If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, "Where did all my money go?" by the end of the month, you’re not alone. Kanjoosi karna isn't a wrong thing if you're looking at things in the long run. Living in a big city comes with its share of financial struggles- rent, bills, weekend plans, and those sneaky little expenses that add up faster than you'd expect.
But here’s the thing- you don’t have to stop enjoying your life to save money. Frugal living isn’t about cutting corners; it’s about making smarter choices that help you get the most out of every rupee without compromising on things that truly matter.
Spend mindfully, spend wisely
Recently, Dr. Arokiaswamy Velumani, founder of Thyrocare Technologies, shared how he prefers simplicity over luxury. Even after dining at a five-star hotel, he chose an Ola cab over a high-end ride. His approach shows us a key financial lesson that smart spending isn’t about how much you have, but how wisely you use it.
One of the biggest money traps is impulse spending, especially those “great deals” that convince you to buy things you don’t really need. A simple rule to follow is the 30-day test. If you want something, wait a month. More often than not, you’ll realize you didn’t actually need it.
This applies to FOMO spending too. Just because your friends are brunching at a fancy café every weekend doesn’t mean you have to. Real financial freedom comes from knowing when to say no and choosing a budget-friendly plan instead.
The hidden costs of convenience
Between food delivery, OTT platforms, and ride-hailing apps, convenience has become the enemy of savings. Think about it- how many subscriptions are silently chipping away at your budget? That ₹200 you spend on three different OTT platforms every month could have been an investment in a solid SIP!
The same goes for transport. Cab fares can quickly add up, so why not carpool, take the metro, or even walk for short distances? Not only is it cheaper, but it’s also a great way to sneak in some exercise. And when it comes to food, cooking at home just a few times a week can save you thousands over the course of a month.
Save first, spend later
The easiest way to start saving? Don’t leave it to the end of the month. Set up an auto-debit that moves a fixed amount into a savings or investment account as soon as your salary hits. This way, you’re working with what’s left, instead of the other way around. Even small investments—₹500 or ₹1,000 in a mutual fund SIP can grow into something significant over time.
Another trick is to try using cash for daily expenses. It’s easy to lose track when you’re swiping cards or scanning QR codes, but when you physically see your money leaving your hands, you’re more likely to spend wisely.
The bigger picture
Frugal living is all about making thoughtful choices that align with your goals. Small shifts can make a huge difference in the long run. And the best part? You don’t have to give up what you love. You just need to make sure you’re spending on purpose, not out of habit.
So, the next time you’re about to splurge on something, pause and ask yourself: Is this really worth it? A little mindfulness today can set you up for a much more secure tomorrow.