Suzanne O’Connor’s Bargains LA

Musts In a Rough Economy

Okay the recession is here with a bang! Hello- time to wake up and smell the coffee. When times get tough it’s time to get down to business.

First, Tighten your budget
Go through your budget and expenditures, eliminating anything unnecessary. This can be painful. But remember as things ease up (and it will eventually) you can add stuff back in. Do your best to cut down on bills and pay off credit cards.

Second, Change the way you shop.
- Only make purchases at discount, club or recommended BargainsLA stores.
-Do not buy anything on a whim or on credit. Ask yourself, “Is this purchase necessary? “Do I need this item?” “Will it get a lot of use?”
-Never pay retail. Compare pricing and product to see if you can find it for less.
-Plan ahead for small and large purchases.
-Buy used instead of new… furniture, clothing, cars and more can all be bought used,
-Learn how to fix things yourself. Learn how to sew, repair a heater or small appliance, change your own oil… whatever it is, there are many books and resources to learn how to do repairs yourself.

Third, Think frugally
- If you can find a way to reuse items more than once, do it.
- Use creative ways to cut back on any unnecessary expenditures.
- Eat in more often. Do pot lucks with family and friends instead
- Check out a book, dvd or read newspaper at the Library instead of buying it.
- You don’t have to cut back on all entertainment, just look for frugal ways to do things for less.

Most Importantly …
- Make saving money a game. Share what you’re doing with friends and they’ll probably share with you their tricks and tips. Team up with friends, make it a game. Brag about your savings and bargain prizes.

As you change your habits, your expenses will diminish and you live better for less.
Now doesn’t that make ya feel better!