When you decide to start saving money, the first thing you do is distinguish the things you need from those that you want. After identifying your wants, try to look into which wants you can do away with. When you are not sure about something, just go without it. Use that which you already have until you are sure that you need something different.
Record your expenses
Start keeping a record of everyday expenses. With a record, you will be able to review your operating expenses and find out which expenses you can reduce and which you can completely cut off. Check which expenses you can cut down by recycling what you already have and which ones you can only use when necessary, for instance, you can reduce your usage of mobile phones and use them when necessary.
Set saving goals
Establish the reason why you have decided to start saving. Is it for your education, a vacation, or a dream wedding? Whatever your reason, let it be your main drive to save every coin that you can. With your saving goals in mind, then you can easily create a saving plan that will help you determine how much to save either daily or monthly.
Create and follow a budget
Make sure you set up a budget and be very strict about following it. Make a list of things you wish to buy and ensure when going out to shop you avoid impulse buying by sticking to your budget. Do not be tempted to buy things that you come across while shopping. Stick to your budget and constantly remind yourself of that dream you are saving for.
When shopping, you can try to buy in bulk in situations where you see an opportunity to save some money. It could be saving out on the items bought or saving from the many trips to the stores which also consume some money.
An alternative source of income
If after setting your saving goals and creating a budget, you realize that you are still not able to save up enough, get an extra job. This will mean that you will get even more to save and hence achieve your goal faster. If you cannot get an extra job, then use your hobby to create some money. It could be singing, acting, writing, or cooking. Do something you enjoy to get an income, this way you will both be having fun and achieving your saving goals.
