River Valley Coaching

If your budget doesn’t balance and you are having financial problems there are really only two options that you have to get out of trouble. You can either increase your income or decrease your out-go (or a combination of the two).

Today we are going to give you a few money saving tips to help you with the out-go side of the equation. Food happens to be a good-sized portion of most family’s budget and it is also quite variable. The grocery store is one area that you can see savings TODAY if you are willing to change the way you shop. Here are some money saving tips.

• Shop with a list and then STICK TO THE LIST! This one tip alone can save you a lot!! Impulse purchases tend to be expensive as well as unnecessary.
• If at all possible, go grocery shopping alone. Statistics reveal that you spend more with children and even your husband (sorry guys) in tow.
• Stay away from pre-packaged convenience foods. If you shred your own cheese, chop your own lettuce and make your own “frozen dinner” you WILL save money…today!! (These are great tasks for kids old enough to use a knife etc.)
• NEVER go grocery shopping hungry!! Again, stick to your list!!
• ONLY use coupons for things you would already purchase and only if it is cheaper than other brands (including generic).
• Figure out what things are by the ounce. Bulk is sometimes cheaper but not always. You should keep a calculator with you.
• Shop generic. Many times the quality is just the same (or even better) and sometimes it is even made in the same factory as the name brand product.
• Look for meat that has been marked down by the butcher because it is nearing its use/freeze by date. This is also done with bakery items as well.

If you utilize these tips you can save money at the grocery store today with no gimmicks or “special deals”.

Look for part 2 of “Money Saving Tips” soon.

Article by Kirk Anderson, Financial Counselor :: As a Personal and Business Coach, Kirk helps others take control of their most powerful wealth building tools, their income. Business, Financial, and Personal Coaching may be exactly what you need to get out of debt, plan for retirement, build wealth, and enjoy life. For more information on gaining control of your financial future, contact us at www.rivervalleycoaching.com for your FREE 30 minute consultation.