My friends always complain they never have money and just can’t save. I call BS on that. I have not increased my spending habits when my increases kicked in. I still save more than I spend on luxuries.
Keep a handle on your expenses
Since I started with my expense spreadsheet I know exactly how much goes toward paying bills, I can save and spend on spoils. Here is an example of how you should do your expense spreadsheet:
| Item | Amount |
| Rent/Bond | 3000 |
| Insurance (if separate from car) | 500 |
| Water & Electricity | 200 |
| Complex rates | 1200 |
| City Taxes | 300 |
| Car Installment | 2200 |
| Insurance | 600 |
| Fuel | 500 |
| Cellphone | 500 |
| Life Insurance | 1200 |
| Retirement Annuity | 1200 |
| Medical Aid | 2200 |
| Accounts (specify all your clothing etc accounts) | 150 |
| Bank Fees | 120 |
| Put into savings | 500 |
| Total Expenses | 14370 |
| Income | 16000 |
| Available | 1630 |
Save a little every month
Even if you save just R150 a month, it is better than saving nothing. If you have spare cash one month, put the extra money into savings.
Stop buying on credit
If you cannot afford something, wait until you have the money. Buying on credit is the worst thing you can do as you always end up paying more for that dress you just couldn’t live without. Pay off your credit card every month.
Buying a house or car on credit is OK. Do save up a deposit to get a better interest rate.
Buy gifts now
Know that you will need birthday gifts soon? Buy now. Sales this time of year is perfect for saving on gifts.
Think twice
Think twice before buying luxuries. If you need it, buy it. If you can do without, leave it on the shelf.
Find factory shops to buy your beloved labels. I promise that they sell the same stuff at much lower prices.
Eyes open
I will be publishing a lot of details for factory shops to get your make-up, undies and fashion labels at better prices on www.everything4less.co.za over the next few weeks…
