The Soap Box - Finance Edition
You say that you have trouble saving money - I say you have a problem managing money. Get control of your finances, and the savings take care of themselves - Promise!!
Three Specific Tips
1. A goal of "I want to save money" pretty much guarantees failure. Goals need to be simple, clear and have timelines attached.
"I want to save $100 every month so that I have a $1200 annual RRSP contribution."
2. If you don't have a budget, get one. Keep it simple but thorough.....a "Budget" column and an "Expense" column. They're easy to make, can take less than 15 minutes a month to maintain, and will open your eyes to what you spend. Again.....keep it simple but thorough.
3. Live with cash. Its getting harder and harder to do this, but nothing says "Stop Spending" like $0.00 in your pocket. Early on, I even suggest leaving your plastic at home (incl. debit card). I take out a months worth each at a time (spending, groceries & gas). When its gone, its gone. But at the same time, if there's money left over, I'm welcome to spend it on "Hookers & Blow".
I've been following those tips (and more) for many years, and they have made an indescribable difference. Zero debt, plenty of savings, and I never ever ever ever worry about "can I make X payment this month?" type stuff.
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