Do you have anyone on your Christmas list that is really tough to shop for because they already have everything? If you do, don’t worry, consider treating them to an “experience” instead of buying them more stuff.
When it comes to insurance companies, it is really important to make sure you are getting your money’s worth when you make a claim. I was recently in a car accident on my way home from work. In order to ensure that I received the full insurance benefits, I immediately got in touch with my insurance provider and asked specific questions.
I found out that I was entitled to a courtesy vehicle because the accident was not my fault. I also discovered that I could claim my injuries and that the insurance company would cover any medical expenses incurred as well as any time I miss from work due to my injuries. The representatives I spoke with were reluctant but I was persistent and eventually was able to get everything I had asked for.
Every once in a while I go through my drawers and my closet and remove items of clothing that I either never wear or am highly unlikely to ever wear again. Sometimes I find it hard to part with my things, even though I know I never use them, however, I find that “decluttering” is a great way to make better use of my closet and drawer space, as well as a neat way to help others in need. And yes, I just made up my own word. I think the English language needs a word like “decluttering”.
Once I have rounded up all the items of clothing, and possibly some shoes, etc. I drop them off at a local thrift store. Someone else might as well make use of them. This also goes for other miscellaneous items around our house. About every six months or so we get the urge to do some “Spring cleaning”, and you would be surprised at how many things we discover we have that were hidden away and never used.
Everyone needs to have a bucket list – a list comprised of things you want to accomplish in your life before your time is up. By writing down all the things you want to see and do, you are much more likely to achieve some if not all of your goals. Keep your list in a safe place, and every once in a while, glance at it and see how you are doing. This way you won’t lose track and you will be more motivated to continue on towards achieving your goals.
Some items on your bucket such as owning a cabin at the lake or saving for your children’s post secondary education will involve saving a fair amount of money, while some of your other goals may not be related to your finances.
Here’s a shopping tip that I find saves me a lot of money. Don’t get too stuck on any specific brand name. If you do, you will find yourself paying a higher price for your items such as food, clothing, shampoos, etc. than you might otherwise pay. Why? If you are determined to always buy the same brand you will not be willing to consider other options that may be cheaper even though the quality might be the same. By refusing to budge from one specific brand you limit your choices and therefore you don’t always allow yourself to take advantage of the best deals. Also, chances are your specific brand will not always be on sale, so if you run out, you will be forced to buy it at regular price.
Although the familiar is comfortable, it’s not always the best choice. Be willing to try different brands at least once. If they are not as high quality as your favored brand, then at least you know not to buy it again. But if it is just as good, or perhaps even better, you know that this new brand can also be considered the next time you shop.