Don't Waste Your Money!

I have many friends that just can’t understand how I can live on a Social Security check alone! I do have to admit, it was a major adjustment to let go of some of what I call luxuries. (like going to the Mall) But do I really need another pair of shoes?

Well, when I lost my job I was thinking of ways to live on less money. We have all taken a hit on our investments so it forces us to spend more conservatively. Either way, I found ways to still enjoy my retirement with a low monthly bank balance.

I realized when I walked into my closet and still saw clothes with tags still on them and now no longer even fit anymore….what a waste of money! I was wasting money on things I no longer value or either I pay more for stuff I really don’t need.

For me, I found it a waste of money to subscribe to Netflix and a gym membership that I did not faithfully attend. I now have DVDs to exercise at home in my own comfort with a stronger a/c and ceiling fan and exercise at my convenience and at no cost to me. Being a resident of South Florida also allows me to exercise in the pool most days. During the winter months, I walk around my complex or down the beach when it is less humid out.

I’m doing my own manicures and pedicures these days except I do go probably twice a year as a special treat to pamper myself but no longer on a regular basis. I read my newspaper online now and I don’t miss the black ink on my fingers and on my table.

Cut out those coupons you receive in the mail! I’m using more coupons these days and I’m amazed at the savings at the grocery stores and at restaurants to….buy one dinner get the other free. My computer is a great tool to search for coupons and promotion codes. Also, I now buy no-brandname products that cost less.

I cook at home 6 days a week and go out with my friends one day a week whether it is out for dinner or enjoying a Happy Hour. I also enjoy cooking for my friends occasionally. Laughter around my dining room table with good food is a pleasurable evening for me and my friends love it too.

I don’t gamble as I feel it is a waste of money. Yeah, once in a while I may buy a Lottery ticket. But I stay away from the Casinos, etc.

I may live in Boca Raton but I’m not really considered a Boca Babe because I don’t have a cleaning lady! I do my own cleaning and always have. Gosh, that alone people are paying $75. an hour for and probably more! The only help I have is a Roomba vacuum cleaner that with a press of a button vacuums for me, it is also on a timer and goes off on scheduled days that I programmed into the docking station. I call her “Little Rosie”. It does a fabulous job and with my bad back……..a lifesaver! I’m not pushing a heavy upright. I have been using “Little Rosie” for 6 years now! Best product ever!

And, for those of you who have grandchildren….there is no need to spoil them and break the bank with trips to Disney and purchasing extravagant toys, etc. A great BBQ right in your own backyard can be more enjoyable and memorable! Remember to take the camera out to share the memories. And also keep in mind, your adult children need to learn responsibility and support themselves. I have so many friends that their adult children keep on draining them dry….what gives with that? They need to grow up….slap them on the back of the head and tell them to get a job!

I may not be able to afford jaunts to Europe or eat in five star restaurants anymore but I’m not unhappy. I just wish to be able to see my children more that live out of state. Even better, I wish I could move back home in New England!

I'm blessed with good friends here in Florida and also with my Forever Friends in New England.

Remember, focus on activities and purchases you value most and ones that you really need and spend more time with family and good friends and DON’T WASTE YOUR MONEY!