We’ve all probably seen hundreds of lists of ways to save money; but most of the tips tend to be repeats. But I came across this list today, and I liked the unique aspects of some of the tips. ‘Stop smoking’ is one that we’ve heard before, but what about ‘stop tanning’? I know lots of smart, educated, successful ladies – who would never dream of smoking – who pay for several visits to a tanning salon every spring. They’re courting cancer just as if they were smoking, and they’re paying for the privilege. I’ve never been to a tanning bed, and I gave up on the notion of being tan when I was about 12, because my fair skin and freckles don’t lend themselves well to a tanned look. But I like the idea of skipping the tanning bed as a health tip and a frugal tip.
And I love the tip about wearing sensible shoes. To me, Carrie from Sex and the City (love the show, can’t wait for the movie to be out on DVD so I can rent it for a dollar from Redbox!!) is the epitome of someone who never chooses sensible shoes. Was she ever not wearing heels? She couldn’t afford to buy her apartment but she had $40,000 worth of Manolos and Jimmy Choos in her closet. Ouch. My current favorite shoes are a pair of knockoff Keens that came from Payless about two years ago, and cost $25. They’re fabulously comfy, I wear them almost every day, and they’re still going strong after two years. I buy a new pair of running shoes about once a year, and usually spend about $75 – $100. I gave up on heels years ago, and I’m all about comfort when it comes to my feet. Running is hard enough on them, without trying to squeeze them into pointy toed shoes.
Drinking only water, avoiding the drive thru, and eating slowly are some other great tips – not only do they save money, but they’re a lot better for our health than the alternatives.
April says
But heels are more fun! :) I have been trying to wear flats more often, but I’m too much of a girl to ever give up heels completely.
Mrs. Accountability says
I tried laying out in the sun once as a teenager and once in my twenties – even though I’m olive complected and tan easily without burning, I HATE laying in the sun. Maybe in some states it is enjoyable, but I only ever tried it during the Arizona summer. I have rarely worn heels until I discovered Aerosoles – I found a fashionable black pair with a thick heel for $20. I can actually wear them without my feet hurting. It helps to have a pair of heels that are sensible for office meetings. I’m not a “shoe person” either.
Save Gas says
nice.
Shanti @ Antishay says
HAHAAH – I know this is a month old but I have to put it in my roundup tomorrow. I absolutely LOVE heels and wear almost nothing else. I used to shop at Payless and the heels would fall apart every few months and I’d just have to buy new ones. I started shopping for shoes at Nordstrom a few years ago and it was the nest decision I ever made. I have heels for every outfit now (I couldn’t just wear the same pair every day!!) and they’re all still in excellent condition. I think the frugality could be shown from both ends. High-quality leather shoes that are taken care of (I maintain my shoes every season – repairing little problems and tending to the leather) can last a lifetime ;)