How To Save $1,000 A Month Without Changing Your Lifestyle

So, you want to save money, but you also want the most out of life. Have you been led to believe that the two are mutually exclusive? If so, think again. There are multiple ways you can easily and effortlessly save up to $1,000 a month without completely overhauling your lifestyle or depriving yourself of a good time. 

First, set a goal

First things first, you’ll want to set a goal to actively save money. Getting into the right frame of mind and having a purpose behind your actions will make it easier to follow tips and help you save more.

Next, create a budget

Use a spreadsheet to monitor your spending as it happens. Track every single transaction. You’ll likely be surprised by how much you spend and where you spend it.

Now, onto the money-saving secrets that won’t change your life…

Set up automatic deposits into your savings account

You’re less likely to spend money that you don’t see in your paycheck. Most jobs will let you choose an amount to be directly deposited into an account just by filling out a direct deposit form.

Get cash back by taking pictures of your receipts

Download and use grocery store apps designed to either give you cash back on the items you purchase or points for every receipt scanned. 

Earn extra money by sharing your opinion

Taking surveys is an easy way to earn extra money. You can find several survey sites online, such as Survey Junkie and Zap Surveys.

Use savings apps

Saving can be easier when using savings apps that take the pressure off of planning and analyzing your own spending. Check out apps such as Digit, Mint, and Trim.

Make different choices

Think about which invitations for drinks or dinner you really want to accept, and which ones you can live without. You can also make other small changes, such as deciding to take a bus or train to save money on gas and parking.

Take on a side hustle

Consider taking on a part-time job to earn some extra cash. You might also be able to turn a hobby or favorite pastime into a money-making endeavor (think pet sitting).

Drink water when dining out

Opt for drinking water instead of an expensive beverage when you’re dining out. Your head and your wallet will thank you the next day.

Brew coffee at home

Skip the drive-thru in the morning and create a coffee ritual at home with your new favorite cup of joe. By brewing coffee at home, you could save anywhere from $40-$80 a month.

Pack your lunch

Make time in the evening or morning before work to pack yourself a lunch. Chances are it’ll be healthier and much more affordable than that overpriced salad across the street from the office. You could save between $100-$200 a month.

Plan meals

Go grocery shopping with a list of what you’ll need for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks for the week. You’ll be less inclined to grab whatever you pass in the store aisles and limit the costs of impulse buying.

Shop simply

A lot of money is wasted on food that ends up going bad and being thrown out. Think about which meals you truly enjoy eating and simplify the preparation. By paring down ingredients, you could save a significant amount of money without feeling like you’re depriving yourself of your favorite meals.

Cancel unnecessary memberships and subscriptions

Keep the memberships and subscriptions you really enjoy and use on a regular basis. Cancel the ones you seldom use or never even think about. Surely there’s at least one gathering dust.

Cut cable and Internet rates

Contact your cable or Internet company and negotiate your rate. Most companies would rather work with you instead of losing you as a customer.

Shop around for the best cell phone rates

Call your cell phone company directly and ask to speak with a live person. Then, negotiate a better plan that suits your actual phone usage and your budget.

Take a look at your insurance costs

Car and house insurance can be costly. Speak to an insurance representative to see if your can make any changes that could save you money, or if any new discounts are available.

Adjust your heating and air conditioning thermostat

Adjusting your home thermostat, even just a tiny bit, can save you money in both summer and winter. You may not even notice the temperature change.

Take shorter showers

The hotter the water and the longer the shower, the more energy you’re using. Start by shaving off a minute or two and these costs will quickly be reflected in your energy and water bills.

Unplug items that aren’t in use

Computers. Coffee pots. Lamps. Toasters. It may come as a shock, but these are just a few of the items that consume energy when they’re plugged in, even when they’re not in use. Unplug, and uncover some hidden savings.

Sell stuff you don’t want or need

Turn to sites like eBay, Craigslist, and Decluttr to sell stuff you no longer want, and make some extra cash. Remember: One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.

Check out free events and activities

Check your local library, newspaper, or your local news site to find free activities near you. Just because you’re looking to stash some cash doesn’t mean you have to forget about having fun.