Everyone feels a greater attachment to things they have worked for, and things they have created on their own. However, in this day and age, we buy most of our things, and pay for most of our services. Think of the difference between a quilt that is purchased from a quilt store, and one that is homemade, using old t-shirts or blankets that mean something to the person creating it.
When you make the switch to doing things yourself and creating at home, you definitely exert more effort and spend more time. It is usually worthwhile, however, when you account for the money you save in the process. Here are a few ideas of things that can be homemade or done for free.
1. Cooking. We eat so many extra calories and spend so much more money when we are in the habit of eating at restaurants or getting take out. Making food at home means tastier, cheaper, healthier options. Cook in bulk when you have the time, and freeze the leftovers. You will be amazed at the money you save, and surprised at how convenient it can be.
2. Make your own clothing. This is a skill that used to be commonplace, but is not fairly rare. It is complicated, especially if neither sew nor knit, and do not know anyone who can teach you. It is not impossible though. Take a class or teach yourself. You will save money and have a more unique look.
3. Jewelry. Take a look at most of the fashion jewelry you see in, for instance, the mall. It is made from beads and stones that you could probably purchase at several craft stores. For a fraction of the price, you could buy your own beads and things, and create unique necklaces and bracelets. You could even sell your creations.
4. Picture Frames. In department stores and home goods emporiums, you often pay twenty dollars or more for one picture frame. However, you can make them on your own. Buy some matte or wood frames for cheap, and paint them or attach objects that mean something to you.
5. Run or walk outside instead of at the gym. Gym memberships are often a waste of money. If you use all of the weight lifting equipment and other fancy machines, it might be worthwhile. However, many people only use the elliptical or the treadmill. Instead of paying for this, just walk or run in a park or in your neighborhood, especially during the summer months. You will save money and you will feel better.
There are lots of other things you can make or do yourself, these are only a few suggestions. Realistically, you will not have time to do everything on your own, especially if you have a full schedule. But even picking just a couple of things can make a difference financially. Stop giving all your money to the gym and the quilt store, and pick a couple of skills to acquire. You will feel good about yourself and save money in the process.
When you make the switch to doing things yourself and creating at home, you definitely exert more effort and spend more time. It is usually worthwhile, however, when you account for the money you save in the process. Here are a few ideas of things that can be homemade or done for free.
1. Cooking. We eat so many extra calories and spend so much more money when we are in the habit of eating at restaurants or getting take out. Making food at home means tastier, cheaper, healthier options. Cook in bulk when you have the time, and freeze the leftovers. You will be amazed at the money you save, and surprised at how convenient it can be.
2. Make your own clothing. This is a skill that used to be commonplace, but is not fairly rare. It is complicated, especially if neither sew nor knit, and do not know anyone who can teach you. It is not impossible though. Take a class or teach yourself. You will save money and have a more unique look.
3. Jewelry. Take a look at most of the fashion jewelry you see in, for instance, the mall. It is made from beads and stones that you could probably purchase at several craft stores. For a fraction of the price, you could buy your own beads and things, and create unique necklaces and bracelets. You could even sell your creations.
4. Picture Frames. In department stores and home goods emporiums, you often pay twenty dollars or more for one picture frame. However, you can make them on your own. Buy some matte or wood frames for cheap, and paint them or attach objects that mean something to you.
5. Run or walk outside instead of at the gym. Gym memberships are often a waste of money. If you use all of the weight lifting equipment and other fancy machines, it might be worthwhile. However, many people only use the elliptical or the treadmill. Instead of paying for this, just walk or run in a park or in your neighborhood, especially during the summer months. You will save money and you will feel better.
There are lots of other things you can make or do yourself, these are only a few suggestions. Realistically, you will not have time to do everything on your own, especially if you have a full schedule. But even picking just a couple of things can make a difference financially. Stop giving all your money to the gym and the quilt store, and pick a couple of skills to acquire. You will feel good about yourself and save money in the process.
No comments:
Post a Comment