Evan Vitale

Evan Vitale – Cut The Fat and Save!

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By Evan Vitale

For some, it’s a daily struggle to survive, while others are able to make it week-to-week. It’s tough out there on a lot of individuals and we should count our blessings daily for what we have.

A personal crisis – such as a health problem; a tooth ache; a flat tire or even replacing the battery in your car – can be extremely tough on finances for many people. Unfortunately, those who are “surviving” never get to live the dream of owning a new car or taking a beach vacation.

This is why having the ability and the means to save a little bit of money will go a long way in overcoming unexpected financial woes.

You can do it, even if you’re living from check-to-check. Here’s how you can put a little more money in your savings account and start a “rainy day” fund or save for a well-deserved family vacation:

  • Stop making purchases at convenient stores. Yes, they are convenient, but the mark-up on all products is cutting into your cash. Don’t start and end your day with a stop at the quickie mart for a soda, coffee or frozen slushy drink.
  • Break bad habits that are costing you a ton of money, especially if you are smoking cigarettes. Depending on where you live, etc., a pack of cigarettes costs between $4 and $8 per pack! A neighbor of a friend of mine smokes two packs a day at $5 per pack. That’s $10 per day x 30 days = $300 a month going up in smoke (not to mention potential long-term health problems).
  • Take your lunch to work. Eating lunch at fast food restaurants costs around $10 per day.
  • Cut back on cable television. Call your local cable TV provider and see if you can get a lower rate or, if necessary, cut your current cable TV package by one level and save $10 to $20 per month. Some have even cut the cord entirely and save over $100 per month. Instead, they rely on their local internet service to stream television programs, watch Netflix, etc.

Living from check-to-check is difficult and stressful. However, by following some of these little tips, you can start saving some money and ease a little financial stress.