50 "REALISTIC TIPS" TO CUT COSTS, PAY OFF DEBT & GROW YOUR SAVINGS

[@cindyb.2951]

I'm a senior citizen. My health insurance covers a gym membership. It is a good place for me to relax and swim. And when I was homeless I could take a shower daily.

[@gladyschandler6724]

I've been eating out of my pantry for myself, tuna, eggs salad, canned soups, eating more hot cereals.

[@taylordobbins4185]

Use your library card for free access to tons of movies, series, classes, magazines, newspapers, research, etc. No need to get streaming services.

[@mrpmrp226]

It was only when I dumped my expensive cable that I learned about Flex from Comcast. It's $5 a month and I've got so many movies, and it's not all old stuff pre 2000. I saw Oppenheimer a few days ago. Best of all, there's no having to go somewhere to select what I want to see, or have to return something before the loan expires. I also invested in an HDMI cable to transmit from my computer to my TV. That way anything i watch on my computer I can also watch on the big screen.

[@kylavincent865]

I love the library it’s a great way to get through a lot of books! And not have to have a big place to store so many!

[@cindyb.2951]

Our church has a "blessing closet". You can either donate or take. Everything is free. I get the majority of my clothes there. Several stores in our area will donate new, clearance items. Consider starting something similar in your community with others of like mind. This is a great way to get things like school uniforms.

[@lisabaubeau8440]

You talked about the muffin item. I have been craving brownies for months, so I broke down and bought brownies mix from Sam’s club and made all 4 packs and froze single serving size so when I want a brownie I just pull one from the freezer. This saves money one gas from going to and from the store, money from buying single packs of brownies and my time from cooking all at once

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Lisa, that is a great idea! I love a yummy brownie ❤️

[@lifebeyondthesalary2458]

I’ve noticed that if I’m craving ice cream, if I just get a couple of the frozen taffy out of my deep freezer, I usually am good & no longer craving it. 3 is usually the best bet & then I no longer crave it at all.

[@johndoe-pe9dy]

When u see box cake mixes on sale bake several wrap in plastic wrap an freeze I like dingle layer. Can bake 4 at once

[@littleolivemama]

How do you package them to freeze? I want to try this idea as well!

[@americafirst9144]

Make sure to serve them warm! Who told you my secret? Brownie mix just jumped in price some places. Stock up.

[@lifetools-help8017]

Chase Hughes of Body Language Experts suggests having your snacks ready in advance. I encourage people to have back up quicky meals; sandwiches, cheese tortillas, cereal, hot dogs, cans of prepared chili or soup for when you're tired, behind schedule, etc.

[@lynningram9171]

You are right about staying home. Every time I get in my car, I feel I deserve a treat out. It's a real trigger!

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Thank you for sharing this!

[@kaiulanisallas9005]

Every time I leave home I spend money 😮

[@AbigailIreland-ph5qj]

Me too. 😄

[@glendaschilder3048]

Psychological, yes..

[@ojyochan]

I loved the "don't focus on the doom and gloom news"❤

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

🤗

[@pinayitalianfeat]

I take a banana and my homemade chicken pie for lunch and snack.Italy taught me how to eat healthy and thrifty. Thank you for this frugal tips.

[@tulsibhatia2823]

Here's one of mine...Always go grocery shopping or mall trips after having a full meal. You tend to buy unnecessary stuff when youre hungry!

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Agreed!

[@BeautySolutions4u-]

I saved an empty laundry detergent bottle and when I got a new one, I divided it in half between the bottles and then filled both the rest of the way with water and it worked and smelled the same. Note: I use Cheer

[@elizabethmcleod246]

Great idea!

[@mpetersonification]

Diluting laundry detergent is great! Laundry detergent sheets are great too. Less packaging and less $$ per load.

[@adabaquero2091]

Love this one. Save money and your clothes will thank you. You do not need o much detergent. Same with fabric softener. Use 1/2 the amount suggested on the bottle. Do the same for shampoo and hair conditioner.

[@monicacarman4043]

I didn't know that they still make cheer

[@SarahsJewelryStudio]

I just use half as much detergent. I then use the same detergent cup and fill it half way with vinegar and add it to the washer in the detergent spot. Then I use dryer balls in the dryer instead of fabric softener. Clothes are still just as soft and don't smell like vinegar!

[@clinpsydoc]

Happiness is rarely found in extravagance or waste. Living frugally is smart not a life of deprivation. In addition to these and other great money-saving suggestions, the tough nut to crack is breaking old wasteful habits and understanding how money works. Awesome job, Jennifer.

[@MonethSato]

I stopped eating foods with high processed sugar 4 months now i was 48 kilos then and now I’m 42 kilos😊 i stopped eating any kind of breads, pasta and junk foods. I walk everyday for one hour or two 😊

[@rhondachristensen8619]

Oatmeal, in a stainless-steel to-go cup, is great to take with you especially in the morning for work, appointments, good for you, and fills you up...Red, delicious apples also..

[@mhtruong2281]

I like these tips. I think keeping your home organized is the best effective tip. A clean, organized home makes you feel relaxing, and happy which will motivate you to do so many great things for yourself and your family.

[@PeggySchmidt-k7v]

Hi I just subscribed to you program I’m 76 & I live n a retirement center based on income I try to budget but it seems like $1100 a month social security doesn’t go far. Now I watch ur program & learn more….thank you Peggy

[@Realitybites13]

I just called my provider to cancel the cable tv to get my bill below 100.00 and they didn’t want me to so in return my bill was reduced $67.00 and they added channels and another phone line I was so amazed it’s at $94.00 total

[@Nisa-gm5wg]

Great tips. I haven’t been to a hairdresser in years. I cut it off myself, my hubby keeps me lined in the back and I’m rocking my natural curls. I get lots of compliments too. I do my own nails and learned to make my own bread. Eating out is too expensive. You can easily find copy cat recipes that are just as good and healthier too especially if made at home.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

These are fantastic money saving habits! Thank you for sharing these 🤗

[@Joce123]

I never do my nails unless it's something from Europe because the nail polish in the United States is carsagenic.

[@joannapatterson4625]

I cut my own hair as well. All I ever got was a trim anyway but my hair is long so it was expensive. I haven’t paid for a cut/trim for 5 years.

[@jborrego2406]

Yes going natural was the best :) I use cheap magic for leave in an sealant . None that curling crap like my hair kinky I don’t have 3c hair lol not wasting my money

[@Swan-rb4yg]

​@@Joce123😢

[@jspiess6274]

Awesome ideas and advice. I love staying home and staying busy without running around town and spending money. 😊

[@Di...747]

Especially if you live alone and buy bags of things like tater. Tots French fries etc. Break them up into Smaller freezer bags. It stays fresher longer and you never end up with tater tots on the bottom of your freezer. Same thing goes for frozen vegetables. I bought a seven year old toyota. It is now twenty six years old and runs fantastic. I paid $3000 cash originally. I have never owned a new car and always had decent wheels. Remember the jones's you try to keep up with are always in debt

[@amandaraethomas637]

I switched my family from Verizon to Cricket and cut my monthly bill by $254... It's worth it

[@CarolFox-ut2fg]

I save money by not buying plants from shops. I now raid my friends gardens for bits or replant what I already have growing or plant from seed. I got sick of store bought plants not thriving. Plus you are growing plants that are adapted to your local climate. Win/win. I also have vases of flowers that I forage locally. I have huge arrangements that look stunning from bits that I snip whenever I go for a walk. Friends are always admiring my free arrangements.

[@gladyschandler6724]

We never buy sodas. I take a bottle of water with me everywhere I go.

[@gladyschandler6724]

I plan meals on my calendar accordingly to what I purchased.

[@andrekeulemans473]

Over ten years ago I use to take 3 teaspoons of sugar in My coffee. Every Month I reduced half a spoon and now I don't take any sugar

[@amyk6028]

Such great tips! I struggled forever with “paying myself first” until I started setting up a DAILY auto draft of just $5.50 per day to be transferred from checking into savings. It’s just a little bit every day, hardly noticeable but adds up to $2,000 per year!

[@rhondanelson5582]

Hi thank you for for all 50 tips.

[@terrificbabe60]

I looked at all videos on saving yours is the BEST!

[@Savannah-ed4rv]

Love this idea!!

[@sugarcookiecube]

Loved your suggestion to eat out of your pantry. I stockpiled food during the pandemic lockdown and am just getting around to eating it all now.

[@kellykersten8828]

I have quit eating out completely. I'll splurge a little bit on my groceries $10-15 more on stuff I can get at the store for a couple of indulgences a month Instead of eating out. This totally works for me. But I keep it to 10 to 15.

[@snapdragon2441]

I cut down from washing my hair everyday to every other day. My hair is healthier and I save on hair products, water and gas to heat the water. Also means I get to work on time at least 2 days a week 🤣. I turn off the water between wetting, shampoo, rinse, conditioner and final rinse as I have a combination boiler and pay for each unit of water I use. Save, save, save!

[@sujo0603]

My hair tends to be oily- or it used to be. I never thought I could get away with not washing my hair every single day. I went through a period of depression a few years ago and wasn’t leaving the house much, therefore showers were not a top priority during that time. The one good thing that came out of it was finding out that I can skip a day or two washing my hair, even in the summer. It’s never been healthier. Same deal with getting to work on time. 😂

[@sarahwilson9213]

Service provider is such a good tip. I switched from Verizon to T-Mobile. Better service, employer discount, and saving $1,000 a year.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Sarah, that is a HUGE savings! ❤️

[@brg2743]

Tracfone is through Verizon now. $15 a month unlimited talk and text. $20 for unlimited talk and text, and then you get 2 gb per month data that rolls over. Save thousands using it.

[@dixydarlin56]

Air drying my favorite clothes (even indoors) has extended their life significantly. So does wearing an apron while cooking and eating to prevent stains and being careful to pretreat any stains with Puracy as i put them into the dirty clothes hamper. Puracy isnt cheap but it works on everything.

[@cynthiaalvarado3231]

I can't believe I watched the whole thing. Usually if a video is more than 15 minutes long i don't want to waste my time.. pretty good tips !!!

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Cynthia, thank you so much! 🤗

[@sharenread8677]

Farmer’s markets,community events,veggie garden,and fruit,be sure to water every day. Less money,fresher food,healthy. Packing lunch leftovers. Sharen

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Thanks for sharing!

[@kristibrooks967]

10 out of 50 actionable for me! Glad to have the help. I'm a senior on Social Security looking for ways to stretch my dollars.😊

[@AGirlandHerPhone]

Your video popped up on my home page and I'm glad it did. My mamaw believed in using what you have and being satisfied with it. My favorite related saying is "Use it up, wear it out. Make it do or do without". Btw, we're "neighbors". I'm in Kannapolis.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Hi in Kannapolis! I am so glad you found my channel 🤗

[@obsessedwiththetruth7016]

A 600ml coke or Fanta at the show the other day was $7:50 here in Australia. 🤯 everything really has gone up. I didn’t buy it but just was shocked at how much it was. Normal shops they are $5:50 for one drink now. 600ml bottle! Insanity! I am now on 43 days without drinking coke. How I did it was I bought myself a few expensive drink bottles and I said “I can’t buy a soft drink (you call is soda over there) until I have saved the equivalent in what I would have spent on drinks, to pay them off. I also have an app that I get to tick off another day and it tells me how many days in a row I have achieved something. So I know I’m up to 43 days without buying cola because I’ve got to tick each day off when I achieve it. I actually love drinking ice water now and don’t even want to go back and I used to drink soooo much of it. Wish I could cut out all sugar again forever, I do feel so much better without it. One step at a time. But definitely soda can go. Easier said than done I know… but so worth it.

[@tamikaleeryker]

You could get a water bottle and buy those little packets of sugar free water flavor at the Dollar Tree.

[@jenniferpalmer2337]

Yes it is shocking here in OZ we are on the west coast of Tassie 125km from woolies we have a tiny IGA and it is so expensive to shop there

[@elizabethmcleod246]

Soda is so unhealthy particularly for our bladder. Stick to water and change it up without hydrating coconut water now and then. Good for you!

[@LunaSimtea]

Loved your video. When I was a child, and my mom was a widow with five children, I actually learned a lot of the tips that you are talking about. Today thank God I am in a better financial position, but I still don’t like to waste. One thing I’ve noticed as well is that by making things such as muffins, cookies, etc. it gives me a great chance to build memories and have happy times with my grandchildren ! Thanks so much for your channel! God bless and wishing you a blessed Christmas!

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Thank you so much 🤗

[@lina_mityukova]

We've started saving up for our dream house. So now we meal plan, and our children and we couldn't be happier. Now we're eating much better and for way less money! Thank you for the tips, I'll try a couple of them, too 😊

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Fantastic!

[@LB-ku6ry]

How about plain crushed tomatoes? Add some olive oil, sea salt, garlic, and basil. Summer 20 minutes and you have got a quick sauce. Add some red wine if you like. It doesn’t have to simmer all day. Yes, I love all day sauce, but quick sauce is fantastic!

[@artandsoulnj]

Sauce may get watery- add 1/2 can of tomato paste, or better yet, buy a tube at Odd Lot, Ollie’s or discounters when available. Thickens and doesn’t dilute taste

[@elizabethmcleod246]

I add a little goat cheese into that sauce….delicious ❤

[@claradiblasi354]

Delicious!! Thank you👍

[@kevinchan4951]

I been living by this. You dont need the latest everything. If it still works and not broken then keeo it up.

[@missinthecastle3335]

I make my own spaghetti sauce, taco seasoning, and pesto. I save my food clean out day for a busy day during the week. Amazing video.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Cooking from scratch...cheap and delicious! 🤗

[@tshepison8907]

So many great tips! Little ones that a lot of channels often overlook. A tip I do that goes with your food planning is knowing when foods are in season. I don’t buy fruit and veg that aren’t in season because they are usually more expensive out of season. I’m saving to buy a house with my partner and I’ve started taking saving seriously. These tips are gonna save us loads.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

You can do this! Yay to the wonderful new home in your future ❤️

[@geraldwilliamson414]

❤great advice

[@Gigi......]

Hi Jennifer! I'm a big fan of your videos! I have trouble sleeping and I listen to this particular video most nights, to help me sleep (but not in a bad way! A frugal lullaby, if you will!) Your voice is so calming and the video is just the right length, I can never make it to the end at night but don't worry, I watch your videos during the day to get all of the tips and tricks! ❤

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

I'm sorry you have trouble sleeping, but I'm glad my videos can help 🤗

[@dorothealee4476]

Thank you so much for this helpful video. I am going to implement the following recommendation s. Write down every purchase for 30 days. Eating out of my pantry/freezer for 30 days. Stopping one bad habit. My bad habit is going to Starbucks after church. Instead of giving Starbucks $10 per week I am going to put that $10 into my vacation jar. Thank you again. God Bless.

[@arthurmantzouris4413]

Also rotate yr tires...which saves on yr tires and saves u money...

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Absolutely, great reminder!

[@katsfarm2062]

I always forget this thank you for the reminder

[@cathyb3790]

Todays new tires should not need rotating that’s what a very smart mechanic told me ,,,

[@arthurmantzouris4413]

@cathyb3790 I don't think that is right. I have a friend who gets his tires rotated n his car isn't that old. So u may want to check with someone else...just saying...

[@cathyb3790]

@@arthurmantzouris4413 no I am not checking on someone else ,,,everyone has a right to their choices . I have not rotated my tires in yrs ,gas mileage still the same and wear is good ,, I do check to make sure the air pressure is even in each tire ,,on a monthly basis ,,, that is important tip to do ,,,

[@charletteprzybylski3417]

The tip about eating out of the pantry and the freezer is a good one. I've been clearing out our pantry and freezer the last couple of weeks, and it is exciting to see that during this challenge to myself that I've reduced our grocery bill between 25% and 30% weekly. And that's even with having to restock some items we were out of. My goal was 10%. And I've always planned meals with leftovers that we use for lunch the next day. Thanks for the additional savings tips! 😊

[@pattybarrett-sp2rn]

I love this idea as well, specially since we are about to move , it’s a perfect way to save $ and use up stuff that would otherwise be given away or thrown out.

[@Savannah-ed4rv]

I think you're very right about the emotion of selling or even giving away items that you spent a lot of money for. I have so much in my house that I don't need, and some things I've never really used that were very expensive, and I want to cry when I think of giving it away or selling it for $5. But I do need to think that that $5 is more than I would have if it was just sitting in my closet 🤨

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Sometimes, it helps to imagine the item helping someone who wouldn't otherwise have it if they had to pay full price. You've got this 🤗

[@claradiblasi354]

You are not alone with this problem.

[@alanafraser8136]

Thank you for this awesome video🙏🏽 love your content!

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Thank you, Alana 🤗

[@rhargrow8399]

I was never a name brand person but find that a lot of people are. I don't shop by name; I shop by ingredients, sugar and salt content. I'm the same with clothes if I like it and it's durable material, I'll get it over a designer brand if it's less expensive. Also, you can find many designer labels at thrift stores. You can even wash some in woolite instead of drycleaning.

[@annoravetz5908]

What I really like about this post is your Frank demand to delete the social media, news apps., and shopping apps. I can’t even count the hours I have wasted. It really makes me sad when I think of it. When I go on social media apps now, I hear in my head your voice, “Get off/delete social media apps!” Thank you!

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Ann, it really makes a world of difference! I recommend it bc I saw what an impact it had for me.

[@MaryEavey-dc3sk]

Made it through all 50 tips. I like what you said; just start with ONE. one tip. sometimes I binge watch frugal living and cooking videos and hear so much that I dont do ANYTHING!!

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Mary, thank you so much! Just start, and I promise the good habits will start to compound 🤗

[@MaryEavey-dc3sk]

I am doing that. and making a list of things to do next. @@THEJENNIFERCOOK

[@carlaritchie331]

Starting with even one or two can help! Too many changes at one time often is overwhelming.

[@amandageldart291]

I'm literally painting my Christmas cards as I listen to this video!!

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Amanda, that sounds amazing! That's so special ❤️

[@karenbochinski]

Agree 100%. I pay my credit card each month and LOVE the cashback rewards. I have never paid interest on a credit card and I do not understand how to do that.

[@suzannereiter3600]

Now that I'm retired and living on Social Security, I pay off my credit card every month, too. I have to be careful, though, because it's so easy to charge things I really don't need right now - thinking twice about purchasing something is my motto. So far, so good.

[@sicilyny5375]

2 day rule..if I still really want the item...I either put the $$ aside or I'll but it with debit card..no charge it. Often by the time my saved $$ for it is complete..I don't want it.

[@kimmieobrien8108]

Great tips. I took the shopping apps off my phone two months ago. Insane how much I'm saving. I work night shifts and spent time on them there.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Kimmie, that is fantastic! 🤗

[@lindagreen551]

I use dawn soap for a stain remover on my clothes.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Linda, I will have to try that! Thanks for the suggestion 🤗

[@h.p.5836]

Does it work for baby clothes? Lol my two boys have poopy clothes nearly everyday!!

[@Charlie33399]

We don’t have Dawn here but I use dishwashing detergent for stains. Is that the same thing?

[@hollylaws3110]

I loved the Friday Fridge Clean out!! Usually; we do what I like to call 'grab & growl'. Same idea; but now I have a specific day for it.😅👍

[@380bloccboy9]

Again! You touched my heart with your words! Concerning the amount to save on a low income even 10$ etc... My mistake most of my life.was believing to put 10% of income etc... I was never able to even with a high salary... Your amazing!

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

🤗

[@vilandra.]

your video motivated me to change my internet provider. 5 minutes online and I found an offer 1/3 cheaper than what I’m paying now.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Fantastic!

[@jylfearn4840]

These are wonderful ideas! I am going to write what I spend for the next 30 days. I’m very frugal but I do enjoy shopping at thrift shops 😆

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Yay! I hope it helps 🤗

[@gladyschandler6724]

I've gave up sugar many years ago in my in my coffee & tea. Even in hot cereal I use a bit of honey

[@jodieupton4000]

Hi from Spain. I enjoy your videos. You're spot on about news headlines making us feel fearful. I am going to cut down my exposure to news. Thanks for the wonderful tips. I need to schedule time to shop in the sales for my children for coming season. Thank you for your time sharing these tips with us.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Jodie, thank you so much! Hello in Spain 🤗

[@MrCatlover2012]

I have been doing several of these things for years, and I am glad because my life has been very good because of all these good habits! Thanks

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Wonderful!

[@rubyhaskell1325]

Gas prices are still $5 a gallon in my area 😢. I have to batch my errands since I live in a small town and 20 minutes away from a larger city to run errands.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Ruby, that is a lot! Our gas prices are starting to creep back up, but that's at around 3.80 at the moment, 5.00 is a punch in the gut!

[@kylavincent865]

I have been freezing more and more extras of things, buying store brand, shopping for basic groceries and utilizing my work benefits on basic things like our hbo max subscription is free through work, we also homeschool my kids, utilize clearance items….bake everything and meal prep and use every can in my pantry, we only have 1 car and I upcycle our clothes! I am a sewing lover!

[@desertcandle1]

I am a senior and found that my local senior center has lots of free things to do. Like BINGO, Bunco games, card game days, learninf how to play the ukelele, etc. i also use motion sensor lights in hallways and bathrooms so I dont need to turn on lights as often. Dusk to dawn lights too help because they automatically turn off during day. Solar lights around the home help save money.

[@jonnaborosky8836]

I've heard that when re-selling something, expect to get only 10% of what you paid for it. That's hard to swallow, but it gets things sold.

[@gladyschandler6724]

I'm in Austin, Texas and weather has been very hot 100. Instead of going out everyday, I go every other day for walking. Walk my neighborhood in between.

[@factsoverfiction7826]

Yes, listened to whole vid by working up to 1.75x playback speed. You're prepared & speak clearly so I was able to save time. Thank you!

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

That's one of my favorite time-saving features, increasing the playback speed 🤗

[@aubreytoms6823]

Thanks for the tips, Jennifer. I used to be very disciplined and minimalist about six years ago, but during Covid fell off the wagon and shopped to cope with the stress of a grueling Master’s program, going too deep into minimalism too quickly, a failing long distance relationship, and just depression about my life at the time in lockdown. Now after vacation I’m trying to reset shopping habits for the fall and my next birthday, particularly around makeup after trying less expensive brands, and am working back towards a sense of less hardcore minimalism this time again. Even saved half of my original budget after this trip, which usually never happens. Keep up the great content, I watch every money saving video you do and others like Kyra Anne, etc. With each trip I take in the future now, I hope to buy less and spend more on experiences. I realized going too minimalist was making unhappy, so that’s why shopping happened all over again. Thanks for all the help!

[@aubreytoms6823]

*making me unhappy

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Aubrey, thank you so much for sharing your story! We all go through those ebbs and flows of life, and it's nice for others to hear it so they know they aren't alone. Hugs to you 🤗

[@MadisonFalcoFoods]

Starting off so strong with the first one!! I change my car insurance every year or two

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Great job!

[@sherribrink5664]

We love the "Every Dollar" budget app. We've been using the free vetsion of it for over 8 years now. I don't know what we would do without it now, especially since we're retired now and have to watch our budget even closer.

[@rhondareimer8551]

I really like the keep your tires inflated to the recommended level. I had not heard that one. Thank you

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

🤗

[@BB-ej9hk]

We had a mortgage that I added $25 minimum extra each month or rounded the payment amount up. When we got a windfall and paid off the mortgage, I realized I had paid extra principal over $8000 in 8 years! The little bits each month were not painful and saved us cash from the big amount we got. We had $8,000 more to use elsewhere. Never think little amounts don't matter. It isn't all or nothing. Jennifer is so right, it works on car payments and savings as well.

[@brianpulliam1100]

I agree with the coupon issue. Some coupons I see require two or more of an item or a bulkier item than you really need.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Exactly!

[@ChrisBright-qj6yx]

I love to challenge myself to not waste food. I will buy a big chunk of meat (not vegos!) beef, pork, lamb,chicken, then make something different every night without getting bored or throwing food away. Even freezing leftovers for lazy/no cook days feels like a win. Eat out less, cook at home more, it's fun.

[@lorenadugan6355]

We got rid of our storage unit last year. We picked a date and we’re out of it to lunch early. We continue purging and feel pretty good about that.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

That is awesome! 🤗

[@KA-ub4rc]

Your voice is also very calming and nice to listen too 😊

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Thank you so much ❤️

[@mrpmrp226]

I buy the cheap little packages of ramen with seasoning packets, and enhance the soup with ginger powder and roasted dried garlic. I also use leftover cooked meats and raw veggies from my refrigerator. For example, I make extra broth and use my vegetable peeler to make carrot "noodles" right into the pot, or zucchini noodles. They only take 1 minute or less to cook. I add sliced radishes, which get really mild, chives from the garden, Throw in a sliced mushroom or 2, a little drizzle of sesame oil, and in a few black sesame seeds to garnish. I wish I could show you photos. It's a beautiful, delicious soup chockfull of veggies in a fragrant broth. You would never know it was made with odds and ends.

[@marciamakoviecki3295]

Anything I need....I always ask myself if Ican find it atthe Dollar store or Goodwill

[@Bloquita5]

Excellent content. Great presentation. Simple. Clear. Effective. It kept me interested from the beginning till the end. I truly appreciate the tone of your video. It makes me think of a person who focuses on what matters and what is important to her. Thank you. Subscriber here.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Thank you very much for those kind words ❤️

[@katsfarm2062]

I'm changing home and auto insurance saving 900$ per year awesome

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

That is fantastic!

[@reenougle]

Absolutely fantastic ideas! I find I do a lot of these already but love the ones I didn’t think of. I cut down on my clothes buying after going through my closet every 6 months and seeing how many things I didn’t actually wear. I am now very mindful when I am at the store looking to buy something I probably won’t wear. It has cut down on my buying by a huge margin! This covers most other items in your house too. Thanks so much.👍🏻

[@AgnesBorofsky]

Love what you are doing & teaching! We all need to think & do more towards being frugal and resourceful! 👍🏡😘

[@tanyadutton4017]

My kids used to love watching Supermarket Sweep with me!

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Such a fun tv show!

[@rubyslippers6716]

Wonderful. Finally something reasonable. Options for all different people without shutting off the video half way through because the suggestions are ridiculous and most families could never ever make such drastic jumps. Thank you.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

I am so glad you liked the video 🤗 Thank you!

[@lleocttx2326]

Yes, plain common sense instead of idiotic blather!

[@TM15HAKRN]

Hi Covid taught us much... Our needs so less.. Overspending while earning... We have to downsize when not earning.. Or earning less... I saw all 50 took lot of Breaks.. Thanks... 😊

[@kacysmith801]

You touched on it but just doing one thing even if it's not big feels so great. I had a credit card down to where I could pay it off early(and use the payment somewhere else) it was on zero interest but just finishing it up was such boost. Just paying my bills can be an energy charge to keep going.

[@robbiethornton-peek7485]

Great video. Yesterday someone was whining about her grocery bill. Lots of snacks and sugary drinks. smh.

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Those will certainly make the bill higher 😊

[@colleengratton2752]

I hAve never understood storage units. If you have that much stuff. You have too much stuff! Free yourself and live minimalistic manner. It is freeing indeed

[@gladyschandler6724]

I combine my errands P.O. is out of the way check to see when I heading near it.

[@KareenKircher]

Can’t believe I watched the whole video. You’re very informative. Thank you!

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@gladyschandler6724]

I already have all my holiday gifts for friends I'm no longer live in the same state so this year a card and small token a bookmarker.. local friends - baked goods. As I'm getting older 72, I been giving close friends my good jewelry for their birthday or holiday.😅

[@Melaniejd902]

Sounds like very thoughtful gifts

[@terauchiseiichid.67]

This is the second time to listen to 50 realistic tips. I felt joyful that I was already doing some of them. My husband cooperates with cost cutting now when he saw the utilities and cost of living expenses going down. I use less detergent in our laundry, and I soak the clothes in the machine too. I know now I was using too much detergent. I was happy to hear as you pointed out, more detergent is harder on the clothes. I can use the rinse water from the clothes for other cleaning chores. Our washing machine has that option to drain the used water. I also line dry our clothes. I love sloppy joes; I am looking forward to making them with lentils. Thank you

[@nmkuemmerlein9996]

Yes, "gray water"! For example, a cat litter box, with all used litter disposed but still in need of a wash, can be propped under the washer outflow in the basement sink. After one load of "gray water" the pan is ready to go back into service. I'm sure there are other such items that could be cleaned up using "used" laundry water. I

[@t4qjjqdq5y6]

Meal plan with perishables in mind! I used to waste so much money by wasting perishables. Now, if I can't use them all before they go bad, I freeze what I can or cook meals & freeze for later, etc. Wow, have I saved money!

[@kevinm4069]

Got through all 50. Great job. Love your tips!

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Yay! Thank you!

[@susannemeusel9950]

Excellent and do-able. I lived in the States for 20yrs and am now back in Europe for 25 yrs... the tips hold true whereever you live. I would like to add, cook from scratch, forget boxed cake mixtures, sauces, dressings and whatever in jars. It is cheaper, healthier and tastier. I buy 30 lbs of organic lemons every December. I wash them in vinegar-water and dry them. Next I zest the lemons and freeze the zest to use for baking, cooking, in jam, yoghurt, etc. Then I juice the lemons and freeze the juice in ice cube trays & transfer them to freezer bags. This way I have always fresh lemon juice to drink w/water or to cook year round.

[@ntsikitseka3825]

You make all this easy and simple. I retire at the age of 49. I had my plan and everything in order to push my plan. After five years on retirement., covid political instability and recession affected my business big time. I'm picking myself again though it's not easy please advise any tips

[@annoravetz5908]

I suffered during Covid. Tough times. Picking myself back up.

[@cherylplourde7881]

Great tips. Im trying to prepare myself for retirement and surviving on a fixed income. Ive never been great at budgeting, but Im going to give it my best effort using your suggestions. Thank you.

[@kelleycanon5421]

Loved it! Keep up the good work. Ask for discounts - yes! I asked a repairman who was in my home recently if there were any discounts I could take advantage of, and he offered one instead it was the only one he could offer. He didn't ask if I qualified for it and I would not have thought I did qualify for it. But he just gave it to me anyway without asking any questions. Score.

[@kelleycanon5421]

* not "instead" but "and said"

[@THEJENNIFERCOOK]

Kelley, that's fantastic! Always ask. Great job! 🤗

[@marciamakoviecki3295]

And, on the flip side...if you're a business owner and people ask for discounts, always say no!

[@damonteforney8076]

Got through all 50, i definitely want to start saving and being smarter with my money.