From losing weight, to reading more books, to cutting back on drinking, the start of a new year is an obvious time to start new habits to improve yourself. Unless you take smart steps, though, it’s very easy to give up on your New Year’s resolutions within a month or two. The key to sticking to a resolution is breaking down the overall goal into smaller habits that are easier to integrate into your day-to-day life. For example, if your goal is to lose weight, commit to taking the stairs of a morning instead of the elevator. Another good resolution to make in the new year is to save money or stick to a budget. One way to save some money, and help the environment while you’re at it, is to be more eco-friendly. For more easy steps to save money in 2019 read on!
Make a Shopping List and Stick to It
Who among us hasn’t gone to the local supermarket for one or two things and come out with 50+ items just to realize you forgot the thing you actually needed? Impulse buys and overspending go hand-in-hand with today’s society, but if you decide to write down a list before going in and stick to it there won’t be any more surprises at the register. You can also take this a step further and try your hand at meal prep to save money on groceries.
Cancel Unused Memberships and Subscriptions
Subscription boxes are super convenient and fun. Getting monthly samples, figurines, or even socks is like getting yourself a surprise gift! But they can also add up, and paired with other monthly memberships you may be spending more than you realize. Take a look at your bank and credit card statements, or check out apps that can do it for you, and see what you might be able to get rid of. Do you really use the warehouse membership enough to make it worth the fee? If so great! If not, consider canceling. Does your apartment community have a fitness center? If so, there’s no need for a gym membership.
Check Out Free Local Events
Kansas City is a great place to live, and there’s always something going on. Check out the Visit KC website to see events in any neighborhood, many of which are free or cheap. You should also keep an eye on your apartment community’s Facebook and Instagram accounts for any resident events or area activities and specials they may be promoting. This blog is also a resource, as we post things to do in the area each season, for example our Fall and Winter suggestions.
Go Out Less
It should be fairly obvious, but if you go out less you’ll spend less money while you’re out. Commit to making your lunches ahead of time so you have less of a reason to go out or order delivery for lunch. If you’re already making a grocery list, plan out your weekly meals so you already have food at home and aren’t tempted to stop by fast food after work. Instead of going out with friends, why not host a game night? Have everyone bring their preferred alcohol instead of paying $12 for a mixed drink, and have snacks or have your friends pitch in for pizza.