The pandemic has thrown many financial curveballs our way. Some people have lost their jobs, others have been furloughed, whilst some have changed their careers completely. But in some ways, saving money has been easier, because we haven’t been allowed to go anywhere! But how do we continue to save as we come out of lockdown? Claire from Stapo’s thrifty life hacks shares her tips.
1) Set a new budget
If you’ve found that your outgoings over the past 12 months have gone down, then perhaps you’ve been diverting surplus cash to other places (like your savings). That’s great, but if you are planning to start meeting people in the real world again, then now’s the time to make allowances for that within your budget, so you don’t accidentally overspend. So sit down and work out how much you can afford to spend on social engagements. Get organised and plan your spending as you go!
2) Don’t feel guilty about spending
It’s inevitable that, after a year of being in the house, you will want to do things with people and some plans will involve spending cash on meals and drinks out, travel and socialising. Don’t beat yourself up about this. You deserve some fun and as long as you’ve budgeted for it, you should enjoy it guilt-free.
3) Remember that you can say no
Many of us have found ourselves saying: “we will catch up on the other side of this”, but that doesn’t mean you have to take up an offer to meet a friend or family member. If you don’t feel like it, or you have too many social engagements booked in, then feel free to say no. You can’t do it all, so don’t try to.
4) Don’t forget the virtual fun
Since the pandemic hit, many of us have found that we’ve connected with loved ones via the internet. All sorts of events have taken place, for free, via the computer.
Just because we are coming out of lockdown, doesn’t mean that we have to forget socialising over the internet. You could still meet up with your pals over Zoom to keep social expenses down.
A final word
Coming out of lockdown doesn’t mean that you have to spend lots of money. So take your time, set a budget and don’t be afraid to say no.
About Debz Louise
Debz Louise is a UK-based lifestyle expert and the founder of several lifestyle blogs, including Wannabe Princess and Under 5s. Specializing in everything from interior design and home renovation to body-positive fashion and early years development,