Save big in 2025: Delete shopping apps & rethink subscriptions now

As we step into 2025, it’s the perfect moment to rethink how we handle money. Experts have revealed surprising strategies to help you save more than ever this year.

Ready to uncover the secrets to a wealthier future?


The budget blueprint: Your financial roadmap

Einat Steklov, a renowned financial expert, emphasizes the importance of sitting down at the start of the year to review your budget.

After the holiday season's spending spree, January is the perfect month to recalibrate your financial compass.

A budget is more than a list of numbers; it's a roadmap for your finances, guiding you to prioritize spending and avoid unnecessary debt.


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Financial experts advise people to review their budgets at the beginning of the year. Image source: maitree rimthong/Pexels.


Steklov suggests using a budget template or an app to clearly outline your income and categorize expenses into “needs” and “wants.”

The goal is to ensure your total spending doesn't exceed your income.

If you're new to budgeting, start simple with two categories—essentials and non-essentials—and refine as you become more comfortable with the process.

Setting financial goals: Your North Star

Financial goals give you focus and direction.

Whether you're saving for a dream vacation, building an emergency fund, or paying off debt, it's crucial to identify one or two specific goals and break them down into smaller, monthly milestones.

This approach makes your goals more achievable and keeps you motivated.

And don't forget to celebrate milestones along the way to maintain your momentum!


Taming impulse purchases: The art of restraint

Impulse purchases can be a significant drain on your finances.

Consumer and money-saving expert Andrea Woroch points out that the average shopper spends about $150 a month on frivolous purchases.

To combat this, consider turning off push notifications or deleting shopping apps altogether.

Learning to identify and eliminate spending triggers can help you save a substantial amount of money over time.

Meal planning mastery: A recipe for savings

Woroch also advocates for meal planning as a way to cut back on food waste and reduce your monthly grocery spend.

By planning your meals around your schedule and using recipes with overlapping ingredients, you can shop with a list and stick to it, avoiding unnecessary purchases and saving money.

The slow shopping strategy: Patience pays off

Alex King, a chartered accountant and founder of personal finance platform Generation Money, suggests adopting a “slow shopping” lifestyle.

This involves giving yourself a waiting period of 24 hours before making larger purchases, or anything over $100.

This pause can help you avoid impulse spending on items you don't really need and ensure you're confident in your decision to buy.


The subscription audit: A new year's financial detox

King also recommends auditing your monthly subscriptions and regular payments at the beginning of each year.

Check your bank statements and list all the services you're signed up for with regular monthly payments.

Go through this list and decide if there are any you don’t use or don’t use enough to justify the cost.

Canceling these can immediately boost your monthly finances, and if you redirect these savings into high-yield savings accounts or investments, even better.

Energy-saving tips for winter: Keep warm and wealthy

With energy costs on the rise, it's also wise to look at how you can save energy during the winter months.

Officials at Con Edison suggest:
  • Installing a Wi-Fi thermostat
  • Clearing the area around cooling vents
  • Investing in high-efficiency heat pump systems
  • Insulating hot water pipes
  • Cleaning filters
  • Changing window shades seasonally
  • Investing in LED lighting
  • Ensuring proper insulation
  • Unplugging electronic gadgets when not in use
Key Takeaways
  • Financial experts advise people to review their budgets at the beginning of the year to help prioritize spending and avoid debt.
  • Taming impulse purchases and utilising meal planning can significantly reduce unnecessary spending.
  • Adopting a 'slow shopping' method, which includes a waiting period before making more substantial purchases, can prevent impulse buying.
  • Auditing and potentially cancelling unnecessary monthly subscriptions can immediately improve one's financial situation and free up money for saving or investing.
Have you tried any of these money-saving strategies? Do you have additional tips to share with our community? We'd love to hear from you! Share your experiences and tips in the comments below.
 

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News, deals, games, and bargains for Americans over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, The GrayVine is all about helping you make your money go further.

The GrayVine

The GrayVine searches for the best deals, discounts, and bargains for over 60's. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, we're all about helping you make your money go further.
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