Stretching the Budget

No question — everyone is looking to save a buck these days, whether it’s at the gas pump or the grocery store. Ok, so shopping around for the best prices and clipping coupons are part of the daily routine. Now what? If it feels like you’ve hit a wall and can’t squeeze any more out of the budget, it’s time to get creative. Here are three tips to get you started.

1. Think before you act. If you have a tendency to go on auto-pilot and shop at the same places every week, stop and look at where you drive to. Can you consolidate trips to save gas? Is it worth driving out of the way to save at a cheaper store, or do you undo the benefit by wasting gas (and time)?

2. Barter. If there is something you want to purchase, or a service you need (babysitting, painting, etc.) think of what you have to offer. You may be able to get a friend to help you out by offering up your skills. A friend of mind is swapping her website design skills for a few weeks of babysitting while she teaches a class (and earns money).

3. Make money. If you have cut all there is to cut and are being careful with your money and things are still too tight, it’s time to increase your income. Have you overlooked ways that you can earn a little extra cash? Do you have knowledge of a skill or service that others might pay you for? Can you consult or offer freelance services? Can you watch children after school? Tutor? Be an elder-companion for hire? There are many ways to earn a few extra dollars that can give you a little breathing room.