I’m cheap, and I’m proud. My goal is to start a movement of being “cost efficient” in order to fight the overindulgent, overspending society in which we are engrossed. Over the next few weeks we’re going to explore ways to be cheap because, at its best, it can reduce anxiety, help us lose weight and help increase our happiness. Being cheap is awesome… or it can be. I should point out that the title could be “7 Tips to be Cheap and NOT a Jerk.” Some people are cheap, but they’re jerks. Being cheap is not about screwing people over; it’s not about stealing (e.g. illegally downloading music or movies); it’s not about cheaping out on tipping (e.g. tip appropriately); it’s not about giving a crappy gift to someone when you should be doing more. It’s also not about mooching rides off people without offering to pay for gas. Be cheap, but don’t be a jerk; here a few suggestions how:
Tip 1: Consider what you already own: Before going out and spending money on an activity like bowling, which is never all that fun anyway, consider what you already have at home. Pull out a board game, a deck of cards or maybe a childhood photo album (that’s a great way to make fun of old fashion styles and the way we were). If you’re a diehard bowler you’ll be in a league (as Nelson from The Simpsons would say “Ha ha”). Typically our goal is to just be social, so why not do something free with your friends.
Tip 2: Buy bulk: No, this isn’t an ad for Costco, but buying large quantities can be smart. For instance, my brother and sister-in-law eat Shreddies for breakfast. They’ve found they can catch a sale where Shreddies are $2 a box, so they’ll buy 20 boxes at a time. Sure he gets people looking at him funny, but this is a great way to save money since 20 boxes gets him to the next time there’s a $2 sale.
Tip 3: Learn to bake: Cake and cupcakes are incredibly cheap to make compared to the premade ones in stores. Even better, they’re easy to make if you follow the box recipe. They’re so easy even I can make them. Icing can be trickier, but Google it or ask someone who knows how if you have to.
Tip 4: Instead of going to a coffee shop, visit friends while walking: Ever since the TV show, Friends, there has been an obsession with going to coffee shops to chat. Most people have way more caffeine in their diets than they should, so save the $1.50 to whatever ridiculous price you pay for a drink and simply go for a walk together. Walking outside will help stimulate conversation with things you see and keep your blood flowing better, so you’ll be more attentive and less drowsy.
Tip 5: Bring a water bottle (i.e. a real bottle): I’m a big pusher of having a refillable water bottle; it’s way better for the environment and the pocketbook. Bring your bottle wherever you go even if you leave it in the car. After being out many people are thirsty, so instead of buying a drink, you can just go to your car.
Tip 6: Park smarter: Most people fight for the spot near the entrance of where you’re going like the mall, but in many ways it’s better to park near the entrance and exit of the parking lot. Instead of driving further into the lot, find the first spot upon entering and park there. The walk is good for you (e.g. people in big cities are often skinnier than suburbia people because they walk more), especially since we spend most of our days sitting. Plus, it’ll save you money in gas. It’s not a big immediate savings, but over a year, over 10 years, it’ll add up. Plus, being close to the exit you’ll have less of a fight with other cars to get out and it might just save you from getting into a needless fender bender in the parking lot. Both drivers and pedestrians tend to get stupid in a parking lot, so be safe and park away from them.
Tip 7: Know your budget: When I was a teenager a financial adviser pointed out that I was buying 4-6 CDs a month, which adds up pretty fast. I decided to limit buying only 2 a month, which over the years saved me a ton of money. Being aware of how much you should spend will help prevent you from overbuying, and give you something to look forward to getting later.
This week may you discover the joys of being cheap, and may you help start a revolution with me.
Rev Chad David, www.ChadDavid.ca, Learning to love dumb people