Engaging in the process to get out of debt will bring you a lot of benefits, including a greater awareness of all the things you spend money on.
Engaging more attentively will help you to be laser-focused on your budget.
Your brain will naturally start to find ways to save money and cut corners. This becomes a game that can be very entertaining.
These are 8 things that you don’t need to spend money on.
1. Cable TV
Yes, that’s right. We cut off that bill years ago and haven’t regretted it one bit. We even got rid of our TV around the same time, and we haven’t missed it one bit.
We were shocked at the amount we spent and how many other things we could have done with that money.
You can find both educational and entertaining content on YouTube and the internet.
Ask yourself: What are you getting for the money you spend on cable?
If you are looking at cable in the same way, go ahead, cut that expense.
2. Lawn care
You can make a decision today not to spend any money on lawn care.
It is expensive, yet you can do it yourself. You’ll have to get the time to do it though as you listen to your favorite podcasts, as well as simply walking around doing it. You’ll burn calories.
You’ll need to make a one-time purchase for an easy-to-use lawnmower. This will greatly cut your spending.
3. Books, CDs, and DVDs. Magazines.
Rarely, if ever, do you need to buy new and expensive books. We also rarely purchase any.
We can often find used books on Amazon at a cheaper price, even if we do need to purchase them. The public library is our favorite idea.
4. Hair Care
My friends and I were fortunate to learn how to care for our hair as children so that we don’t have to pay for it except on special occasions.
For many people who want to look great, it can be difficult to cut this out.
Remember that once you have paid off your debt, you will be prouder of yourself.
5. Manicures and pedicures
Many women today are conscious of their bodies, including their nails.
Prices for manicures and pedicures have gone up because of the new branding. This one is worth considering if you are in debt.
These nail treatments could be done yourself for now, and then you might reconsider when the debt is gone.
6. Bank Fees (ATM, Checking, etc)
These fees are easy to avoid. To avoid fees, most banks require that you maintain a balance of $1500.
If you use an ATM for your bank or another in-network ATM you will not be charged fees.
If this seems difficult, you might consider adding $500 to your must-have emergency fund of $1000.
7. Computer Antivirus Software
This one was new to me until I saw it on another’s list. My family members are all Apple/Mac users.
Although this doesn’t make us immune to viruses, it has never been a reason for us to feel like we were justified in purchasing it.
To avoid antiviruses, for the most part, stay on official sites. Do not go clicking on spam links.
8. Cell Phone Insurance
Otterbox protectors are the best choice for your smartphone.
Smartphone manufacturers and wireless providers make hundreds of millions of dollars each year from selling cell phone insurance and sometimes, people don’t realize that they are paying for it.
Check your bill to make sure you aren’t. Insurance might be a good idea if your phone breaks and cracks often. Otherwise, I would just scrap it.