Jasmine's Place Issue No. 18 - May/June 2017 | Page 24

Don’t be distracted by things you cannot afford. Remember, bills first and fun later. Don’t be afraid to say “no” sometimes. You may have to turn down invites, trips, and sale items. Stay focused and cease from getting distracted. Keep in mind your budget and savings goals set in place already. Don’t be distracted by things you cannot afford. Remember, bills first and fun later. Don’t be afraid to say “no” sometimes. You may have to turn down invites, trips, and sale items. There is no need to be embarrassed or too prideful to say no. Allowing your feelings to have control will cause you to spend too much money. Instead of worrying about not being able to afford a bigger summer, be thankful and give praise for the things you are able to afford and do this summer. Have a party or BBQ, but have your guests bring a dish, dessert, or side. Take a stroll in a couple dollar stores for decorations, utensils, flatware, 24 JASMINE'S PLACE and shop deals at the grocery store for condiments and meals. Grocery stores usually have great summer deals. You can plan your meals around what you get on sale to help you save on food for the party and your monthly grocery list. Prep meals for during the week and pack meals and snacks when you go on road trips or attend local attractions. Most of the time during the summer you will be on the go and things may happen sporadically at times. Instead of acting on impulse and choosing fast food, you should eat at home, take a snack, and limit eating out to special days (2x a month, 2x a week, etc.). Even though you’re having fun, you can still save on bills. Saving on one expense will help you to have more money to go towards your summer fun. Saving on the energy bill is one variable expense that you can save on during summer. You can save on electricity by buying curtains, a good fan, and using the A/C more in the mornings and evenings. Utilize your fan and curtains more during peak temperature hours to decrease the load of your A/C unit.