Around the Cooler
These days, a dollar just doesn’t stretch like it used to. With prices rising on everything from groceries and gas to housing and cars, many family budgets are feeling the squeeze. That makes it more important than ever to take a closer look at where your money is really going.
The good news: Small changes and quick financial checkups can result in big savings. Whether you’re feeling financial strain, saving toward a goal, or simply trying to be more mindful with your money, these ideas can help you hold on to more of those hard-earned dollars.
1. Plan Your Plate
Have you looked at your grocery receipt and done a double take? You aren’t alone. Easy ways to save on groceries include meal planning and buying only what you need—even when you shop online. Recipe sites like Budget Bytes can help you brainstorm low-cost meals. When your fridge is fully stocked, keep produce where you’ll easily see it—not shoved in the back of the fridge.
2. Try Second-Hand First
Before buying new clothes or household goods, browse secondhand options. Thrift or consignment stores—and online markets such as eBay, Poshmark, and Facebook Marketplace—offer high-quality, pre-owned goods at a fraction of retail prices. Even better, shop for free through local Buy Nothing groups, where neighbors give away usable items. Don’t overlook public libraries either—many lend puzzles, electronics, board games, and tools.
3. Cut the Cords
Are you still paying for the streaming service that includes PAW Patrol long after your kids have outgrown the show? Or did you miss a quiet price increase in your audiobook subscription? Since free trials often turn into monthly payments, review all your subscriptions and look for services you can cut. Replace a paid fitness app with a free YouTube workout. If you’ve upgraded an app to a paid version—such as a food tracker—switch back to the free option.
4. Tame Temptation
From flash sales to impulse buys, consumption temptation is everywhere. Since you can’t purchase what you don’t know about, block marketing emails, texts, and social accounts. Think twice before tapping affiliate links from an influencer (they’re financially motivated to convince you to shop) and wait 72 hours before making a non-essential purchase. Some people benefit from a short “fast” from unnecessary purchases—such as a no-spend September—to reset overbuying habits.
5. Audit Autopay
Autopay makes it easy to forget about recurring expenses, which is why it pays to review and renegotiate. Consider refinancing your mortgage. Call your insurance and internet providers and ask about deals or discounts—you may snag a better rate by mentioning you are exploring other options. If not, compare competitor rates and consider switching. You can also take advantage of BYU-alumni discounts on phone plans and on health, home, life, and auto insurance.
