Page 34 - Book2E

The future, according to some scientists, will be exactly like the past, only far more expensive.
—John Sladek
26
spend. Remember, if you save $7.00 per working day by not going out to lunch, over a year you would save $1,820.
Look for ways to enjoy your free time that don’t cost money . There are some great ones. Activities like taking your family to the park, attending school plays and concerts, or taking a bike ride around your neighborhood are all enjoyable and economical. Many other activities can be found in your local newspaper or visitors’ bureau. Watch for
listings on your state’s website of coming events that don’t require you to spend money. If you don’t have Internet access at home, visit your local library. Most librar- ies now make the Internet available to the public.
Put money in savings at the beginning of the month or the day you receive your paycheck, instead of waiting until the
end of the pay period when you have found reasons for spending everything and have nothing left. Many employers offer automatic payroll deductions and will electronically transfer funds to your savings account on a consistent basis. Always pay yourself first and place the funds in a savings account that will build and give you peace of mind. Another option is to have your bank transfer a portion of your funds from your checking account into your savings account on a monthly basis.
Establish a fixed amount that you will commit to saving each month regardless of other needs and wants and regardless of the sacrifices that must be made. To begin with, this amount may be as small as $10 or $20. You will soon discover that the feeling of accom- plishment you have from saving money will encourage you to increase the amount you save. A good rule of thumb is to save at least 10% of what you make. Start small and work your way up to an amount you
Saving Makes Good Cents