Top 10 ways to save money in 2022

If there is one type of independence we all yearn to achieve, it is financial independence. Most people want to retire early and enjoy the fruits of their hard work.

To be financially independent, you need to learn some hacks to save money. You don’t need to be a Warren Buffet or a Robert Kiyosaki to do just this. Applying some of the following 10 ways to save money in 2022 can help you start with your financial journey.

This is a collaborative post.

1. Have a financial goal

Without a clear financial goal, you will less likely save enough money. That is why before you start your Saving Journey, you need to set a goal.

How much money are you targeting? Then, create a target date. One friendly reminder though – be realistic about your financial goal. It doesn’t have to be sky-high; setting just a minimum will do.

Financial planning helps you make smarter decisions. It reduces your tendency to splurge or go on a shopping spree. It likewise ensures your financial security.

ALSO READ: Create these financial goals in your 20’s

2. Track your expenses

Tracking your expenses is a must to save money. It shows you where your money goes and what items are you mostly putting your money on.

Regular monitoring of your expenses can also alert you whether you are on the verge of obliterating your spending limit.

So, make it a habit to list the things you mostly purchase. There are a number of Expense Tracking apps online that you can check and download. I love these Printable Budget templates from Onplanners.

3. Find ways to cut your spending to a minimum

Saving money seems far-fetched if you have a lot of subscriptions online such as Netflix, YouTube Premium, Spotify, and others.

These are traps so to speak. They may provide you the indulgence you so seek but they may be causing holes in your pockets. Don’t allow that to happen.

Limit your subscription. You can give up Netflix and do YouTube instead of the other way around. Whichever is more beneficial and highly useful for you, keep it. Otherwise, discard them all and just watch TV for free. If you want to know how to click here.

I had to discard my Disney plus subscription since I already had Netflix. Cull your emails and see what you have subscribed to.

4. Pay yourself first

Once you get your salary, learn to pay yourself first. Saving money requires you to be selfish a little.

Thus, I personally use the 50-20-30 Budget Rule – 50% for my needs, 20% for my wants, and 30% for personal investment (my house).

You can always customize your own budget rule. Just do not forget to pay yourself first before spending your money. That is why it is necessary for you to monitor your expenses.

5. Go to Thrift Store

The lure of brand new items is palpable – I know that. But don’t be tempted. If you are so hell-bent on saving money, then go to a Thrift Store.

There are a number of good deals that you can strike in a Secondhand Store. Just be patient in hunting and thoroughly checking.

So, locate a Thrift Store in your area that you can practically go to whenever you need something.

6. Skip the Coffee Shop

Skipping coffee is just one of the many great ways to save money in 2022.

Of course, this is not to say that you forget going to your favorite local coffee shop. You just need to temper it. You can go there once a month just to unwind and enjoy a little.

Skipping the coffee shop from time to time gives you the opportunity to save. Instead of this, you can have a cup of coffee at home.

Just imagine the amount of money you could save if you do this more often.

7. Check the library

For bookworms like me, the library is a go-to place. It is our so-called sanctum. And although we are in the middle of a pandemic, we can always go and borrow some books from a local library.

Thus, in order to save money and attain the financial goal you have set for yourself, check the library first. You can always buy a copy of a book later once your finances are okay.

For now, learn to settle on what you can borrow from a library.

8. Try staycation from time to time

Some people are big on traveling – may it be domestic or international. But this is not so practical for someone who is saving money.

We treat every cent like a bar of gold – it needs to be carefully treasured. And so, it is highly recommended for you to try going on a “staycation adventure”.

There are always these simple things you can do at home to enjoy such as watching, cooking, or playing board games.

9. Increase your income

This is easier said than done – but if you are not willing to try, you might not be able to increase your potential in saving money. There are always opportunities lurking out there waiting. You just need to look.

Thus, increase your income by doing freelancing. Channel your skills which could be writing, blogging, web designing, vlogging, or painting.

I first started gaining skills with Udemy and Skillshare. I learned how to build a website from scratch then moved to bluehost to create my website. And now, I’m monetizing it and it’s a great additional source of income.

You can also go for buy-and-sell or merely sell your pre-loved items. This will help you attain your financial goal much faster and probably earlier than expected.

ALSO READ: My first $500 income as a blogger

10. Embrace minimalism

Embracing minimalism is the last but not the least in our ways to save money in 2022.

People are going crazy about minimalism because of its known benefits in terms of one’s wellbeing. You can increase concentration and save time as well as money.

As you move closer to your financial goals, embracing minimalism can be a good way for you to try. Only keep those necessary things with you and dispose of those that are mere extras. By all means, sell them.

Living a simple life certainly helps in reaching financial independence. Thus, do not fall into the habit of buying something you will regret obtaining later.

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OVER TO YOU

Saving money for a rainy day could be somewhat burdensome. It is likewise frustrating at times. But it is indeed a must if you want to survive. If you save money as early as now, money will save you later.

Thus, make every cent count. And always remember the words of one of the top financial advisors in the world, Warren Buffet – do not save what is left after spending, but spend what is left after saving. Good luck on your journey to saving money!

QUESTION: What are some ways to save money in 2022? Leave them in the comment section!