She Strengthens

Taking Control of Your Finances: Simple Changes for a Bigger Impact

Breaking Free from Expensive Habits

Have you ever felt like your money was slipping through your fingers, leaving you with too much month at the end of your paycheck? I know I have. To turn things around, I took a closer look at my spending habits and made some significant changes. By doing so, I was able to save money, reduce waste, and make a positive impact on the environment.

The Power of DIY

One of the first areas I tackled was my love for specialty drinks. I was spending around $15 per week on fancy coffee creamers, cold brew, kombucha, and coconut water. To cut back, I started making my own kombucha from a starter and recipe shared by my sister. I also began using a carton of half and half and a splash of maple syrup in my coffee instead of pricier creamers. Additionally, I found powdered coconut water that makes 19 servings for the price of seven cans. These changes alone saved me $38 per month.

Meal Planning: A Game-Changer

Another area where I was overspending was on ready-made meals and snacks. I used to buy individual cups of yogurt, applesauce cups for the kids, and pre-cut veggies. To change this, I invested in portion-sized Tupperware and began buying large tubs of yogurt. I also started meal planning and prep, taking time each week to prepare overnight oats and cut fresh veggies for lunches. By doing so, I was able to save $32 per month and reduce waste from packaging.

Grocery Apps: A Double-Edged Sword

I’ve been using grocery store apps like Ibotta and Fetch for a while now. While they can be helpful, I realized I was buying things I didn’t need just to get a discount. To make the most of these apps, I started using them more strategically, only buying what I needed and choosing cheaper options whenever possible. This change saved me $27 per month.

A Healthier and More Affordable Alternative

I used to spend around $12 per month on menstrual products, but after switching to a menstrual cup, I’ve been able to save $9 per month. Although it took some time to adjust, I’m glad I made the switch. Not only is it more affordable, but it’s also better for the environment.

The Total Impact

By implementing these changes, I’ve been able to save around $106 per month. It didn’t happen overnight, but rather through a gradual process of identifying areas where I could cut back and finding alternatives. Seeing the savings each week was a great motivator to continue making changes. While I do spend more time on meal prep now, it’s well worth the savings. Plus, I’ve been able to use some of that savings to buy higher-quality produce and products, which has made a positive impact on my family’s health.