Alpha Consumer

Do You Enjoy Saving?

By Kimberly Palmer

Posted: July 17, 2008

A recent conversation got me thinking: Will any of our money-saving moves in response to the economy stick, even if we return to flush times again? For example, some people may have discovered they enjoy cooking at home more than going out to restaurants or buying fewer clothes to clutter up the closet. I started riding my bike to work, partly because it saves me about $70 per month in commuting costs, and now that I'm in the habit, it's one of my favorite parts of the day. Even without the savings, I would still do it.

What about you—have any changes you've made for economy reasons turned out to be keepers?

Jimmy - no, it is about 90 (or higher) degrees in DC, but I just change my clothes when I get to work... but it is mostly downhill on the way (it's going home that's hard). But still, it's better than waiting in the sun for the bus.

Kimberly Palmer of @ Jul 18, 2008 10:58:04 AM

Saving money is too much work

H*!! NO

Americans have allowed themselves to be conditioned to be told that they deserve everything they want just because they're alive. Saving money is too much work! Convenience is in. Why do you think bottled water took off, especially by the eco-hypocrites.

Riding a bike is the best part of the day? Do you really enjoy sweating or freezing for an hour twice a day, or are you a fair-weather biker?

Jimmy of MD @ Jul 18, 2008 09:42:37 AM

Well, my spending habits aren't a direct result of the economy, but an indirect result. Influenced in part by the downturn in the economy, I thought it might be best to stay in school another year so I can be eligible for a license in mental health counseling. The result of taking a summer course, working 15 hours a week, and externing 20 hours a week is that I'm too tired to do anything much beyond eating and sleeping. In fact most if not all of my expenses the past 6 weeks have been for food, transportation, and other necessities. Netflix has been my primary source of entertainment, and my socializing comes in the form of hanging out in my boyfriend's backyard (a rarity in NYC) with him and his 2 friends who happen to live upstairs from him.

When he lived in his old place where he had roommates and no backyard, we spent so much money going out and now we spend so much less by eating in and picking up a 6 pack. I think this change is here to stay.

Veronica of NY @ Jul 18, 2008 00:04:59 AM

Add Your Thoughts
About You

advertisement

Alpha Consumer

Alpha Consumer

Kimberly Palmer, senior editor for U.S. News & World Report, writes about how to save money, avoid scams, manage debt, and be a savvy shopper. Send your personal finance questions to her for expert money advice.


Alpha Consumer Podcast iTunes icon

advertisement

Best of Alpha Consumer

When Young People's High Hopes Create Despair

Twenty-somethings trying to replicate their parents' wealth get off track.

Life on $7 a Day

Buying in bulk and planning ahead are among the money-saving techniques.

Can You Afford a Baby?

If you're of a certain age and life stage, then you might be asking yourself: Should I have a baby? First, you may want to consider the costs.

advertisement

Subscribe

U.S. News Digital Weekly

A weekly insider's guide to politics and policy — in a multimedia, digital format. 52 issues for $19.95!

U.S. News & World Report

6 months of U.S. News & World Report's print edition for only $15. Save up to 67% off the cover price!