Looking for ways to trim the excess fat from your day-to-day expenditures? As an actor I’m always looking for ways to do this… here are 5 straightforward suggestions to keep you within a budget.
1.
GYM MEMBERSHIPS: I enjoy working out too much to give up on the gym, however I did make the decision to cancel my membership last year and truth be told I felt lost without it. I’d had one for the last 13 years, what was I going to do? I found ways to be physically active without burying myself in membership fees and I’ve never looked back. I did quite a bit of research on the net before finding my true fit (
http://www.bodyrock.tv/)… this is what has been working for me and I’m thrilled with the progress I’ve made as I’m seeing and achieving results faster than any other program I’ve been involved with, but this is just an example that I'm sharing with you. You can find numerous sites overflowing with knowledge on the subject and as always consult your physician before beginning a new routine. Saving just under $700/year not to mention that I've freed up some of my time which is priceless.
2. FOOD: Fast Food and Take Out is a quick fix for a long day or hectic schedule but in the long run your going to spend way more cash… so invest in a plan to co-ordinate and make your meals yourself. I enjoy cooking so this was an easy one for me. I predominantly shop the outside isles, you get more bang for your buck and these foods are usually healthier for you. Whereas processed foods like cookies, frozen dinners, pizzas, prepared meats, etc. cost more and they are generally bad for your health.
3. SKIP THE SALON/SPA & DIY: Visiting the Nail Bar every two weeks (sometimes sooner) to get a manicure and once every three weeks to get a pedicure was just not working out for me. I now do my own mani/pedi’s, waxing, and threading. YouTube has a wealth of information within it’s archives so get watching… and watch several on the same topic/technique before attempting it on yourself as some videos are better than others.
4. HAIR: This one is tricky… If your stylist messes up it’s right there on top of your head for everyone to see. So I feel it’s safe to say that the relationship between Stylist and Client is one that is nurtured over time and a lot of trust is placed within this relationship. I’ve been quite fortunate in having met some of the most fantastic Global Educators within the realm of cutting, coloring, styling, and makeup. With this being said… hair institutions offer cuts and colors provided by “junior stylists” at a fraction of the cost (cuts ~ $30), it sounds scary but it really isn’t. These institutions pride themselves on the education and training that their students receive, plus it’s their name that’s on the line, word of mouth works both ways whether bad, or good. I’m partial to AVEDA as I’ve had only positive experiences with them over the last 6 years and they maintain an eco – friendly environment within their products and services. BONUS: AVEDA usually offers a quick hand massage or mini aromatherapy scalp massage before they begin!
AVEDA is only an example… there are many institutions to consider!
5. CLOTHING: The hunt is on! Have a plan when stepping out to get your shop on. Know what you’re shopping for and where to look for it and be specific. Figure out how much you’re willing to spend.
Basics like t-shirts = smaller budget
Coats, blazers, and formal attire = bigger budget
Bring a set amount of cash and leave the plastic at home. Swiping plastic is a no-brainer but handing over cold hard cash makes you think about the investment your making and whether it’s a wise choice to commit.
Do all you can to stay within your budget :)
