expenses. That way, you have a better idea of knowing if you’re living from paycheck to paycheck each month and if you’re actually getting ahead on your savings goals.

Try to Get Used to Only Using Cash

Rather than whipping out your debit or credit card at the register, try to only use cash. The reason for this is that you don’t physically see your money leaving your wallet or bank account when you use plastic the way you do when you pay with cash. When you only use cash, you feel the ache of seeing the number of bills you have dwindle, or at least the overall value of your bills. When you get paid, take your spending money in the form of cash rather than transfer it to your checking account. You might be surprised at how much less you spend.

Consider Getting a New Cell Phone Plan

Even if you love your current cell phone service provider, you might be able to get the same service for a less expensive cost elsewhere. Shop around to see if you can find a less-expensive service for the same price. Ask friends and family who they use, how they like them and how much they spend each month. Simply suggesting to your current provider that you’re thinking of switching services could send them scrambling to find you a less expensive deal without making changes to your current plan.

Change how you spend and save money this year. Even if you think you’re doing a pretty good job now, there’s a chance you could be doing even better and making the absolute most of your hard-earned money.