Having credit card debt or personal loans has become a natural habit for many of us – some people don’t even think about their credit card as “debt” but relying on it to get by from month to month is a bad habit that can damage your long-term financial situation. But like all bad habits it can be broken and your finances will be healthier for it. Credit cards are so common now that it is rare to find someone without one unless they have a poor credit history (or, indeed, no credit history at all if they are young and just starting their first job), but just because they are common doesn’t mean you need one. You might think card debt is somehow acceptable, certainly more so than, say, doorstep loans or other short-term loans but working to build up some savings is always a better option.
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We all know that saving money is a good thing: it gives us spare cash to use for emergencies or even for luxuries like a relaxing holiday (I certainly need one of those right now). The problem with saving is it’s hard work because we have to control our spending when there are so many nice things just tempting us to buy them. However, you can control how much you spend just by changing some of your financial habits. I say “just” but, of course, it isn’t ever easy to change any habit. You need to want to make the change and be determined to succeed. If you are, here are some easy lifestyle changes that will save you money:
There are certain things we all need, in order to live. In order of priority, they are oxygen, water, food, sleep, and heat. Some people will argue as to whether there is anything else to add to the list. However, these are the things without which the human body cannot function. Without other things, life may be difficult but can be survived.
On the other hand, nobody wants just to survive, and so there is another level of priority below this. Without the above, we cannot live. Without the things on this lower level, we cannot live comfortably. It features things such as a roof over our heads, healthcare, and security.
In today’s uncertain economy looking after your money has become more important than ever, so it’s necessary that you know exactly how much’s in and coming out of your account. No one likes the idea of getting into debt as it can be stressful, demoralising and financially damaging for years to come, however, there are a few ways you can avoid it. If you’re looking to keep your finances healthy then you’ll want to check out our quick tips for feeling confident and in control of your money.
Start A Rainy Day Fund
We never know what’s going to happen be it next year, next week or even tomorrow, so it’s vital that everyone has a little nest egg to fall back on. Savings accounts are ideal places for large amounts of money such as inheritances, trust funds, and even pension payouts. The right savings account, or ISA, can earn you money just by it sitting there although be aware many have a ninety day clause, meaning you need to notify the bank ninety days in advance before making a withdrawal.
There comes a time in everyone’s life where you’ve got to get smart with your money. Pinching the pennies is hardly the most exciting thing you’ll have to do but sometimes it is pretty necessary. The fortunate side of this is that you don’t need to lock your cash away in a safe and throw away the key. The trick is to make sure that you’re getting as much as you can out of the money that you have. Here are a few simple ways to make sure that you’re getting the most out of your money.