12 Things I STOPPED Buying (and don't regret) | Financial Minimalism & Saving Money

[@justintaylor-moneymindset4073]

I’ve learned that we can save so much money if we just stop caring about what others think. Great video!

[@Erika2]

Exactly! Thank you Justin!

[@deebrowne4616]

I agree

[@mr.danielgrant-king5924]

Agree

[@raiden9arpa]

aye.

[@chineseslaves1971]

Only the banks know who has the money.

[@TxTn55]

I cut Starbucks and brand names in clothing and accessories a long time ago. When my son was 12 he refused to wear any name brand clothing. He said, “ Mom they do not pay me to advertise their brand.” The wisdom in that one sentence totally changed the way I shopped for everything!

[@lilylife4426]

Brilliant!

[@lisayoung4810]

I said that as a teenager, too & it helped me greatly

[@michelletickle2915]

My son said the same thing. At 35 he still refuses to buy clothes with logos on them.

[@vn8525]

💗

[@anthonyplacide3929]

I dont agree with her not buying stuff on sales. we can always buy stuff we need on sales.

[@Thespring4hub]

Purchasing a stock may seem straightforward, but selecting the correct stock without a proven strategy can be exceedingly challenging. I've been working on expanding my $210K portfolio for a while, and my primary obstacle is the lack of clear entry and exit strategies. Any advice on this matter would be greatly appreciated.

[@TicheDebb0]

The strategies are quite rigorous for the regular-Joe. As a matter of fact, they are mostly successfully carried out by pros who have had a great deal of skillset/knowledge to pull such trades off.

[@EvelynBrooks0]

I agree. Based on personal experience working with an investment advisor, I currently have $1m in a well-diversified portfolio that has experienced exponential growth. It's not only about having money to invest in stocks, but you also need to be knowledgeable, persistent, and have strong hands to back it up.

[@MarshalWagner457]

How can I participate in this? I sincerely aspire to establish a secure financial future and am eager to participate. Who is the driving force behind your success?.

[@EvelynBrooks0]

I work with Rebecca Noblett Roberts who is a licensed fiduciary. Just look up the name. All the information you need to work with a letter to set up an appointment is included.

[@AshleySommerset808]

She appears to be well-educated and well-read. I ran a Google search on her name and came across her website; thank you for sharing.

[@roseaddo6103]

I like how you went straight to the point

[@Kay-to6mm]

Agreed! Just clicked on the video and was immediately ready to skip

[@growingnest8091]

Agreed. Guess it's because she's a lawyer, every minute with a lawyer counts and they don't waste your time.

[@JakeBroe]

I agree with everything on this list except Books. Ive spent a fortune on my books, but they look great on my shelf and i view them as art and decoration for my home. They make me happy and honestly keep me motivated and inspired in life. I don’t get that from audible or a kindle.

[@Erika2]

That's true!! I can't disagree with that--if they make you happy, then it's worth it:)

[@Miguel863]

I do agree, books can't replace kindles... something about holding a book in your hand and sensing the wealth of knowledge in it.

[@nat4581]

I do love my old books collection. And they look beautiful in the studio.

[@ToiHollidayRealtor]

I agree. I still buy books. There's Nothing more relaxing than disconnecting from all technology, sitting on the sofa reading a book, flipping its pages and enjoying a glass of your favorite beverage.

[@tys3rdeye497]

@@Miguel863 I enjoy reading on my phone, ereader, and books tbh😂. I used to be only a real book lover.

[@rebeccareyna4137]

I would add “Fast Food” .. I started cooking at home EVERYDAY and this has improved my quality of living and savings account tremendously!!!

[@ejsvegas5724]

Going out to eat in general, once a month or so is all I do anymore. I save $100's a month not eating out as much.

[@kaira504]

I'm seriously going to try this year. But I'm starting small.....going for three month of not eating out studying last Monday. WISH ME LUCK!

[@momentumstocks3493]

Eating out you mean? Yes very expensive.

[@MatthewF21]

I travel around my city a lot as part of my job, so I make sure to bring my lunch every single day. My coworkers, though, eat out every day for lunch. It baffles me how they can spend so much money a week on just fast food.

[@rebeccareyna4137]

@@MatthewF21 omg same!!! Some of my co workers/employees I KNOW make the same or much less than me and they door dash everyday. No bueno.

[@tominfredonia]

i used to buy souvenirs for family then i seen one of my gifts in a yard sale ! i put an end to that tradition !!!

[@Erika2]

Omg that is so funny!!

[@thefunplace4269]

LMAO

[@highlyfavoredMG]

😅🤣

[@DragonRoyZ]

hahahaha

[@jayc4715]

Lol

[@brinanguyen9995]

OMG, I think I just met the lawyer version of me. LOL! (I'm a therapist.) Every single thing you said in this video, I've been doing, too. No brand names, no souvenirs, no salons, no Starbucks, no new cars, no unnecessary subscriptions, and I pack my own lunches to work. And I make 6 figures. I still maintain the starving student mentality, and refuse to fall victim to the lifestyle inflation trap. Thank you for your video. Glad to know I'm not alone.

[@Erika2]

I love it!!!

[@southernjulip2403]

Amen!

[@lifeanditsadventures]

I resonate. I’m the same and being called a tight a$$$ by family & friends and i embrace it. But in this way i don’t scramble for money

[@PerryKassupo]

may I ask what kind of therapist you are? Thank you!

[@lindakincaid4530]

I do go to the salon and I need to start packing my lunch every day.

[@Erika2]

Have you stopped buying any of these things? Hope everyone is enjoying their week! Please LIKE the video to help the channel out :)

[@damiangrouse4564]

Very valuable suggestions and ten of those things I’ve don instinctively for many years (don’t ask🎅🏻). Two things I’ve done differently. No birthday or Christmas gifts for anyone in high school or older. instead a cookout or trip to a state park. Cars, I buy multiuse vehicles (4x4 crew can trucks) and I buy new with the highest trim level I can easily afford and keep up the maintenance. I bought a ford in 1997 and traded it for a new Toyota in 2013. At my age I will likely be the last truck. When I was younger I went through a series of used vehicles that never lasted more than two or three years. When you buy used there’s a risk your buying someone else’s problems. The key is buy what you’re happy with and works for your situation maintain it and drive it till it dies. Ps. I’m passing this vid to my family...they may listen to you.

[@stephaniehandley8953]

Working on it!!

[@MySonMaverick]

LOVE Libby!

[@wendysong9048]

I use Libby for audiobooks and reading books--all for free! And no need to go to the library to return either ;)

[@Erika2]

@@wendysong9048 I love Libby!!

[@AllMyKittys]

I needed a dish rack Walmart had one for 13.00! I waited and went to Goodwill I found one that looked brand new for 1.99!

[@Pancakes4dindin]

I love it when stuff like that happens, feels like a huge blessing ☺️

[@harshpathak7915]

We are so focussed on what other people think of us that we forget what we actually want

[@cissygoodlin]

Not supposed to be a materialistic but we forget about that part

[@NotTheFearfulAvoidant]

I've done most of these things out of need, but I can't tell you how AMAZING it is to know that someone such as yourself is doing the same! Makes me feel like I'm on the right track to a secure financial future, and I don't feel less than for not having or wanting these things. Thank you Erika! 🤗

[@AnnieONeill]

I will NEVER cut out going to the movie theater! It's just too much a place of joy and immersion/escape for me. Everything else... Spot on.

[@RangerGSD]

You could also just get AMC A-List and see almost unlimited movies a month.

[@stayyy2548]

@AnnieONeill maybe you could try creating your own movie theater at your house and find a cheap way to watch the movie. That way you could still enjoy it but save money at the same time

[@AnnieONeill]

@@stayyy2548 While I truly appreciate the suggestion, and I do already have a super comfy sofa and a great 75" TV, I feel that the theater experience cannot be duplicated. It's not a huge expense for us. We bring our own candy, we're not pop drinkers, and the fresh popcorn is shared. My son's first film was Dune. He was ENTHRALLED! It was very special for him and for me.

[@stayyy2548]

@@AnnieONeill That is smart!!

[@jeffg6924]

Due to health issues, I have been forced to stop eating outside. Its amazing how quickly those cheap meals ad up in cost. Beyond the fact that these meals are horrible on your health, it will also corrode your financial health. If you have loans, putting that $10 per meal into the principle on any loans you might have will pay you back exponentially. Oddly enough, since I've been sick, I have never been healthier.

[@Erika2]

I hope you get healthy soon! I do love that you've put a positive spin on it though, I'm sure it's much better for your health (and financial health).

[@Erika2]

Jeffry! OMG... did you see what's happening with the other video? Almost at 100k views. I cannot believe it!!!!

[@jeffg6924]

@@Erika2 I totally believe it. This is really going to great for you. Congrats!! =)

[@Erika2]

@@jeffg6924 Thank you!!! AHH!! :) :). I hope you're feeling better

[@jeffg6924]

@@Erika2 Things are getting back on track. We can only worry about what's in our control. This has been an eventful 12 months to say the least, but no permanent change so far as I can tell, short of a few new scars. We'll all be stronger for it. Erika, have you had any interest for sponsorship yet? I would not be surprised to see your views on that one video pass 200k by the end the of the week. Like I said, you will want to look at views in the logarithmic scale to see when the interest will peak. Certainly, you will have interest soon. Keep on top of the new hot financial topics, its really working for you.

[@tominfredonia]

i cancelled my cable about 10years ago it seemed to me i was paying to watch commercials !

[@Erika2]

I felt the same too!

[@DigitalM45x]

Yeah, cable is trash lol

[@lindaparker4950]

We are paying to o much , & solicitation of products !

[@pickyourbrainswithbenjamin761]

Streaming is better

[@NhatNguyen-wj7pm]

​@@Erika2 Especially now that you can stream almost everything online and if you have a computer connected to a TV a simple google search for whatever you want to watch is not far away.

[@Doodlebopjunior]

I don’t particularly try to keep up with trends but I also don’t think there’s anything wrong with buying the clothes and dressing the way that you enjoy and feel pretty in.

[@maylin1986]

@Mani Lee To me, clothing can be an art form. When you buy something you like and just like it because it's unique and pretty. Price tags are an indicator of a deal breaker for me. Yes, I want to support the people who design certain clothings I take a liking to, but I can't afford to break my bank in the process either. 🤷‍♀️ BTW, I love your hair color. 💛

[@PunkinLPN]

I thrift store shop and save so much money and have cute outfits for $3-$5 each.... Like I'm going shopping for sundresses today... My budget is $10 for the whole excursion

[@AnnieNugget]

If creating a monthly clothing budget increases your quality of life and brings you joy, then go for it. The whole point is cutting out the things that are meaningless in your personal life.

[@mr.tophatman7047]

Summing it all up, live comfortably, not stressful. You got it, I've been doing it for the last 30 years. Thanks for the video!

[@Erika2]

You nailed it!!

[@SolitarySparrow]

"I just cycle the same 5 white shirts." - Those are some pretty tasteful professional looking white blouses, fooled me lol.

[@Erika2]

Hahaha that's so nice of you to say :)

[@deeslifestyleloves]

Right. They're nice!

[@TheSarahandYou]

I love the white blouse uniform idea 💡😍 I am totally adopting this for my lifestyle. I already do all of these tips you shared. Great video. Thank you Erika 😊

[@madmat3940]

I just stumbled onto your channel after leaving a job that I was well compensated for, but was hating more and more every day. Thank you for sharing this content! I too have cut a lot of these items from my budget, especially buying new cars. Your confidence and enthusiasm is contagious! Keep the content coming.

[@4UCESO]

Once I got rid of my gf my savings increased exponentially.

[@Erika2]

LOL 😂

[@BlakeC341]

I can relate 😂. Disposable income surged lol.

[@DavidSmith-wr6vj]

LOL going up like a hot air balloon dropping sand bags

[@benjaminkherring]

Hahaha

[@jackietorres3045]

😂

[@mitchhills1244]

Great tips! I’m actually the opposite I was saving so much that I didn’t have fun because I’d worry about the cost. Now I splurge a bit (not excessively) on getting more regular haircuts, going go karting, eating out with friends. I don’t care for brand names etc but my qualify of life increased after spending a bit on fun!

[@omkarpatel4599]

I have been like what you said in this video for years. I'm so happy that beautiful people like you do exists. Great points!

[@boredcryptek5513]

For brand names, depends on the brand. For example sunglasses. Tried loads and loads of pairs and no matter how well I took care of them they broke (one pair from a mall kiosk literally shattered on my face while I was driving in AZ). Finally found an Oakley outlet store. Bought a pair for me and my wife. Years later still great glasses that have not even come close to being damaged in the time no matter what I do with them. Hiking, yard work, long drives these still are in great shape and I don't take better care of them than I did with all the various ~40$ glasses I tried.

[@gladyskravitz1000]

I agree with all these things. I read an Ayn Rand book many years ago. And it challenged me to to question if I am doing things just to impress others. When you buy things just because they are useful to you, you buy less, and you buy cheaper. I am now a multi-millionaire. Put your money in the stock market and let it sit. You can retire early. You can pay off every loan. And you have less stuff to manage. Remember stuff needs to be managed. So buy less stuff to worry about. Oh, and restaurants are a big money stuck too. I limited restaurants, especially for dinner down to twice a month. And that saved me a ton. Even now when I can afford anything. I don't like to take care of stuff. Now that I am wealthy, I have not started to buy stuff just because I can. Simplicity is a happy way of life.

[@varoongupta9815]

which book

[@gladyskravitz1000]

@@varoongupta9815 I read all her works but Fountainhead was the one I was referring to. Ellsworth Toohey vs. Howard Roark.

[@veramonique1724]

Nice content! The best way to find that balance between saving and living is by investing, This way you get to have your saving intact and then live comfortably off the revenue coming in from your investments.

[@paulharold6721]

wow! this is a jewel. the best comment i've ever come across on YT. Why didn't i ever think about this. Thanks for this, I'd also really appreciate if you give me some tips/guidelines that would guide me on the right path to take while investing

[@veramonique1724]

I’m not in a position to guide you, You just got to find the best investment and find a strategy that works for you

[@devdaniel3225]

This seems more like putting your savings in an investment company rather then the bank, hmm really ideal i think because you'd earn a better revenue than the annual interest value you could get while saving in the bank. WOW! this is really an eye opener, could you recommend an IA please? I would really appreciate that.

[@veramonique1724]

Few years before i got to decipher the market myself i worked with an IA, VIVIAN KLAINE MORGAN. She traded my $90k portfolio into $220k and i learnt a lot of things i know today from her.

[@devdaniel3225]

Please How can I get across to her?

[@CBRboy1717]

I agree with all of these except the Christmas one. That’s taking the idea of minimalism to the point of just being cheap. Nobody should spend $900 a year on gifts. That blatant commercialism is very bad. But a simple low cost gift or even something that you made with your own hands isn’t that hard.

[@bhsieh3537]

I agree. Live a little lol. Money is important but don’t be cheap. Why even make money then?

[@bradtrades]

One of the smartest things I ever did pertaining to money is finding a wife who shares my ideas and attitudes about spending. And now that we are truly financially independent we can treat ourselves to a new car when we need one (Japanese, not German, we’re smart with our money!). You remind me of my wife when we were young Erika, which I mean as a tremendous compliment. Best of luck with your channel, such great advise and happy to see you sharing it.

[@TheDividendExperiment]

I don't get my nails done or eyelash extensions either! I like the Christmas idea, I don't really like receiving gifts anymore (unless I can eat it) so showing appreciation for friendship etc. works better for me!

[@Erika2]

Hahaha, I love that! Gifts you can eat are definitely nice :D

[@alexxdaye1]

I've been doing all 12 of these for YEARS!! These are all very smart strategies for saving money and wealth building! I LOVE your channel. You're a wise young lady! Thank you for having priorities and principles! You'll always WIN in the long run!

[@angelor126615]

I showed your video to my students- Finance 101. Thank you!

[@Erika2]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@dffulmer1]

I cut the cord on regular TV many years ago in favor of watching KZbin channels on my PC. It saves money, and I enjoy the creativity and interaction on KZbin much better. I also went from landline phone to VOIP, then to just cell phone to simplify and save money. I still love books of the hard copy kind, so I prefer to keep them. Thank you for a great channel!

[@katahn]

For cars I would suggest “total cost of ownership” over the time expected to own it is a much more significant factor than initial price and whether it is new or used. Particularly for petrol burning cars wear and tear on mechanical components can mean being closer to expensive repairs. That said, definitely don’t buy “more car” than your use case requires.

[@alanbirkner1958]

My husband and I never had much money, but we still retired in our 50's. Don't buy stuff you don't need. We raised our kids to be careful with money, too. You can get lots of stuff free or second hand. Better for the earth, too. Tina

[@bttech3068]

Frugality is gift not many people have it. U can cut cloth according to their size in this world of self indulgence materialism is good and u start in you will carry u long. Good 4 u.

[@ShariKaye]

I can totally relate. Great money mindset! I find that people would rather look rich than attract wealth.

[@Erika2]

Thank you!! 100%!

[@Jarro21]

Ok. I had to pause to comment. You are clearly a thinker. To the word, your reasoning and articulation of why not to buy just because something is on sale is exactly what I've been saying for years. It frustrates me to see how difficult such a simple logic is for persons to comprehend. You never save when money leaves your pocket. You are awesome.

[@INFJparadox]

You're awesome, girl :) I never learned about money or finances because I grew up really poor and wasn't given any money by my mother. I've been working in law firms for 30 years--not as an attorney :) My finances have been the biggest stressor my entire life and I am so way behind in having anything for my later years. We should have been taught this in school! I think your channel would be awesome for teaching young women especially :)

[@abubakaral-faki6805]

Fantastic points Erika .................... Attachment to things outside of yourself can be self-destructive. Because If you lose that thing, you feel like a part of yourself has been destroyed. If people like you for what you have. The relationship with those kinds of people is destructive. You have a fear of not meeting the perceived expectations of others. You live in constant fear and worry. (fear of loss) I have learned that buying things to impress people doesn't work as I would like. If it does it work, it may not be the kind of people who you want to impress. When I bought something new, people don't even tend to notice you bought something new. If they do a short while. Then POOF! I have learned to buy things because I appreciate the beauty of it. Not to impress others. Over the past year, I have learned people love you for WHO YOU ARE not what you have.

[@Erika2]

Really well said! :)

[@MaMa-qh4dy]

Abubakar Al-faki Great job. You summed it all up very well!

[@abubakaral-faki6805]

@@Erika2 Thank you for taking the time to read it.

[@abubakaral-faki6805]

@@MaMa-qh4dy Thank you for taking the time to read it.

[@abubakaral-faki6805]

@Rajeev Vij Thank you for taking the time to read. I love sharing my experiences.

[@nandep2149]

I've been doing many of these for most of my life (ie, never believed in "fashion trends")...and started doing some of these later (ie, we only buy Christmas gifts for the children).🎄 I'd rather share time and an activity together than buy each other holiday or birthday gifts. 💕 One popular money saving tip is to barter, trade, donate and/or buy used items. There are MANY groups online. That helps to reuse items, keep more things out of landfills, find treasures and save money. 💰

[@tarzan12345]

No cable, no Starbucks (unless when I really need a place to sit and work for a couple of hours), no books (only get from local libraries) , no brand names, no movies (converted dining room to a home theater and loving it). Great list!

[@Erika2]

I LOVE it!! That's a really cool idea that you've created a home theater. Are you using a projector for that or TV?

[@tarzan12345]

@@Erika2 Front projection and surround sound all the way. I DIY most of it so it didn't cost a lot of money for a nice system. We do enjoy sitting in our own place drinking beer much more than paying for overpriced tickets and popcorn at theater. it's a great hit with the kids in our neighborhood as well. it's even better now during the time of social distancing and self quarantine.

[@Erika2]

@@tarzan12345 That sounds AMAZING! Would love to build one myself down the road... :D

[@taprobanedelight4913]

I love minimalism. It’s better to use our mental energy on worthy pursuits. The more we buy the more we desire to get better and expensive stuff to “keep up” or show off. You earned a sub ❤️

[@SageGypsy]

I tried cutting out Starbucks. I missed the ambiance and stars rewards. I used to just spend like crazy there up to $60 a month. Now I budget $25 monthly and buy the short for hot drinks and tall for cold drinks. I am addicted to the ambiance!!!

[@HepCatJack]

I would miss people not knowing how to spell my name.

[@kristiemao4275]

I allow myself to go there once a week instead of everyday.

[@tominfredonia]

when my wife comes home with more cloths that were "ON SALE" I ask but did you need more cloths ?!!!!!! I think the 4 closets full is enough!

[@Erika2]

4 closets!? Wow, that's pretty impressive haha!

[@lisayoung4810]

*clothes

[@natalianakoriakova8084]

Time to talk finances to her.

[@jenniferdavis2110]

CLOTHES

[@RiverDogRun]

I paid off my student loan from medical school in one year. I paid off my mortgage in one year. I accomplished these goals largely for following the same advice she's giving.

[@momentumstocks3493]

How did you pay off your mortgage in one year?

[@rodolfotamayo5180]

Yes also interested in knowing how one "pays off mortgage in one year"...? On a regular income that is..

[@stephaniest.bernard8832]

You are so beautiful you don't need the nails or lashes anyway

[@jenniferhoelscher4207]

Retired from a finance job at 55yo. I agree with everything except gifts - just set a reasonable budget and stick to it.

[@jeffwrightslc]

SO SMART (as usual!) Whenever I see the young people I try to help talk - with such seriousness and drama - about fashion I think of Thoreau's quote: “Every generation laughs at the old fashions, but follows religiously the new.” You are a voice of calm and reason in a time where that is so needed! I loved your comment that you try to avoid purchases out of habit or ego. You should turn that into a well worded quote! You will be famous because it is so on pointe! :) GREAT JOB!

[@Erika2]

That's such a good quote!! Thank you Jeff! I really do think ego is the #1 enemy of personal finance...it results in so many poor financial decisions that trap people for a long time. Have a great week & stay safe!

[@jeffwrightslc]

@@Erika2 So turn it into a BRILLIANT, SHORT & PITHY quote! LOL Attach your name and promote it everywhere!

[@Erika2]

@@jeffwrightslc Hahaha, smart! I'll have to do that :D

[@mamyit_ei]

Is mind blowing 🤯 how much we think alike when it comes to spending money on useful and unuseful things. Is nice to see and relate to someone else who doesn't care about brand name stuff, cut out daily/weakly bad habits spending and I will never buy a brand new car... I really love your video. 💗

[@Erika2]

I'm so happy to hear that!

[@alvinsmith4288]

You have to learn how to enjoy your life. The key is to live below your means. You can cut things out and live as a miser - that's one extreme or you can try to keep up with the Jone's. The real key is finding a happy balance!!

[@linxagefammly9423]

Agreed

[@JupiterTarts]

One case I can make for certain brand names is value retention. If you can actually get your hands on a Rolex and get the call from an authorized dealer, you often walk out of the store with it being 1k-2k higher than the $7k-$10k you paid for that Explorer or Submariner. Desirability = better value if resold. Use it for as long as you care then get your money back.

[@markbrown8097]

Who needs a $10k watch?

[@SayAhh]

@@markbrown8097 A Casio or a Timex will do. Or just use the clock on your smartphone.

[@DariaZve]

@@markbrown8097 many people, Rolex Wimbledon is one of the most successful watches on the market and it increases in value. There are many watches that you can buy at 10K and sell at 15 in a couple of years. There are also people who buy watches for 500K. And the market is big.

[@willclark1736]

I need financial advisor like u. Wow! I didn’t know women like you exist. You bring great energy , intelligence and education most people need. Your such a gem. I’ll continue to support your channel.

[@ricsek6584]

My dog has never showed an y interest in my KZbin marathons but when he hears your voice he runs over and seems to smile. I love you!!!!

[@TheSarahandYou]

I love the white blouse uniform idea 💡😍 I am totally adopting this for my lifestyle. I already do all of these tips you shared. Great video. Thank you Erika 😊

[@enkiiful]

I love the Christmas gift idea. Christmas became a big sales and marketing ideas to make people spend more money than actually celebrating what it really means.

[@stjepanhauser7595]

Protecting your capital is much more important than making money. Basically because if you lose your capital, making money is much harder. ''Missing the train'' vs. ''losing your money''. There are a lot of trains, but if your money is gone, it's over.

[@dazman88]

Subscriptions are no joke. One thing you should mention is you can request refunds on any subscription service you have not used. I got back over $300 in the last week by contacting different services I was still paying but not using. Email them, ask nicely and they will do it. BUT if they say no, contact your credit card company and request a chargeback - this will always go in your favour as long as you haven't used the service.

[@robm5958]

Let's not forget that manufacturers raise the price on goods before they put them "on sale" so you're not always getting the best price and many times will be paying MSRP.

[@hwinoree2257]

Excellent video! I agree with all 12 things you listed. The only thing I would add is eating less of outside food. At today's prices, it's impossible to spend less than $8 on a very mediocre meal if you eat out, at least in the US. I started to eat healthy many years ago and realized the decision to do so eventually lead to me having to prepare most of my food. When I did this, I realized how much more we spend on food when you eat out verses preparing it yourself. The difference was huge. Not only is eating out not healthy, but it's also very expensive. I think most people would do so much better if they prepared most of their meals at home and occasionally treat themselves to a really good meal out once or twice a week.

[@adebiyiomar]

When I find out it's all about the need to satisfy an ego or belong or habit, I begin to think twice about spending.

[@MRK82226]

I agree w/ most of the things you mentioned, at a same time I do believe is life is only once. Live like there no tomorrow. I am not saying be materialistic, just enjoy what love. Tomorrow is not promised, so live your life fullest.

[@BobSure_AKA_PotatoSmasher]

I typically wear my employer's hat in public. People will ask why i do that if I'm not working. My response is always the same: my employer pays me to wear the hat, Nike/Gucci/fill in the blank brand brand doesn't.

[@shinchan251cute]

Hanging out and going out with lots of people also drains our pockets. Some people go out with other people out of boredom and no real relationship or friendship was being formed sometimes. Spending time with people who truly matter not only will save our time but also our money.

[@LivingMyBestLife517]

I wish I had had your wisdom at your age. I’m 61 yrs old and just now getting around to all these ideas, thanks to KZbin. Keep going. Your work is having a ripple effect that the world needs. If you wrote a book, you’d have 13 streams of income……

[@fastdinnerrecipes]

Hi Erika, I agree with you 100%. I have cut all of these things too many years ago and I don't regret it one bit. From all the comments you received on this video, I can see that a lot of people share the same thinking. Excellent video! Thanks 😀

[@clint7312]

Oh god. My wife struggles with temptations from name brands, sales, Starbucks, cable TV (on top of Netflix/Hulu), nails/facials, brand new vehicle a few years ago above her budget (before we got together), subscriptions (stitch fix), and movies (my fault for loving movies but I do not buy any drinks and snacks like she does haha). I want to send this video to her without getting skewered lol.

[@Erika2]

Hahahah if you send it to her, make sure you delete this comment first LOL

[@MaMa-qh4dy]

Clint, I already sent it to my wife, and boy did I get “skewered”. Eh, I’ll survive.

[@Erika2]

@@MaMa-qh4dy Hahahah this comment is hilarious :P

[@user-zx1ht9ij5e]

Hi Erika, I've been excited to watch your vides and they are inspirational except that each time I try to forget about my long term investments I'm reminded they're there so it's hard to wait for all the compounding. But being debt free at 54 is a great feeling. Thanks for your videos.

[@81aherna]

I buy brand names. Just buy it at the local goodwill! Lol

[@WhitneyAbrina]

😂 me too . or st vincent de Paul. I don't purposely get it bc it's brand tho.

[@thisisme2681]

I agree! If you can find quality, brand name items used go for it! I honestly don't care about brands, but if I find a quality price if clothing that could last a lifetime at a great price I'll buy it.

[@youngproperties2442]

Me too!

[@notaytguru8214]

🙌🏾

[@ubernerrd]

Same although Goodwill is starting to get greedy with their pricing.

[@kathrynn3936]

I agree about brand names for the most part. However I bought a coach purse on sale for $80, I used it for 3 years, then sold it for $30. My daughter worked at Tory Burch and gifted me a wallet and a leather key chain. I’ve had these items for 5 years, and the wallet is still going strong! I like purchasing those items as I do not have to replace them frequently.

[@kimberlylin5131]

I agree on purchasing items that truly last. Props to her! but my stomach cringes when she brought up brands. Personally, I can give up brands because i don't really care for the brand name, but I love high quality purses, especially if they were truly handmade professionally and hard to make and that they are built to last. I try to only buy item that truly has great resale value like bottega veneta padded cassette that comes with lifetime warranty and their signature "gold card" which is still valid if I resell the purse in the future. I think it also comes down to what brings you joy. It brings me joy to wear a beautiful handmade purse that really pieces together my outfits. I admit that I secretly look down on other people's choices of purse because a christian dior tote bag with their name in full bold and all high cap just looks obnoxious to me and trying to show off having money. I buy for the quality, look, and feel while some people just buy for their brand me, definitely not me.

[@rebacarmack8335]

I was buying a Latte” of Starbucks when I was still working-$60-$80 weekly. I’ve tried to realize it is more of a habit- I buy a large bottle of cold coffee in the grocery store and get 4-5 drinks for the price of one and no tips.

[@greyeye5345]

Smart and practical ideas for saving. Haven't done these for years now: Cable, brand names, Christmas gifts, hair salon. I will purchase a souvenir of my travels as I rarely get the chance and I like to have a memory of the trip, but I stopped buying them for my co-workers! I share photos instead. LOL.

[@kitcloudkicker72]

I stopped watching cable years ago. The one thing that gets me are the sales. 😅 Thanks for the advice

[@jillom397]

I cut cable and tv more than a decade ago. Never did Brands, Never did a daily Starbucks/Caribou, but did an occasional mocha for a treat. Because most things come with SUGAR…I now make most things at home so I know what’s in them, and I’ve come up with a very delicious mocha drink! Thank you!

[@benhuguenard8147]

I cut out cable as soon as I had highspeed internet.

[@franciscojavier4670]

Great video. Erika the more I see your videos them more I want to find someone like you !! 😊😊

[@nikitas7661]

I bought a new car recently. I know that was an emotional purchase but I love her. 😀 but I'm being as strict as possible to rebuild my savings and this has motivated me to find a higher paying job.

[@JWarfield]

thanks for this great video, we live a very frugal life, but it is very refreshing to see others doing it too. Also to get back on fire on keeping accountable.

[@missescapade77]

I love your channel. Thanks for sharing all your financial knowledge. :)

[@Erika2]

I'm so happy to hear that! Thank you Marissa!

[@vickiyu7583]

Preach it! I so agree with every point! Well done

[@robin302]

I never go shopping on an empty stomach anymore. I used to buy a lot of snacks and junk food because I was a little hungry when I went out. Now I find myself spending a lot less on food if I eat before I go out.

[@Erika2]

That's a REALLY good one!! Same thing happens to me when I go shopping on an empty stomach!

[@blya8978]

I gave up shopping almost 20 months and I feel so much better! I don’t have any anxiety anymore and I ended up w with stuffs I didn’t need nor liked I was the slave of things to fix my unhappiness and quick fix instant gratification in the wrong place! I feel free and working on cleaning up now one day at a time, Amen 🙏

[@W2Capitalist]

The biggest problem with the shot glasses...they are empty :) Reviewing credit card statements can be a huge savings. Love that you and your family donate your time to an orphanage. Thanks for continuing to produce quality content Erika.

[@Kristy770]

We cut out our cable several years ago. We don’t even miss it. There are too many streaming options. We have a ROKU and one of those little satellite plates for local TV, and that’s it.

[@Bluponi]

Erika, LOVE YOU !!! I agree with you on everything, but I just bought a new car... LOL I looked at some used vehicles, but there is nothing like the feeling you get by being the first owner... 100 K mile warranty on my new car is nice also... I decided against a used car because you might be buying someone else's problem...

[@kindof123]

Lol I am the same. I agree on the saving money part buying used cars, but I don't want to drop money on a used car just to find out that it's a piece of crap and comes with a million little problems.

[@SheVersion]

I totally agree with you! I tried couponing years ago to try and save money but I found myself buying things I didn't want, like, or need to get the "deal." It didn't feel like a deal. After all the time and wasted money, I was done with it. I love your tips.

[@Erika2]

Hi Sheila! Yes, exactly! You end up actually spending more that way. I stopped for that same reason.

[@pjgonzalez40]

Totally agree with not getting a new car. I learn that lesson the hard way.

[@cmritchie04]

We have alot in common, suggesti0on: go and purchase your items from thrift stores....After Christmas and by January it is like a must have, you got to get to the thrift stores for high end items. Maybe a motorcycle the purpose of a motorcycle is to offset the miles to your cars. You really don't need a car to drive to work or to a doctors appointment...You employer just really needs you... Motorcycles burn alot less in gas verses a car.

[@jodipeterson2846]

Love the thrift stores :) I never purchase clothing anywhere else....... except for underwear!!!!!!! I never buy Christmas gifts either. Everyone in my life knows I don't do that.

[@AmisCooking]

Souvenirs and cable tv I cut down six years ago and don’t miss them, brand names I never cared Great tips you gave here😘👌👍

[@Erika2]

Love that! Keep it up!

[@mixmeup2121]

Totally agree with your viewponts and glad that this is trending! Love your videos! Keep inspiring and helping. I think you truly stepped into your purpose.

[@martinvanburen3124]

I too bought a used car and it was pretty inexpensive and it has worked out really well for me - new car prices went very high in the last year or so and honestly my friends have Mercedes Benz and BMW’s and I really don’t see the difference and their maintenance bills are gargantuan - German spec this and German spec that - it is crazy not to mention their insurance. Love your vids ✌️

[@DariaZve]

even if you compare VW with a Mercedes there is a big difference, first of all in quality of materials and the felling when you drive. I had also different cars with Audi, now I have an Audi Q5, the previous one was an Audi Q2 and the difference is incredible even within Audi.

[@yaelsmileysimckes2662]

I love having gotten to the point of not caring what's in fashion. I wear what's classic and comfortable!

[@brandonrob170]

This is a great video! I actually started doing this 3 weeks ago: 1.) Put all my Air Jordans on eBay (putting all the money into my Fidelity Roth IRA) 2.) Cutting the cord, switch to KZbin TV (saved $100 a month after leaving Direct TV, used the money to put in my investment account) 3.) Canceled my gym membership and now have a home gym in my garage. (Used the money for M1 Roth IRA) 4.) Refinanced my house and car (saved $315 a month) using the money for both Roths and individual investment account.

[@Erika2]

YES!! I love all 4 of these! Great job!

[@brandonrob170]

@@Erika2 Thank you Erika!

[@killertigergaming6762]

Why would you spend money on youtube tv even if i wanted to watch youtube tv i would just get a free trial every time i wanted to use it

[@firstlast9813]

With every check, I put a set amount of money into an account and call it food money. Divide it by 14 and it tells me how much I can spend till the next check. Every day I know I have a certain budget and any money left over I can use to either eat special, spend on whatever, or let it roll over to the next paycheck

[@kaylaferguson6623]

You, are amazing!! Your videos are helpful, and your personality makes watching them 100x better. ❤️ Edit: In the US, AMC does $5 movies on Tuesday!! 👍

[@jonwarren9392]

If you own AMC stock you get free concessions.

[@merlinarthur4072]

*great tips. now, all i need is to apply these in my life.* ❤️❤️❤️

[@cindycortez4920]

Subscription...This happened to me with Amazon Prime, and I’m so bad at looking at my statements, I finally noticed after months 😩 I didn’t even use Amazon enough for it to be worth it. I was basically just giving an already successful business my money every month like here you go take it 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@tonys8739]

Erika.........thank you for sharing. This hits home for me. A great reminder!

[@alexsmith9915]

Thanks for the Libby recommendation... LOVE it! It will save me time and some money!

[@Erika2]

So glad!

[@beccapol8744]

THANK YOU FOR MAKING THIS VIDEO. I am the same way and just is refreshing to hear someone else is too

[@alexandruulici-buyingfreed9118]

Awesome video! In regards to no. 3, I also have multiple black t-shirts and white shirts. I would never go back to having a bazillion colors and patterns.

[@Erika2]

Haha we are twins!! It's the simple way to live :D

[@alexandruulici-buyingfreed9118]

Erika Kullberg: Finance, Investing, Passive Income Yes!

[@12drbe]

I never bought cable except for my short term rental. I am considering eliminating it there. Wish you were someone I knew when I was younger. Excellent advice. I started shopping at thrift stores and yard sales when I was younger. Now it us the trendy thing to do. I still enjoying and finding items, not as much as I used to. I love your stories.