I’ve been busy lately. Instead of sitting in front of my computer waiting for the same email (more likely spam) to come through, I’ve been calling, asking and searching. During the last couple weeks, I:
- Asked my car insurance agent to price match an insurance policy that I found online.
- Changed cell phone providers
- Setup a TradeKing account to possibly save on trading commissions
- Re-booked my hotel for a conference in Las Vegas
- Re-booked a plane ticket to my golf trip when a Travelzoo’s newsletter told me about a deal
- Went to get a free piece of chicken from KFC
- The next day to a local restaurant for a two-piece chicken meal
Frugal Living is Easy, Not
Most of these types of posts usually have people bragging about how much money they saved and how you can too if you follow the steps they outlined. They make it sound so simple but it’s simply misleading. It took a while to look through and compare all the insurance policies available, to make sure I wouldn’t have to pay extra to rebook the plane tickets (have you seen those essays at the bottom of your itinerary called “fine print” lately?) and there were tons of people at KFC when I got there (actually, it was quite fun seeing so many people but anyway). Instead, I could be spending time playing sports, spending time with my family or maybe use the time to read a book.
Let’s be clear. Saving money, or more broadly, taking action is not easy. We tell you to do it because it works. It’s how we do it and it’s not for everyone. At least, it’s not for the uncommitted and lazy ones out there.
- Comparison Shopping Takes Time
- Changing the Cell Phone Provider Takes Compromises
- Re-booking Plane Tickets Can be Frustrating as You Keep Calling the Reservations Hotlines
Saving that money took time, patience and persistence. It is not easy but it can be done with some commitment. I do it all the time and you can too.
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{ 14 comments… read them below or add one }
You have been a busy man! What I liked about this article is that it shows that you practice what you preach and that’s a great example for all of us.
Next time you go to KFC – can you get me a free sample too?
I think showing examples are really important because whenever I read about these types of stuff from another article, I always think “oh it’s easy for you to say….”
KFC had this promotion that gave out their new grilled chicken and there were a TON of people when I was there. It was fun because normally there’s no one in the restaurant and seeing so many people was a little exciting, as the lineup was long but not so long that it becomes frustrating.
I can treat you to KFC if you come visit so no need to fight for free samples
In case you don’t know, here’s more information on a KFC Coupon that will give you a free 2-piece meal. It expires today though so go print it out
Well said. Nothing is ever as easy as what other people say it is, especially something long term like being frugal.
Thanks for the fresh take by not writing the usual “I can save you money” post.
Last week I got our internet bill lowered by $30/month.
Today’s task is cell phones. (After some serious research spurred by yesterday’s Get Rich Slowly post, we’re considering prepaid plans.) Who did you switch to?
Good for you
Emma and I switched to t-mobile. I also cut out my data plan since I rarely need it so that’s $20 a month. After 4 months, I can change my plan from the $69.99 plan to $59.99 so I will cut another $10 a month.
The store I went to also offered $350 for us to switch with a 2-year commitment (they also claim that when it’s 8 months or so into the plan, they can switch us to a total commitment of 1 year but I have my doubts).
I’ve thought about prepaid plans but as my wife and I would have ultra long calls every once in a while, I’ve been holding off on that thought (not to mention that we don’t have a land line).
You are so right about the compromise part but my kid’s future is so worth the sacrifice!
You said the magic word – commitment
And I’d add, the right “attitude” also.
Frugalness is NOT a lazy man’s/woman’s game
Good post.
Living frugally does take patience, persistence and usually a lot of creativity. But, it does lead to some serious savings. My wife and I plan to live this way no matter what tax bracket we’re in. It’s just a smart way to live not only to mention insurance for your budget.
OMG! You got the KFC chicken!?
-Mike
Yes I did. Actually, I got another coupon for another free two piece meal
Successful people do the things that unsuccessful people don’t want to do! I believe that Stephen Covey said something like this, and it is so true! Thanks for a good post!
you are so right, frugal living is not easy. It takes time and will power. Ultimately, however, the reward makes it all worth it!- Peace of Mind!!
Frugal living can be extremely challenging. It requires a lot of determination and will power. I like how your approach of influencing people is very personal. It helps people relate to their own situations and make similar frugal decisions. Thanks for this post!