5 ways to reduce unnecessary spending

Whether you are looking to have more disposable income to pay off debts or you want more money to make financial investments, reducing unnecessary expenditure is the first step you should take.

If you are trying to free up more money to save, invest or pay off debt, you will probably be wondering how to best do that with your current income. To help you with this, you will discover five ways to reduce unnecessary spending in this article.

1. Use a 30-day list

The first and easiest way to reduce unnecessary spending is by creating and using a so-called 30-day list. This is a list where you write down items you want to purchase with the date that you added it to the list. If 30 days pass and you still need the item, then go ahead and purchase it. However, more often than not you realise you didn't really need it as bad as you thought, which will save you from making an unnecessary purchase.

2. Don't shop around, buy what you specifically need

If you realise you need a new item like a new pair of running shoes, it is best to go to a store with that specific item in mind. This reduces your expenditure, as you are less likely to buy other items that may catch your eye as you walk around trying to decide on what's best for you. It is best to be as specific as possible about what you are looking for in the item since this reduces the possibility of getting distracted by other items.

3. Resist online impulse spending

In the same vein, shopping online might seem like a good idea but more often than not it ends with unnecessary purchases of things that are seldom used and not really needed. You can resist the impulse to purchase things online by putting the money to good use, such as paying off debts or putting it into a savings account instead.

Be as specific as possible about what you are looking for in the item since this reduces the possibility of getting distracted by other items.

4. Cancel subscriptions you don't need

Another way to curb unnecessary spending is by cancelling all subscriptions you don't really need. How many TV streaming services are you paying for? Probably more than you realise. Don't keep paying for magazine subscriptions if there is a free app available. You can save money by cancelling these subscriptions and putting your money to better use.

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5. Practice moderation

Lastly, you can reduce your unnecessary costs by practising moderation and self-control. This is the difference between spending a thousand dollars on a night out and keeping to your pre-determined budget. This practice is essential to your financial wellbeing in the long run.

5 ways to reduce unnecessary spending:

  • Use a 30-day list
  • Don't shop around, buy what you specifically need
  • Resist online impulse spending
  • Cancel subscriptions you don't need
  • Practice moderation

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