Have Fun and Save

When it comes to building savings there's a common misconception that the good times are over. Like dieters jumping in feet first, those getting a first taste of budgeting may be tempted to completely derail their old life. Yet just like crash dieters, a feeling of deprivation, then resentment and a backslide may soon follow. For the budget-conscious that could mean an expensive night on the town or lovely and completely unnecessary shoes that cost a week's wages. Saving money is an important goal—one that isn't really as linear or painful as many might think. There are plenty of ways to save money, and many are actually fun.

Favorite shows are great ways to mentally escape for a bit, but more productive people watch less television. When using that time and energy towards other ventures, there will be no stopping you. From a financial standpoint, the BBC charges approximately £95.52 per year for a TV licence in order to watch shows as they're being broadcast live. Consider sticking to DVDs and nixing the expensive channels by sticking to pay-per-view for special program. If you simply must keep the deluxe package at least try to get a deal combining internet and phone services, too.

Modern conveniences like a washer and dryer are lovely things to have, particularly when pressed for time. Yet both can wreak havoc on the monthly household budget. Consider external funding from paydayloan.org.uk to furnish necessities.  As technology advances it's very easy to think everyday gadgets are things that simply can't be lived without. Yet if weather and space allow, consider letting the wash air-dry. You'll not only save money, your clothes will smell like childhood and sunshine.

Walking is a great way to feel good, save money, and be kind to the environment. In addition to saving petrol or transportation costs, a brisk walk is a great way to think through situations—or best yet, let your mind feel free to think of nothing at all. Healthwise, walking can help lower blood pressure and tone the body. On the financial front increased physical activity could mean fewer costly illnesses and injuries later in life. Plus it's a great way to become more familiar with one's neighborhood.

Pets need exercise, too. So to help keep Fido fit, work to maintain a healthy weight by monitoring diet and playing vigorously on a daily basis, if health allows. It's not only a great way to get the heart-rate going for both you and your dog, it's a time to treasure whilst you're still both young enough to enjoy it. Fit dogs are less likely to fall prey to costly and sometimes deadly issues such as hip displacement, heart troubles and cancer. Subsequently, surgeries and medications may be needed, which would not only be terribly worrisome but also financially prohibitive. So do you and your dog a favor, get out and play!

Sometimes this is much easier said than done. Yet those who genuinely love their job often see work as play. Whether it's a fun job or one that feels valid and important, different factors can contribute to loving a gig. When it really matters, time slips away and though the work may still be challenging it still seems worthwhile. Far more than a paycheck, it's an integral part of your life. When you can find such work or harness such an attitude, the sky's the limit for how far you can go. And loving work quite simply means more money in the bank. Note to employers: Happy workers are more productive and much more inclined to give more without prompting simply because they feel they and their work are valued. A happy crew will be less likely to call in sick, quit without notice or steal from the company. Treating employees well can positively impact company coffers, too.  See, the changes needed to improve one's savings don't have to be that drastic. Little changes can have far-reaching impact. What's more, the little changes can also be great fun.