In today’s current economy, the everyday girl doesn’t have it so simple. We all enjoy little pleasures in life, yet it may be harder to splurge than ever. I for one cannot go a day without my hazelnut iced coffee (it may be a little bit of an addiction), but these things add up. Although everything seems so pricey, there may be a solution to this cash crisis. Saving money is the key to living lavishly and splurging (once in a sweet while), so it’s time to get down to the basics and stop spending so much cash!
You may have to skip your Starbucks run for a day or two, but have no fear! The solution is a mini coffee maker, the most sacred of all my current gadgets. You can easily brew fresh warm coffee or even refreshing iced coffee in a bunch of varieties and tastes. Whenever I am feeling low on cash I whip out my reusable, plastic coffee mug and brew myself a cup of delicious, rich hazelnut iced coffee. It tastes just as good as any Dunkin or Starbucks brewed cup, and I can feel good about saving over three bucks! Here’s a little secret, I bought my reusable coffee cup at Walmart for two bucks; it’s a great investment for any girl on the go!
Another simple solution to your money matters is to always pack a lunch. I intern in New York City, and I can tell you the temptations to spend are everywhere you step! I always pack a lunch in my insulated lunch bag the night before so that I will have my food ready to go in the morning. I haven’t bought one piece of food in the city (and I give myself a big pat on the back)! I just marvel on all the money I have saved from simply making my own lunch instead of buying it for big bucks. You can purchase an insulated lunch bag at any department store for as cheap as five bucks (yes you heard me correctly – five bucks!).
It isn’t just about starving yourself of temptation and saving every penny you earn but saving money helps you in the long run, financially, and makes it easier to splurge when you want! Every girl deserves something nice once in awhile, and there is nothing wrong with using your hard earned cash on something special. Just be careful how much and how often you spend, and you won’t have to resist the urge to splurge. Shopaholics rejoice!
Words by: Cassie Tucker
Photo by: Valerie Chiang
