Jewish Life Digital Edition April 2015 | Page 49

will earn you mileage out of the money you spend, and even if it’s a long way off, eventually you’ll claim a reward. SHOP AROUND Scour the specials being run at the different shops at different times and take advantage. ASK YOURSELF… Do I really need it? Buy what you need, not what you want. ORIGINAL IS OVER RATED Don’t get caught in the designer trap. Buy generic or no-name brands wherever you can, as it’s often just as good and a fraction of the cost. BAKE YOUR CAKE AND EAT IT TOO Fast-foods, takeaways and ready-made meals are expensive and often unhealthy. Prepare your lunch before you go, eat in more, and this will help you save for that special night out. NO MORE SILLY HOLIDAYS By that I mean you should keep the mother’s day, father’s day and friendship day sentiment, but ditch the commercial holiday traps by paying through your neck for a single rose or a cheesy card. Make your own, and spoil your loved ones with a coffee in bed or the day off. DON’T GIVE UP Living in today’s world is an expensive endeavour, but don’t feel bogged down by debt. Make small changes wherever you can, and soon you’ll start to feel the benefits to your pocket. Read up on saving strategies and personal stories, and be inspired to save. TOP TIPS FOR KIDS Don’t just give in to every whim and desire your kids have by buying them whatever they ask for. Teach your kids how to save. Give them weekly or monthly pocket money, and show them how to budget. They can include their tuck requirements, their Shabbos treats and whatever else they might fancy for the week in their spend – but make sure to inspire them to save a little bit every week for that special something they desire. Whether it’s the new fad in toys or the newest CD, giving them something to work towards will teach them the value of money. Give them a head start on the muchneeded skill set they will use throughout their lives. What’s more, they’ll come to realise that you cannot walk out laden with packages every time you enter a shop if there is just no budget for it – which will give them some debtfree savvy in the long run! JL