How to… Save money

Forget dieting and exercise – the top New Year’s resolution in 2013 was all about saving money. In these difficult economic times, we all have to tighten our belts and try to reduce our spending where we can. With redundancies and unemployment on the rise, it’s always wise to stash away some savings for those unplanned emergencies. There are lots of easy ways to spend less and save more, without losing out on quality of life.

Shop around

Many items, particularly electrical goods, are cheaper to buy online than in stores. But don’t leap in to click ‘Buy’ too soon – there are heaps of discount code websites that regularly advertise free promotion codes that can be used for major retailers. It’s always worth taking a quick look – you might end up with 50% off, or free delivery.

Buy in bulk

Household goods, such as cleaning products and toiletries, can be ordered online in large quantities to save money. You can take advantage of some great deals this way, as well as saving gas money from multiple shopping trips.

Make do and mend

Before you chuck something out, see if it can be fixed. Sometimes all it takes is a drop of multi-purpose oil or household glue to breathe new life back into an object. Furniture can be spruced up with a coat of paint or freshening spray. Carry a spare can of Fix-a-Flat in the trunk for those flat-tire emergencies and save on costly call-out charges.

Picnic time

Save money on eating out by getting your friends and family together for a fun picnic. Drive out to a scenic spot with a portable grill and enjoy delicious barbecue food without restaurant prices. Wrap leftovers in aluminum foil so nothing gets wasted – cold meats make a great sandwich the next day. For all those half-full soda cans at the end of the day, invest in some soda can bottle tops – a great little invention that makes an open can easier to transport or store in the refrigerator.

Get crafty!

The recent craft revolution means it’s fashionable to make hand-made gifts for your friends and family, instead of spending a fortune at the department store. Get the whole family involved in making fun crafty cards, painted pots, customized bags or home-made cupcakes. The results will not only save money but will also be a truly unique and special gift!

Be offer-savvy

Always look out for money-saving offers all year round. Buy summer holiday staples when they’re being sold off for half price during winter – they’ll keep for next year! Picking up gifts throughout the year is also a great way to spread the cost of Christmas and prevent a whopping credit card bill in January!

Pack your lunch!

Bringing your own packed lunch to work can save hundreds of dollars a year. Instead of buying your morning coffee from that trendy deli, buy a portable coffee cup and take your own – these savings will really add up!

Here’s another way to save money.. use the Discount Code: MADNESS on your next Stockn’Go purchase!

How to…Enjoy Life to the Fullest

If you ask the average person what they want out of life, ‘to be happy’ will be right up there at the top for most. Happiness means different things for different folks, but to really enjoy life to the fullest you need to discover what makes YOU happy – whether it’s curling up with a good book or dancing the night away.

Get Organized

We all lead busy lives, so maintaining a satisfactory work-life balance can be tricky when you’re trying to juggle children, friends, family and work commitments. Organization is key to ensuring you’re using your time efficiently. Ever wonder how some people manage to fit so much into their week? Well, we all have 24 hours in a day; it’s up to us how we use them! Use Post-It Notes to remind you of important tasks, such as appointments, so you don’t waste valuable time.

If weekday mornings are stressful, prepare lunch-boxes, school uniforms and school bags the night before, to prevent frazzled nerves. This will leave more time for everyone to enjoy a healthy breakfast in the morning, without racing against the clock.

Buying household products in bulk will save both time and money – stock up on the essentials, such as batteries and cleaning products, and you’ll save all those emergency trips out to the shops. The more organized you are, the more free time you will have left over to enjoy yourself!

Keep Healthy

To really get the most out of life you need stacks of energy! Stay on top of your game by eating a healthy, balanced diet to provide all the nutrition you need to enjoy an active life. Boost your intake of essential vitamins with nutritional supplements and ensure your body is kept hydrated by drinking plenty of water. A good night’s sleep is essential for physical and mental wellbeing – so if you’re disturbed by snoring or congestion, try Breathe Right strips to improve sleep for both you and your partner!

Pamper Yourself

Did you know that stress is thought to be the root cause of around 75% of doctor’s appointments? It’s so important to make time for relaxation, so that stress doesn’t accumulate and take over your life. Don’t feel guilty about booking some ‘me time’ into your schedule. Enjoy a hot bath with some calming beauty products to chill out and soak away the worries of the day. A spritz of your favorite perfume will invigorate the senses and leave you feeling refreshed – try something light and uplifting, such as Light Blue by D&G. If you don’t get much time to yourself, try to arrange a babysitter once a month, so that you can truly relax and indulge in whatever makes you happy.

Life Goals

Remember that you can’t please everyone – life is short, so don’t waste time worrying about things you cannot control. Sometimes it’s the smallest things in life that bring the greatest joy, so let go and enjoy life to the fullest!

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