Cut the Fat: How to trim your budget, and maintain your lifestyle

For some reason, every year, as soon as the spring warm weather hits, I have the urge to spend more money. The changing season, compounded with more shopping (i.e. great sales), extra social gatherings, beach weekends, and vacations, force me to spend more of my almighty dollar. While I always enjoy this time of year, I do often think "How can I trim the fat?" or "How can I get my credit card bill below $X?"

Well folks, here are a few helpful tips:

1. Self care: I have always been someone who does not indulge in massages, eye brow waxes, or facials. However, I am a sucker for a mani pedi, especially in the summer when I'm often wearing my espadrilles. So, I have become an expert at DIY manicures, and supplement with a 'treat' (timed around special occasions, like my brother's upcoming wedding this weekend) mani as needed every few months. My feet are a different story though - this is where I splurge. I just can't master the art of polishing my toes, and my running does not do wonders. You get the point.

2. Determine what you can live without: I treat myself to one coffee out per week (well, coffee and a scone if we are being specific). I am a firm believer that you cannot deprive yourself (similar to what many folks argue about diets and desserts), and you have to live within reason. That is why my #LeCreusetFrenchPress is my BFF the other 6 days a week. Another fun hack: learn how to make your favorite foods. I recently discovered #WholeFoods green smoothies. A quick google, and the recipe is mine to make at home! (1 date, 1/2 banana, a few raspberries, kale, frozen spinach, and unsweetened almond milk).

3. Assess your transportation: I would much rather walk than Uber. I also don't own a car. I have friends that use the Bike Share program, but I'm often wearing a skirt, so that doesn't work out too well. My point is: enjoy the weather, burn some calories, and get your Vitamin D... walk or run everywhere!

A quick stroll along the River Trail in Chicago!

4. Think Free: What can you do outside? I often take my dog for a walk, window shop, hang out in the park or on the trail. Making friends with those with private balconies is also a plus. Another fun fact: take the AC NJT line from Philly down the shore for the day .. a whopping $10 for a fun beach day. Don't forget to pack your own lunch!

5. Host at Home: I live in a fairly large complex, complete with an outdoor grill area. You can find friends and me outside on the patio, cooking up salmon burgers, steaks, or kabobs. BYOB and BYOD (dog) for a fun weekend night in. The best parts are minimal clean up and a quick commute home.

Happy Saving Everyone!

All my Best,

AA

Note: The ideas above are strictly my own, and should not be taken as any sort of financial or investment advice. I am not a licensed financial planner, and these ideas do not guarantee any sort of return (or loss) in today's marketplace. Thank you!