Day 7 – Ask for what you want: Don’t hesitate to ask for a favor, such as a loan for a new business you’d like to start, a discount for car repairs, or for delivery charges to be waived on an appliance. Know that if you ask for a financial favor that’s reasonable, you might just get the help you’d like.
Day 8 – Investigate your insurance: Understand that it’s good stewardship to review your needs for health, life, auto, home and other types of insurance to protect yourself and your loved ones. Buy appropriate policies to meet your needs.
Day 9 – Let go of a luxury: Limit some of your indulgences for a season. Stop spending money – for now – on extras such as eating out, getting manicures, or buying CDs.
Day 10 – Cease comparing: Don’t buy anything out of pressure to keep up with what other people have or maintain a certain image. Decide that you’ll only buy what you can afford – and no more.
Day 11 – Clear the clutter: Eliminate clutter from your home so you’ll know where your financial records are, can locate your bills to pay them on time, and won’t waste any money on duplicate purchases of items you’ve lost in the mess.
Day 12 – Maximize your minutes: Make the most of your time, because – like money – once you spend time, it’s gone. Keep track of how you spend your time for a few days, then think and pray about how you can use your time better. Every day, write a prioritized to-do list.
Day 13 – Spend smart: Don’t fall for the myth that you have to buy everything new. Consider used cars and previously worn clothes. Stick to the basics when you shop. Be creative about saving money on entertainment, such as by volunteering to serve as an usher to get into events for free.
Day 14 – Do-it-yourself: Rather than paying for other people’s services, decide to do what you need yourself. Learn how to do your own domestic chores and repairs, and groom yourself rather than visiting a stylist.
Day 15 – Eat economically: Avoid unnecessary trips to the grocery store by making a list when you do visit. Buy and cook in bulk when it makes sense to do so. Clip and use grocery coupons, and don’t go to the store hungry. In restaurants, split a meal with your spouse or child whenever possible; and skip drinks, appetizers, and desserts; and take home uneaten food to eat later.
Day 16 – Restructure your recreation: Think of low-cost alternatives to expensive pastimes. For example, instead of playing pricey sports such as golf or skiing, go on a hike, swim, or ride a bike. And rather than going to a movie theater, rent a DVD (or check one out of the library for free) and make your own popcorn in your microwave to enjoy while watching the film.
