27 January 2009
Where is My Scrimping Jar?
Posted by Martin under: Martin .
If you are thinking about getting a job in retail for the summer you better start looking now. The economy is in dire straights. According to the New York Times, retail stores like Sprint Nextel and Home Depot are cutting jobs and may other retail stores are going through a hiring freeze. The Career Center can help you get your resume and cover letter together to stand out among all the applicants. However, if all else fails what can you do to make sure that you can still LIVE through the summer?
Start saving NOW! - If you are working now or getting money from your loved ones take a few moments and put some away. I would suggest somewhere in the 10-15% range. It may be a huge sacrifice now and would probably mean frugal spending during the summer but I would rather have little money to spend than nothing at all. There are a couple ways that you can save now:
1. Have your employer do an automatic deposit into your savings account. This saves you the hassle of having to remember or talking yourself out of savings.
2. Get a scrimping jar. If you are someone who uses cash a lot the change you add to a regular job can add up to about $60.00-$100.00.
The thing to remember most of all is to PAY YOURSELF FIRST!!!! A little preparation now means less headache later.
3 Comments so far...
Kate Says:
28 January 2009 at 8:56 am.
This is completely true Martin. I think I am going to try to start saving my muffin/chai latte money. I just need to find a similar recipe for the mixed berry muffins that they have at the Bean. I am addicted.
Anonymous Says:
3 February 2009 at 12:36 pm.
My change jar goes to laundry expenses!
Increase Savings Says:
1 May 2009 at 2:27 pm.
You are so right… I would more
3. Look for coupons - I save a lot with dry cleaning coupons for example, but there are also groceries, gas etc.
4. Try to source from Craigslist and eBay if you are willing to put in the search time