Author: CFW Team

7 Ways to Save Money as a Family

Do you share your financial goals with your family? If the whole family knows and understands what the goals are and why, they’re likely to want to help. Here are 7 tips to save money as a family to help achieve your financial goals together:

1️⃣ Create a budget

Sit down as a family and create a budget that outlines your income, expenses, and savings goals. This will help you stay organized and track where your money is going.

2️⃣ Meal planning

Plan your meals for the week in advance to avoid eating out or ordering takeout frequently. This will not only save you money but also promote healthier eating habits while you save money as a family.

3️⃣ Shop smart

Before heading to the grocery store, make a list and stick to it. Avoid impulse purchases and take advantage of sales or discounts. Consider buying in bulk for frequently used items.

4️⃣ Save on utilities

Teach your kids the importance of conserving energy by turning off lights when not in use, using energy-efficient appliances, and setting the thermostat responsibly. You’ll see savings on your utility bills.

5️⃣ Encourage second-hand shopping

Thrift stores, consignment shops, and online platforms provide great options for purchasing pre-loved clothing, furniture, toys, and more at a fraction of the cost. It’s an eco-friendly choice too!

6️⃣ Cut unnecessary subscriptions

Evaluate your subscription services and cancel those you no longer use or need. This can include streaming services, magazines, or gym memberships.

7️⃣ DIY fun

Instead of spending money on expensive outings, find free or low-cost activities that the whole family can enjoy together. You can have a picnic in the park, go for a hike, or have a movie night at home.

Remember, it’s a team effort to save money as a family. By adopting these habits and being mindful of your spending, you’ll be building a strong financial foundation for your family’s future.

Why an Abundance Mindset Matters

Have you ever felt limited by your financial situation or struggled with money? Trust us, we’ve all been there! But what if we told you there’s a way to change that by changing your mindset to an Abundance Mindset?

An abundance mindset is a perspective that focuses on opportunities, prosperity, and the belief that there is limitless abundance in the world. It’s all about shifting our thinking from scarcity to abundance, from lack to plenty.

So why should you develop an this type of mindset? Here are some incredible benefits, especially for those currently facing financial struggles:

Increased opportunities

When you believe in abundance, you start noticing countless opportunities that were previously invisible to you. Suddenly, your mind becomes open to new ideas, possibilities, and solutions to improve your financial situation.

Attracting wealth

As they say, “like attracts like.” When you have an abundant mindset, you emit positive energy that attracts abundance. You become more receptive to abundance, and it naturally flows into your life.

Positive mindset

Developing an abundance mindset helps shift your focus away from lack and scarcity. Instead, it fosters gratitude and appreciation for what you already have. This positive mindset has a ripple effect, leading to increased happiness, contentment, and overall well-being.

Embracing abundance in all areas

An abundance mindset isn’t just about money and finances; it’s about embracing abundance in all aspects of life. You start recognizing the abundance of love, relationships, opportunities, health, and personal growth. It allows you to lead a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Overcoming fears and limitations

Struggling with money often brings along fears and limitations. Developing an abundance mindset helps you overcome these barriers by cultivating a belief that there is more than enough to go around. It encourages you to take risks, step out of your comfort zone, and seize opportunities that can significantly improve your financial situation.

Remember, changing your mindset is a journey that requires consistent effort and practice. Start by practicing gratitude, reframing your thoughts from scarcity to abundance, and surrounding yourself with positive and supportive influences.

With an abundance mindset, you can break free from financial struggles and open yourself up to limitless possibilities. Believe in the abundance that surrounds you and watch as your financial situation transforms for the better!

**Be sure to follow us on Facebook & Instagram for more tips, ideas and strategies!

Saving for the Holidays – Why not start now?

🎄🎅 It’s never too early to start saving for the holidays! Here’s why and how you can get a head start this September:

Avoid the holiday rush

By starting early, you won’t have to scramble for gifts, decorations, and party essentials in December. You’ll have plenty of time to plan and shop without the stress and pressure of last-minute shopping.

Break it down

Determine your budget for Christmas, including gifts, holiday activities, and travel expenses if applicable. Divide that amount by the number of months until December, and save a portion each month to meet your goal. It’s much less daunting to save a little each month than scramble for a lump sum later.

Take advantage of sales:

Keep an eye out for sales and discounts throughout the year. September is a great time to find deals on summer clearance items that can be repurposed or saved for Christmas presents. Take advantage of sales and promotions to stretch your budget even further.

DIY for the win

Consider making homemade gifts or decorations. Not only is it a more personal touch, but it can also save you money. Start gathering materials early, so you have plenty of time to create heartfelt and budget-friendly gifts.

Set up a separate savings account

Open a separate savings account specifically for Christmas expenses. Set up automatic transfers from your regular account to ensure you’re consistently saving without having to think about it.

Cut unnecessary expenses

Take a look at your monthly spending habits and see if there are any areas you can cut back on to save more money for Christmas. It could be skipping that afternoon coffee run or reducing eating out to once a week.

Get creative with celebrations

Plan budget-friendly activities and traditions that prioritize quality time over extravagant spending. Host a potluck dinner, start a family game night tradition, or organize a holiday movie marathon.

By starting to save for Christmas now, you’ll avoid the financial stress that often accompanies the holiday season. Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy the festivities knowing you’ve already prepared.

Stock Your Dorm Room for Less

College itself is expensive. There’s no need to spend a fortune on supplies for your dorm room! Here are some tips to stretch your budget and still have an incredibly comfortable space:

1️⃣ Coordinate with your Roommate

Connect with your future roomie and determine what items you can share to cut costs. Splitting the bill on bigger items such as mini-fridges, microwaves, or even TVs will help both of your pockets!

2️⃣ Secondhand Success

Check out local garage sales, consignment stores, or online marketplaces for affordable dorm essentials. Often, you can find gently used items like lamps, rugs, and storage containers at a fraction of the cost. Your wallet will thank you.

3️⃣ Think Minimalistic

Don’t go overboard with unnecessary shopping. Focus on the essentials first: bedding, towels, toiletries, storage containers, a fan, etc. This way, you’ll avoid overspending on items that won’t be useful in your dorm room.

4️⃣ Thrift in Style

Instead of buying brand new decor, give thrift stores a shot. They often have unique treasures to add a personal touch to your room while saving you some dough. Vintage posters, funky frames, or quirky items can make your space stand out without breaking the bank!

5️⃣ DIY Dorm Vibes

Embrace your creative side and make some of your own decor. Create string lights with photos of friends and family, or paint your own canvas art. You’ll save money and have one-of-a-kind decor that reflects your personality.

6️⃣ Get Together to Buy in Bulk:

When going shopping for supplies like notebooks, pens, paper towels, and snacks, grab a couple friends and make a Costco run! Warehouse stores can save you money and time. Just think, you’ll only have to buy notebooks and pens once or twice a year.

7️⃣ Don’t Forget about Online Deals

Check out websites like Amazon, Walmart, and Target for back-to-school discounts. They often have special offers on dorm essentials. Sign up for newsletters or follow their social media pages to stay up-to-date on the latest deals and steals!

Remember, being responsible with your spending will help you in the long run. By implementing these money-saving tips, you can build a cozy and budget-friendly dorm room that feels like home.

If you’re looking to get an ‘A’ in budgeting, you can start here.

How the Debt Free stay Debt Free

People who don’t owe a penny to anyone tend to stick to similar practices to remain debt free. These habits can be instrumental in managing finances responsibly. If you are looking to eliminate debt, consider adopting some of these same habits.

They control their spending.

People who stay debt free know where their money is going each month. Because they track income and expenses regularly and have a budget, they know when they can spend and when they can’t. They are able to resist impulse purchases because they focus on their long-term financial goals.

They save what they can consistently.

Whether they can save a lot or a little, individuals with no debt save what they can. Saving a little bit consistently can add up to a lot. Automating savings is helpful. Most bank websites and apps give you the ability to schedule regular transfers to a savings account.

They leave a little wiggle room.

People who remain free of debt develop a budget that can be flexible. Maybe they want to have a celebratory dinner out but don’t have money in their food budget for that. They can decide to take that money from somewhere else in their budget. Perhaps they don’t buy any clothing that month or maybe they move money from their entertainment budget. A ‘Miscellaneous’ category in your budget is a great way to have some flexibility.

When an emergency arises, they are prepared.

If their car breaks down or a medical expense shows up, debt free folks are ready for it. They have an emergency fund that is never touched except in an emergency when there is no room in their budget to cover an unexpected expense. A good way not to be tempted by money in the bank is to open a separate savings account exclusively for an emergency fund.

They budget and track finances regularly.

By keeping track of their expenses regularly (sometimes even daily), those who are debt free stay on top of where their money is, what they have available to spend, and what expenses are coming up. Being in the habit of tracking expenses and budgeting is a key feature in becoming debt free, and it will help people remain debt free in the long run.

Those who are free of debt consistently look for ways to manage their money, and they stay disciplined. Sticking to budgets, saving some money each month, and planning for emergencies are just a few of the habits that can help you join the ranks of the debt free!

25 Ways to Save Money

Want to be in a better financial position? Want to save money, but don’t know where to start? Here are 25 simple ways you can start to save money today.

Create a budget, track it daily and stick to it
Spend Cash only, don’t use credit or debit cards
Use the library or library app instead of buying books
Cook your meals at home
If you don’t know how to cook, learn from a friend or find easy recipes online
Pack your lunch
Keep snacks in your desk drawer instead of visiting the vending machine
Buy a travel mug and make your own coffee at home
Visit yard sales
Shop at thrift stores
Shop your auto / home insurance around for a better deal
Automate your savings
Use a grocery list and stick to it
Plan meals ahead of time
Plant a garden
Sell your clutter online or have a yard sale
Use coupons – some stores have online coupons if you use their apps
Get rid of expensive cable TV
Have a family movie night-in rather than going to the theater
Plan ahead and holiday shop early
If you get an increase in salary, put the extra into savings
Save loose change in one spot
Get rid of your gym membership and work out at home to online videos
Check your bank account daily and avoid overdraft fees
Remove the overdraft option from your checking account altogether

Managing money and achieving financial security may seem like an obstacle course. But the rewards of successful savings makes it worth it. With these 25 money-saving tips in mind, you’ll be better-equipped to make progress on your financial journey. All it takes is a plan, dedication, and the knowledge to make it work. With these suggestions in your back pocket, you can make sure your savings goals are met.

Clean Your House for Less

Cleaning your home is a necessity, but sometimes the expense associated with cleaning supplies can add up quickly. Thankfully, there are a few simple ways to save money on taking care of your home, without sacrificing results. Read on to find out the best tips to help you keep your home and laundry clean while also keeping more money in your wallet.

Make your own Laundry Soap

Look online for simple recipes with fewer than 5 ingredients. Often, you’ll only need to buy the ingredients 2 or 3 times per year!

No need for Fabric Softener

Purchase wool dryer balls. They’ll last a long time and cut down on drying time (saving energy & money!). Or search online for easy recipes based on vinegar or hair conditioner.

Homemade Cleaning Products

Cleaning products, especially brand name ones can be expensive. Make your own at home using simple ingredients. Bonus, they can be less toxic and more environmentally friendly!

Stop Buying Disposables

No need to buy disposable cleaning wipes or pads. Purchase reusable fabric pads online instead of Swiffer. Buy washable microfiber cloths instead of wipes. (Just remember to only launder microfiber with microfiber, never any other fabric.)

No More Paper Towels

It is easy to use a lot of paper towels. But you don’t need to. Go to yard sales or thrift stores and purchase a bunch (think 20 – 30) old washcloths (or microfiber cloths). Keep a stack of them in the kitchen and in the bathroom for cleaning and wiping up spills. Throw them in the laundry and use the over and over.

The magic of Vinegar & Baking Soda

Not together, of course! There was a time before brand name scientifically created cleaning products were around. Baking Soda and Vinegar were staple cleaning supplies. Check out this article with 45 ways to use Baking Soda to clean around the house. From clearing clogged pipes to cleaning your coffee maker, this article shares numerous ways to clean with Vinegar.

Keeping a clean home doesn’t have to break the bank. Armed with these helpful tips to save money on cleaning supplies, you’ll be able to keep your house and clothing clean without having to pay full price. There are plenty of methods to explore. With a little bit of research and time, you can make the cleaning process a lot easier on your bank account.

6 Creative Ways to Make Extra Money This Summer

Summertime is the perfect time to make some extra money. Whether you’re looking to save up for a big purchase or just need a little extra help paying bills, there are plenty of creative ways to make some cash. Here are five money-making ideas to get you on your way:

Become a Virtual Assistant.

Virtual assistants provide services like answering emails, scheduling appointments, and organizing data. With the rise of remote work, there are plenty of opportunities to pick up some extra cash doing these tasks. You don’t need any special skills, just a reliable internet connection and a few hours of free time.

Sell Crafts Online.

If you’re crafty or have an eye for design, you can make money selling crafts online. You can create custom jewelry, clothes, or decorations and sell them on sites like Etsy or eBay. You don’t need a lot of money to get started, just a creative eye and some supplies.

Tutor Students.

If you have a degree or expertise in a certain subject, you can tutor students online. There are plenty of sites that offer tutoring services and you can set your own rates. Plus, you can get the satisfaction of helping someone learn a new skill.

Become a Pet Sitter.

Taking care of someone’s pet can be a great way to make extra money. You don’t need any special skills, just a love for animals and a few hours of free time. You can offer to walk and feed pets, or just provide companionship for when their owners are away.

Deliver Food.

With the rise of food delivery apps like Uber Eats and DoorDash, there are plenty of opportunities to make money delivering food. All you need is a reliable vehicle and some free time. The pay is usually pretty good and you can make extra money while you explore your city.

Rent out your space.

If you have an extra room in your house, consider renting it out to travelers on short-term stays. You can even rent out your driveway or garage to people who need storage space.

Offer Lessons

Take stock of the skills you have and see if you can offer lessons. This could be anything from knitting to baking to auto maintenance or singing lessons. You probably have talents and skills that others would love to have and will pay to learn.

It doesn’t have to be difficult to make extra money. With a little creativity, you can find plenty of ways to make some extra cash this summer. Whether you’re looking to make a few extra dollars or looking to save up for something more substantial, these ideas are a great place to start. So, get out there and start making some money!

Check out this blog on saving money this summer, too! For more tips, follow us on Instagram and Facebook for great articles, tips, and strategies to better manage your money.

5 Steps to Building Better Credit

When it comes to taking control of your financial life, building better credit is a great place to start. Good credit can open up a lot of doors, from better access to loans to lower interest rates on mortgages and car loans. Plus, it’s a huge benefit if you’re looking to rent an apartment.

But the truth is, building good credit isn’t always easy. That’s why we’ve put together five steps to help you get started on a better path.

1. Check Your Credit Report

The first step to taking control is to check your credit report. You can get a free version of your report from each of the three major credit bureaus – Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion – once a year. Checking your report gives you the opportunity to make sure everything is accurate, and to identify and address any discrepancies.

2. Pay Your Bills on Time

Paying your bills on time is one of the most important aspects of building good credit. It’s essential that you make all of your payments on time, as any late payments can significantly impact your credit score. Set up reminders or automatic payments for your bills to make sure you always pay on time. A budget will help you reach your goals.

3. Reduce Your Debt

Reducing your debt is one of the best ways to improve your score. Consider using the snowball or avalanche methods to pay off your debt: start with the debt with the smallest balance or the highest interest rate, and work your way up from there. If you’re able to pay more than the minimum payments on your debt, do so — it’ll help you pay it off faster and improve your credit score.

4. Don’t Close Unused Accounts

It may be tempting to close unused credit cards, but it’s important to think before you do. Closing an account will reduce your total available credit, which could have a negative impact on your credit score. Unless you’re paying an annual fee or the card has a high interest rate, it’s best to keep it open and simply not use it.

5. Get a Secured Credit Card

If you’re just starting out and don’t have any credit history, a secured credit card can be a great way to start building your credit. They require a cash deposit that acts as collateral against any charges you make. As long as you make your payments on time and stay within your limit, your credit score will start to improve.

two people working on their budget at a computer

Building better credit isn’t always easy, but with a little bit of effort and dedication, it can be done. By following these five steps, you’ll be on your way to taking control of your financial life.

10 Creative Ways to Save Money on a Tight Budget

When it comes to saving money, it can seem like an impossible task when you’re on a tight budget. But it doesn’t have to be! With a little creativity, you can find ways to save money without feeling deprived. Here are 10 creative ways to save money on a tight budget.

1. Make a budget and stick to it.

This might seem obvious, but it’s one of the best ways to save money. Once you have a budget in place, it will be easier to track your spending and stay on track with your savings goals.

2. Plan ahead for meals.

Meal planning is one of the best ways to save money on groceries. When you plan ahead and shop with a list, you’ll be less likely to make impulse purchases, which can add up quickly. Check out this article for tips on how to grocery shop on a budget or click here to find a nearby farmers market.

3. Shop second-hand.

You can find great deals on clothing, furniture, and even appliances by shopping second-hand. Thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces like Craigslist and eBay are all great options for finding great deals.

4. Use coupons and discounts.

Coupons and discounts can help you save money on items you were planning to buy anyway. Look for coupons in the newspaper, online, and in store circulars.

5. Cancel unnecessary subscriptions and services.

If you’re on a tight budget, you may want to consider canceling any services or subscriptions that you don’t really need. This can include gym memberships, streaming services, and magazine subscriptions.

6. Cut back on entertainment costs.

Going out to the movies or to a restaurant can get expensive. Instead, look for free or low-cost entertainment options, like seeing a free movie in the park or having a picnic.

7. Take on a side-hustle.

If you have extra time, consider taking on a side-hustle. You can make money by doing things like freelancing, babysitting, dog walking, or even selling items on eBay or Etsy.

8. Reduce energy costs.

To save money on energy bills, turn off lights and electronics when you’re not using them and make sure your home is properly insulated. You can also look into getting a programmable thermostat to help you save even more.

9. Make your own gifts.

Instead of buying gifts for special occasions, try making your own. Homemade gifts are unique and thoughtful, and they can save you money in the long run.

10. Look for free or activities.

There are plenty of activities you can do that don’t cost a thing. Take a walk in the park, go to a free museum, or have a picnic in the backyard. Click here for more ideas.

Saving money on a tight budget can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! With a little creativity, you can find ways to save money without feeling deprived. Try these tips and see how much you can save.

And for those times when Life Happens, we’ve got you covered.