Michelle Jones, Founder & Editor

Before purchasing anything, develop the habit of asking yourself, "Do I absolutely need this now, or can it wait?" By waiting, you may find that you don’t need the item after all.

Consider eliminating or reducing nonessential items, such as soda, coffee, alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, etc.

Water is healthier than soda, juices, and other sugar drinks and is free unless you purchase bottled water (which often is no better than the water from your own faucet). Carry a refillable water bottle with you everywhere so you won’t have to spend extra money for soda or other beverages. Drinking lots of water does amazing things for your skin, too! (Check out How to Become Healthier and Save Money on Your Food Budget)

Cancel your newspaper subscription. You can check the news online. If you buy the paper for coupons only, ask your neighbors or friends to save their fliers for you.

Do you really need cable TV? The library has many movies to check out free, but even renting movies occasionally is less expensive than cable TV.

Instead of buying new books or movies, check them out of the library or borrow from a friend. Most libraries have inter-library loan to locate items not found in your local library.

Limit entertainment. The less you go out to eat, watch movies, visit entertainment parks, etc, the more money in your pocket.

Eat healthier by skipping the junk food. Not only will you feel better (and lose weight), you will also save money on your grocery budget.

Get moving! Exercise saves money by keeping you healthier (so you avoid doctor visits and missed days of work). Staying fit will also give you more energy and initiative to accomplish more.

Use cash rather than credit cards. Credit is far too easy to misuse, while paying cash is more "painful." You will spend more when you use your credit card. Leave the card at home and take a predetermined amount of money when you shop. Refuse to spend over that amount.

Avoid debt. If you do have debt, make extra payments to reduce interest payments and save money.

Pay bills online whenever possible. It's easy, convenient, instantaneous, and you don't have to pay for stamps, envelopes, etc. If you don't have Internet at home, see if you can use a computer at work, the library, or a friend's house. This should take you no longer than 15 to 30 minutes, once or twice a month.

Swap babysitting services with a friend.

Cancel your long distance. Buy an inexpensive calling card or use your cell phone if you have the minutes.

Make your own greeting cards.

Purchase less Christmas/birthday gifts. Instead, give services or time. (See Tips for De-STRESSing the Holidays for some great ideas.)

The least expensive car is the one you already own. Keep it as long as you can. If you must purchase another car, save up and don’t buy new.

Instead of driving, try walking, biking, or taking the bus. (See How Our Family Saves Thousands Every Year on Gas and Vehicle Expenses)

Pets are fun, but if you decide to have a pet, choose carefully. All animals costs money, but some cost much more than others, not to mention food and vet costs.