Alright.. let’s get into how we are going to knock out baby step #1 fast! In case you are unfamiliar, I’m referring to Dave Ramsey’s baby steps to financial freedom. The first baby step is saving $1,000 as fast as you can. You want to have at least $1,000 saved before you start attacking your debt.
1. Look at current expenses
Let’s take a look into your expenses and budget. First thing first, do you even have a budget? What expenses can be cut? Are you paying for a gym membership you never use? Are you paying for apps that you don’t realize you are paying for. Iphone users go to the app store- profile- manage subscriptions. This will show any apps you are paying for every month. How much are you spending on your hair and nails sis? I’m not saying you can’t get your nails done but I am saying if you are spending $100+ every few weeks it might be worth looking into.
2. Cut fast food
Just know, when I write these posts I am preaching to myself. I am THEE WORST at spending money on fast food. I really challenge you to look at your expenses and see how much you are spending on fast food. You might be surprised how much of your money is going to food or drinks. If you go out a lot just add up how much you are spending on overpriced drinks at the club. I recommend the MINT app to help track your expenses. A lot of people could save their $1k just by cutting out fast food and Starbucks for a couple months. Moral of the story, order water and save yourself the money and calories.
3. Sell old clothes and shoes
Time to do some fall cleaning and sell some clothes and shoes! Yes, I know we (I) hate getting rid of clothes, but seriously I have things I haven’t worn in years. I personally sell my things on Mercari but there are a ton of different websites and local consignment shops. For those of you with kids, I know plenty of people that have started a facebook page to sell their old or never worn children’s clothes. I think that’s a great idea! Remember, anything to save that first $1,000.
4. Side hustle time
Another idea is to get a side hustle. Uber and door dash are great ways to make money on your own time. I think door dash is cool because you don’t have to worry about strangers in your car. Plus, more and more restaurants are starting to use them for delivery. Another pro is that it’s all on your time. You could do it for 1 hour or 8 hours, it’s up to you.
Holidays are approaching and many retail stores are looking for temporary help. Many of them are just looking for weekend help. That’s perfect for anybody that works Monday-Friday. Remember, this is not a forever thing, just getting you to your first goal of $1,000.
5. Stay away from the mall!
Last but not least, stop shopping! Just stop! (I’m talking to myself right now) You don’t need any clothes, shoes, fall decor, pumpkins, furniture, nothing! Don’t tempt yourself by going to the mall or your favorite store because there will be something on sale. There is always something on sale. Don’t online shop or even browse. It starts at browsing, next thing you know you are spending $50 to get free shipping. Can I get an Amen? LOL
Let me know below what you are doing to get your $1,000 saved fast.
