First we need to pay close attention to how we drive. Speed I think most would agree is one area we all need to do a better job in. SLOW DOWN. This in itself will increase our mileage a great deal. Another area is using our brakes, when just driving a little slower would get us there just as fast and again save fuel. Be ready when it is your turn at a stop light or sign to start moving, this will save a jack rabbit start which again takes more fuel than a smooth start. By anticipating and being more alert as to what is going on far ahead and being ready when it is time to change lanes, will also add to our fuel savings. Most of these things just take a retraining of ourselves and habits. You might think these little things don't really make a difference, but all added together you will be pleasantly surprised.
Other things to consider include things like using the best route for the time of day we're driving. If for example we could find a route with less stop and go traffic, this would help. Once your engine heats up most will use less fuel, but idling at a stoplight for more than 30 seconds at several stops will cost you. Try to combine errands and trips by planning ahead, instead of say 4 trips a week making only 2 is again a winner. Although most of us like the free feeling of driving our own car, we might take a look at car pooling as another way to save fuel. Most of these things might at first seem like a lot of work, you might be surprised how much more relaxed you feel knowing you are doing a better job driving and are saving money.
Other tips, be sure to turn off the air conditioning when not needed again this could add as much as two miles per gallon to your fuel savings. Proper maintenance is another area that should not be over looked. Keep your engine tuned up, this in it self could be a big fuel saver. You might also want to consider switching to a different brand of motor oil for further fuel saving. For this I would check with the person who does your oil changing, he can explain the different oils that could save you money on your fuel cost.
Keep your tires at the proper pressure. As you make changes in your driving habits and maintenance you might want to keep a log for awhile so you will know how much the change has helped you save fuel. Once you see the savings it will be like a game to see where else you can find ways to cut your fuel cost. I believe many of us out there have accepted the rise in fuel cost as a way of life, let's not settle for that. Things can get better for all of us if we all do what we can to conserve fuel, and save money on gas.
You don't have to go very far to find a friend or family member who is divorced and struggling financially. Once in a while, this stretching financially landed in my lap too. I know several divorced women who have managed to save money on small clerical salaries. I share their brilliance with you so that, hopefully, some of their ideas will help you.
You can develop the habit of saving even if you've never done it before. Right now, you can tell yourself that you will start to save. In order to save something, you need to understand your finances. It's wise to have a budget and let saving be one of the items in your budget. Set up a savings account in the bank. If you have an automatic deposit of your paycheck, ask the bank if they can move the amount you chose into your savings account each week or month. I have always felt that if I don't have it in my pocket, it's easier not to spend it.
Once you know how much you need for your budget, you can decide that you will always spend less than you earn. Saving change is a great way to do this. Find a large container and seal a lid on the top of it. Use paint or Gorilla Glue to be sure it cannot open until you make a solid decision to open it. Make a game out of putting your change in that container. Let the kids put the change it. It's teaching them to save as well. Maybe this is the way you can have money for vacations.
Don't spend your raise. You're getting by without it, aren't you? You can use that wee bit extra to add more to your 401K or to deposit into a Savings Account for something you and your children would really enjoy. It's helpful to name the account. Our New Patio Furniture account. Your kids will participate in the goals of the family; plus, you'll be setting a wonderful example for them.
Buy Specials and Use Coupons at the grocery store. Stores run specials weekly and they put a lot of money into advertising those specials to you. You can really stretch the budgeted amount for weekly groceries if you'll use coupons and buy specials. In addition to persevering with budget plans, you can teach your children to shop wisely which doubly benefits them. If the specials keep you below your budget, let the kids add the money remaining to the Vacation Change Container.
Pack lunches. It's always nice to let kids buy their lunch or for you to buy yours, and sometimes you should do just that. If you will pack daily lunches, you eat more nutritionally in addition to saving money.
Shop for most reasonable utility plans. If your income falls below the norm, many utility companies will offer you a discount for their services. Use the discounts they provide, and when you don't need it any more, let them know that. Explain that you are a single, low-income parent and ask if they have any considerations for your circumstances.
One family task can be recycling bottles and soda cans. One of my friends lived near a beach and her sons frequently scavenged for bottles and cans after a busy beach weekend as part of their spending money. She helped them gather them and they went to the recycler together.
Do entertaining things with your children that are free. Walking or hiking is free and so are bike rides. Feeding the ducks and fish your bread scraps is free. Using wading pools at public parks is free. You can do many free things at the Library: listen to storytime, check out books, and check out DVDs. Walking barefoot in gutters while it's raining is free and the cocoa and toast afterwards is great fun too. Look in your local paper for free events that you know your kids will enjoy.
You can be creative and find lots of ways to have a wonderful life without spending a lot of money and still be able to save for the things you truly want to have (like a college fund) or the things you'd love to enjoy (like a vacation.) It's not necessary to struggle financially. Small savings do add up. Start small to save money. Persevere.
Both Mike Eggert & Len Stauffenger are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Mike Eggert has sinced written about articles on various topics from Archery, Barbeque and Atkins. Simple and more great ideas on how to are available at. Mike Eggert's top article generates over 74000 views. to your Favourites.
Len Stauffenger has sinced written about articles on various topics from Bathroom Home Improvement, After Divorce and Health. In his book "Getting Over It: Wisdom for Divorced Parents," Len Stauffenger shares his simple wisdom gleaned from his divorce with his daughters and with you. Len is a Success Coach and an Attorney. You can purchase Len's book and it's accompanying workbo. Len Stauffenger's top article generates over 110000 views. to your Favourites.