5 Powerful Frugal Living Hacks You Need Now | BROKE to FINANCIAL FREEDOM with these Frugal Habits

[@princessdumbarton9877]

Nothing works until you stop wanting things you don't need. You have to be content with the basics and the occasional luxury/treat. I think of my parents and their friends, they didn't spend money. They read books, watched TV, played music, gardened, had the occasional picnic. We played board games and cards and did jigsaw puzzles. We went to the library. We didn't go out to restaurants. I remember my parents went out to a movie once. We had what we needed but no excessive stuff. We were all happy. You can't appreciate anything if you have too much of it.

[@tgayer1]

And it’s important to realize what is and is not a necessity. Internet is a necessity for most, streaming services are not. 😊

[@lindabudzik9583]

I am so tired of hearing people say “you have to treat yourself” and then proceed to have manicures, go out to brunch with friends, and buy tons of new clothes. That isn’t "treating yourself" - that is your lifestyle. Having a manicure twice a year is treating yourself. Having a manicure every 10 days is not.

[@Ethan-yg8me]

​@@lindabudzik9583I agree 100% I try explaining that with friends after they complain to me about their finances but it goes in one ear and out the other lol

[@lettiembaku6223]

Best advice ever

[@graceperez1281]

@@lindabudzik9583 agree, I have a few friends who are always saying they are broke, but yet they spend money on crazy things, buy the kids practically everything, and go out alot to eat and special events that cost $$...insane!

[@galia8921]

I also have a tip I don't hear that often - use up all that bottles in your bathroom. The sampoos, creams, shower gels, cleaning products should be used. Don't buy new ones till the old ones are finished

[@ydoowj]

I am a former goo hoarder! I had SHELVES of soaps and lotions. I set out not to buy any until what I already had was gone. It taught me to stick to what I know works instead of trying to newest "wonder product"

[@gineenkucherak3349]

Definitely! And cut open those lotion tubes and hair product tubes/bottles! There is so much more in there. I found this true in the toothpaste tube also. Who knew?

[@destinypratt7761]

I was an extreme couponer about a decade ago and managed to accumulate so much Ivory soap that I'm still working my way through it. Lesson learned and expiration dates be damned.

[@marywatkins6798]

I was going to add this one too. Use it up, wear it out.

[@marilynrybak9154]

I continually have to remind my spouse of that!

[@greenpurl8482]

I'm a bankruptcy attorney and think this video should be required for anyone considering filing...

[@abigailsmith8690]

We are lawyers and we know so many people who've been making mid six figures for close to a decade and have a negative net worth. It's crazy! You can be broke at any income if you're not intentional.

[@iambobwhoru]

I love that you use the word "intentional". Savings don't just happen. Getting fit, eating healthy, and being organized, doesn't just happen. You must be intentional in what you do. A lot of the time I hear people don't want to seem like a stick in the mud around their friends about being frugal but realistically, if you're ACTUALLY being frugal and following a budget, you probably will seem more well off than you truly are.

[@gladyschandler6724]

I did plenty of side hustles in my 49s', 59's, and 60s as a single mom: an extra part-time clerical job on weekends, did babysitting, dog sitting, organizing, catering. In my 60's I moved in with a family picked up boys from school, made snacked, cooked dinner, and got the 2 boys to bed for reduced rent. Now that I retired last year at 72 (because I chose to get the maximum s.s. I also moved to a lower cost of living state from California to Texas. Now I have the financial freedom to travel to Europe every year. Life is good. It was worth everything I had to do to get where I am.

[@marywatkins6798]

Good for you!

[@teresaryan4956]

Enjoy your travels you earned it.

[@kellypeters4221]

I love that you set out a goal and did everything in your power to get there. That takes perseverance and determination 💪. Congratulations Congratulations 🎉

[@sarahl.944]

I'm in banking. Automatic payments have a lot of issues. Payment dates can be pulled early if the date falls on a day the bank is closed and this can cause issues if your payroll hasnt come in yet, balances owed can be wrong, people dont look at the statements and errors are missed. And we have had situations where people have needed the old bills more than a year after. 2 years is a safer bet. Another issue is canceling automatic payments. I never recommend people use auto pay in anything. Unless you have a high balance at all times, it's too easy for you to overdraft your account.

[@trudydavis6168]

You are soo right! I refuse to have everything in the cloud". I save paper statements for at least a year. Also, automatic bill payments are sometimes very hard to stop. After cancelling a PlayStation 2 years ago, they are still collecting.

[@dianasimplifies]

We've done automatic payments for years with zero issues. The key is to have padding in your acct that you NEVER spend. When we were younger our padding was $2000. This way you never bounce a check or payment.

[@karenwhitehead1446]

​@@trudydavis6168 call your credit card company and have them blocked

[@frsp3403]

If you cancel something you can delete the payment info and that should do it, right? I guess i would freeze an account too if possible

[@sarahl.944]

@dianasimplifies most people do not have the cushion available. That's the issue.

[@Michelle_Ellen87]

I don't automate the bills that vary month to month, like water and electricity. If I had, I wouldn't have noticed that our water bill tripled in one month because of an issue with the water meter. We were able to call the company and get that figured out.

[@MartyKara]

Same, I like to know right off, but that's my age and history. Don't see it and then a mistake and next thing we can't fix it.

[@dianasimplifies]

Everything we automate sends us a paper bill anyway. Is that not an option? We automate almost everything. No issues

[@simon3101]

You could automate it but look at the bill anyway. That’s not a valid or logical reason.

[@dawnt5587]

My water bill is automated. They send me an email every month. As soon as I get it, I check the amount. It takes me about a minute every month.

[@MartyKara]

@@dawnt5587 When our city went to a new system, I had to go to the office to pay the bill because it was not going fast enough through my online banking, and I was late, Even though they weren't charging us for being late. I finally just made an account and on the same day every month I look at it online, and then I go to my financial institution online bill pay and pay it there, a few days later I get the bill in the mail. We're all doing the best we can with what we have. 😉

[@lollyb6342]

Our basic electric dryer door latch broke & of course it was a cheap plastic part. Dryer wouldn’t work without it, so calling a repairman would be a long & expensive delay, with laundry piling up. Next step find a new dryer to buy. Eek! Cheapest was $576 & wait 3 days for delivery & pay $98 to install. Alternative, search KZbin for DIY fix. Found it! Guess what?😅 Dryer door has two latches on each side that allow door to be swung right or left. Fixed by moving the spare latch, with simple tools, to replace the damaged one. Backup plan, purchase two replacement latches for $6 for next repair of flimsy plastic latch. Thank KZbin contributors and DIY husband for saving us so much money & time. Thanks, Christine for all your frugal tips. Texas Gal

[@spmamabear]

I've fixed my dishwasher with a $10 spare part and a few minutes of youtube. It's amazing what you can do with the internet at your fingertips. I also installed the dishwasher. Plumbed and hard-wired it myself, because there just weren't technicians out here (rural Idaho) who have time to come out to do a 15 minute job when it takes a 2 hour round trip to get here!

[@user-vx1in1xv4i]

No, to automate pay! Have had bad experiences with that. 1. Double taken out of acct 2. Once taken out, the company argued the bill hadn't been paid, so I had to fight with them to refund a re-hook up fee So absolutely NO, do not do automatic pay. And by the way, we are debt free. My husband retired 5 years early as an RN during the covid era, and I quit my job of 35 years one year after he retired. We now live very comfortably on his retirement. The key to getting out of debt is to STOP BUYING THE THINGS YOU DO NOT NEED, BE FRUGAL WITH EVERYTHING, AND PAY EXTRA ON WHAT YOU CAN. Best of Luck!!!

[@melaniehomburg3366]

Some of it too comes down to being ok with "being weird." We've gotten playful teasing to outright insulted by loved ones and coworkers because of our frugal habits. And it's not like anything crazy: cutting my own and my child's hair, not getting my nails done, we bought an inexpensive condo that we knew we could easily afford and pay off - WE GOT MADE FUN OF! Dude. At 41 and 44 we have a paid for home!

[@TN-xi8rb]

That’s awesome! Good for you.

[@j.stratton3077]

Wow, Kudos! 🎉Good for you!!

[@littlesongbird1]

Yeah. You have to accept not everyone will understand it. I prefer to eat at home. I fly with budget airlines (I had friends make fun of me for flying with Spirit but hey, I saved a ton of money).

[@MartyKara]

I had to side eye myself when she said to shred those old bills. I have 20 years worth water bill -- because I like to look back and see how much they're charging for the same thing. Shred party 🤣

[@carmarasmussen8118]

🎉🎉😂

[@homewithmrsp]

You can scan with camera phone and save. Maybe 1 for each year if you want to look at old price. But it doesn’t help now. Lol enjoy shredding 😊

[@MartyKara]

@@homewithmrsp I'll just shred and say goodbye. Lol I have a bunch in my file cabinet that I do need to purge. I'm also procrastinator. 😬

[@tgayer1]

I used to save all of my old bills, and then when I read Marie Kondo‘s book, I got rid of all of them. I think I ended up collecting all my paperwork in about six or eight big shopping bags and took them to a shred place and just paid to have it all shredded. Look online to see if your community has a free shred day.

[@teresamelville]

If you have a fire pit that is a great option this time of year. I just burned a bunch of my old papers.

[@lyndsaymoehrman]

I agree with not keeping all of your past paper bills, except for medical bills. We keep them for five years. Because our local medical system can be a hot mess. One time we received a bill, that we had already paid almost a year before, and they didn’t have the record of us paying it. We had proof, saved us that money again, and the headache of hunting for information to prove it.

[@natashav6432]

I understand the concept behind automate payments, but a lot of people have to decide WHICH bill to pay based on what's more important. Being a single parent with only one income living paycheck to paycheck is a reality.

[@charlenecastaldo3602]

Thank you, Christine! True story- when we recently moved. I noticed the ice maker in the refrigerator wasn't working. My husband contacted the previous owner who said it never worked. I open the ice storage bin when cleaning the fridge. I turned the switch on and the ice maker has worked ever since. 😊 Easiest fix ever!😂

[@cynthia57169]

Our son bought a house five years ago. In the kitchen was a new refrigerator (too big for the kitchen!) that made a grinding noise periodically. He thought it was breaking/broken. I investigated and found it had an automatic ice maker that was calling for water. There was no water line installed! Turned it off and everything is dandy.

[@CookingwithDesi]

😂😂😂

[@lisam5744]

I would like to add...learn from other people and what they've done and if its worked for them or not. Both my parents and my husband's parents got brand new mortgages when they retired. And we watched them struggle with it. We decided we wanted to have our mortgage paid off before we retired. So we started a six year plan to get out of debt and the last part of that was paying off the mortgage. And (this is important) have wiggle room for the unexpected things that come up in life during the plan. We got everything paid off in a little over six years. The best part is that what we were paying in debt payments now goes into the savings towards retirement. It's doable, but it does take time, dedication and sticking to the plan.

[@bcworth444]

Wow, I think that's the best advice: patience - it doesn't happen overnight. Everyone is in to quick fixes and instant gratification. No one wants to hear the reality. Good for you, Christine, for putting it out there. It needs saying. It needs hearing.

[@kimberlysue594]

I love the comment, the 15 years are going to pass anyway. Exactly!

[@Halfwaythere807]

Financial education is key and I don’t think a lot of Americans learn how to manage money until it’s too late and massive mistakes are made…95% struggling is an indicator. Thank you Christine for sharing your experience and getting the word out!

[@lisam5744]

I can say that I never received any financial education from my parents or my school. I learned a lot of things by making mistakes. But the internet does have a lot of information for teaching yourself financial education. I wish they were teaching this so kids would know what to do when they got out on their own.

[@MartyKara]

I tried to teach my daughter, but she is doing what I did when I was young, spend without caution. She'll learn.

[@trudydavis6168]

There should be a basic accounting class in every highschool curriculum. I've known people who had trouble writing a check or balancing their checkbook. Basic things..

[@MartyKara]

@@trudydavis6168 I took 2 years accounting in high school, and home economics. When I got out on my own, every paycheck was gone because I still did not learn to be safe with my money. I did everything wrong, and I was almost almost to the point of living in my car. And it was a cheap '79 Ford pinto. Just recently I had to help my daughter write a check and write an envelope and where to put the stamp. She's 29. If people don't come across it they're not going to need to learn it, And that's what KZbin is for ... that's what my daughter said years ago. We parents do our best in teaching, but if that child doesn't want to learn nothing we can do about it. And from my time in high school until her time in high school, and the different states, a lot of information is not taught.

[@TheSwimmom1]

Maybe create a mandatory home economics class that teaches kids about mortgages, budgeting and living within your means.

[@graceperez1281]

paid off my house early by going from a 30 yr loan to a 15 yr loan,,did it because I did not want the debt going into retirement. Paid off in 2019, it seems like it took forever,,,but I saw the path and knew it was worth it. Did it alone I am divorced, not easy but worked hard. Thanks Frugal Fit Mom for all your videos, its been very helpful to me.

[@nickvickyleblanc3674]

I wouldnt automate my bill- reviewing them frequently saves me more money.

[@dawnt5587]

They still email you the bill in advance just like receiving a paper bill.

[@paulydaysx]

THANK YOU!!!!!! I just told a coworker today about going back to school. She said; well I'm 46. I said well... I'm 50! (I just started a class after 25 years of not going to school) I told her; you and I will be 60 one day anyway...

[@paulydaysx]

HOPEFULLY- right!

[@dajanaspaargaren9060]

I am 51 and going back to school to get a better certification to get better pay. I know I will be older than my teacher. Lol😊

[@grannyprepper1181]

At 71 I don’t have 15 years. 10 maybe. I have no debt. I feel that one way to cut your out put is to keep your family small. The days of families with 4, 6, and 8 kids just aren’t practical anymore.

[@shealodriguss6912]

This is untrue. We are a family of six with one teacher income as I stay home and homeschool the kids. You just have to know how to budget and actually live within your means.

[@Ronbarno]

Very untrue, have 10 kids, homeschooled, now they are all out on their own, be smart with your money, we did it! no regrets, JMJ, God is good.

[@a1stbornunicorn]

As a hiker, I love the mountain metaphor. So many of my friends make great incomes but are always broke because they don't live frugally. It takes dedication and patience to see the rewards of frugal living.

[@TheVideoGamesHistorian]

We have paid our mortgage off , have some savings and have no debt . Its so freeing . I would have liked to have paid off the mortgage earlier but circumstances prevented us from doing this . We lived on pennies at times , walked everywhere and bought second hand . So now at the grand age of 54 we have reached the goals we set , Now its about enjoying life while we are still young enough .x

[@TN-xi8rb]

Another podcast idea- free summer fun schedule with kids. Like if you were planning an actual summer with your young kids, how would you plan out your weeks with calmer days like library, water hose fun at home, with some community activities, with parks/hikes, cheap local adventures mixed in. So how would you actually find the hikes, would you start with the state & local parks around? Did you ever tent camp or just do day trips? How to have fun at a state park/lake if you don’t have a boat? How you found hikes before AllTrails- did you just get the maps at the park office? Etc. Would you go to the same places or different each summer. Ex. We have floated a nearby river, but it was over $100 to rent the tubes & have the bus drop us. I’m thinking there’s a cheap alternative- how would Christine & Dave do this?

[@TheElephantInTheRoom12]

I understand that this may not be possible for people who live in rural areas, must go into work or places where you absolutely need a car but one thing that has surprisingly helped me save money is to not drive my car every day. I have a car that uses ALOT of gas so gas was becoming a big part of draining my finances. So what I started doing was stacking my errands meaning I schedule a bunch of things on days when I "have to" go out for appts, meetings, returing items to stores( then I would do my shopping), or other important business. I could end up being gone all day sometimes until dark but I notice less gas was being used. And it was okay because it was designated day to be gone. Another thing I did was carpool. It can be annoying and very inconvenient but it helped keep my car in good shape and I paid them for gas which was still less than my gassing up my car. I know it sounds like it would be the same if I drove but it did help. This may sound crazy too but I graduated last month and paid a neighbor to drive me who was already going out that evening anyway. I didnt want to deal with the parking, chaos, or the stress or the use my gas. It was such a nice feeling when she stopped at the gas station to get gas instead of me and after the graduation she was the one trying to figure out how to get out the crazy maze of the parking lot and figuring out which way to turn with police directing traffic. What was I doing? Relaxing and basking in the afterglow of one of the most fun evenings of my life! Note: I do live in a suburb of a major city and its considered rural by the post office but its not. Walmart is less than 10 mins away. So if Walmart is nearby its not rural in my opinion....

[@gwenkosevich8817]

I no longer go into the gas station when I get gas unless absolutely necessary. This prevents buying junk food! Helps with weight loss too!

[@beckyshell4649]

Good advice,I agree with automatic payments for bills and savings. I worked Walmart for over 30 years ,so I worked a pretty low end job .I did their employee stock purchase plan where they contributed 15% of what you put in. I maxed that out every year and never touched it .I also did a 401k and maxed out a Roth IRA each year. I was able to retire at age 57 with no debt and very low expenses. I shop thrift and discount stores and live a very simple lifestyle. My mutual fund dividends almost cover my living expenses .

[@LeeParkchu]

I have done some of these life hacks and they only bring little to no money😐😐😐

[@RobertDamanii]

I don’t believe you, I’m 50, retired a while at 45. I have 35% of my capital investments in an IRA. 25% in index funds, and the balance spread across other investments acts. In cumulative of over $5m. I receive income from my rental properties too. Zero debt and all is going accordingly.

[@JohnMiddleston]

Indeed, most people downplay the roles of financial advisories until they are burnt by their mistakes. Productivity is optimized and keeping up to date strategies and analysis makes it more lucrative. I’ve been able to navigate the volatilities and scaled up 80k to 20k with a firm

[@RoseBalerus]

Honestly this cannot be over emphasized, helping people mitigate unforeseen circumstances and mistakes, it’s always good to have a financial plan

[@SeanJohns-ze8ie]

Excuse me brother how do you guys do this?

[@RobertDamanii]

ERIC PAUL ELMER, really smart guy with a contemporary approach to the market and a warm personality.

[@CP-fo5sy]

Keep paper copies of car insurance policies for a few years. My son was in a wreck and they didn't have a record online of that vehicle being covered for that date. I sent them my paper copy and saved a lot of money!

[@lenettasmith-murray2145]

I'm 62, single and living on $1588/month. I buy groceries approximately every 3 months and use pantry staples to help make my meals. I did the 30 day challenge and had so much food to use. It was easy and fun. Do not eat out, drive my car on Thursdays only, unless I have a Drs appointment out of town. Have no life insurance because of health issues and no emergency fund. How can I do it when I don't shop or do anything except volunteer at our local food pantry on Thursdays.

[@TN-xi8rb]

I’m not sure you’re rent- but would having a roommate to split bills & rent be an option?

[@betterlivingonabudget]

PODCAST request - I would love to hear how you and Dave stayed motivated to stick to such a tight budget through the early years. Aso, if you recall specific times when it was especially hard - what sacrifices you recall making, if you were ever shamed for being frugal, how you handled it, etc. I'd also love to know if your siblings touch base with you on frugal / money tips! LOVE your FFM channel, but I LOVE your podcasts even more - it's a great reason to have a long commute, LOL. 💗

[@renatal1972]

Tip I learned, don’t do paperless billing. When my dad passed, he had paperless billing on everything and we didn’t know what he owed because we didn’t have his passwords. Only found out when stuff was pass due and got a paper bill. His bank account was frozen during probate, so they stopped the auto pay

[@chychy118]

I have learned a lot for clutter and budgeting from you. Love the wash the sheets an put them back on 😂. Dont buy new cars get good quality used cars. 👍

[@JC-kj7ng]

Thanks for another great video! For as long as I can remember, my Mom has said exactly what you said-“the time will pass anyway! What will you wish you had accomplished?” That has been a huge motivator for me regarding how I think about time. We are currently debt-free except for the house and working to pay that off early. Had a good emergency fund last year that got drained due to medical issues and some travel. It feels defeating to take steps backward, but your video is a great encouragement to keep going. Thanks again, Christine!

[@No-sv6mu]

I automated transferring money from our savings(.5% interest) to our online HYS that gets 4.75% interest. We dont even notice the $200 a month. Then every few months if we have done really well with savings I will transfer a lump sum of a few thousand to the HYS. Then I forget I did that and panic because our everyday savings is so low so I start the cycle over again to aggressively save. 😂 it works for me! I also only check our stocks and mutual funds once a month. Those are long term investments so checking too much would just cause me stress. Im with you about going out to eat. Its not something we do often cause it is just too expensive. We do have other things (kids sports, vacations) that we would rather spend our money on. One of the biggest things we are looking forward to is our home being paid off in about 3 years. We are 41 and 40. Im driving a 13 year old vehicle which is doing great. Husband's vehicle is new and paid off.

[@No-sv6mu]

And we are definitely not in high paying jobs. I work in a school and babysit part time for cash for the sports and vacations. My husband is a union blue collar worker, and takes on over time when it is available. To make up for my low income, we do as much as we can to avoid hiring people. Husband fixes everything at home, changes our oil, cuts the grass, I maintain the flowers and garden in the summer. We cook all meals at home. We clean our own house.

[@aimeecarroll2555]

I am not one to comment on videos. But I have to say, I have watched videos similar to yours for years. And nothing connected the way yours do. I'm a fellow Idahoan, but that's not just it. You break things down so simply, plus your personality 🔥, it has changed my life. I wait for your videos because it's legitimately like the pep talk I need. So thank you, and can't wait to hear what you have to talk about next.

[@FrugalFitMom]

Wow, thank you!

[@LindaSnow-hw4hv]

I struggle with “collections”. For me, it is purses and books. I’ve finally come to realize these do not bring peace or happiness. I resonated with the comment that says, “Stop buying what you don’t need!”

[@limotgirl9863]

i got myself a kindle and i saved a lot ever since

[@joannehickok4653]

wow, I've learned to make olive garden cream of chicken soup.

[@christenascott5280]

Could you do something on school lunches. Most schools provide free lunches but they are full of carbs and preservatives. 50 diva does her sons lunch every day. But she has access to an Aldi, Smith’s, etc. crate I don’t have any of those stores. I don’t want to go 220 miles to one! So could you tell us some budget friendly homemade lunches that we can make? Also, do you have any pet treats recipes. Any pet tips. I know you’ve made a gazillion cooking challenges, but I really enjoy yours because it’s more economical and a senior citizen living on a fixed income, these have helped me immensely. Cutting down groceries leaves money to go into travel fund! I love watching your channel and you’re always so practical. Thrifty does not mean poor!

[@micheleboyle3547]

I’m in between places to live and my oldest is letting me stay with him…we haven’t gone out to eat since I got here….I’ve been on a healthy eating plan and he wants to lose weight so both of us eat healthy and exercise everyday….plus he used to use a laundry service….not now…I go do the laundry….hopefully in a month or two he can see some ares he is really saving money….i agree …takes time …..😊

[@vlmellody51]

I agree. BTW: it's lose, not "loose."

[@cynthia57169]

@@vlmellody51those darn typos! I do all my best editing after I hit the send arrow

[@michaelmyerslovesbooks]

I recently discovered Ramit, and I'm obsessed. The both of you together can easily help anyone who needs a lil help budgeting and saving.

[@truthseeker6370]

I will likely Never automate cuz I love my budget too much! I love to pinch and save everything I can, to throw Everything extra I can at the mortgage and my savings. To me, deliberately planning and paying vs automating keeps me accountable daily.

[@Leslie-wb8cb]

I just posted my first listing on ebay. I have been out of the workforce for 15 years because I raised my son, while my husband worked. I'm trying to get back into a design job, but meanwhile, I'm trying my hand at reselling. I am a great thrifter, etc. and I am going to turn it into something to pay down bills. :-)

[@chelseyschlutereichen9009]

My new goal in life is to retire at 55. 60 is attainable. 55 is my stretch goal. Im 40 now and have s good start. Your pep talk today makes me feel more confident. Like heck yes, I can do that! You are a great motivational speaker!

[@emilygilstrap31]

I just need more money before I can make my goals. I went to a lower paying job. My previous district fell apart & I'm working on teacher cert. My husband is waiting to hear on a promotion 🤞🙏

[@chevygirl8275]

I keep an excel spreadsheet and have a mail bin on the wall. I will NEVER do automated payments ever...except for my credit cards on minimum due and just pay more myself every month. I've had my account drained from Ober billing before. Also, when it's automated, you get used to not checking your bill and they can change your fees, raise prices, or make an error and you would never catch it until it's too late.

[@CookingwithCatLover0330]

While watching this, I'm making banana bread with banana we didn't eat before they turned brown. Breakfast for a couple of days for both of us and to share with co-workers. Thanks for the videos! Video podcast idea: how to get out of the thought of "I don't want to leave the money so we spend it. We have credit card debt, a mortgage, regular house bills" One wants to be debt free one just doesn't want to leave it so spend it. Asking for a friend.

[@carmarasmussen8118]

I love the climbing a mountain analogy! It feels like you'll never make it and you'll always be stuck in this place but putting one step in front of the other, especially during the hardest of times, is the KEY. Great video, thanks! ❤

[@katiesnow396]

Just started a journey of paying off debt… always have been frugal, but now trying to be extra frugal with a focused goal. Also, it’s hard to be patient when you are already doing the side gigs… thank you for the encouragement to just keep going!

[@christinajones2637]

I'm in the mortgage industry and we will ask you for a utility bill from 6 months ago sometimes when we have concerns of occupancy. But I still agree that you can shred your bills and just grab the PDF version if anything is ever needed like that

[@simplyfreedom171]

Most utilities have the bills going back a year that can be found online for that situation.

[@dianasimplifies]

​@@simplyfreedom171I hope so bc I quit keeping anything 😂

[@peggypeters6676]

You are probably in that 5% and that is wonderful!

[@nosnerd1967]

We do zero budgeting on paper -every dollar serves a purpose. We also struggled for several years after my son died, and my wife was home for 4 1/2 years raising our daughter ….We lived on one salary.

[@TheSwimmom1]

Amen to automation!! 30 years ago I had a 16 month old and a 2 month old. I missed paying a bill beacuse one day my toddler put the mail under the front hall mat when it came in the door mail slot. I was so exhausted with the little ones that I didn't notice the bill didn't come in (although it actually did lol) It also tells you how often I cleaned under the mat lol. Automated and never missed a bill payment again.

[@anniecampbell6406]

I read MMM’s site and like Ramit too. I’ve listened to Ramsey for years and followed all these principles. I’m in my 24th year of teaching, divorced, two kids, live frugally, never eat out or go on expensive vacations- but it feels like I can’t make a difference. I don’t have debt, but the living expenses just get higher. I wish I could do something other than teaching to make more money. A different career path isn’t obvious and salary’s seem even less than what I make now. I’ll continue some side hustles but I it really seems like the only way for financial freedom is a dual / high income household in this day & age.

[@lanaday3557]

I think the biggest expenses are the housing & medical insurance… car payments eventually goes away, food could be minimized… but housing & medical insurance you have no control over 😬

[@becky9194]

Agree. My medical insurance is my biggest expense after housing.

[@chandrahernandez5201]

Rogue and Speedy for president!!! Lol I remember my 5th grade teacher walking in so happy to have finally paid off his student loans so I vowed to pay mine off early

[@awakenedbyyhuhassembly6015]

Hi Christine My son And I love your Chanel What a beautiful family We love the segments that Dave joins in, he is so funny. Sharon and Doug from VA. Keep up the budget breakdown's we love them

[@kristie8727]

That's impressive 15 years on the mortgage family of 6 on one income 😮

[@lynnhendley8910]

I use Dave Ramsey Programs. I listen to his podcast show and his daughter Rachael Cruz podcasts and shorts. Great advice.

[@marilyns6043]

Great video...again! Biggest things I've automated after I get my check (and my 401(k) and other deductions are taken): 1) alimony 2) mortgage, home insurance, & property taxes 3) tied between charitable giving and emergency fund 4) travel fund .... that's my 'fun money' item...that if I didn't plan for, would get eaten by the groceries.

[@kirstenapriest]

Love this video, Christine! My husband & I have only been married for 2 years and it’s so hard for me to be patient, but looking back at all the small wins and progress that’s we’ve already made helps me stay motivated!

[@user-zl4rr1ic7w]

Small wins over time equal big wins down the road.

[@marybethcully5883]

We started slow as well , but we made careful choices and are now fully retired and enjoying a comfortable, fun life without debt.😊

[@BannersglareTheDreamWriter]

When you really think about it, 5% of people can't achieve financial freedom in the foreseeable future yet a large percentage of food is thrown out. If you juxtapose those two figures together and live frugally based on those findings, you might be able to cut back on your food budget and be able to make use of overstocked, perishable food products before they spoil. A food budget is an essential component of living, so minimizing the expenditure would make financial freedom possible.

[@tiatowery6409]

Christine once again great advice I’m just learning all these things now and I’m 59! I wish I had this knowledge in my 20s but it’s never too late❤

[@dawnm5834]

I love reminding myself that the time will pass anyways. So might as well get going now.

[@kristineroehl9940]

My side hustle was merchandising. Only had to work a few hours a week, but it helped pay the bills.

[@hello-vs4me]

We never eat out

[@pookysboutique]

Live within your means. Period.

[@madelineking9104]

My husband and I are fully retired, husband works part-time.

[@BitsOfThisNThat]

I hope the younger generation listens, because I get 500 dollars a month. No saving, no nothing.I can't afford to breathe, let alone live. Oh, to be young again. God bless

[@JenMidwestMama]

I love the Money Help Videos sista! Thanks much! We've been working on Baby Step 3 (6m emergency fund) FOREVER... ughhh its such a high amount and its slow going!

[@user-zl4rr1ic7w]

It is so worth it. Keep going!

[@MsNeverboring]

I really disagree with the throw paper out. I recently had occasion, in the process of an estate settlement to have to present financial records for years past, and even a divorce memorandum from the eighties. A good filing system is what you need. I do agree with the whole do not touch or consult it often... That is just stressful. File it correctly( no piles of paper hoarding) but being able to put my hands on it has been invaluable.

[@dianasimplifies]

Well almost all my papers are long gone. I never needed them in the past. Hopefully it will be ok. I do know it was helpful that my MIL was a hoarder bc my hubby found some papers that helped him with her shareholder farm issues but other than for the farm he didn't need the millions of papers she kept.

[@hollypepen4012]

Thanks Christine. I’ve learned a lot from you the last few years of watching, and I’m leveraging that now. Got laid off last month and my husband and I just bought an old house. Selling stuff and donating plasma have been focuses for me in the meantime.

[@angeltippit5579]

Lord I don't have extra $50 to save. I'm lucky if I got $5

[@jackieo2403]

That's okay- still save the $5. It will eventually add up. Lots of people would say, "oh, it's just $5, not worth saving so I'll just spend it on junk/impulse item/ a want. But seriously, if that is all you , have save it. It will compound.

[@shealodriguss6912]

I’m also a stay at home mom of four kids and my husband is a teacher! Haha I’m grateful the paychecks are higher than that now, but they are still tight. I love getting to flex my frugal muscles though!

[@christywhitaker4021]

Hey!! Can you do a video or podcast on what “paper” we need to store for finances/home/family/medical?

[@jeniisabellarodriguez8150]

Love the videos - I work a full time job, do a few side hustles, I think the key is doing something that you enjoy doing so that you actually look forward to doing it! I love shopping , I get things super cheap and resell them - I make about $2000 profit every month from doing this side hustle !

[@georgekleven6164]

Thank You For taking your time to teach us how to fish. God Bless you and your family.

[@jadeakiss91]

I'd like to learn how to start a budget when you don't have a large lump sum at first I want to begin the budget with

[@_mar_ta_]

I really enjoy your money-related videos, thanks for making another one! As far as ideas for the podcast go, I'd love to hear whether someone whose budget you went over in the past reached out with the update of how they're doing. That would be interesting to see what worked, what didn't, and what they're still going through (since in most cases the changes you suggested were for the long haul).

[@kristiezemlicka6445]

PODCAST TOPIC IDEA: Please, please consider talking about seasonal or inconsistent income. No one ever talks about budgeting when all of your income comes in four months of the year or even if you have an income every other week, but it's completely different each pay period (such as commission work). Our household income can change +/- $40,000 each year! How do you plan for that?!

[@CrissieOsborn]

I love your money videos! It keeps me motivated while I'm working extra hours and trying to get our debt paid off! I can't wait for more of these videos!

[@MissJean63]

I’ve auto paid bills for years. I know what my utilities run in Summer and winter. I average the year and pay ahead. It evens out by the end of the year. I also have solar. Incredible money saver.

[@elizabethzierke4733]

Do car and house ins deep dive. Also home maintenance ie furnace water heaters etc

[@tressalewis7004]

I am so thankful for money garus, such as yourself, that have taught me many great lessons. A few months ago we were able to pay off our mortgage and now we are debt-free. My next goal is to get enough money in savings to cover a year of spending.

[@gratituderanch9406]

I can’t automate cause we’re paycheck to paycheck. And sometimes we’re waiting for that every other week paycheck for some like mortgage. I also round up if I can to pay down principal as I can.

[@lisabebbs1755]

Wonderful advice. Thank you for sharing. It's helped to keep me inspired as I tackle my debt! Hugs!

[@joannevans8278]

We stopped going to Olive Garden for the same reasons! Homemade is so much better. our going out now is Costco for a Hot Dog:) What ould be helpful for first time home buyers is what to look for beyond the layout: ie celing water stains mold, was a permit pulled & how to find out if one was......

[@michelleconcannon7584]

Paying off a house is excruciatingly tedious and it feels like forever, but no one ever regrets not having a mortgage. That being said, if you have a super low mortgage rate and high yield savings accounts are paying more, it might be the time to sock that money away there.

[@lauracapozzolo4640]

Please put me on your list. I could really use your guidance and support to get out of the mess I'm in. I have watched you for years and LOVE everything you have taught me. I would love to learn more. Please teach me. I just love you ❤

[@roslinney4285]

I remember when you were still teaching the online course and when you had the viral video. You have done amazing

[@FrugalFitMom]

Thanks so much!

[@barbarajohnson315]

Love you energy and common sense. Thanks for all the great tips

[@tkwoebse7546]

Thank you for your positive content .You inspired me in some tough times ❤

[@shellybain8283]

My husband and I are 58. He keeps "kicking the can down the road." I prioritize a "safe" future, and he prioritizes a "safe" today. He wants to have options and breathing room now. I retired 3 years ago and he can retire in one year. We will both have a state retirement check. How can I get him on board with dealing with budgeting and paying off our house now?

[@beckysorenson5527]

I know what you mean about restaurants. We went to a Mexican restaurant a couple of years ago for my birthday and ordered chimichangas. We both said that we chimichangas I make at home are better. Besides, we live in a tourist town and the restaurant was down by the harbor. EXPENSIVE!!!!

[@lisavoegtly1475]

Great video and advice. I cannot seem to automate my bills as my income fluctuates and I can’t pay the same bill the same day every month - sometimes I have to shift it a week earlier or later and I wouldn’t want to have money taken out if the money’s not there . There’s almost too much info out there - I get overwhelmed when I try to do research. Some of these tips I already do and have some for years and I’ll be reaping the benefits in a few years when I retire.

[@DanaEigsti]

Since you put in a Gilmore girls clip I had to share I found a Gilmore girls my favorite show tee shirt at goodwill yesterday for 2.75 I was so happy. Great tips I enjoy your videos.

[@heathersmeather]

5:01 I hadn’t been to Olive Garden in years. We went a couple months ago with friends for a date night. My husband and I both thought zupa toscana at home was better. I figure if you need to eat out and options are limited it’s okay.

[@heathersmeather]

Also, $13 for soup and slam is better than $10 at McDonald’s, which I don’t think has salad anymore.

[@stephaniewaskoenig1387]

Here is a question I would love to hear your perspective on! For many of us the housing market is so extreme that buying is not always the best option. For our family it financially made sense to rent and save up for a down payment and we only recently bought (but as a result of the savings we were able to put more down on the home we really loved.) how would you counsel a family about the decision on when and how to decide to buy versus rent?