They say the best stuff in life is free, and I would have to say I agree. I think that too often we spend so much time being handed ways to spend money, that we forget about all the creative ways to save money - in this case, by enjoying the free stuff we already have. Usually I write about 5 things I’m thankful for that don’t cost very much, but how about 5 things I’m thankful for that cost nothing at all?
Now that’s how we do it at ImpulseSave.
1. Water
I love water. I love to drink it straight-up, I love to brew tea in it, I love to freeze it and chew the ice cubes, I love to swim in it - I just love water. Not only is water refreshing and delicious, it is also so amazingly good for you! Plus, as our friends at Out of Debt Again mentioned, water is literally the cheapest drink out there. It’s so nutritious and choosing water will help you save money on groceries and save money while eating out.
2. The Sun
Although too much sun can certainly be dangerous to your health, there are many benefits to spending time in the sun in moderation, including: boosting your metabolism, improving your mood, and giving your skin a healthy glow. Spending about 15 minutes a day in the sun is certainly a great treat for your body. Go for a walk in the afternoon sun for a great free date idea!
3. Going Natural
I hardly ever wear more than some mascara and moisturizer on my face. However, as you can see in this picture, I have QUITE a bit of hair. My favorite product to help control my ‘do costs between $15 and $18, and on my broke post-grad budget, that’s a significant expense. Although I’m not so committed as the Simple Mom - who uses no shampoo at all! - at least once a week I give my face and hair a break by going completely natural. It’s very refreshing, helps me save money, and you would be surprised at what lurks under all that product!
4. Hand-Me-Downs
I’ve written before about how much I love hand-me-downs. While thrifting is a great way to save money shopping, hand-me-downs are 100% free! Plus, the clothes come with a great story and whoever gave them to you gets to see them continue to go to good use. Most of my closet is made up of either hand-me-downs or thrifted items - and I wouldn’t have it any other way! I may even be willing to give up clothes shopping altogether, as Lyz Lenz (from Learnvest) vowed.
5. Pictures
I’ve always thought that photos make the best souvenirs. It doesn’t matter what you were doing or where you were - a picture can help you remember and relive the best moments in life for years to come. Plus, with modern digital photography, it’s easier than ever to take, save, and share pictures for free! So to help control your spending either on a night out or on vacation - consider just taking a picture instead. As they say - take a picture, it’ll last longer!
What about you? What FREE things are you thankful for? Which of these free things do you appreciate the most?
