Budget for the Economy

Used to be, if you watched your money carefully, people called you a "penny pincher" like that was a dirty word. Being "frugal” was considered an undesirable description of your character. People would call you “cheapskate” or "tight" if you didn’t throw your money around.

These days, you may be “pinching pennies” because that’s literally all you have. You might be “frugal” out of necessity rather than choice. You might even embrace being “tight” as a way of life. The perception now is that you are smart with your money and others admire your budget management skills!

While you may have less money to go around, and the cost of everything keeps rising, we all have to look at every aspect of our budget just to make ends meet. Here’s few simple things that might take a little of the pressure off, and you might even enjoy them!

• Try dusting off the crock-pot – you can buy less expensive cuts of meat to cook slowly over a long period of time that will come out tender and full of flavor. You also save time, and get to come home to a hot hearty meal just waiting to be served. A few simple and quick sides can round out the meal with plenty leftover!

• Make your own soup instead of buying canned – add your favorite vegetables, spices, herbs, and protein if desired. You control or eliminate the salt, fat, and other additives. You also eliminate all that excess packaging cutting down on your trash, so it’s even good for the environment.

• Turn off the TV after dinner and go for a neighborhood stroll. Greet your neighbors. Walk the dog. Explore and enjoy the different seasons. You’ll improve your health and well being.

The connotations of these colorful old terms may change and evolve, but the bottom line is to manage your money on your terms. Set your budget and find little ways to make the most of all your resources.