Saturday, August 16, 2008

The Real Secret To Living A Frugal Lifestyle

By William Blake


Most people think of being frugal as living without enjoyment. Frugal people are seen as the scrooges of life the ones who count every penny and refuse to part with one even for some heat in winter. The truth is that frugal people live some of the most joyous lives of anyone. They have money, little or no debt, and lots of freedom to enjoy it all.

The truth is that frugal people are not stingy, they are wise. They have learned to spend their money in the best way possible. The years have taught them to be thrifty and to look for the best deal or bargain. Experience has shown them to be patient and wait for the sale or to purchase when the time is right. Most importantly, frugal people have learned to save as many pennies as they spend.

Living thrifty brings a plethora of benefits, the first being financial security. Instead of blowing money, they wait to go on vacation, buy things they want, and otherwise spend money wisely so that they always have savings to fall back on.

Frugal people often have more time to enjoy life than others. Because they spend less, they need less to spend. This monetary need translates into easier working hours or even working from home. It's a lot like retiring well before your time.

Buying with cash continues to be the best way to negotiate large purchases in your favor, a fact known very well by the frugal buyer. A thrifty lifestyle allows you to save up cash for those big purchases in life instead of just making a rash decision to spend large amounts of money. Making high cost purchases with cash in hand and a well thought out plan will let you dominate negotiations over price.

It is not extremely difficult to become a frugal person. It probably is a good idea to talk with your family (or anyone who lives with you) before you begin your quest. It is easier to accomplish it together.

Start small by paying for what you need with cash and getting rid of your credit cards. Cut your spending and begin to institute a 24 hour waiting period for purchases. The more you wait and think, the less likely you are to purchase something you don't need.

Thriftiness can be associated with a happy life filled with freedom, security, and a true sense of appreciation for the things you have been able to acquire.

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