Safiyyah offers some helpful tips for 2010

How do you know it’s “mahga season”? When Safiyyah checks out ways to save money instead of ways to party. She tells us what she found on What’s Happening Belize.

Hey I’m Safiyyah and this is what’s happening Belize, the first segment for 2010.
As most of you would probably figure there isn’t much going on right now especially after all those holiday expenses. So what I’ve done for you is come up with some useful tips that can help you save money until you’re back on your feet and if you like them, you can use them all year round.

A big exercise you can do is to write down all the things you owe and tape it somewhere you can see it. It might seem like a nuisance to look at but just think about how great you’ll feel when you’ve crossed things off the list. It’ll be on your mind and keep you from wasting money.

Another thing you can do is to pay yourself. It may sound strange but it’ll make sense just listen. When you get your pay and you’re deducting the money for you bills and food take a reasonable amount and keep it for yourself. Then what ever is left you can put in the bank to save. This way you know you have that amount to buy something for yourself and you have also put a limit on spending your extra after bills. Now if you don’t spend the money you’ve paid to yourself, put it in a separate account for when you need some leisure cash.

For those of you who love to shop whether it’s for clothes, shoes or electronics; you should apply the two minute rule. Look at the item, think about how much you really need it, give yourself a few seconds. If you still want it and can afford it without putting yourself in debt then buy it. You’ll be surprised how many items you’ll put back and how much money you’ll save.

If you’re a habitual drinker or smoker, try to cut back. It’ll amaze u when the spare cash remains in your wallet. Also try to drink more water, its healthy; which could possible save you a trip to the doctor in the long run, plus it’s cheaper than most juices or soft drinks. You can also try things like taking your lunch to work some days instead of buying food.

Another tip would be to invite friends over instead of going out every weekend. Pull your cash together and have a great time. With ten dollars a person the possibilities are endless as compared to going out, you’ll each be spending double that just on entrance.

You should also avoid spending money to de-stress for example shopping, drinking, partying, unnecessary and too frequent trips. Try to do things at home like relax and listen to music. Spend time with people who make you happy. And pick up a new hobby you may enjoy, like drawing, or writing poems. It’s all free.
Ok those are my tips. You may find they may not all apply to you but I’m sure there one or two that can help save a few extra bucks. And in this day and age, we all need it.

Have a great weekend, bye.

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