Thursday, January 22, 2015

How To Be Frugal And Not Cheap

By Karyn Shields


Frugality is a process of being economical in terms of the way money is used. Many people are looking for different ways in which they could save more efficiently. However, being frugal should not be confused with cheapness. There is a whole lot difference between the two kinds of people. Any individual who wishes to save can do so. There are guidelines put forward on how to be frugal.

To begin with, knowing the differences between being cheap and being frugal is important. The similarity is that both entails saving. The difference comes when a cheap person sacrifices quality of a substance and tends to buy things that are of less quality.

In addition, being frugal requires planning for the future and not only the present while at the same time not being in a hurry to use the saved amount. For example, a frugal person will decide to wait until the price of a good reduces to purchase it, rather than rushing to a stall and buying the same product. For instance, latest phone in the market.

Thirdly, a definite conclusion for a shabby individual is focused on price of a commodity while for sparing ones, it is focused around the significance of an item. An item may be somewhat costly but the worth it has could be high in this manner buying such an item would not be a misfortune.

Cheapness drives more on saving more while frugality is about looking at the opportunity cost of two products and choosing the one that an individual cares more about.

The following key issues have to be taken into account in order for one to be frugal:To know how money is used. One needs to have an idea of what amount of money has been used on what activity or commodity. This helps in determining how much money is needed to be saved. A beginner in saving is expected to have a record containing the type of item and the amount spent to know where he/she has to cut the expenses and save.

Reduce spending expenditure. This step comes in after a person is aware of the monthly expenses. For instance, cutting down on discretionary costs which are not mandatory and a person can survive without it like alcohol and money spent on entertainment.

Settling the debt. It is important to pay off outstanding cash for the saving process to be proper. It is advisable to give back the money owed to the debtor to avoid some inconveniences that might arise in the long run because the aim of saving is so that it can be of help in future and crucial moments.

Use coupons. Looking for products that have discounts helps an individual to cut cost thus enhancing saving.

Be basic in the lifestyle. One does not need muddled and extravagant supplies to be cheerful. One can use the basic free things which offers recreational value like nature to an individual.

Lastly is saving on things one wishes to buy and are of value. For instance, mobile phone to communicate with family members and others. If the money saved on such things is not enough, he or she should be patient until there is enough to purchase the product.

Frugality is essential for sustainable living. It is therefore important to identify the best method of saving and embrace the idea of being economical.




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