These three simple ways to save will help you to save hundreds if not thousands of dollars a year. But spending less is about so much more than just saving money – living well on less is so positive on many levels. From a permaculture perspective it also supports the 3 core ethics of earth care, people care & fair share.

By spending less, I can work less. With my spare time, I get to hang out with my family more in the garden, and even have the opportunity to homeschool them.

Spending less, amongst other things, means:

1. we use/have less stuff
2. we save energy
3. we create less waste 
4. we create less pollution
5. we save money for important things and the good stuff
6. we share and exchange things more
7. we are encouraged to repair, reuse and up-cycle things.  
8. we have less stuff to clean and put away 
9. we could work fewer hours and have more time to pursue ‘passion-projects’.
10. we get to spend more time with family, friends and community

The ‘pots and pans’ drum kit is just perfect, and far more robust than the plastic drum kits for little kids.

So here’s the 3 simple ways to save money….

1. Use CASH – studies have shown that you spend at least more than 20% more if you use plastic.
2. Go shopping with a LIST – and try to stick to it – have a standing list of basics.
3. Create a BUDGET for weekly spending – and try to stick to this too.

7 Questions to Ask:

Seems too simple, bit if you stick to it you will be amazed what a difference it makes. Also, you may like to try asking these questions before buying something:

1. Do I actually need this (or is it just a ‘want’)?
2. Is there a better way I could be spending this money?
3. Is there something growing locally, in my garden?
4. Could I make this? 
5. Do I have an old one I can mend? 
6. Could I get it second hand?
7. Can I share buying this with others, borrow it from a friend, (or join a tool library, for example)?

I go shopping for my basic weekly supplies at my local organic coop store and buy bulk foods in recyclable and reusable packaging. I love this store and often bump into friends.

Voluntary simplicity, also known sometimes as downshifting, cultivates a level of resilience and abundance thinking. It also helps us to keep in mind the really important things in life and spend more time doing the things we love.

Growing food at home or in community gardens is a great way to save on the food bill.