September Self-Improvement Series Tip #6: Saving Money

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We’re concluding our self-improvement tip series with easy ways on how you can save money. They say that money can’t buy happiness, but there is no denying that having enough money can help lower stress and anxiety. According to Becoming MI, 71% of Americans claim that money is their biggest source of stress, and it can impact the way we feel about ourselves and live our lives.

But money-related stress is not entirely a matter of simple dollars and numbers. When 71% of respondents cite money as a cause, the problem clearly extends across socio-economonic classes. Money-related stress is not just about a shortage of dollars. It is more than that.

Instead, the stress stems from the way we think about and interact with money and the solution is not as simple as “just add more.” This may mask the symptoms temporarily, but the anxiety always returns.

While stress about money may never disappear entirely, there are a few steps you can take to save and build up a cushion.

Tip #1: Know Your Budget
It’s hard to know how much money you can save if you don’t have a budget in place. It’s important to know how much income you receive every month, along with how much your living expenses cost such as groceries, housing, car payments, health insurance premiums, and more. Once you add these costs together, you’ll know how much you have leftover and what you need to save.

Tip #2: Move Bank Accounts During Promotions
This second tip can actually put more money in your wallet. Every so often, you’ll get flyers in the mail for banks asking you to open a new account. Some offer as much as up to $200 to switch to their bank. While you may have to switch payment methods around, such as automatic online payments, you’ll get an extra $200 in your pocket for not doing much at all.

Tip #3: Use Apps to Save Money
There are some great apps to help you save more money. For example, ibotta will get you rebates on specific everyday items. Products like shredded cheese will add money to your account, and you’ll get bonus money on occasion. When you get $25 in rebates, you can get a gift card to places like Target. Best of all, the app is free and the gift card can be scanned in store.

Tip #4: Negotiate a Lower Interest Rate
If you have credit card debt, consider calling and negotiating a lower interest rate. While this won’t necessarily lower your payments, it can help you save more money over time.

Saving money doesn’t mean that you need to stop having fun and lock yourself up in the house. Use technology and resources, such as coupons, to help keep costs low. We hope you enjoyed our September Self-Improvement series—keep reading Best Life Hub for more tips to better your life.


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