Making saving money a game is what works for me – I use it as a
challenge! How can I make dinner without
buying anything for the next three days, using only what I already have. Can I repair my clothes this weekend so I
don’t need another pair of jeans? Can I
have fun Friday night without opening my wallet? These are all challenges for me.
I do, however, have many friends for whom being frugal is not a primary concern. For one thing, we do not discuss much our
finances with one another; as well, it is very possible that they their budget
is very different than mine. I also have
friends with whom I have very honest and forthcoming about my frugality and we
share tips often. However, when I need a
little inspiration, I often look online for articles, blogs, and videos of VERY
frugal people. I also read books about
budgeting and how to make ends meet.
One series that I have enjoyed on YouTube is Extreme Cheapskates (we do
not have TLC at home); some of the extent to which some of the cheapskates go
to in order to save a few pennies is WAY more than I would do. However, it’s fun to debate internally
whether or not I would use their tricks.
Another show, shown only on the Internet, is Cheapsters, where frugal
contestants compete in challenges to be the winner of the cheapsters and a
prize of $10 000. The first season has
challenges such as making a very cheap but tasty meal; decorating an office
with items from the dollar store; dressing for a formal event at a second-hand
store, and the likes. However, the
second season is not as good; the challenges are a bit silly, such as finding
quarters in a room with many sofas and racing to get coupons.
Books that I like to read come mostly from the library. For example, I just finished reading The Cold Hard Truth about Men,
Women & Money by Kevin O’Leary; yes, Kevin, the ‘mean’ guy on
Dragon’s Den (CBC television). Mr.
O’Leary has a fantastic chapter about the investment of your post-secondary
education and whether the investment is worth it or not. Although I do not agree with all his advice
(he barely considers living at home but discourages you from seeking a degree
which will not land you a job), he also has good advice, such as working
part-time even if it means not graduating as fast, if that means not graduating
in debt. A very good read.
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