How to Reduce Monthly Expenses?

One of the most effective ways to reduce monthly expenses is to diligently track your finances. This involves creating a detailed budget and using tools like spreadsheets or financial apps to monitor every expense [1:1], [5:2]. By analyzing past spending, you can identify areas where you tend to overspend and make conscious decisions to cut back on non-essential items.

Cut Unnecessary Subscriptions and Services

Many people find savings by eliminating unnecessary subscriptions such as cable TV, streaming services, and other recurring charges that add up over time [2:1], [2:3]. Negotiating with service providers for better rates or switching to cheaper alternatives can also help lower bills [2:5], [2:7].

Adopt Minimalist and Frugal Habits

Adopting a minimalist lifestyle can lead to significant savings. This includes simplifying clothing choices, reducing electricity usage, and opting for public transport or walking instead of driving [1:6], [3:3]. Additionally, making small changes like preparing meals at home, downgrading phone plans, and shopping at discount stores can collectively save a substantial amount [3:2], [4:1].

Implement Cash-Based Budgeting

Using cash for discretionary spending can help control impulse purchases. Allocating a set amount of cash each week for small expenses like coffee or snacks ensures you don't exceed your budget [5:1], [5:3]. This method makes you more aware of your spending habits and encourages saving any leftover cash.

Smart Shopping and Grocery Management

Switching to cheaper grocery stores and planning meals carefully can greatly reduce food expenses. Creating a grocery list and avoiding shopping when hungry prevents impulse buys [4:3], [4:6]. Group buying and knowing price ranges for products can also keep costs down [3:2].

By incorporating these strategies, you can effectively reduce your monthly expenses without significantly impacting your quality of life.

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POST SUMMARY • [1]

Summarize

Minimalist lifestyle tips that helped you save more?

Posted by MidValleyGhost · in r/malaysiaFIRE · 3 months ago

11 upvotes on reddit

7 replies

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ORIGINAL POST

Trying to trim expenses without killing joy. What small lifestyle changes helped you save more monthly, without feeling deprived?

7 replies

WarrenChanWL · 3 months ago

Making decisions is hard because it is a finite resource. Glutamate and adenosine builds up throughout the day edging us towards prioritizing short-term convenience over long-term goals. So at the end of the day, after a long day of hard work, it's hard to choose cooking a healthy meal over just ordering Grab.

The solution is NOT grit. You need to embrace that evolution has optimized us to minimize CALORIE expenditure, not FINANCIAL expenditure.

So what is the solution? DEFAULTS.

A default plan is the plan that will be executed if no alternative decisions are made. It takes ACTIVE effort to decide away from the default plan. In other words, you are optimized to stick to the default plan because other plans will take more effort. Here are some examples of money saving defaults--

Meals: Take a daily meal subscription service. The one I'm on is RM34 for a 4-person serving (non-halal) https://www.facebook.com/foongbrother/.

Groceries: Have a weekly checklist of recurring groceries. Every week check off what you already have, and order what you don't have via Lotus's online. Ordering online according to a list avoids purchasing unnecessary incidental items that you might get when in store.

Fitness: Find something you love and commit to it with a membership. ClassPass costs way more and takes a lot more decision making. Even better choose something free - hiking/jogging, or swimming/gym (if you have such condo facilities).

Transportation: Personally, I have built most of my activities to be within 15 mins cycling distance so that's what I do.

Utilities: I dropped from an expensive Maxis plan to Hotlink Postpaid 45 that gives me more than enough data (100GB). TIME internet I dropped from 1GBps to 600mbps and I don't feel any difference for my type of usage.

Kids: Getting a private tutor/instructor is often cheaper than going to a tuition centre or facility especially if you have more than 1 student.

Family activities:
Buying memberships can be quite affordable, eg.
a) Petrosains family annual membership is RM100 total for 2 adults and 3 kids. Plus you can also go to Singapore science centre under the membership for free too.
b) Sunway Lagoon annual pass was RM198/pax earlier this year. You can keep an eye out for that.

I hope these examples give you a gist of what you can do.

Analyze your spending, change your defaults. Set, forget, save $.

4 upvotes on reddit

capitaliststoic · 3 months ago

You might want to check other subreddit if you're asking for minimal penny pinching (or did you actually mean minimalist lifestyle?). Although you're not going to save much if you only "penny pinch" whilst trying to have joy. You do small changes for small results. You can ask r/MalaysianPF for that kind of advice

What you should be doing

You track your finances diligently. This alone will automatically make you conscious of what you spend
Develop and execute a financial plan. This helps you stay focused and motivated to stick to your goals

Now if you want more lifestyle changes to become a minimalist, that I consider small changes but might save a bit more than penny pinching

Meal prep healthy food. Bring healthy salads to work. Save money, get lean and fit
Wake up early in the morning and go to the gym / exercise. Forces you to sleep early, drink less or none at all
Take public transport
Drink nescafe gold coffee instead of buying takeaway coffee
Switch to a cheap prepaid. Plenty of data, WiFi is everywhere
Don't buy the latest phone and gadgets. You don't need them. Like a Xiaomi instead of samsung/apple, and a second hand lenovo thinkpad for a laptop
Read, at the public library or with a book club (if you want to be social). You'd be surprised what's available at libraries if you haven't been
Don't hang out at shopping malls. Have pot luck social dinners
No Grabfood (or even grab at all, take public transport)
No shopee/lazada. We're not in covid restrictions anymore. Introduce some friction to your spending
Cut out all your loyalty cards. Because you're not buying coffee/bubble milk tea outside, simplify your life and reduce incentives to spend

If some or all of these things are too hard because they bring you joy, well you might want to rethink what brings you joy in life. Or look into what doesn't bring you joy in life and ruthlessly cut them out (Ramit Sethi style).

11 upvotes on reddit

MaxMillion888 · 3 months ago

Spend more time trying to make more money. Because while 1-13 are great, no one penny pinches their way to FIRE

4 upvotes on reddit

capitaliststoic · 3 months ago

I never mentioned making more money because that's the obvious thing and he's not asking about that.

>Because while 1-13 are great, no one penny pinches their way to FIRE

I don't think 1-13 are penny pinching, I actually said that they're not in my comment (I said some are small changes).

Somewhat related, it's actually interesting how in Malaysia the POV is that FIRE cannot be done by saving more (based on how I see many malaysians say we can't FIRE because costs are too high and wages are too low). It totally can and that's how the whole FIRE movement started. Increasing savings rate by reducing expenses.

The whole world was and is going through a "cost of living" crisis, and FIRE helped people navigate that by spending less, and hence increasing they're spending rate and decreasing their expenses, and not having to work as much (making more money).

I think because Malaysia like many Asian cultures is highly materialistic and hence struggles with that (downgrading lifestyle, amongst other things)

3 upvotes on reddit

Stunning-Leek334 · 3 months ago

Start with a budget where you start from scratch and start with the big expenses like where you live. People worry about the pennies and then live in a place that is 50% more than they need to be spending.

1 upvotes on reddit

lalat_1881 · 3 months ago

I only eat twice a day: brunch at 10 and early dinner at 6. I snack on fruits and drink water a lot
I am very particular about using electricity to the point that annoys people. I am fine staying in the dark or with minimal lighting.
I prefer the fan over the aircond.
I keep a minimalist style of clothing; meaning, I wear simple clothing that I can rotate or swap or mix and match and not need to have more than I need.

2 upvotes on reddit

Kelangketerusa · 3 months ago

It's hard to tell you given you have not shared anything about your lifestyle.

A few things that made mine worth it.

A gym membership - Around RM150 p/m, but you essentially get to spend 2-3 hours daily working on yourself, which essentially means you are spending RM5 to create a healthy lifestyle.
Get a library card or subscribe to Overdrive. Both the Tun Uda and KL libraries has an overdrive which means you can borrow book physically or e-book online for free.
Learn to take cheaper and holidays. Depending on the kind of holiday you want, I've been enjoying traveling to smaller towns to spend the weekends or holiday, rather than planning a grand tour of Europe every time travel plans is bought up. I still do overseas travel, but it's more mindful of what do I actually want to get out of it.

1 upvotes on reddit

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r/personalfinance • [2]

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Advice on how to reduce monthly bills

Posted by FLkeys813 · in r/personalfinance · 6 years ago

I want to reduce my monthly bills to maximize my savings and retirement contributions. I've downloaded the honeydue app to share with my boyfriend so we can see EVERYTHING financially and where the money is going and how our budget is looking continuously. I no longer have any credit card debt (yay), but I do have about $8,700 left on my auto loan which is due to be paid off approximately December 2020. We will be changing jobs before the end of the year and will be making almost triple monthly what we are each making now. The plan is to pay the auto loan off ASAP while still maxing out retirement contributions (it'll take approximately 2-3 months to accomplish this). In the meantime,

I've identified my auto insurance as a bill I could attempt to reduce. I pay $109 monthly, equating to $1,308/year. I've had 1 no-fault accident on my record, I'm already into my 30s, and I'm thinking it's time to stop being loyal to esurance because I feel like my rates should be less at this age. Any advice on how to streamline searching for better rates without having to put my info into tons of different individual company websites??

Also, any other advice on ways to cut down on monthly expenses would be greatly appreciated. I currently have Netflix, Hulu, cell phone, auto insurance, groceries, and gas as the bare necessities monthly. We also have internet, electric, rent, and utilities. Rent and utilities aren't negotiable as we're locked in for 5 more months. I tried negotiating our internet down, but it went up by almost double because my "one year promotion" expired. They're the only big company to offer internet in our area, but we're contract free now, so if anyone suggests cheap, but dependable internet, that'll be helpful!! Thanks in advance!

1 upvotes on reddit

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cmikaiti · 6 years ago

Sounds like you are doing great and are focused on this. That is soooo much more than most people. Get that Auto Insurance down. Really look into your coverage.... You say you had a no-fault accident. Are you in a no-fault state? That will make a huge difference. For me, I'm insuring 2 cars with, what I think it a good policy, for less than $100 a month.

2 upvotes on reddit

FLkeys813 · OP · 6 years ago

My home state (licensed and registered in) is Florida, but the accident occurred while working in Georgia. It involved road debris and cost $4,200 in repairs! My coverage limits are absolutely horrible!! $1,500 for comp and collision, no bodily injury, no rental car, nothing...my rates didn't go up after the claim (yet) because the policy hasn't renewed for the next 6 months, but I'm concerned it will go up. I've had an otherwise clean driving record for 15 years and feel like the rate should be less with better limits/coverage. Any advice on websites that let you search multiple insurers at once to compare the best rates?

1 upvotes on reddit

dmcand3 · 6 years ago

It depends what you are willing to sacrifice. You don’t need any sort of subscriptions. You don’t need cable, Hulu, Netflix, etc. this is all unnecessary expenses. Also, stop contributing the max to retirement if you are paying debt. Stop and focus on the task at hand.

I was in your shoes at one point and ended up trimming the fat on everything. I cut cable TV and all my subscriptions. It saved a lot of money and a lot of wasted time. Try it out! Good luck.

1 upvotes on reddit

FLkeys813 · OP · 6 years ago

We don't have cable. I'm just starting my retirement but I'm at least 10 years behind, so I don't have time to keep postponing that. We also split the Hulu and Netflix which amounts to $14/mo. That's a drop in the bucket compared to our other bills. I really would prefer dropping our internet provider based on them doubling our rate for the same service! Any advice on how to get cheaper internet?

2 upvotes on reddit

dmcand3 · 6 years ago

Just negotiate. Look up the competitors new sign up rate and say you are leaving. Comcast won’t raise rates more than 3-5$ for me every 2 yrs for Internet. Also, I know it sounds like a drop in a hat but every dollar makes a difference. You just don’t need subscriptions. Not sure what your age is that you say you are behind on retirement but you’ll likely be fine if you focus on one task at a time.

1 upvotes on reddit

collegeorford · 6 years ago

Call up your ISP and tell them you'll cancel if you cant get your old rate back. If they call your bluff, cancel anyways. After 45 or 90 days depending on which company it is. You sign back up with them at the new customer rate. In the interim find a cheap temporary fix like borrowing the neighbors wifi if they are willing.

1 upvotes on reddit

FLkeys813 · OP · 6 years ago

I threatened to cancel because I'm not paying double for the same thing. They magically found a faster speed that's $10 less than the new doubled rate, but that's still more than we pay now. I asked what happens if I cancel and re-sign up for a new promotion and they said it wouldn't apply to a former customer and I also couldn't sign back up for 60 days. Then I thought about having my bf sign up, but that would require a 12-mo contract and we're moving in 5 months and will not need their services again. I probably should call them again tomorrow and demand my old rate.

1 upvotes on reddit

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r/SGMoney • [3]

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Tips for cutting monthly expenses without feeling the pinch?

Posted by SGKiasuKid · in r/SGMoney · 18 days ago

Managing everyday expenses can get overwhelming, especially with prices going up across groceries, transport, and utilities. Small changes can really add up over time, but it’s not always obvious where to start. What are some practical ways you’ve found to save money without feeling like you’re missing out? From smart shopping hacks to budgeting tricks, share what actually works for you!

45 upvotes on reddit

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Rainjy · 18 days ago

Sharing from personal experience:

Downgraded Telco from contract to SIM only
Eat out less; if not, tell my friends to eat more affordable options. Sometimes I dabao 1 meat 1 veg instead of 1 meat 2 veg.
I switched to cheaper coffee like occasional coffee shop teh/ kopi, then to 3 in 1. Nowadays, I'm trying to reduce caffeine intake in general, so it might save me some money in the long run.
Groceries: I know my parents join group buys, and they kinda know the range they would pay for products, so that keeps costs lower. E.g. supermarkets vs wet markets vs e-commerce
I used to get gym memberships, but now I have some dumbbells at home and try to exercise at home. Or just walk more in general.
Lastly, and the most important point, just reduce your wants. As a girl, it's very, very easy to spend a lot more due to marketing/ social media. I think just list down things that you really need like daily necessities, then more optional stuff like make-up, skin care, and can source for more affordable options (and reduce skin care steps).

6 upvotes on reddit

everywhereinbetween · 18 days ago

(1) is real omg, same. I feel that it has saved me a lot of money. I paid like I think maybe 1.4k for my phone in 2018[? I forgot but nothing close to 2k] then from circles life to gomo, I just kept getting cheaper and cheaper plans (or rather they kept offering to me and I ofc took it) - rn it's like 12 a month for 250GB local and 1GB roaming hahah

I think there are some plans which may even be cheaper with more data than this (it's not a publicised offer, it's a promo code that gomo texted me cus I've been with them for a long time. those customer retaining thingsz)

2 upvotes on reddit

phygello · 15 days ago

Try eight ( I don't have any financial involvement with them).

1 upvotes on reddit

cynicalandjaded · 14 days ago

Cut down on eating out/grab food ($200 worth of groceries in sheng shiong can last you quite a while vs 2 nice meals out). This means no alcohol and overpriced coffee/matcha too.
Delete all shopping apps
Use everything that you have before you go out to purchase something. Or think of potential replacements that you already have.
Use only public transport/ walk if you can

1 upvotes on reddit

EnoughString1059 · 18 days ago

One thing I noticed from Covid period. We started to dabao a lot more. When you dabao you seldom get drinks, just food. So I realized ordering drinks when dining out really adds up.

11 upvotes on reddit

lajf234 · 18 days ago

I used to think this and avoided buying drinks during office lunches while everyone else did. But after a while it just felt so insignificant. I wfh 50%, so 2-3 office lunches a week. That’s $3-5 for drinks a week. It’s not even $200 over the whole year. I might as well have small indulgences to get through the boring week.

6 upvotes on reddit

gretsall · 17 days ago

For me it’s not that hard to abstain. I’m fine drinking water, saves the calories and is healthier. Prefer making my own hot tea after lunch

1 upvotes on reddit

Hazys · 18 days ago

😂first you drive own a car? The first thing is stop driving take public transport.

2 upvotes on reddit

tinofee · 18 days ago

OP said "without feeling the pinch". No car lowers QOL alot.

2 upvotes on reddit

Impressive-Glove9057 · 17 days ago

so so true. cars are worth the freedom it affords

0 upvotes on reddit

SL0WRID3R · 17 days ago

or... get a decent commute bike and commute around? still better QOL than public transport.... psst, a New Brompton is only SGD 0.29k... compared to a 150k metal box.

2 upvotes on reddit

SgSouthSider · 18 days ago

I’m guessing the goal of cutting expenses is to save/invest more. So flip it around, how much do you aim to save/invest a month, allocate that money aside. Then force yourself to only spend the remaining. It’s about creating forcing mechanisms that will work. No matter how high your salary, it all applies the same.

Edit: grammar

5 upvotes on reddit

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r/AskReddit • [4]

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What are the simple habits or methods that helped you control monthly expenses without feeling pressure?

Posted by veelyyozz · in r/AskReddit · 1 month ago

4 upvotes on reddit

7 replies

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CuriousEngine4 · 1 month ago

If you really want to budget aggressively, just get rid of credit card. Use a checking account with a debit card. At the start of the month, just keep enough money in the checking account for the month. Any extra money goes into savings account or other form of investments. Once you get disciplined with money, start using credit card again.

1 upvotes on reddit

No-Matter9505 · 1 month ago

Grocery list + don’t shop hungry. Saved me more cash than any finance book ever did.

1 upvotes on reddit

DKPeterPlus · 1 month ago

A tight budget, and basically lovering standards. I used to drive big cars, but now I don't even care. As long as the car can take me from a to b.

1 upvotes on reddit

veelyyozz · OP · 1 month ago

Yes, that's right. When you stop caring about luxuries, life (and money) becomes much easier.

1 upvotes on reddit

[deleted] · 1 month ago

Changing shops honestly. For the UK, I used to spend £100 a week at Tesco’s. I changed to Aldi, same stuff, £40. Just a 2 minute extra drive.

I gained £60 a week, so basically £240 a month

1 upvotes on reddit

veelyyozz · OP · 1 month ago

A smart move! It's strange how to change the shop, he can provide this large amount every month.👍🏻

1 upvotes on reddit

[deleted] · 1 month ago

Honestly you’d be surprised here. There’s 3 people at work and they’ll put on a board how much they spend for shopping (for the house, not clothes etc) 1 shops at Tesco, spends about £1100 monthly The other 2, shop at Lidl/Aldi. Less than £500 monthly.

All 3 are married with kids. But huge shop difference

1 upvotes on reddit

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r/Advice • [5]

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Any tips for stopping little everyday expenses from eating up your budget?

Posted by QuantumFuzz7 · in r/Advice · 1 month ago

I’ve been trying to get better at managing my money but I always find myself wasting small amounts here and there. On their own it doesn’t seem like a big deal a coffee here a snack there maybe a quick little purchase I don’t even think twice about but when I actually look back at my spending at the end of the month it adds up way more than I expect. The frustrating part is that I’m not blowing money on anything major. It’s not like I’m going out and making huge impulse buys. It’s just the small everyday stuff that feels harmless in the moment but slowly eats away at my budget in the long run. I want to be smarter about saving but I don’t want to feel like I’m cutting out every little thing that makes life enjoyable either. There has to be a balance between being financially responsible and not feeling like you’re depriving yourself of simple comforts. For people who’ve been through this what helped you find that balance or how do you keep the small daily expenses from piling up without making it feel like you’re living on nothing?

2 upvotes on reddit

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Maddy_egg7 · 1 month ago

I made a spreadsheet and input every single expense. It definitely makes me think about what I am spending because I can see as I approach or go over my designated budget for the month.

Also - when I made the spreadsheet, I went back and tracked every expense (that wasn't cash) for the last six months. I realized that the areas I was overspending in were things that didn't add value to my life. The areas that were aligned with my budget were the things I was worried about giving up (like I thought I was getting coffee out far too much, but was only spending ~$15 a month on it). I ended up cutting a lot of quantity from my budget and freeing up more money for quality of life.

1 upvotes on reddit

cash-envelop · 1 month ago

That's a tough one, because it really does feel harmless in the moment.

The best way to handle it is to give yourself a small, weekly cash allowance for those things. When that money's gone, it's gone, but it lets you get your coffee and snacks without feeling guilty or throwing off your whole budget.

1 upvotes on reddit

SnooRecipes9891 · 1 month ago

Take the last full month, get the records from your bank, put them in a spreadsheet, start with the money you had coming in for the month (budget), then add all the lines for the expenses throughout the month. Total the expenses and subtract from the money coming in - do you have anything left for savings? Awareness and accountability is always the key.

1 upvotes on reddit

lwiseman1306 · 1 month ago

I always try to pay in cash. I feel the pain more. Also some places give a little discount for cash? Being aware is the first step.

1 upvotes on reddit

zonk84 · 1 month ago

Lots of little tricks and tips, but what works for me was just making it truly available.

Once upon a time, that was just cash -- coffee, a snack, whatever - cash on Sunday, that's all I got till the next Sunday. And bonus, I even hoarded change in a change jar. You can't lazily waste if you simply don't have it.

But - despite being old(er), I'm still very much a fan of digital finance smartphone pays...

I still hew to the philosophy.

"Pay yourself first" -- between direct deposits and a weekly transfer to a HYSA, on top of monthly transfers into multiple investment accounts? As - granted, nothing substitutes for making more money! - time has rolled on? I've got nearly $1000 in "bills" - but bills that are really paying myself. So rent/now-mortgage, utilities, and daily expenses? The money goes first to places I can't easily get at it -- and I'd have to do things like cancel a weekly/monthly transfer.

I suppose it's kind of the old "envelop" idea.... but it works for me.

Even dumb stuff - like, reload my SBUX card.... Once a month only - and if I splurge on a breakfast sandwich? Welp.... I might have to skip a coffee. Whatever.

I'm certainly not perfect - I don't carry a CC balance (pay as soon posts), but sure... situations come up - "let's go out to dinner... and an expensive one... and then enjoy a nightcap that turns into 5 nightcaps".

But - to me? The best way I've found to budget is just living in a world where the $50 transfer from checking to HYSA will come on Tuesday. Oh, and it's mid-month, so the "bills"- also transfers- to the investment accounts will hit on the 15th.... and... welp - I suppose I don't want to cancel that transfer because it's gonna trigger on Wednesday, paycheck DD won't happen till Friday, and maybe I can survive with just the gyro for lunch rather than adding on the pizza puff.

1 upvotes on reddit

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r/AskReddit • [6]

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What’s the smallest, non-obvious habit you adopted that permanently cut your monthly expenses without hurting your quality of life?

Posted by jahrostfrei · in r/AskReddit · 9 days ago

4 upvotes on reddit

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squishistheword · 9 days ago

Eliminated all streaming and online subscriptions. No fast food unless there is absolutely no other option. Gave up drinking alcohol. (Lots of benefits there besides frugality!)

1 upvotes on reddit

hotgarbagecomics · 9 days ago

Making dashboards of my savings and investments. I really enjoyed watching number go up every month in technicolor, and over time, I would stop myself from making frivolous purchases, thinking "this would give me a higher delta if I saved/invested instead".

I'm a sucker for gamification.

1 upvotes on reddit

Competitive-Froyo-40 · 9 days ago

Stopped drinking NA Old Milwaukee

1 upvotes on reddit

Mrlin705 · 9 days ago

Checking my (wife's) credit card statements.

Literally yesterday I found out her mom has been accidentally putting Amazon subscriptions on her card. Her mom was combing through them all day until she got to January and found $900 worth that we have paid for. I told her to just call it even at that since they are retired, but I know they went back further than that.

The cards have been removed from her account that we share.

1 upvotes on reddit

squishistheword · 9 days ago

Eliminated all streaming and online subscriptions. No fast food unless there is absolutely no other option. Gave up drinking alcohol. (Lots of benefits there besides frugality!)

3 upvotes on reddit

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r/AskReddit • [7]

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What’s the smartest way you’ve cut down monthly expenses without sacrificing your lifestyle?

Posted by Alternative-Guava740 · in r/AskReddit · 4 months ago

1449 upvotes on reddit

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SnooPeanuts2620 · 4 months ago

Ever since I started cooking my own work lunches and not buying out as often I've not only saved money but actually end up with MORE food for the same price and it's healthier and tastier cause I know what went into the dish. The only downside is an extra 2-3 hours of my week is now dedicated to cooking but it's a worthwhile tradeoff

2778 upvotes on reddit

jun00b · 4 months ago

I'll tag on to what has helped me, as someone who doesn't like to spend time cooking. Every Sunday I cook a pot of beans on the stove and cook rice in the rice cooker. Once I learned how to do it and repeated for a few weeks it doesn't take very much time and it's easy.

A lb of beans is cheap, even if you are buying nice heirloom ones like I get. I order from rancho Gordo and a pound is like 7 dollars. You could probably get a pound of beans for a couple bucks at a discount grocer.

My method is chop a half onion, smash and chop two garlic cloves. Sauted in enameled cast iron pot in oil. Rinse beans (i have found soaking is not necessary since rancho Gordo's are fresh) in a colander, then add to pot with enough water to cover by a few inches. Boil 15 minutes. Turn down to simmer for somewhere between an hour and two hours. Add salt. Simmer additional hour. Done.

While im in the 15 minute boil stage and have to be in the kitchen anyway I take care of my rice. Rinse rice 3-5 times until water is clear, then put in rice cooker according to directions. Set it and forget it.

Rice and beans gives you a lot of carbs and fiber. Gives you a little protein. Not really significant fat source. I usually will grill some chicken too, or might add some vegetables. But this is my no nonsense staple. When it is meal time I mix beans, rice, chicken or vegetables in a bowl then pop in the microwave for 90 seconds, then stir in hot sauce, teriyaki, or soy sauce.

Im actually a picky eater but have found this works for me.

18 upvotes on reddit

kwanatha · 4 months ago

I like to make a big pot of beans often as well. Sometimes a little container of beans as a side to a sandwich is a nice lunch. I try to catch my produce before it goes bad and toss it in the beans with a can of diced tomatoes. If I have veggies that might go bad before I use them, chop up and toss in the freezer do it is ready to add to beans or some other soup

2 upvotes on reddit

dmf109 · 4 months ago

That’s a big one. When i was young, dumb, and single, I’d often grab breakfast AND lunch out. Not only did I eat too much due to American portion sizing, but also didn’t eat all that healthy (giant bagel and cream cheese for breakfast, sub with a huge roll for lunch).

Most mornings I do yogurt with fruit and a coffee for breakfast, and a burger (no bun) on beans for lunch, or a mix of cheese, nuts, veggies, and/or fruit for lunch. Or a simple sandwich with veggies.

I have found I’m not tired all day like I was when I ate out a lot. And I spend way, way less.

468 upvotes on reddit

Lemonade_IceCold · 4 months ago

The not feeling tired part of this is so true.

I'm still not consistent on making my lunches every day, but I have noticed I'm able to get through the days easier after multiple consistent days of healthy breakfasts and lunches.

1 upvotes on reddit

NotBarnabyJ0nes · 4 months ago

Do you cook each meal separately or meal prep in bulk?

I've been meal prepping for years. A weeks worth of work lunches takes maybe an hour and a half tops. I guess it depends how in depth you go with recipes but once you get a routine down it's pretty quick. I have a few go-tos that are pretty cheap per meal, tasty, and healthy and I've made them so many times I can get it done in under an hour.

65 upvotes on reddit

kwanatha · 4 months ago

I cook in bulk and meal prep as well. I just make extra big batches and portion some of the leftovers for lunches and freeze. We generally eat what I cook for 2-3 nights. After you have been big batching a while you end up with an assortment of lunches in the freezer so you don’t have to eat the same thing for lunch and dinner for 3 days

1 upvotes on reddit

Terpsichorean_Wombat · 4 months ago

I'm with you. I developed a bunch of food intolerances and I have to cook nearly everything I eat now. I cook almost everything in batches of 4-8 servings. I eat it a few times that week and freeze the rest in portions. It's been great. Now I can finally get some nights off by pulling from the freezer. When you have to cook everything you eat, man ... it's relentless. I like cooking, but I am also relieved that I've finally built up a good stash of safe meals.

Anyone who is looking to eat more veggies - doing a big try of mixed roasted veggies (I like halved cobs of corn, asparagus, onion, mushrooms, and blanched cabbage wedges) is a great way to go. You can pull different combos out of the fridge and go with whatever you're in the mood for that day.

0 upvotes on reddit

snatchinyosigns · 4 months ago

Wait 3 days to purchase something. Give you time to reconsider and cuts out impulse buys

2239 upvotes on reddit

Training-Lion-1602 · 4 months ago

I keep a spreadsheet of things I impulsively want and their costs. I’ve saved thousands of dollars

97 upvotes on reddit

SoftTissueIssues · 4 months ago

I do this too and then any time I am very close to pulling the trigger but don't, I put that money into my Roth. I was so close to spending it anyway, I might as well be spending it on my future.

28 upvotes on reddit

Repraht · 4 months ago

Same. Stopped buying alcohol for the house, because I would just drink it all within a couple nights. Now I only drink in social settings which rarely happens these days since I have 3 little kids.

Lost weight and saving money. Win win.

363 upvotes on reddit

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r/debtfree • [8]

Summarize

What are creative monthly spending techniques to manage expenses and build good habits?

Posted by Espn1204 · in r/debtfree · 3 years ago

Currently consolidating and paying down debt based on overspending. Fortunate to have investments and decent cashflow to address this. What are some helpful ways you have found to limit your monthly expenses and curb excess spending, or even managing your “allowance” with your spouse? Once our monthly bills are paid, including all loans, routine bills, and savings, I was thinking about a reasonable monthly allowance for each of us using either a low limit card or our debit card. Thinking $1,500 between the both of us should be more than comfortable each month. Perhaps discuss purchases that push beyond our self-induced allowance. I’ve heard about some people using the cash/envelope method, but that doesn’t seem realistic in the current age. Maybe I’m too spoiled and comfortable using plastic and apps. Trying to break old habits by being purposeful but also keep reasonable and responsible freedom of spending. Anyone have ways they are doing this out of necessity or good habits? Thanks in advance.

7 upvotes on reddit

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thelvadam0718 · 3 years ago

Hi!

Not sure what the lifestyle or job situation is like with you and tour spouse but I started to find my biggest saves meal prepping, specifically with a crock pot. Found one for $20 bucks on sale and I have a $30 chicken recipe that feeds me for 4 days, lunch and dinner. Overeating was also a huge issue of mine, I am in my mid twenties and recently realized how much I need to eat to feel full and food goes so much further now.

One other thing I have done is buying the blank spray bottles from Walmart and a gallon of 409. I fill it about a quarter of the way with 409 and the rest water, still cleans like normal IMO and I have to get a new gallon every 2 years or so. Saves waste and money.

1 upvotes on reddit

Specific-Exciting · 3 years ago

I just don’t follow the overconsumption that is so prevalent in todays society. I’ve got two pairs of jeans, 3 pairs of work pants, one good pair of running shoes and a yard work pair etc. I also try to reduce food and packaging waste. Once you subscribe to a Lifestyle like that you save a lot of money! If you questions feel free to dm me

3 upvotes on reddit

[deleted] · 3 years ago

Yup, keep it simple. Same I have one everyday pair of vans and then my work books. Thats all I need as well. When I goto clients houses and see a FULL closet of shoes. 🤯

Lifestylecreep and keeping up with the jones is expensive. 🤣

1 upvotes on reddit

Specific-Exciting · 3 years ago

Yeah I grew up with an overconsumption mom to where it was boarderline hoarding when I was 6 and after we all moved out it’s legit hoarding. Now if she has a medical emergency in her home I don’t think ems will be able to get her out. We tried the whole tough love we won’t be coming to your house and only giving experience gift cards for holidays/celebrations. It hasn’t worked, she just keeps spending money she doesn’t have on who knows what hoarding in my opinion is a worse disease than drugs/alcohol. So I like to keep what I use and nothing more

1 upvotes on reddit

Otowner98 · 3 years ago

Budgeting app (free version of EveryDollar) has made a massive difference for me. Been using it for three years. I’m a single dad, so not sure how ‘shareable’ it is between two people.

My 12 & 14 year old are going to be downloading it, in 2 weeks, as school resumes - they wanted those phones 😁.

I think it is a travesty that so little is taught - at home or in school (though they’d likely muck it up) - about managing money. I know I wasn’t, and my family was thought of as ‘well off’.

1 upvotes on reddit

JoshuaB123 · 3 years ago

I started cooking only at home for the past few months, and basically canceled most, if not all subscription based services.

Also started using one of those apps that track spending and Ive gotten extremely frugal as a result because I’m able to see how much money I’m spending across multiple accounts in real-time and how it compared to last month.

It’s extremely helpful and I suggest you look into it if you’re trying to figure out which areas of your life you can reduce spending. Basically, YNAB.

3 upvotes on reddit

[deleted] · 3 years ago

Eating out always costs more and you never know whats in the food. I worked in food hospitality when I was a kid. Trust me behind the counter is sketchy lol.

2 upvotes on reddit

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r/AskReddit • [9]

Summarize

[Serious] How do you manage your monthly expenses?

Posted by KamiKeys · in r/AskReddit · 3 years ago

5 upvotes on reddit

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killercurvesahead · 3 years ago

r/ynab but trying to make the switch to r/budgetwithbuckets

2 upvotes on reddit

Schlurps · 3 years ago

Year long ynab user here. What's better about budgetwithbuckets?

1 upvotes on reddit

killercurvesahead · 3 years ago

Just an alternative for those who are unhappy with YNAB’s company culture and poor connections lately.

1 upvotes on reddit

rabengeieradlerstein · 3 years ago

I get paid at the beginning of the month and hope that the money lasts till the end of the month.

2 upvotes on reddit

nsee134 · 3 years ago

Plan out a budget, listing each expense

2 upvotes on reddit

AquaSherbet · 3 years ago

Poorly

4 upvotes on reddit

GreedWrathLust · 3 years ago

I have two white board above my tv.

I play Xbox everyday, so then I'm forced to stare at my bills daily.

One board for debt and early pay offs. One for reoccurring bills.

I also check the bank account daily.

I undercut both my wife and I's expected income by a few hundred dollars.

Make bills work with that money.

Any left over the estimation goes into savings or investing.

Rinse, recycle, repeat.

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AI Answer

🤖

How to reduce monthly expenses

Here are some key strategies to reduce monthly expenses:

Create a Budget: Track your income and expenses to identify where your money is going. Use budgeting apps or spreadsheets to help manage your finances.
Cut Unnecessary Subscriptions: Review your subscriptions (streaming services, magazines, etc.) and cancel any that you don’t use regularly.
Reduce Utility Bills:
- Energy Efficiency: Switch to LED bulbs, unplug devices when not in use, and consider energy-efficient appliances.
- Water Usage: Fix leaks, take shorter showers, and consider water-saving fixtures.
Grocery Savings:
- Meal Planning: Plan meals for the week to avoid impulse purchases and reduce food waste.
- Use Coupons and Discounts: Take advantage of store promotions, loyalty programs, and coupons.
Transportation Costs:
- Public Transport: Use public transportation or carpool when possible.
- Maintain Your Vehicle: Regular maintenance can prevent costly repairs and improve fuel efficiency.
Review Insurance Policies: Shop around for better rates on car, home, and health insurance. Consider bundling policies for discounts.
Limit Dining Out: Cook at home more often and reserve dining out for special occasions. Meal prepping can help save time and money.
Negotiate Bills: Contact service providers (internet, phone, etc.) to negotiate lower rates or switch to a more affordable plan.

Recommendation: Start by tracking your expenses for a month to identify the biggest areas for potential savings. Focus on one or two categories at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Making small, consistent changes can lead to significant savings over time.

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