March 15, 2023
Do you ever feel like no matter how hard you try, it seems almost impossible to save money? You do your best to budget, but unexpected expenses always seem to come up. Budgeting your money can seem stressful at first, but with the right goals and mindset, you can be saving money in no time.
For a lot of people, it’s natural to organize a schedule and to-do list one week at a time. Most things in life can be broken down to a seven day rotation—work, weekend events, and after work activities—so it makes sense to set up a budget for weekly expenses. A budget should factor in net income and how that will pay for fixed expenses, savings, and any non-essential spending. For tracking expenses on a weekly budget, think in terms of things you usually buy every day or few days. This can be things like groceries, gas, and eating out. If you can budget well on a weekly basis, this can lead to a better understanding and control of long-term financing.
Making a few adjustments to your energy usage each week can help reduce the amount due on your electric bill. Start conserving energy (and money) by turning off unnecessary lights, unplugging appliances, and replacing lights or faucets with energy-saving options. By maintaining an energy conscious mindset and using these simple tips to preserve power each week, you’ll be saving before you know it.
It can be easy to overspend at the grocery store. Before you leave, be sure to take into account what you already have at home and what you need to buy at the store. It can be tempting to stray away from your grocery list and grab items that don’t fit within your budget. A good rule of thumb is to go to the store when you are not hungry. Also, try buying generic brands—they are often cheaper and relatively similar to the leading brand.
A familiar (but effective) way to save on weekly expenses is to watch for deals. Be sure to ask about current discounts before swiping your card. It’s easy to quickly search the internet for coupons before checking out. Additionally, many businesses and companies offer discounts, coupons, and cash back options in free downloadable apps.
Whether your weekly financial goals are big or small, implementing these saving strategies into your weekly routine is a great way to learn healthy money habits. Visit your local Citizens First Bank to begin budgeting for your future.