5 Worst New Year’s Resolutions Investments!
New Year’s resolutions: everyone makes them, and generally by the end of January they’ve gone by the wayside. Not only do you end up investing a lot of time into them, but oftentimes you put in a lot of money as well. It all adds up to one big financial waste. If you’re gearing up to lose weight, get out more or even start getting fit in 2014, there are always cheaper ways than the obvious to achieve it.
Money Saving Do’s & Don’ts
Even though you may be making great choices for your New Year’s resolutions, you may be finding expensive ways of achieving them. Investing your money into anything where you don’t see maximum return is a waste, so be sure to set measurable goals against your outlay to ensure you’re getting your money’s worth. For example, if you’re spending $50 a month on the gym and only going once a week, that’s a cost of $12.50 per visit, and not very economical. Switch that to visiting 4 times a week, and the cost drops to $3.13 per visit – still expensive, but much more reasonable.
The Resolution: Lose weight with a diet
Dieting is probably one of the top New Year’s resolutions for many people every year. After the holiday season, people are feeling a little portly so it’s easy to see why. Instead of opting for expensive shakes, diet pills or powders, focus on eating healthy food instead. Aim for fruits, veggies, pulses and whole grains as most of your diet. By eating in season and also using the frozen section, you can have all kinds of bargains and still eat exceptionally well.
The Resolution: Get in shape
Gyms are expensive, particularly in January when they know everyone is looking to fight the post-holiday flab. Investing in a gym membership is a costly gamble, as generally you’re locked in for at least a year at monthly rates. Look to using workout videos at home. New moms can really get in on the action by having a baby activity mat nearby for your tot to hang out on, as they love to watch mommy bounce around. Top tip: they also make a great “weight” and love being involved with your workout.
The Resolution: Quit smoking
The market is awash with a million methods to give up cigarettes, but essentially it really does come to willpower. While patches, gum and electronic cigarettes are all ways you can quit, they’re also expensive. Take the money that you would have spent on your smoking habit and put it into a canister and see how much you’ve saved at the end of the month. If you find you do need some extra support like gum, then get your funds from there.
The Resolution: Go out more
Work too much and never see your friends? Getting out more is a great idea, however it can add up. Look to sites such as Groupon to get the best deals on going out with your friends. You can find deals on everything from pedicures to restaurants to a night out at the movies. Signing up for frequent dining points can also help to earn you future rewards with your favorite places.
The Resolution: Drink less alcohol
This resolution is a common one, particularly after a heavy night out. While the odd drink every now and then is fine, heading out to the bar regularly really starts to add up. Try cutting down your drinking to one or two nights per week. If you can invite people over, you’ll often save a bundle over heading over to the local bar for a few rounds.
Setting new goals for yourself is always a great way to kick off the new year. However, be sure that the ways you’re going about achieving your goals are a sound investment in yourself. Make regular checks to ensure maximum return, and you’ll see a brand new you for less.
Domonique Powell is a proud mother of four who enjoys using a baby activity mat as she exercises with her little one. She urges others to not be so quick to spend money on a whim and focus on getting the most out the things you already have.
Photo credit:http://www.flickr.com/photos/healthgauge/9672676111/
Category: Family Finances
