New naira notes
You’re probably known to be very generous among your colleagues, family and friends. Your wardrobe is always on point. You never settle for less in quality beauty products and accessories. But recently, your rent has increased and so are your utility bills. Nothing prepared you for the financial drought in this post-pandemic era. Now, it’s almost impossible to live within your income with the surge in global prices of food and other consumables.
Never mind; it is still possible to live within your income. After conversations with many people who are largely dependent on salaries, here are the best seven tips for living within your budget.
-
DIY
You heard right. Do it yourself. Wash your car. Clean the house. Cook your food. Do your make-up. Do your laundry. If you plan your schedule very well, you can take on more tasks to save your money.
-
Drive A Bicycle
Cycling is not just a form of exercise. It’s an easy way to commute in traffic-prone cities. You have the dual advantage of saving your cash- and the earth. Environmentalists recommend cycling as a way of reducing air pollution in the cities. But ensure you observe safety precautions otherwise, your savings will put a smile on a doctor’s face.
-
Think Before You Buy
Don’t linger when you embark on window shopping. Make a list of items you need beforehand to prevent impulsive shopping.
-
Compare Prices
Always compare prices of items before you decide on where to buy. Ask friends. Check online. Don’t buy cheap products. You will end up spending more when they malfunction. Always insist on quality over quantity.
-
Avoid Frivolous Gifting
Be generous but be mindful of those who are parasitic in nature. You need to set aside an account or amount that is meant for charity. You cannot be generous at the risk of saving for the rainy day.
-
BUY MORE AT ONCE
When you cultivate the habit of buying in bulk, there is a chance that the seller would give you a discount for buying more than one item at a time. Avoid buying from people who do not offer discounts in spite of your loyalty.
-
TRY SECOND-HAND ITEMS
Due to migration, many are decluttering, selling off good products that had been fairly used. Keep your ears to the ground and you might be able to acquire items beyond your pay grade, conveniently.
