Saving money is not an issue too puzzling to understand. We all know how to do it, we can even go as far as creating a doable plan which suits our lifestyle best—and even put it to practice once in a while. However, it’s quite hard to actually stick with the plan especially if you’re not trained to do that at all!
I’ve read from somewhere that saving is so much like losing weight. We only act if the action is called for, and we tend to loosen up once the problem eases. What seniors don’t know is that saving money must be a lifelong commitment, if we would like a comfortable retirement years. I know some amazing success stories which feature seniors living the kind of life they deserve after quitting their job—they didn’t win jackpots, they were not even executives during their working years, just your average, hardworking American gals and guys who know how to penny-pinch their way to retirement! To be fair with this generation, most of us really know how to save, partly because during our time, simple joys are more important than luxury items and also, we were trained to do without the things we don’t need. Of course now, saving is a lot harder to do considering the fact that we are now living in a very materialistic world. Here’s a guide to all seniors and not-so-seniors out there who would want to enhance their money-saving abilities:
· Change the way you see money. We always value money according to its make. If its paper, we know that its value is higher but once it changes to coins, it quickly depreciates before our eyes, even if they are of the same amount as the aforementioned paper. Why don’t you start seeing them both as valuable and valuing them at the same degree?
· Whenever possible, pay cash. Paying with credit cards makes everything seems so easy to buy. Aside from that, credit card gives us the illusion of being able to buy things that are way beyond our budget. When you pay cash, you would easily see how far your money can buy without burying yourself in unnecessary debt.
· Buy things that are important to you. Or to your existence for that matter! A remote controlled garage door opener may sound so techy and pricey for a senior but if it helps you not to hurt your back or suffer injuries, then why not?
· Save every penny. Don’t throw your piggy banks just yet. Use them to grow your loose change instead.
· Join money-saving programs organized by local groups in your community. There ought to be one especially if you are an active member of an association or group.
· Set aside a little something for your future. Even if you are already nearing your twilight years, it doesn’t mean you won’t need money in the near future.