Being a frugal homemaker is often a thankless job. You and your husband have decided to cut back on expenses, get out of debt, and prepare for the future. Right?
Unfortunately, since you are the one who spends most of the household money, it falls on YOU to figure out ways of actually doing that, and it’s easier said than done!
"If you want to know what a man is really like,
take notice of how he acts when he loses money.”
- Simone Weil |
It’s not impossible, though, and it doesn’t have to be a major hardship. Once you’ve committed to yourself to be a frugal homemaker, you can turn it into a game or a challenge.
You can derive satisfaction from finding ways to cut costs without cutting into your family’s happiness and comfort.
For most families, groceries are one of the biggest expenses every month. It’s also by far the most flexible expense you have.
Your mortgage and car payments are the same every month; your utilities are usually pretty consistent, and you don’t have much control over any of them.
But groceries! You could spend twice as much as you’re currently spending, or half as much as you’re currently spending, all depending on how and where you shop.
Get in the habit of buying store or generic brands rather than name brands. This can be especially cost-effective with over-the-counter medications (I.e., cough syrups, pain relievers, and so forth).
The packaging on medications lists exactly which active ingredients are included and the store brands are usually identical to the name brands. There’s literally no difference in their medicinal qualities! So why spend 50% more on the more recognizable brand?
Some other tips for being a frugal homemaker:
- Learn which grocery store near you generally has the lowest prices and make it your regular place to shop. Clip coupons, watch for specials, and always make a shopping list before you go. Never shop on an empty stomach, no matter how much willpower you think you have!
- When you take long car trips, bring snacks from home rather than stopping along the way.
- When your kids outgrow or stop wearing clothes, sell the items on eBay or at a consignment store. You’ll be amazed what you can get for them!
- Plan your meals a week in advance and shop in bulk whenever possible.
Bottom line? With a game plan in mind, you’ll find that being a frugal homemaker isn’t so difficult after all. Once you begin saving and realizing the fruits of your labor, you’ll feel a wonderful sense of accomplishment and pride in knowing you’re taking better care of your family.
"MONEY: The mint makes it first,
it is up to you to make it last.”
- Evan Esar |
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Debt is NOT your friend. It's not a wonderful "tool" for building wealth. That's a myth.
