Save Money...Easily

Anyone can take important steps to save money and to have extra money to invest. One great way to try to save money is to do it consistently and gently. What does this mean? It means that you save in clever, subtle ways that build up over time. Often times, these suggestions aren't even things that you'll feel in your pocketbook or that you'll notice on a weekly basis. These ten tips should put you on the path towards saving success.

1. Do it automatically:

Have your 401(k) set up so that the money is automatically taken out before you even see your paycheck. This way, you won't notice the money being diverted, and yet you'll be creating a nice nest egg.

2. Checking account low:

Keeping your checking account with the bare necessities and the savings account with more money means that your money is working for you. This is because you'll earn more interest, most of the time, with the money in the savings account.

3. Use a Programmable Thermostat:

Programmable thermostats actually save you 10-20% on your heating and cooling bills. Program the thermostat to be off while you are sleeping and when you aren't home. Only have it on for an hour in the morning and an hour or two in the afternoon.

4. Heat Creatively:

Using ceiling fans, floor fans and space heaters can make a huge difference in your heating and in your heating bill. If there are only people sleeping on one or two rooms in your house, don't' heat the whole house at night! Turn the thermostat very low and then use a space heater in your bedroom.

5. Use Fluorescents:

Fluorescent lights use about a quarter of the electricity that normal lights need. This means they cost less and need to be replaced less often.

6. Smooth Driving:

Believe it or not, your driving actually makes a difference in your gas bill for the car. Accelerate smoothly and at reasonable rates and coast to a stop whenever possible. The gentler you are on the car, the better shape it will retain and the less gas you will use.

7. Buy Generics:

Just because you love Cornflakes doesn't mean that you need to eat the name brand ones. There are many generic brand products that you'll enjoy just as much, and that cost much less. Go to the local grocery store and explore the many options.

8. BYLTW:

What is this, you ask? It stands for bring your lunch to work! It really makes a difference when you use leftovers, or pack something fresh and bring your lunch with you. And don't be a coffee snob - save money by drinking the office coffee rather than paying $4 each day for Starbucks or a similar brand.

9. Enjoy the Library:

Yes, it's wonderful to have books, but the library is great as well. You might have to wait for the books that you are excited to read to come out, but you'll eventually get to read them - and save a lot of money along the way.

10. Use parks!

Enjoy wildlife and get out and go hiking. It's great exercise and it doesn't cost you anything but the gas to get there and some good shoes.

These are but a few of the many, many creative ways that you can learn to save money without even really feeling the crunch. Get creative so that your money can work more for you!