Saving $ in 2014

Thursdays in January are devoted to saving some money in 2014.  This week we're looking at the grocery store.

Who has been guilty of saying this:  "I can think of ten other places I'd rather spend this money" (this = grocery).

Me.

And I can think of a ton of other places to slide that $45 I spend on groceries a week.  Yes, I spend $45 on average.  I don't really clip coupons (used to) I just try to shop smart.

Another thing:  Anyone can benefit from smart grocery shopping... whether you make 1K a year or 1M a year.  Saving money is key if you want a decent vacation in July.

Just throwing that out there.

Saving money when it comes to grocery shopping requires some basic skills:

1.  Taking inventory of what you have at home

2.  Deciding what you will be making for the week

3.  Creating a list to shop from

4.  Willpower

5.  Shopping in the correct store

1.  Take inventory of what you have at home.

Why do you think you need Cheerios when you have three unopened boxes in your cupboard already?  Is this end of the world stockpiling?  

If you will take a few minutes and actually go through your cabinets, freezer, and fridge you'll end up saving some cash.  It could be $3 or it could be a whole trip that week.

Write down what you have and keep up with that list each week.

Seriously, there is no point in having 26 cans of corn.  Freakin' hoarder.

2.  Decide on what you will be making for the week.

This is where you can get on your Pinterest kick and find some cool recipes to try or retry for the week.  I suggest you make four meals because we are human and we will inevitably get a pizza or Chinese take out or Mickey Wendy's.  

Find at least four recipes, print them, pin them, whatever you do and then compare what you need to what you already have.  

But put items on your list, blank paper serves no real purpose, just like that ugly sweater!

3. Create a list to shop from

When you make your list be smart.  Don't forget to add on if you need laundry detergent, aluminum foil, batteries, or a pint of Ben & Jerry's.  That list is going to be the ransom to get you out of the gro sto alive.

Here's the secret to a successful list:  You do not add to it once you walk in the store.  Once you hit those automatic doors you are no longer allowed to add to your list.  Yeah that means you better take account of it before you open your automobile door honey pie.

Here's my favorite printable for making my list:  Eat At Home Cooks  

Stick to the damn list.  Do not waiver but if you feel temptation....

Skippy that one honey.

4. Willpower

 Sure, you're bound to see something you want when you go in the store that isn't on the list.  If you really want to save some cash you'll not fall for the temptation.  However, you can always give yourself a $3 window.  If it is $3 or below you're allowed to get that ONE item.

The other night I was shopping and had my list in hand.  I was doing GREAT! Then I spied Starbucks coffee for $2.50.  I am not lying.  It was $2.50 for a bag of Holiday coffee from Starbucks.  What did I do?  I bought a bag since it was under $3.  

You have to keep yourself in check though.  I say keep the $3 rule so you aren't buying a $30 swordfish on a whim.

The whole purpose of a mega box store is to entice you in with deliciousness and "good" prices.  However, if you let your taste buds and wow factor rule you you will remain a broke bia (rhymes with Kia).

Do not grocery shop when you are hungry....that will screw your list and waistline all to hell.

Stick to the list not your gut's begging!

I don't see socks or panties at the end of this aisle!  Woo hoo!

5.  Shopping in the correct store

Walmart is not a place to grocery shop.  Target is not a place to grocery shop.  The convenience store is not a place to grocery shop.

Here's the deal big box stores swear they save you money on groceries.  They market it so you think you do save money.  In reality YES you can save some money on food stuff in those stores HOWEVER they aren't just selling you food in there.  Those stores are set up to getcha.  They are set up to entice you into buying things that you do not need.  They sale clothing, toys, sporting goods, housewares, beach supplies, shoes, crafting crap, automotive supplies, planters, games, underwear, socks, bras, athletic cups, books, filing cabinets, ottomans, etc.

This is where they up their bottom line and decrease yours.

(The convenience store is just not a good place to purchase your weekly groceries unless you are feigning for some diabetes, heart disease, and a possible nutrition induced stroke. Moving along....)

When you grocery shop go to a grocery store.  Steer clear of the Mega Mart which may save you 14 cents on a can of beans but will have you spending $6.88 on something you did not need in the first place.  Last I checked that doesn't equal out to smart.

Hope this helps ya!