Ways to Save Money NOW

I know that most of you have already heard this and I don't think there's much to add.  Although, should a financial need arise, wouldn't it be enjoyable not to have any worries?

Unfortunately, not everyone is prepared nor have a 6-month salary equivalent saved up as an emergency fund.  We should all be prepared.  Expenditures come when you least expect it.

Here are some of what I have compiled as ways to save money NOW:

 

1. DON'T IGNORE THE COINS.  The piggy bank savings have always been applicable throughout the years and generations.  I remembered my mom giving us a plastic piggy bank which were filled with quarters.  Now, as an adult, there are times when I ignore the coins and leave them around.  Why not compile them like what we did when we were young.  I have filled my piggy bank in a month's time and got about Php 500 (Philippine pesos). If I do that every month (500 x 12 months), I'll have Php 6,000 pesos.  Not bad!
2. MAKE A BUDGET.  We mostly spend on things we want that we neglect things we need - like bills.  Budgeting actually helps you monitor where your money goes.  I have to admit that if it's not in my budget, I wouldn't buy it (right away!).  Your budget list is your priority list (tithes, savings, bills, rent, utilities, credit card debts, mortgage, tuition fees, etc.).  Pay them first, before spending on the wants.
3. FIX AN AMOUNT FOR SAVINGS.  Most professional financial planner would more likely say put a percentage.  Since most of us would hesitate putting aside certain percentage of their salary for savings (some 10%), I would suggest make a specified amount instead.  If you feel that Php 1,000 a month is the only amount you can set aside, that you will never (ever) withdraw for a while (i.e. a year), then set aside Php 1,000. We're building the habit, not the amount.  When we formed the habit, setting aside bigger amounts would be a breeze.  You can also do it daily... (Php 50 daily is fine).
4. OPEN A SAVE UP ACCOUNT.  This is open to BPI and BPI Family Account holders.  You can open an account online.  Save at least Php 200 pesos regularly by enrolling this online.  You can schedule the savings to weekly or monthly.
5. MONETIZE YOUR HOBBY.  Saving from your hobby may not be immediate but it will be eventually.  Doing something you love and earn from it is everyone's dream.  Most of them are free.  You love being on the phone, monetize by being an App Reviewer.  You love to write, offer writing service.  Artistic?  Sell your artwork online.  Baking?  Cater to your friend's birthday party, etc.  The list goes on.

We need to stop making excuses.  These are all simple money making tips that everyone can do.  All we have to do is start NOW.