The $avvy Girl's Guide to Saving
by Susan Johnston
When you’ve just earned $30 from baby-sitting or scored some birthday money, it’s tempting to splurge on a cute top or a couple of DVDs. I know this feeling well, because when I started working in the mall food court during high school, I worked enough hours to rack up a decent pile of cash. But by the end of the summer, all I had to show for my labors were some new shirts from The Gap, a stack of CDs and a stomachache from eating too many Cinnabons.
Now that I’m supporting myself, I’ve realized the importance of setting aside a little money each week to save for something bigger. You can do this, too. Just think how you’ll be able to afford a new computer or a really nice gift for Grandma someday. Here’s how to get the most out of your money:
• Host a clothing swap before hitting the mall. Gather a few of your girlfriends and trade clothes. You might be sick of wearing that periwinkle sweater to church, but it could look great on your best friend. A clothing swap can be a fun get-together with the girls when you add snacks and music.
• Dress up a party outfit by buying new accessories instead of a whole new wardrobe. If you must get a new look, then it’s cheaper to get a cool pair of earrings or a new headband instead of a brand-new outfit.
• Get movies from the library instead of from Blockbuster. Did you realize that your local library has hundreds of movies you can check out?
• Subscribe to your favorite magazines and swap with your friends after you’ve read them. Newsstand prices for magazines can get pretty pricey, so it’s smart to share with friends. I used to save magazine pictures and use them to decorate my locker and three-ring binders.
• Support an important cause. Of course, money isn’t just for buying the latest clothes and music. It can also help people in your backyard and beyond. The satisfaction you’ll get from donating to a children’s hospital or to an animal shelter will last longer than the temporary feeling you get from buying a new T-shirt or CD. Donating to a cause you believe in is generally a savvy decision.
This article appeared in
Brio & Beyond
magazine in February 2008. Copyright © 2008 Focus on the Family. All rights reserved. International copyright secured.Hey, we'd love to have some feedback from you! If you've got a comment about this article, send it to Brio@briomag.com. Please include your name, age, mailing address and the title of this article.
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