subject: What Are The Five Expenses People Refuse To Sacrifice? [print this page] Our team has conducted research and uncovered what the five things are that Americans are being stubborn about giving up in order to save money. If you are wanting to build a rainy day savings account or are in debt and have not yet found a way to cut out one or more of the following expenses, it's time for a gut check. Sacrifices are temporary. Do what you must do to free up cash to pay down or avoid more debt and create that savings cushion. Scour the hundreds of money saving articles available to help you with ideas to avoid empty pockets.
Internet Connection 56%
Dial up service was only $10 per month but now we all need a high speed connection which is much more money. There are options to access the internet without absorbing the monthly bill yourself. Check out the free internet options available at coffee shops, libraries, and wi-fi hot spots.
Driving 46%
Eliminating driving altogether is impossible for some people, especially if you live in a rural area. However we can all be smarter about planning ahead before we drive. If you can eliminate a few trips during the week you will save gas money and more wear and tear on the vehicle. For example, simple errands like the post office, bank, dry cleaner and grocery store can be strung together so you accomplish more things while you are out. Do you just need a gallon of milk? Try walking to the nearest store if possible (seems like there's a drug store on every corner these days.)
Mobile Devices 42%
This one is hard to understand. No one really needs a personal mobile phone. It's a luxury. People are paying anywhere from $30 to $130 per month depending on texting and data plans. Even if you make this sacrifice for 12 months, you can save that money for your rainy day fund. Keep a close eye on your talk minutes, maybe you can drop to a less expensive monthly plan.
Cable TV 27%
I don't know about you, but Comcast recently raised my cable bill again. Looking at the bill, I see several areas in which I can cut back. For example, I'm working so many hours these days, I'm not getting to see many movies so I could cut out the $30 movie package without ever missing it. I can always add it back later.
Going Out To Eat 11%
Check out some easy to follow, low cost recipes at your favorite stores, television food shows or online coupon sites. If you are the one in ten folks that still refuses to sacrifice eating at restaurants in order to make ends meet, it's time you learned how to cook some basic meals for yourself. You will be amazed at how much money you save.
