From Splurging To Saving

Like the look of that shiny laptop? Or the colour of that soft dress that would be perfect for your formal? And what about that cute red car you saw in the dealership down the road with the killer stereo? If only we were all lucky enough to be born as the third Hilton daughter we could have it all (in every colour of course) without a second thought. But let's face it, 99.9% of us weren't born with a silver spoon in our mouths - more like a silver plated one.

This means that most of us actually have to work to get the things we want in life, and that dreaded thing we've heard so much about - the savings account - should become a reality for all of us. Yet it's not all bad news, in fact with a slight tweak here and there, saving can be easy as pie. No really, easier than spending it (but perhaps not quite so fun...)

OOH, THAT PURSE IS CUTE!

Take heed ladies, for this is the one point in this whole exercise I actually encourage you to buy something. Head out to your nearest shopping centre with one target in mind - a purse. A cute, colourful and just generally fabulous coin purse. This will be key to your saving success! All those five and ten cent pieces that generally become homeless in the bottom of various handbags now go here. Just remember, whatever goes in here is not to come out, unless you're handing it over to the bank teller.

HOLD THE VENTI, MAKE MINE A GRANDE...

Downsize that drink! Seems a bit pointless right? I mean it's only a dollar here and there, so what's the point? Well, think about it. If you have four or five juices or coffees a week (be honest, you know I'm not exaggerating!) that equates to $20 per month, or $240 a year, and that's more than small change. Put the difference in the cost straight into your coin purse.

TIGHTWAD TUESDAY? COUNT ME IN!

Ok, so the nicknames aren't so flattering, but just because you actually take the cinema or the video store up on their Tuesday bargains doesn't mean you are one. In fact, it makes you nothing short of savvy. Why pay $11 to see the 'Devil wears Prada' when you could be paying $7? The savings you make will easily cover the family size Maltesers that are the key to a good movie experience. Also, don't forget that most DVD Stores have all movies at well below half price rental on a Tuesday. Make 'Cheap Tuesday' your new mantra.

THEY SMELL FUNNY, BUT THEY'RE FREE...

Yes, I'm talking about the library. They were big in the 70's apparently, and I'm here to resurrect them for a new generation. The good ol' council libraries seem to be undergoing a few changes lately, and it's time you checked them out. In this day and age where owning is considered preferable to borrowing, libraries have fallen from favour. However, one day you should venture in, and with the comfy couches, free internet and general 'me time' granted by a library, you may never want to leave! With most books costing well upwards of a cool 'tenner', you can save hundreds just by borrowing.

DOES THIS BROWN PAPER BAG CLASH WITH MY SHOES?

Whether you are slaving the day away in class, or working nine to five, this is a big one. Taking a home packed lunch is vital to the money success of a cash strapped lass. It may not sound too appetising, but think Greek salads, hot soups, stews and gourmet sandwiches. I can vouch for this one myself, saving over $40 in one week!

BUT SHOPPING'S MY CARDIO!

Oh, we all fall into this trap too often, no woman is immune. It is so, so important that we all stop using the local mall as our personal themepark/babysitter, cos it just 'aint healthy! Rather than pacing those halls AGAIN, make use of your day. Hang out at the beach with friends, have a delicious picnic, or even *gasp* make some headway on that history assignment that's been tormenting you since Monday. If you aren't physically in Retail World, you can't fritter your hard earned cash.

THE WRAPPING AND THE CARD END UP IN THE BIN ANYWAY!

At first glance, this may seem stingy, but it's not, it's simple logic. What do you do once you've opened all those pressies? Throw the wrapping and envelopes away! Yes, those same cards, paper and ribbon that often ends up costing more than the actual gift. Let's face it, those generic messages and sentiments are a big RIP-OFF! Try making a card from scratch for your friends. Not only is it a great creative outlet but your besties will value it far more highly than that ghastly bit of cardboard with the sunflower on it that you gave them last year, I promise!

AUTO DEBIT = AUTO SAVING.

If you are old enough to have a job, this is a big one. Ask your payroll manager to automatically deduct whatever you can spare each week and put it into your account dedicated to saving and I promise, you won't notice it missing. Even if you can only spare $5 a week, it all counts and all adds up. Don't take the eftpos card for this account shopping, as you will probably succumb to the spending temptation! Give it to someone you trust or put it in a safe place, but keep the pin number to yourself!

So, there you have it! All the keys to a successful future's saving. Once you get into the habit, you will never look back. That dress, laptop and car are closer than you think!