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When you’re struggling with money, every dollar counts. It’s easy to get caught up in the things we want, but when your budget is tight, it’s crucial to be smart with your spending. I’ve been there: living on one income, juggling bills, and trying to make ends meet. And while it’s tough, sticking to a strict budget is what’s kept me afloat. Let me share the 10 things I never buy when I’m struggling with money.
1. Brand Name Items
When I’m struggling with money, I always remind myself that there’s no need for brand-name items. Store brands do just as well, whether it’s for pantry staples or household products. The price difference is what gets you, and when you’re struggling with money, the extra couple bucks spent on a name is not worth it.
I’ve learned that sticking to the basics can save a lot over time. When you’re struggling with money, you have to focus on the essentials.
2. Luxury Items
The temptation is real, but luxury items are not essential when you’re struggling with money. Whether it’s a designer purse or the latest tech gadget, it can wait. Treating yourself is important, but I’ve learned to wait until we’re financially comfortable before indulging. When you’re struggling, that’s not the time for luxury.
3. Subscriptions You Don’t Use
I’m guilty of letting subscriptions slip by unnoticed. When you’re tight, every dollar counts, so I’ve canceled all the services I wasn’t using. Streaming services, subscriptions boxes, etc. if I’m not actively using them, they get the boot. It’s freeing to know that when I’m struggling with money, I’m not paying for something that’s just sitting there.
4. Takeout & Restaurant Meals
Takeout and restaurant meals are a major weakness when you’re struggling with money. I totally get it. It’s easy to want to grab food when you’re busy and tired. But when I’m struggling with money, I’ve learned to push through and cook at home. My husband doesn’t have a problem with it because he won’t eat unless I make something, but for me, it’s all about saving.
We have to make do with what we have when we’re struggling with money. My husband will tell me to just buy food, but I know that cooking at home is the best way to keep our budget in check.
5. Impulse Purchases
When you’re struggling with money, impulse purchases are your worst enemy. Those little “extra” items we throw into our carts add up fast. I’ve gotten into the habit of sticking to my list and avoiding anything that isn’t planned. The small buys can easily become big problems when you’re struggling with money, so I focus on sticking to the essentials. For this, I love to use do a No Spend Challenge month just so I can stick to not spending for a little while. Learn more down below if you’re interested in this challenge!
6. New Tech or Gadgets
I know how tempting it can be to buy the latest phone or gadget, but when you’re struggling with money, upgrading tech is just unnecessary. My phone and laptop work fine, so I’m making do with what I have. No need to waste money when you’re struggling with money. It’s all about making things last as long as possible.
7. Expensive Coffee & Drinks
Buying coffee or drinks every day adds up quick. When you’re struggling with money, that’s money better spent elsewhere. I love to make my coffee at home, and honestly, it tastes better, and a lot cheaper! When you’re struggling with money, those little daily splurges can seriously add up and drain your budget.
8. Fast Fashion
I used to get sucked into the fast-fashion cycle, but when I’m struggling with money, I focus on quality, not trends. It’s tempting to buy something cute just because it’s cheap, but I’ve realized that those trendy clothes don’t last long. When you’re struggling with money, investing in timeless pieces or working with what you’ve got is the way to go.
9. Overpriced Fitness Equipment
I’ve seen it all. The fancy fitness gadgets and equipment that promise results, but when you’re struggling with money, they’re a total waste. There’s no need for a $1,000 treadmill when you can work out at home using bodyweight exercises or free online videos. It’s not about what you have, it’s about consistency, so skip the overpriced fitness equipment when you’re struggling with money.
10. Unnecessary Home Décor
It’s tempting to buy new décor to spruce up your home, but when you’re struggling with money, extra decorations are not a priority. I focus on keeping things simple and maintaining what we already have. When you’re struggling with money, the little touches can wait. Save your money for what’s really important.
If you’re struggling with money right now, I know how tough it can be to say no to things you want. But here’s a trick I use to stay on track: Grab my free Wishlist Tracker for when money isn’t so tight anymore. It’s a simple way to keep a list of the things you’d like to buy, and when the time comes, you can buy just one thing at a time, not everything. We’re trying to save, not spend all our money at once!
Download my free Wishlist Tracker by clicking on the picture below! Stay focused on your savings goals, and treat yourself later when it makes sense. You’ve got this!
