Simple living is a mindset that focuses on being intentional about where your money and energy go. It’s about stripping away the unnecessary so you can concentrate on what genuinely matters.
This lifestyle brings to the forefront the idea that less can actually be more, guiding us towards a life with more fulfillment and fewer distractions. And..when you simplify, expenses naturally drop.
I wanted to share the ways I save money- which also naturally leads me to living a more simple life. Some may look at this list and wonder if I have a life at all! haha. I definitely do- spending time with my kids, getting exercise in the outdoors, and my photography business keeps me very fulfilled.
I cut my own hair: The last time I went to a hair dresser the gal cut way too much off. Right then and there I decided to cut my own hair from now on. I watch youtube videos. I think I did a pretty good job last time. My daughter even asked me if I had my hair cut or if I went to a hair dresser. Oh- and I do not dye, perm or put highlights in my hair either. Approximate Annual Savings: ~$500
No TV/Or Cable: Occasionally – I will watch Hallmark movies on my Laptop. I do have Amazon prime which movies are included. I save on shipping of course with Amazon Prime! Approximate Annual Savings: ~$1,200–$1,440
Don’t have a Gym Membership: The great outdoors is my gym! I can run, walk, hike, mountain bike, and do park circuits in any outdoor environment. Not needing to drive to a gym just to work out saves SO MUCH TIME! Approximate Annual Savings: ~$480–$720
I do not go to the movies: I don’t enjoy movies anymore- they are loud and I just don’t think they are making any good ones lately.. I know- major buzz kill here. There are a lot of people that do enjoy going to the movies. I used to. Approximate Annual Savings: $100–$200 (assuming 8–16 visits)
I stay healthy: By eating right and working out, I have zero health issues. With living in AZ- the one time I go in every year is to get a skin check up by a dermatologist. Other than this- I don’t go to Doctors. Approximate Annual Savings: ~$400–$1,500 per person (depending on the frequency of visits and whether the visits are for primary care or specialists)
I do not go to the mall: I don’t value spending money- I value saving it. Money disappears quickly with mall visits. So many shiny objects and beautiful things- too tempting so I stay away completely. I am overhauling my closet to move towards a capsule wardrobe so when I need a new shirt, etc. I will go into a store specifically for that item. I would order online- but I don’t have a lot of luck with shirts that I can’t try on first. Approximate Annual Savings: ~$1,000–$2,500
I make all my meals: I used to eat out at restaurants at least 1-2 times a week. When I tallied up how much I was spending, my jaw dropped. Since making all of my own meals, I have really loved to learn cooking and I’m eating healthier. I also know exactly what is going into the food I’m eating. Approximate Annual Savings: ~$3,000–$4,500
I do not buy fancy coffees: The price of even a black cup of coffee is what the price of lunch used to be.. I literally cannot do it anymore. I did invest in a Moka Pot- and bought Espresso so I could be fancy at home. 🙂 Approximate Annual Savings: ~$600–$1,500 ( 2–5 cups per week
Total Estimated Annual Savings: ~$6,580–$11,860
These are areas of my life that I have been able to simplify and save money. I am always looking at new ways to achieve more with less. I’m very easy going and laid back about not having a lot of stuff. Makes life so much easier. I am truly happy with my lifestyle. If you are looking to save money and simplify your life- I hope this gave you some ideas. And that it is possible!