When you’re budgeting and want to boost your savings, the last thing you might consider doing is spending more money. But there are situations where choosing quality over quantity can actually help you save more in the long run. Keep reading to learn more!

I know it sounds crazy to buy something more expensive, right?

Well, actually, there are plenty of times when knowing how to spend wisely will help your future finances. I’m here to tell you about them and help you make the right choice.

Quality over quantity meaning

What does quality over quantity mean? Okay, so the definition may be obvious, but it’s important to be clear about the quality over quantity meaning before we go any further.

The phrase implies that choosing fewer things of higher quality is better than owning lots of low-quality things. It can apply to your fashion goals, what you eat, and what items you buy for your home.

Quality is how well-made something is

In basic terms, quality is how good something is. If an item is high quality, it means that it is well-made and will not easily break.

As an example, expensive bag brands like designer handbags are much more likely to last longer than high-street bags. But excellence often means a high price.

However, the quality of an item can also be subjective. A person’s opinions and feelings can determine it.

Quantity is just an amount

Quantity refers to the amount of something. So the number of shoes and handbags I own or general items around my home that I don’t actually need are quantity items.

Unlike quality, quantity is measured in a numerical format, and it can be counted.

How spending more can save you money in the long run

So this is what I’ve recently considered with purchases: Instead of filling my life and home with stuff, what if I carefully considered every purchase I make? How would that benefit my financial health?

Well, it would certainly make sticking to a budget much easier and my savings goals easier to achieve. I’d also stop overspending on cheap items that need replacing regularly.

While spending more on an item might seem like it would be more expensive, it will likely cost me less over time.

10 Quality over quantity examples

Ready to save money by buying quality things? Here are 10 quality over quantity examples that will improve your finances.

1. Furniture

When shopping for expensive items such as furniture, it can be tempting to purchase the cheapest items available. But by choosing high-quality items that are made to last, you may actually save money.

For example, if I buy an $800 sofa that lasts five years, it will cost me around $160 a year.

In comparison, if I buy a cheaper sofa at $400 that only lasts two years, it will cost me $200 a year.

Nobody wants uncomfortable furniture, and did you know that poor-quality chairs can negatively affect your body and health? Some things are worth spending more on, and furniture is definitely one of them.

High-quality furniture that is properly maintained can even be a good investment that you can sell when you decide it’s time for a refurb.

2. Clothing

Most of us are guilty of contributing to the fast fashion crisis. When it comes to clothes, quality is definitely best for our wallets and the environment.

If you spend a lot of money on a new pair of jeans, you’re much less likely to make an impulse purchase on cheaper items because you’ve already made a substantial purchase.

High-quality clothing is made of more durable fabrics, which means it won’t need to be repaired or replaced as often as lower-quality garments.

3. Food

Cutting your grocery bill and using the cheapest grocery list is a smart financial move to reduce your outgoings. But whilst canned goods and processed foods cost less, they can negatively affect your health and cost you money in the long term on healthcare.

Instead of compromising on the quality of your food, shop smarter by:

• Buying in bulk
• Growing your own fruit and vegetables
• Eating less meat
• Reducing food waste
• Buying in season

 4. Reusable items

Reusing items wherever possible is a great way to save money and do your part for the environment. Here are a few reusable products that will save you a ton of cash over time.

• Grocery bags: Most stores will charge you for carrier bags, so reduce your bill and take your own.
• Make-up eraser towels: Trade the disposable cotton pads for a more eco-friendly and purse-friendly towel. Simply wash, dry, and reuse it again and again.
• A smart notebook: Eliminate the need to buy a ton of notebooks and invest in a smart notebook. Write your notes, scan the page, clear it, and start again. Genius.

 5. Storage

Utilizing storage options can save you money on things like food and furniture. The right storage solution can protect and prolong the life of items, meaning you won’t have to replace them as often.

From buying freezer food bags to renting self-storage for your furniture, there are many ways to care for your possessions and get the most value from them.

6. Debt

What does quality over quantity mean when it comes to money? It doesn’t just apply to tangible items. Credit card debt is the perfect example of how spending more can save you more in the long term.

Making the minimum monthly repayment means that your debt will take longer to pay off. The balance left will also then accrue interest, costing you more overall.

For instance, suppose my credit card has a $2000 balance and an 18.9% interest rate. Clearing the debt in three years instead of five will save me hundreds of dollars and keep me from drowning in debt.

7. Homeownership

Are you deciding between buying your first home or continuing to rent?

There’s no denying that owning a home costs more than renting in the short term.

However, from a long-term financial perspective, buying a house allows you to save money and invest in your future.

The most important thing is only buying a home you can afford so you don’t become house poor. It’s often worth saving for longer before getting on the property ladder to increase your down payment and reduce your monthly mortgage repayments.

In most cases, rent prices may be higher than mortgage repayments, so you can use the difference in money to boost your savings.

8. Memberships

If you, like us, love a good subscription service, here’s some good news. You might be able to save some cash with the right membership!

For instance, if you use Amazon, it’s definitely worth investing in an Amazon Prime account. You will save money on deliveries and have access to videos and music, so there will be no need to spend money on these elsewhere.

Perhaps you already have a subscription like this. If not, you can save by buying only one that offers a lot instead of several.

Food subscription boxes are also a good way to save money by reducing food waste. With some research, you can find subscriptions that prioritize quality over quantity.

9. The neighborhood you live

Good neighborhoods may demand higher rent and mortgage payments, but living in a better area can save money.

For instance, good neighborhoods come with lower crime rates and a sense of community vigilance. They also tend to have well-maintained surroundings, including roads, parks, and public spaces, which contribute to a clean and pleasant environment.

Schools have good ratings and living in a desirable neighborhood can positively impact property values. I certainly considered school district rating and property values when I was deciding where to live and raise a family.

You may also be able to save on car insurance which is likely to be lower if you live in a lower-risk area.

10. Insurance

Paying for health insurance or a health savings account may seem unnecessary when you’re young and healthy, but it can save you thousands of dollars if you require emergency care.

Instead of skipping the coverage completely, shop for the best price. You can also save money by joining a family member’s existing plan if you are a spouse or under the age of 26.

Expert tip: Be consistent in your choices on quality

To truly live a lifestyle that values exceptional quality, you need to be consistent in the choices you make. You need to clearly define your personal core values and stick to them. Every time you spend money, it should be on something that reflects your priorities.

I found that physically writing my values down on pieces of paper and sharing them with my family motivates me to make the right decisions. You could even include a few in your wallet so you see them every time you open it. I also believe it’s easier to say no to things that cost money if family and friends know what you’re aiming for.

Here are some questions to ask yourself to help you stay consistent in your choices:
Do I really need this?
Why do I want to buy it?
Can I afford it?
How long will it last?
Could I borrow it instead?

Buying quality is all about making the right kind of purchases, and these are never rushed! You can apply this approach to items as small as a bottle of water or as large as a car to ensure you’re consistent with your buying habits and long-term goals.

Why choosing quality improves your life: 6 Reasons

Maybe you’re convinced to start buying for quality. But just in case, here are a few more reasons why buying quality is always the right option.

1.   Quality lasts for years

High-quality products are created to stand the test of time. Which means you won’t need to constantly replace them. I love that I can buy something for a bit higher price but am confident that it will last for years.

2.   It’s better for the environment

When a product is well-made, it’s less of a burden on our planet because it won’t need to be thrown away. You can help the earth with sustainable living and your budget at the same time.

3.   It helps you save time

By focusing on quality over quantity examples, you won’t waste time trying to have everything at once. The time you save can be better spent doing the things you love instead. Having fewer items to care for is another way to get some of your time back.

4.   It can benefit your mental health and well-being

Understanding what quality over quantity means will not only benefit your bank balance but also your happiness.

In fact, clutter can hurt your mental health. So, instead of having many items in your home, choose fewer possessions of high quality.

5.  Reduces stress in your life

Carefully choosing the people and things you have in your life will reduce stress. How? Well, owning many material items and being part of a huge circle of friends can be overwhelming.

Stress is often caused by trying to do too much. Less clutter and less worry and busyness can lead to a more carefree lifestyle.

6.  Helps you live more simply

Choosing quality ultimately means doing what makes you happy. When we do what makes us happy, we experience satisfaction and fulfillment. When people say “it’s the simple things in life” that make them happy, it really is!

Think about it like this: Would you rather invest in one classy, timeless piece for your wardrobe or buy a bunch of trendy, lower-quality garments that clog up your closet and will become redundant in a few months anyway? I guess that most of us would go for the first option.

What is the theory of quality over quantity?

The quality over quantity theory uses measurement to explain why investing in quality things is better for our mental and financial health. It focuses on value and fulfillment being more important than volume. Quality gives us longevity and significance, whereas quantity just gives us a large volume of an item or thing.

You may need to shift your mindset to train yourself not to choose quantity over quality, and that’s ok. Start by prioritizing what’s important to you and focus on those things. With practice, you’ll naturally strive for quality and a simpler life as you start to benefit from the many reasons quality is king.

In my opinion, daily gratitude is an excellent way to achieve a quality mindset. I like to take ten minutes out of my day to remind myself of what I have to be grateful for.

You could even make a list and look back at it whenever you need a reminder.

What does quality over quantity mean in relationships?

The quality over quantity meaning in a relationship is not about how much time you spend together; it’s about HOW you spend it.

For example, if you spend every evening with your spouse but use the time to browse social media and watch TV, it doesn’t count as quality time focused on each other.

A few activities you could try that prioritize quality with your significant other without breaking the bank are:

Cooking together

Preparing a meal requires conversation and physical closeness, making it the perfect date night activity. 

Treat yourselves to a spa day

Who doesn’t love a spa day? Relax in each other’s company and enjoy the moment.

Have a picnic

Sometimes the simple activities are the best. Pack a picnic, choose your favorite spot, and watch the world go by.

Exercise 

Exercising together can strengthen your bond. It’s also great for motivating each other to keep going and achieve your fitness goals.

Stargaze

If you’re looking for a cute activity for date night, look no further. You don’t need fancy equipment—just some blankets and the stars!

Plan a vacation

Nothing beats the excitement of planning your next vacation! Make a list of places you want to go and things you want to see, and choose everything together. And don’t forget about a vacation budget!

Articles related to shopping high quality

If you’ve enjoyed this article on why quality is better than quantity, you’ll love these next ideas!

• Why Everyone Should Try Slow Shopping
• 8 Fashion Goals That Won’t Break The Bank
• Minimalist Finances And How To Become A Financial Minimalist
• How Do I Shop My Closet Instead Of Spending Money?

Focus on what matters most!

So, here are the final thoughts…choosing how we spend our money is powerful, and we choose how we spend it.

By making quality purchases, we will reap the benefits of our purchases for a long time. And, in turn, save both time and money!

So leverage the tips we’ve explored here and the many ways that opting for quality over quantity can help you lead a financially healthier and happier life. You’ll save money and live better. And next time you make a purchase, focus on quality, not quantity, to help you save money!

The post 10 Areas Of Life Where You Should Buy Quality Over Quantity appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

Money affects every one of us every single day. If you’ve found yourself feeling stressed recently and wondering how to stop worrying about money so you can live a good life, keep reading.

Money is a big stress factor for many people. But constant concern about finances can lead to psychological stress, so it’s important to get it under control.

The strategies you’ll learn in this list are essential life skills that will help you build a happier and more satisfying life. You can think of them as some rules to be happy with your finances.

Why do I worry about money?

Common reasons include what role money played in your life growing up and not feeling that you have enough income.

Money worries can happen to anyone at any time, but you could be more likely to feel anxious about money if you relate to these:

Raised with deprivation

If you’ve ever had to go without food because money is tight, you will naturally be cautious about your spending habits to protect your resources.

You may even find yourself turning to to extreme frugal living, such as cutting out some everyday items just to save some cash.

An unsteady or low income

You’re also much more likely to worry about money and how to save money if you don’t have a lot of it.

A fluctuating income can be tricky to manage, too, as you don’t know what you will be earning from one month to the next. It can create extra pressure on regular expenses and household income streams.

Struggles with debt

If you have any type of debt, whether it’s a credit card, mortgage, or student loans, you don’t have an option but to pay it. But that doesn’t always mean that you’re able to.

Overwhelming debt stress can bring extra financial strain to your life and cause lots of sleepless nights!

A sudden change in circumstances

Unexpected expenses, increasing debt, and losing your job are the three biggest scenarios that can cause unplanned financial distress. Losing a loved one who contributes to your household income can also have a huge impact.

As these factors are out of your control, it can be extremely stressful.

Ways money worries can impact your life

Many of us deal with money worries, financial uncertainty and stress on a daily basis. It may not even be obvious that someone has money worries. That said, knowing the signs to spot could save yourself and somebody else too.

Signs that money anxiety is having a serious negative effect on your life include:

Physical symptoms

Do you get a headache or experience tightness in your chest whenever you look at your bank account? You may be suffering from financial stress.

Additionally, when you can’t stop being concerned about money, you can develop health issues like insomnia.

In addition, stress weakens your immune system, which makes you susceptible to illnesses.

Discuss your symptoms with a doctor and seek advice on ways to prevent them.

Difficulty sleeping

Money concerns can even keep you awake at night. For a good night’s sleep, you need a clear mind, so try distraction techniques and mental puzzles to try and get yourself into sleep mode.

A breakdown of relationships

When times are tough, we often take our bad mood and frustration out on the ones closest to us. Money problems often cause a relationship to break down.

Talking and being open with your loved ones is a good way to repair the relationship. Being honest with each other is really important if you want a person to be in your life long-term.

Withdrawing from social situations

Anxiety caused by financial worries can stop you from wanting to see family and friends.

But being on your own with your thoughts can make the situation worse, so try and mix with other people even when you don’t want to.

It’s also a good idea to reach out to a therapist if your money anxiety is affecting your ability to work and socialize or if you experience depression.

An impact on mental health

Thinking about your financial challenges constantly can affect your mental health. It can become much more difficult to enjoy life if you’re stuck in a vicious cycle of being anxious and stressed about your money and mental health.

Stress about your financial situation can make it hard to focus on important aspects of life. Being anxious may lead to difficulties with concentration, as well.

How to stop worrying about money and start living: 15 Must-try tips

Feeling anxious or overwhelmed about your finances are normal emotions when worrying about money, but there are things you can do to help.

Here are 15 practical steps that you can take to boost your financial confidence and achieve greater life satisfaction.

1. Review your full financial picture

To understand how to stop worrying about money, having a clear understanding of where your money goes is so important.

A full financial picture to make sure you’re financially sound will give you some control, showing you how much money you have coming in, what outgoings you have, and how much you have left over.

Start by looking at your bank statements and receipts. Categorize your spending into essentials (food, bills, housing, etc. ) and non-essentials (eating out, clothes, coffee). Doing so will show you exactly what you spend in each area and highlight areas where you could cut costs or try a spending freeze.

When you don’t have a firm grasp of your finances, the scariest thing is not knowing what is happening with your money. Once you have a clear picture, it’s much easier to handle.

2. Set specific financial goals

Want to know a quick way how to stop worrying about money and start living your life instead?

Setting financial goals for yourself will help you get your finances under control by giving you something to aim for and a plan to help you achieve your financial wishes.

The best way to set goals that actually work is to make them SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound). Then ask yourself where you are financially right now.

What do you need to do to meet your goal? It could be clearing debt or boosting your earnings using high income skills. Whatever it is, write a plan and stick to it.

Financial goals to inspire you

Some examples of financial goals to have that can help you stop worrying about money include creating an emergency fund and improving your credit score.

Additionally, you may want to save a down payment for a house or reduce your debt.

Ultimately, taking steps and planning how you can achieve your goals can relieve you of common financial challenges.

3. Find a budgeting approach that works for you

To solve financial worries, you need to gain back control of your spending and manage your money well. And to do this, you need to budget.

Investing the time to manage your money better can pay off in the long run. It may help you stay out of debt and save for your future financial goals, which are two of the most common financial worries that people have.

To make a budget that you can successfully stick to, take the following steps:

Work out your income

Your income is everything you earn, minus tax deductions, health insurance, and retirement contributions. Don’t forget to include any bonuses and benefits that you might receive!

Review your spending

Now you know what’s coming in, the next step is to see exactly where your hard-earned money is going.

List and categorize your spending areas for organized finances by starting with your essential expenses, such as bills. Then, list your non-essential spending, such as entertainment and eating out.

Choose the right budgeting method for you

Find a budgeting method that you like – whether that’s the 50-30-20 rule, zero-based budgeting, or envelope system.

There are many to choose from, but just because something works for your friend doesn’t mean it’s the right system for you. Keep an open mind and try a few.

Track progress

Seeing how much you’re saving each month is hugely motivational. It may surprise you just how much extra cash you’ve got from making small changes to your finances.

Make changes

A good budget is flexible to accommodate changing needs and to prevent you from overspending. Take a look at how effective your current budget is every three months or so and adjust it if you need to.

4. Educate yourself

The path to financial freedom and fewer money worries starts with you. Brushing up on your understanding of personal finance is the perfect place to start.

There are so many ideas to improve your financial literacy basics!

For example, you can sign up for financial newsletters. You can tune in to finance podcasts and read personal finance books.

Likewise, many financial experts generously share their expertise on social media. Find someone you trust to learn from.

All of these things will help you feel happier and more confident about the financial decisions you make, so it’s worth investing the time to learn about money.

5. Don’t keep your finances a secret

Big secrets such as hidden debt can have a huge negative impact on our minds.

Talking about your money worries with someone you trust can help. The hardest part is how to start sharing your thoughts. The more you do this, though, the easier it becomes.

How to begin talking about money

There’s no right or wrong way to talk about your finances, but there are things you can do to make it easier.

Choose a time and place that you feel comfortable with. Be aware of your emotions and try not to let them stop you from talking.

Being upset is ok, but try to take some deep breaths and organize your thoughts before you speak. Write some notes of key points to help you get your ideas across.

Most importantly, choose someone to talk to whom you can trust not to judge you. For instance, a mentor, someone who has achieved the financial goal you are working toward or a qualified therapist.

6. Review your spending

A great way to practice how to stop worrying about money is to review your finances regularly. Make it a part of your routines to have a weekly or monthly money date.

You’ll feel more in control if you know exactly how much you earn compared to how much you spend each month. A few small changes to your spending can make the difference you need to stop feeling overwhelmed with money spending problems and start feeling confident with your money.

Throughout life, things happen that can cause your finances to drastically change.

Events such as a new job or having children often mean that your finances need to be adjusted. When this happens, it’s a good idea to pause, review your current situation and adapt accordingly.

7. Create a debt repayment plan

Whilst nobody wants to be in debt, it happens to a lot of people. What matters is how you handle it.

So, what’s the best way to tackle debt? Here are three steps that work!

Get familiar with the amount of debt you have

If you don’t know the level of debt that you’re facing, you can’t start to reduce it.

Write a list of everything you owe and its value, including credit card bills, car expenses or payments, and any student loan debt or credit line repayments.

Confronting it and saying it out loud to yourself can be extremely liberating!

Get your debts organized

Now, consider how you’re going to eliminate that debt. Becoming debt-free doesn’t happen overnight, but you can make good financial choices to start reducing the amount you owe.

Paying more than the minimum amount, paying your highest-interest debt first, and consolidating multiple debts are all ways you can pay off debt faster (consider: is debt consolidation a good idea?).

Don’t think about your debt too much

Easier said than done, right? Overthinking your money problems can cause low moods that prevent you from doing anything productive to help your finances.

Instead, allocate time to think about your debt. A good time to do this is when you are making your regular repayments. Don’t let debt consume your life!

Once you’re debt free, you’ll have a lot more money to invest, save, or spend. And no more worries about how much interest you owe.

8. Stay active (Best practice to stop worrying about money and start living!)

Learning how to stop worrying about money isn’t just about your finances.

Exercise isn’t only good for our physical health – it can also benefit our finances too! Make sure moving your body is part of your everyday routine.

Working out releases those little endorphins that we know help to boost our mood.

In addition to this benefit, exercising can make problem-solving easier – a win for dealing with finances!

Not a fan of exercise? You don’t have to be a hard-core gym goer to benefit from physical activity. Walking the dog or dancing around your bedroom is just as effective!

9. Embrace mindfulness

Practicing mindfulness techniques can help you lessen stress and anxiety caused by your finances.

How? Well, mindfulness is all about accepting yourself and your emotions and dealing with them in a way that doesn’t make you feel bad.

So, if your current financial situation isn’t as good as you’d like it to be, don’t get caught up in the negatives.

Instead, take a deep breath and create a plan to turn the bad things into positives. Choosing to let go and trusting the process can be extremely empowering!

Being mindful also increases self-awareness, which can help you rein in bad spending habits. Maybe it’s time to sit down and have an honest conversation with yourself about money.

Some great mindfulness techniques to try are:

Focusing on your breathing

Simply taking a deep breath before making a purchase can stop you from regretting your buying decisions and blowing your carefully considered budget.

Next time you get tempted by something in your favorite shop, try this technique and see how powerful it can be.

Visualize your goals

Once you truly know what you want to achieve, really picture the end result. It doesn’t matter if that’s your dream vacation budget or your first house. The important thing is you can see the prize for all your hard work.

Be kind to yourself

We are all human, which means it’s normal to lose focus now and again. Beating yourself up about it won’t help, though. Simply acknowledge what has happened, learn from it, and move on.

10. Invest your money wisely

Making wise financial decisions can also help you learn how to stop worrying about money. Investing allows you to learn how to grow your money quicker than if it sat in a bank account.

You then have the potential to reach your financial goals sooner!

Only invest in something you completely understand, though. Stocks, real estate, and index funds are good places for new investors to start.

Start the investing process

Before you part with your money, take some time to consider the risks and think about the impact of losing some or all of the money invested.

Ready to learn how to start investing? Take the first step by opening a brokerage account, which is basically a type of investment account to trade stocks, bonds, and mutual funds.

You can likely open a brokerage account online in less than 15 minutes.

11. Be aware of your weaknesses

Do you struggle to resist the temptation of a department store sale or the lure of that overpriced daily latte?

Everyone has financial weaknesses, and just like other bad habits, they can cause you harm.

Facing up to yours is the best thing you can do to stop negative money habits and free yourself of money stresses.

Here’s how to do it:

Remove temptation

If stress shopping is your biggest weakness, pausing your shopping trips and unsubscribing from store emails is an effective way to rein in your spending.

It doesn’t mean that you can never do some retail therapy again, but while you have money troubles, it’s a smart move to make.

Think before buying

Before every significant purchase you make, ask yourself whether you actually need that particular item. You could always come back to it later to see if you still want it.

Chances are you’ve changed your mind and just saved yourself some dollars!

Only make purchases with cash

You’re more likely to spend less when using cash because you can see how much something is costing you. It’s much easier to hand over a card than a stack of money.

Put the plastic away, switch to cash, and see how much you can save!

12. Take time for yourself

Life isn’t just about paying off debt and saving money.

If you are on a tight budget, there are still many things you can do that won’t negatively impact your finances. Living frugally just means being smarter with your money, not stopping spending altogether.

Stuck for ideas? Try some of these low-budget activities:

• Visit a library or museum
• Go for a walk
• Take advantage of happy hour drinks with friends
• Download free apps
• Appreciate simple pleasures in life – like a cup of coffee or being outdoors
• Take a drive around your local area

13. Start a side hustle

If you earned an extra $500 each month, would you worry less about money? Probably.

Side hustles are a smart way to boost your earnings and learn how to stop worrying about money. One great thing about side jobs is that they can be done in addition to your main career.

Side hustle ideas

Lots of unique side hustles can be done online and during evenings and weekends, giving you an additional flexible income stream. What’s even better about side hustles is that most people choose one that is aligned with their hobbies and interests.

For example, if you love animals, you could start up a pet-sitting business in your local area.

If DIY is more your thing, list your services on TaskRabbit and help people in your neighborhood while earning money.

Now, all you need to do is decide what to do with all that extra money! Pay off some credit card debt, save for a home, or treat yourself to a well-earned vacation; the choice is yours.

14. Save for your future

It can be hard to think about what your finances will look like in the future when you might be struggling to pay the bills right now. But you need to plan if you want to achieve financial freedom later in life.

Here are some ideas to achieve this without compromising too much today.

Change bad lifestyle habits such as overspending

Use the money that you would normally spend in these areas to save instead. A great way to do this is by tackling one bad habit at a time.

Let’s say you have a weakness for buying candy. Stop yourself from buying candy for a set amount of time and make a note of how much you save. This will motivate you to continue making good financial decisions.

Don’t ignore your retirement savings

It may be years away, but the earlier you start saving, the more your retirement investments will be worth when you retire. (Learn the difference between a 401k and IRA.) More money means fewer financial worries when you stop working and a higher-quality lifestyle.

Set up automatic payments to yourself

Consider saving for your future as another monthly outgoing.

Commit to saving a set amount each month (even if it’s just a few dollars) by creating an automatic transfer into a separate savings account.

Before you know it, you’ll have saved a decent amount that you can use to help you meet your financial goals.

15. Reflect

It’s important to take time to step back and reflect on your finances. Because your lifestyle, priorities, and goals will change over time.

Reviewing your finances will allow you to factor new plans into your finances and adjust them accordingly.

For example, you may receive an inheritance, which means you can retire earlier. Or you may decide that it’s time to settle down and have children.

You can adapt your budget to save for this exciting life event and ease financial pressure later on.

Above all, regular financial planning is the best way to eliminate money worries and stress. It can help get rid of your concerns through planning and give you peace of mind.

Expert tip: Focus on taking control of your emotions

Money anxiety happens. So you if you need to, talk to a trusted friend about your finances. You can also consult a doctor or a therapist for physical symptoms or mental health struggles.

Don’t allow your worries to consume you. It only makes the situation worse if you let your worries run the show.

Decide that you will be responsible for your financial health. If you’ve been avoiding looking at your debt, or you don’t know anything about your finances, then it’s time to get to know your money.

You are capable of making great decisions about your money. Whatever you don’t know, you can learn it. You can quit worrying about money and focus on your life!  

Support and advice for money worries

Money troubles are nothing to be ashamed of! If you experience any negative thoughts, it’s ok to reach out for help.

Speaking about your money problems can often help you put things in perspective and help you come up with solutions to financial issues that you hadn’t thought of before.

There is a lot of help available out there – all you need to do is reach out and ask for it. And you don’t even need to pay a financial advisor.

In addition to our vast library of content here on the blog and our 30+ free courses here at Clever Girl Finance, here are some free resources you can leverage:

Operation Hope

Operation Hope is a non-profit organization which provides people with access to financial well-being coaches. These coaches provide guidance on creating a financial plan to navigate difficult financial situations.

Debt.org

Debt.org is an organization that focuses on helping people get out of debt through providing clarity on how to leverage debt consolidation plans, debt settlement plans, tax debt relief plans, and more.

The CFPB (Consumer Financial Protection Bureau)

The CFPB (which stands for the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau) is a U.S. government agency that provides advice on debt, credit cards, mortgages, and other finance topics.

Government benefits

This government site provides advice on government programs available to help pay for essential items like food, housing, and healthcare. They also share key tips on ways to get the most for your money.

Savvy Ladies

Savvy Ladies is an organization that has been around for over 20 years. It offers support to women via its financial helpline and volunteer support groups.

Your traditional bank or credit union

Most banks will offer their customers free financial advice and point them in the right direction based on their financial circumstances for further help.

Credit unions provide similar advisory services to your bank and are a great source of information.

How much money do you need to not worry about money?

The amount of money you need to not worry about money depends on your income, expenses, and goals. Define what being financially comfortable means to you.

Maybe you just want to be able to pay bills, and you’ll be content. Maybe you have big goals like saving a million dollars for retirement or paying off your mortgage.

Go figure out your magic number and use it as motivation.

How do I stop stressing about money and the future?

The first step to stop stressing about money and the future is to look at your money situation. Know what’s stressing you. Is it your debt, lack of savings, or a big expense coming up like the average wedding cost?

Explore your options on how you can increase your income or reduce your expenses. So you’ll have extra money to save or pay off your debt faster.

Then, sit down and make a plan. It will reduce your anxiety if you have a clear path to follow.

Additionally, try to change your perspective and approach the future with hope rather than fear.

Articles related to how to stop worrying about money

If you enjoyed learning more about how not to worry about money, check out these posts next!

• 5 Tips To Stop Paying Credit Card Debt And Stop Worrying About It!
• Worried About Losing Your Job? Key Steps To Take
• Trusting The Process Of Improving Your Finances
• How To Stop Spending Money: Curb Your Over Spending

Live a financially free life and stop worrying about money!

You’re not alone if you’re concerned about finances. It takes some know-how, practice, and patience to train yourself to learn how to stop worrying about money and start living.

But it’s more than worth it for your quality of life!

Once you begin to set goals, understand your budget, and create a good habits list for your money, you’ll soon find that your finances are in much better shape.

As you continue to learn more about money, you will likely worry less and less and find that you have a healthy mindset with your life and finances.

The post How To Stop Worrying About Money And Start Living: 15 Key Tips appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

Are you fed up with the 9 to 5 grind? Do you need to earn some extra cash or find a job that fits around your daily commitments? Night shift jobs may be the solution you’re looking for, and the good news is there are lots of opportunities out there and we’ve got several to share. So keep reading!

Over night jobs come with attractive benefits, including higher pay, less competition, and more independence. So they are definitely worth considering if you are looking for a flexible schedule or want to earn more income!

We’ve found 19 of the best night shift jobs, and in addition, their typical duties and average salaries to help make your night job hunt easier.

Who are night shift jobs suitable for?

Night shift jobs are suitable for anyone if they don’t mind working overnight. Keep in mind that, overnight shifts will typically start between 10 p.m. and 12 a.m., but some jobs will have different working hours.

That said, there may be specific categories of people who might be better suited to night shift jobs. This includes:

• Students who study during the day
• Parents that want to be available to care for their children
• Anyone who doesn’t like getting out of bed in the morning
• People who want to earn extra money or boost their savings funds

Sound like you? Then you’re in the right place to find out everything you need to know.

The best night shift jobs to work in person

A great thing about overnight work is that there are so many different types of work available to suit everyone!

For instance, lots of companies need to maintain their operations 24/7, and as a result, this means providing work for people like you.

So if you prefer to work night shift jobs at a workplace and socialize with others, then these are the top options for you.

1. Flight attendant

Flight attendants keep passengers safe and comfortable during flights. It’s a flexible and rewarding career, and you can travel and work shifts at night. So if you love working with people and traveling, this is a great in-person overnight job.

Typical duties can include:

• Attend flight briefings with pilots
• Help travelers find their seats
• Keep the cabin clean and stocked with drinks and food
• Correctly demonstrate and use safety equipment
• Deal with disruptive or suspicious behavior

Average flight attendant salary: Flight attendants makes a mean annual wage of approximately $67,000 a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

However, exact earnings will depend on the airline you work for and number of shifts you work.

2. Air traffic controller

Directing aircraft traffic is an important job that is needed 24/7. This means that you can pursue this career and opt for the night shifts if you want overnight work. Specifically, strong communication skills and the ability to work under pressure are a must.

Typical duties may include, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

• Provide information on weather, runways, and more
• Direct pilots during take-off and landing
• Raise emergency alerts
• Keep track of and manage aircraft both in the air and on the ground

Average air traffic controller salary: Air traffic controllers are paid well, earning an average of about $56,000 a year, explains Indeed.

3. Healthcare worker

Healthcare is one of those professions that is available whenever you need it, regardless of the time of day or night. So night workers are needed during irregular hours.

If you want to work in healthcare but in a quieter, less hectic environment while most patients sleep, ask for the night shifts! And you might even be able to find medical jobs without a degree.

Typical duties depend on the type of job, but may include:

• Monitor patients
• Conduct health checks
• Wash and dress patients
• Administer medication
• Help with emergency situations

Average healthcare worker salary: For example, a Registered Nurse night shift job can earn an average salary of approximately $59,000 a year, according to ZipRecruiter. Additionally, with more experience, your earnings can increase.

4. Bartender

Bartending can be a great job. Why? Because it boosts your self-confidence, you meet loads of interesting people, and you can work in the evenings, leaving your days free to do anything you want.

Typical duties might include:

• Interact with customers and take orders
• Produce a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
• Provide drink recommendations
• Maintain a clean and safe environment
• Process payments

Average bartender salary: In the United States, bartenders make approximately $48,000 per year, claims Indeed. If you make a good impression on your customers, you’ll also pocket some extra dollars as tips!

5. Hotel receptionist

You can earn a good salary from working in hospitality during the night. A receptionist is essential to ensure the smooth running of a hotel, especially throughout the night when other areas of the building may be closed.

Typical duties can include:

• Take reservations
• Deal with customer queries and issues
• Provide guests with information on hotel facilities and local amenities
• Process payments
• Handle and complete paperwork

Average hotel receptionist salary: Hotel receptionists can earn a respectable average of about $30,000 by managing the front desk of a hotel at night, according to Zippia.

6. Security guard

Security guards work at a range of sites, for example, construction, warehouses, events, retail, and more.

In addition, one of the best benefits of working in this field is the ability to choose your own hours and jobs.

Typical duties might include, according to TalentLyft:

• Patrol and inspect premises at regular intervals
• Keep the property entrance secure
• Authorize entrance for allowed people and vehicles
• Monitor surveillance footage
• Report any suspicious activity

Average security guard salary: As a night security guard, you will make an average of about $42,000 per year in the US, claims ZipRecruiter.

7. Warehouse operative

Working in a warehouse is a popular choice for night shift jobs.

Additionally, there are usually lots of roles available, and you don’t need prior experience or qualifications to get started. It’s also extremely flexible with lots of variety, suiting anyone with commitments and a busy daily routine schedule.

 Typical duties may include:

• Load and unload goods from delivery vehicles
• Check damaged or missing items
• Pack customer orders
• Operate forklift trucks to move stock around the warehouse

Average warehouse operative salary: Wages for a warehouse worker are about $33,000 a year, according to Talent.com.

8. Firefighter

Fancy doing something a little bit different to earn money at night? Undeniably, a firefighter is a rewarding career path for anyone who wants to help protect their local community.

Like other emergency services, firefighters are needed around the clock, making it a good career choice for night owls.

Typical duties can include:

• Regularly check firefighting equipment to ensure it is safe and efficient to use
• Respond to emergency calls
• Control and distinguish fires
• Rescue people and animals from burning establishments
• Handle bomb alerts and flooding

Average firefighter salary: Firefighters earn an average of $53,000 annually, according to Indeed.

9. Baker or confectioner

Do your friends and family always compliment your baked goods and sweets? Becoming a baker or confectioner is one of the best ways to escape the 9 to 5 routine.

Additionally, you don’t even need any formal qualifications or experience to get started!

Typical duties might include:

• Correctly measure and mix raw ingredients
• Bake a range of goods such as bread, pastries, biscuits, sweets and desserts
• Decorate goods to a high finish
• Follow food safety and quality guidelines
• Take and fulfill customer orders

Average baker salary: In the US, overnight bakers earn around $30,000 annually on average, according to ZipRecruiter. However, your years of experience can affect your earnings in this industry.

10. 911 dispatcher

If you’re looking for night shift jobs where you can make a real difference to somebody’s life, then a 911 dispatcher is a great option. You can be part of a night team that works together to provide advice, support, and also emergency help to people in need.

Typical duties may include:

• Take emergency and non-emergency calls
• Assess and interpret a caller’s information and deploy the right support
• Communicate with the caller and offer support until help arrives
• Keep other emergency service teams updated
• Help prepare paramedics and police for their arrival at the scene

Average 911 dispatcher salary: You can expect to earn approximately $42,000 from working as a 911 dispatcher, claims Salary.com.

The best overnight remote jobs

For various reasons (for instance, childcare costs and availability, health issues, or personal choice), you may need an overnight remote job that you can do while working from home. If so, these are the jobs for you!

Keep in mind that you can work these jobs in person as well.

11. Content writer

There are so many reasons why a job in content writing is one of the best overnight remote jobs. You don’t have set hours, so you can log on to your laptop and write at any time of the night. You can learn how to become a freelance writer and work at your own pace, which is great if you have a busy life!

In addition, the work is varied and enjoyable.

Typical duties may include:

• Draft content ideas for approval
• Write long-form blog articles
• Creating compelling product descriptions
• Generate copy for website pages
• Write marketing material for a variety of formats

Average content writer salary: Content writers in the United States earn an average of $58,000 annually, says Glassdoor – undeniably, this isn’t bad for something you can do from home at night time in your PJs!

12. Customer service representative

If you want to work with people remotely, then an overnight customer service representative is a good career to consider. Lots of companies provide their customers with 24/7 help and support, which means they need people to work the night shift.

Typical duties could include:

• Respond to customer inquiries
• Answer questions and give advice
• Process orders
• Resolve issues
• Handle complaints

Average customer service representative salary: Overnight customer service representatives earn about $35,000 annually in the US, according to Glassdoor.

13. Social media manager

Social media is essential for all businesses. However, companies don’t always have the time to manage it effectively in-house.

You can easily do this role remotely during the evenings, so your client’s social media content is created and scheduled ahead of publication.

 Typical duties:

• Maintain a content calendar
• Create social media posts across all platforms
• Respond to online conversations
• Produce and monitor ad campaigns
• Set objectives and report on ROI

Average social media manager salary: Social media managers can receive an average annual salary of $70,000 per year, states Zippia.

14. Editor

Editing jobs make great night shift jobs because you can do it remotely and at a time that suits you. All you need is a good laptop and a reliable internet connection to work on a variety of written formats, such as books, websites, articles, legal documents, training manuals, and more.

Typical duties:

• Identify and correct spelling and grammar errors
• Check all facts, statistics, and statements
• Rewrite sentences for clarity
• Suggest headlines and titles in line with the content
• Comply with brand guidelines

Average editor salary: Editors in the US earn approximately $66,000 per year, says Indeed.

15. Software developer

If solving problems is your cup of tea, then becoming a remote software developer is one of the most rewarding over night jobs to consider.

In addition, you’ll never be short of work either, as companies all over the world look for programmers to help them develop software that solves an issue.

Typical duties:

• Listen to user needs and review current systems
• Suggest ideas
• Create cost proposals
• Develop and test software solutions
• Collect user feedback and make improvements

Average software developer salary: A career as a software developer can be very lucrative. The median salary is $120,000, says U.S. News.

16. Technical support

For fellow night workers, being faced with a technical problem on your laptop at 1 a.m. is inconvenient and frustrating. This is why companies like Apple hire night technical support staff to provide their customers with assistance around the clock.

It’s one of the best night shift jobs to have if you are good with computers and modern technology.

Typical duties:

• Take support calls via email, chat, text, and other communication methods
• Identify and resolve user issues promptly
• Assist with the installation of equipment or software
• Resolve network issues
• Provide technical information on products and services                         

Average technical support role salary: Most technical support representatives will earn an average of about $57,000 per year in this job, claims Indeed.

17. Telephone triage nurse

A telephone triage nurse is an important job that can be done overnight from the comfort of your own home. There are several different opportunities in this field, such as working for private practices, pharmaceutical companies, or assisting physicians.

Typical duties:

• Answer patient calls
• Assess symptoms and conditions
• Give medical advice over the phone
• Consult other medical professionals when required
• Refer patients to further help if needed

Average telephone triage nurse salary: The amount of money you earn in this field will depend on your experience. The average salary for triage nurses is about $84,000 per year, claims NursingProcess.org.

18. English teacher

If you’re looking for overnight remote jobs that enable you to work with children too, becoming an English teacher is a great choice. Because of the time difference in other countries, there’s a demand for teaching English online to foreign students during the night.

Typical duties may include, according to Betterteam:

• Prepare lesson plans to help improve children’s reading and writing
• Create and deliver interactive, educational content and activities
• Adapt your teaching style to suit students’ needs
• Monitor and report on children’s progress

Average English teacher salary: Remote English teachers can earn a decent yearly salary of about $52,000 per year, says ZipRecruiter.

19. Graphic designer

Working as a graphic designer is the perfect career choice for creative individuals who want to work remotely at any time of the day or night. Most people in this line of work thrive from being able to set their own schedule and work when they feel their most creative.

Typical duties:

• Understand and interpret design briefs
• Produce design visuals
• Present ideas to clients
• Develop designs by hand or software
• Work with copywriters and marketing teams to ensure graphics are on-brand

Average graphic designer salary: Graphic designers make an average of about $50,000 annually, according to Talent.com, although it can be more depending on your experience and client budgets.

Expert tip: Make working a night shift job easier by keeping a routine

As a night shift worker, it’s a great idea to try to stick to a schedule on your days off to stay mentally and physically healthy.

So make a time management plan for the best time to do things such as your self-care routine, exercise and socializing. This will help you make the most of your spare time and ensure you can fit in what’s important to you.

Don’t forget to try and eat and sleep at the same times every day to keep your body happy and healthy. Your day off may look something like this:
6am: Finish work
6.30am: Breakfast
8am: Sleep
3pm: Exercise
4pm: Socialize
5pm: Eat
6pm: Nap
8pm: Self care
10pm: Start work

Adjusting to over night jobs with a new schedule can be challenging but these tips will set you up for success!

What is the best night job to have?

The best night jobs to have are ones that allow you to use your skills and pay the amount of money you want to earn.

For instance, public services, hospitality, and freelance work are industries that need good night staff, and you can even learn how to start freelancing with no experience. Consider your skill set and make a short list of jobs that you’re interested in.  

Ultimately, the best night job to have is one that you’re happy in!

Is night shift pay worth it?

Night shift pay can be worth it, as most companies will pay a higher hourly rate for unsociable working hours, but it isn’t guaranteed.

However, consider the other reasons why you want to do night work and use them as your main motivation for overnight work.

Some of the top reasons people work night jobs are:

• Spend more time with your family
• Achieve a higher quality of life or start a new chapter in life
• Have more time to do the things you love during the day
• There are fewer distractions
• You can earn a higher salary
• There’s no need to travel during rush hour

You may find that lots of people don’t find the idea of night work desirable, meaning less competition for shifts and also an increase in earning potential.

Can you work the night shift at Amazon?

Yes, you can work the night shift at Amazon. Amazon offers a range of night shift roles, and the pay can make this an appealing choice.

If you want to work for a company that offers competitive rates of pay and the possibility for other benefits like insurance and shopping discounts, Amazon ticks the boxes.

Articles related to working night shift jobs

If you learned a lot from reading about the best night shift jobs, check out these posts next!

• The Best High Paying Remote Jobs
• How To Find A New Job You Love
• The 22 Best Work From Anywhere Jobs To Earn More Money!
• 18 Of The Best Online Part-Time Jobs From Home

Find the best over night jobs options for you!

Night shift jobs won’t suit everyone. But if you’re a night owl or can only work while everyone else sleeps, there are plenty of options for you.

Additionally, it’s completely possible to earn a decent salary by working at night and spending your days doing whatever you want.

All you need to do is decide what type of career aspirations you have and where you want to work. Check out a job blog or two and take the time to find out what career is best for you. Good luck finding the perfect overnight job!

The post 19 Of The Best Night Shift Jobs To Earn Extra Cash appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

Are you expecting a baby soon? If so, congratulations! Searching for jobs for pregnant women may be on your ever-expanding to-do list, and it helps to know where to start.

Pregnancy can be an exciting time! But it’s also overwhelming. Looking after yourself and your baby should be your top priority. 

But pregnant women still need to earn money. They can also work (as long as there are no complications during pregnancy).

Not all jobs are suitable when you are with child, though. That said, we are sharing the 20 best jobs for pregnant women.

So, put your feet up, grab a snack, and find out what your options are when preparing for a baby.

Elements of great jobs for pregnant women

When you’re pregnant, there are certain things that you should and shouldn’t be doing to protect yourself and your baby from complications or pregnancy-related health issues. 

Keep the following characteristics in mind when job hunting:

Low stress

High stress levels during pregnancy have been known to cause complications, and chronic stress can lead to potential preterm labor and other problems, so it’s essential to keep stress away as much as possible. Choose a job that won’t lead to excessive workloads or worry. 

Minimal standing

Pregnancy can be tough on all body parts, especially your feet, during the last two trimesters. Trust us; you won’t want a job where you’re standing all day! 

Feeling faint is also a common symptom of pregnancy due to hormone changes, so it’s important to be able to sit if you need to. 

Flexible hours

You’ll need to attend several health appointments during your pregnancy, so having a job where you can work flexible hours is extremely helpful. If you suffer from morning sickness, you may also appreciate not having to start work first thing in the morning if you don’t have to. 

Work from home opportunities

In my opinion, working from home can make it easier and less stressful to prepare for welcoming a child. The time you save on commuting can be spent decorating the nursery or packing your hospital bag.

The comfort of your home is also a more relaxing environment, which may boost your mood and total wellbeing. 

A hygienic, toxic-free environment 

It’s possible that being around chemicals (particularly household chemicals) may cause complications in your pregnancy (but there are only possible links to this, nothing confirmed for certain), including low birth weight, preterm birth, and even pregnancy loss.

Work in an environment that is safe, clean, and hygienic, and see this list of substances to avoid when pregnant.

Short commute

Long commutes are not ideal during pregnancy because it can be stressful when you’re stuck on a busy subway or sitting in your car during heavy traffic. You may also be feeling tired, nauseous, or needing a bathroom!

So short commutes are much more pregnancy-friendly. 

Zero-low physical requirements

A career that requires heavy lifting or a lot of standing can lead to complications such as ligament pain, decreased blood flow, and even low birth weight or preterm labor. If you’re unsure whether to continue work that requires lifting or standing, speak to your healthcare advisor. 

20 best jobs for pregnant women

When you’re pregnant, you might need to find work quickly that doesn’t require extensive amounts of training. Even if you’re already employed, if your job isn’t suitable for your current situation, you may need to look for alternative employment. 

These 20 jobs are ideal for expectant moms because you won’t need extensive qualifications, and they are all low impact – both physically and mentally. Make an income with less stress than a traditional job!

1. Library worker

If you still want to work with other people and get out of the house during your pregnancy, becoming a library worker will allow you to earn money whilst working in a relaxing, calm, and comfortable environment.

Librarians typically have set hours and a good work-life balance, so you won’t have problems working around pregnancy-related appointments. 

Typical duties for library workers include:

• Ordering books
• Processing late return fees
• Assisting people with finding books
• Organizing book displays and shelves 
• Stock checks

Sound like your kind of job? Approach your local libraries and ask if they are taking on new staff.

If nothing is available, I recommend volunteering a few hours a week to show your skills and passion for working in a library. Volunteer work may turn into a paid position. Library assistants earn about $17 per hour. 

2. Review books

Getting paid to read may seem too good to be true, but plenty of genuine opportunities exist! What better way to spend your pregnancy than curling up on the sofa with a book?

Here are five sites to find book reviewing opportunities:

• Kirkus Media
• BookBrowse
• Booklist Publications

Pay will vary significantly depending on the publication you’re writing the review for. You can expect to receive anything from $10-$100 per review, not to mention the importance of reading books can’t be overstated.

3. Grocery shopper

Professional grocery shoppers visit stores to collect items for paying customers. The demand for grocery deliveries is expected to rise, making it one of the great money making skills for pregnant women wanting a slower-paced job.

You can also fulfill your orders at a time that suits you. So if you can’t sleep, visiting the grocery store when it’s quiet will allow you to catch up on rest later! 

Grocery shoppers will:

• Find out what the client needs 
• Go to a store
• Buy the items
• Pack and deliver them to the paying customer

Lots of people use this service, from the elderly to busy parents and professionals who don’t have time to shop. 

So, how do you become one? You can advertise your services on a flyer and give them out in your area or sign up with a site like Instacart. 

Shopper salaries range between $12-$23 per hour. 

4. Social media manager

Social media is an integral part of all business marketing strategies. Companies don’t always have the time or resources to do this, so they hire people to manage their social media platforms. 

It’s an excellent gig for pregnant women because you can work during hours that suit you and anywhere with an internet connection. As long as you are organized, it’s also low-stress work.

The day-to-day job of a social media manager will look like this:

• Creating, implementing, and monitoring a social media strategy
• Producing and scheduling regular content via a content calendar
• Engaging with followers across all platforms
• Creating advertising campaigns
• Ensure brand consistency by working with internal teams 

You don’t need any experience to get started, but knowledge of social media trends is necessary.

The most efficient way to get work in this field is by using your existing business relationships. What business owners do you know? Contact them and see if you can help with their social media management.

The hourly rate for social media managers is $33.79. 

5. Retail assistant

Working in retail is a desirable choice for pregnant women. It offers flexible hours and good rates of pay.

You won’t have to worry about bringing work stress home when you work in retail either because as soon as the shop is shut, you’re done for the day!

A typical day as a retail assistant will look like this:

• Welcoming customers
• Answering product questions and offering advice
• Dealing with transactions
• Setting up and tidying product displays 
• Administrative tasks 

Retail work is readily available, especially during peak seasons such as Christmas. Keep an eye out for online adverts and vacancies listed in shops.

You’ll earn an average of $16.11 an hour as a retail assistant. 

6. Caregiver

Caregiving is a rewarding and lucrative way to make money if you enjoy looking after others. You can also decide on your working hours, which is ideal when you’re pregnant. 

As a caregiver, you will need to:

• Assist with bathing and dressing
• Prepare food, drink, and medication
• Run errands
• Keep living areas clean and tidy
• Encourage physical and mental wellbeing

A great way to find work as a caregiver is through websites such as Visiting Angels.

Your earnings will vary, but the average caregiver earns $14 per hour. 

7. Virtual assistant

If you enjoy organizing other people’s lives, this is a great job choice for you during your pregnancy and beyond if you are looking for jobs for stay at home moms. It’s flexible, enjoyable, and you can do it in your PJs from home! 

As a Virtual Assistant (VA), you will:

• Organize client’s email inboxes, calendars, and travel 
• Create social media posts 
• Write blogs/newsletters
• Do some market research 
• Update a website 
• Create invoices 

How much you earn will depend on the number of clients you take on. On average, VAs earn $18.75 an hour.

You could start with one or two clients and also take on more if your pregnancy is going well and you have the energy to do more work. The great thing about this job is that when you’re approaching your due date, you can also reduce your number of clients until you’re happy with the workload. 

Using search engines is also an excellent way to find work as a VA. You can also contact local companies in your area to make them aware of your services. You never know who might need your help! 

8. Online bookkeeping

All businesses need someone good with numbers to do their books. Is this you? The great thing about this job is that it can be done virtually, meaning no commuting, and you can also decide what hours you work.

When you’re pregnant you will appreciate being able to rest when you need it instead of working through it. 

As a bookkeeper, you will:

• Ensure bank statements are accurate
• Categorize transactions
• Prepare financial statements 

The best way to get started in this field is to create an appealing website that clearly describes your services. Use social media to get your name out there too. Indeed is also an excellent place to find virtual bookkeeping jobs, so keep an eye on that.

You can make between $11-$25 per hour bookkeeping, but specializing in an area such as bookkeeping for legal professionals could earn you more money. 

9. Voiceover artist

Fancy doing something a bit different to earn money during your pregnancy? A voiceover artist is a low-impact, low-stress job that is enjoyable too! 

Many industries need a professional’s voice, including television, film, video games, audiobooks, radio, and more. 

Voiceover artists will get paid to:

• Read scripts
• Follow prompts from writers and directors
• Interpret the mannerisms of different characters
• Verbally portray emotion
• Pitch your voice to different requirements

Voiceover artists earn an average of $37 per hour, which can be a lucrative career choice.

How do you become one? Follow production companies’ websites and social media platforms, where they often post job adverts. Using search engines will also let you know what work is available. 

10. Website designer

Working from home is a luxury you will appreciate when pregnant, especially during your second and third trimesters! If you’re creative and have good computer skills, this could be one of the jobs for pregnant women that really appeal to you.

If this is an area you want to get into, some websites, such as Webflow provide free web design courses.

Becoming a freelance website designer while pregnant is one of the best ways to make money in this field. Why? Because you can choose the projects you work on and set your work hours. 

Here are a few of the tasks that you’ll do:

• Incorporate brand guidelines 
• Create page layouts
• Choose appropriate visuals/videos
• Register domain names
• Carry out coding

Once you’ve mastered the basic skills, build up a portfolio of your work (you could offer your services to local businesses or charitable organizations for a reduced rate or free for practice), then get advertising for work. Upwork, or also Dribbble, and LinkedIn are great platforms to find web design work. 

Earnings will vary from $30-$80 per hour. 

11. Copywriter

Copywriting is a very pregnancy-friendly occupation! And if you already have good writing and typing skills, it makes perfect sense to utilize these when looking for work. 

In my experience as a writer, I manage my own workload to meet deadlines, so if I don’t feel like working one day, I don’t have to! Many women who start a career as a freelance writer during pregnancy often carry it on because it’s so flexible and can easily fit around nap times and school drop-offs! 

As a copywriter, you will conduct extensive research and work on a range of writing projects for clients, such as:

• Advertising copy 
• Blog writing 
• Social media posts 
• Articles 
• Website copy 

When starting out, use remote job boards such as Contena and also Problogger. Businesses will post job adverts that you can apply for. 

Freelance copywriters in the US earn approximately $35.89 per hour. 

12. Recruitment advisor

Do you have great interpersonal and communication skills? A recruitment advisor could be the perfect job for career success while you’re pregnant and longer.

You can choose whether to work for a recruitment company or start your own business freelancing for work.

Every day will be different, making the days and week go fast. Your due date will soon come around! It’s pretty fast-paced but not stressful as long as you remain calm and organized.

Recruitment advisors are responsible for the following:

• Look for new clients
• Research companies and the marketplace
• Build relationships
• Find job opportunities 
• Advertise jobs you need to find a candidate for
• Interview and put forward suitable people

To get started in this field, you need to demonstrate to companies that you are the right person to be trusted with their recruitment process. You can show your experience and skills and meet them in person. Making yourself active on social media is another excellent way to get your name out there.

Sound like the type of job for you? A typical hourly rate for a recruitment advisor is about $26 per hour.

13. Housesit

There are very few jobs for pregnant women that allow you to enjoy home comforts at someone else’s house – but this is one of them! It’s the perfect way to make money during your pregnancy while you can still spend time away from your home without doing anything stressful.

General responsibilities for house sitters include:

• General cleaning and tidying
• Looking after pets 
• Opening/organizing mail
• Watering plants
• Keeping the property secure

Find paid housesitting jobs on websites such as Trusted Housesitters. Once you’ve proven that you’re trustworthy after a few housesitting jobs, you may find that recommendations lead to more clients.

The amount you can charge for your time will depend on the tasks you’re expected to complete. A reasonable price is around $16 per hour for housesitting duties. 

14. Online moderator

Do your friends and family always rely on you to help deal with heated situations? If so, becoming an online moderator may be a great job choice for you during your pregnancy. The beauty of this job is that it’s done remotely, so you have no daily commute and traffic stress!

Online moderators oversee online communities, social media platforms, and blog posts to ensure everyone follows the rules.

Typical duties of an online moderator include:

• Checking reported content 
• Removing harmful or inappropriate comments
• Ensure guidelines and rules are being followed by users
• Blocking users 
• Maintain user engagement in groups

Online job sites, including Indeed and GlassDoor, regularly post content moderator jobs, so set up an alert to get your application in early. Earnings for content moderator jobs are around $18 per hour. 

15. Travel agent

You can be a travel agent that works in a store or a virtual one – the choice is yours! You don’t need specific experience to get started, but prior traveling knowledge will help. 

What makes this one of the best jobs for pregnant women is the low levels of stress and the ability to sell a service you are passionate about. 

Travel agents will typically:

• Listen to a client’s needs and budget
• Use your knowledge to suggest destinations, accommodations, and sightseeing tours
• Book flights or over transportation
• Make dinner arrangements 
• Provide information on visas, insurance, vaccinations, and customs requirements

Either set up your own business or work in a remote or office-based position for travel companies.

Your average earnings as a travel agent will be around $17.49 per hour. But if you specialize in an area of travel, such as honeymoons or luxury accommodation, you can earn more. 

16. Tutoring

Do you have an area of specialization or subject you know lots about? Teaching young people can be extremely satisfying, and you can do it sitting down! This is another flexible occupation that you can do in person or online.

You’ll be expected to have qualifications in your chosen subject, and background checks will be conducted before you start. 

Not sure what to teach? Here are some ideas:

• Core subjects such as English, math, and science
• Languages
• History
• Baking
• Instruments 

Set your own schedule, work around your appointments, and also enjoy your work! Earnings as a tutor can vary from $15 per hour to $100+ depending on your experience and chosen subject. 

If you teach remotely, look at job sites like VIPKID. If you’re tutoring in person, advertise your services locally and on social media to find work. 

17. Videographer

You don’t need a degree or formal qualifications to get work as a videographer, so it’s a great career choice if you decide to change jobs during your pregnancy. The work can be exciting, and you’ll meet many different people.

The main reason why it’s one of the ideal jobs for pregnant women is that you can choose the projects you work on. That means you don’t have to travel unnecessarily or work long days and hours if you don’t want to. 

Videographers tend to work on projects such as:

• Recording live events
• Documentaries
• Short films 
• Weddings
• Birthday parties 
• Sports events 
• Training videos

Networking is vital if you want to find regular work as a video maker. Ask everyone you know to spread the word!

Reach out to your local community and demonstrate how your skills can help them. LinkedIn is also a great place to look as businesses reach out to their network when they need assistance with a project. 

Videographers are paid an average of $34 per hour. 

18. Paralegal

Paralegals help solicitors, barristers, and other legal professionals carry out legal tasks. It’s an interesting, varied, and flexible career that’s one of the excellent jobs for pregnant women.

Why? Because if you work as a freelance paralegal, you can set your own schedule and rates.

As a paralegal, your typical duties will include:

• Preparing legal documents 
• Writing quotes for clients
• Interviewing witnesses and clients 
• Legal admin
• Researching laws and case studies

The NALA (which is the National Association of Legal Assistants) offers a Certified Paralegal Certification and the Advanced Certified Paralegal Program. These are things you can gain to help you find work, but they aren’t essential. Once you’ve started gaining experience in this industry, you’ll pick up more work.

The salary for paralegals is $28 per hour. 

19. Transcriptionist

One of the great jobs for pregnant women is transcription work. You can work at any time of the day or night, so it’s super flexible and can be done from the comfort of your own home without needing to travel or be on your feet all day. 

A transcriptionist will listen to audio and video recordings and transcribe them into text files. The work is interesting and varied. You could work on anything from business meeting notes to court hearing recordings.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Ensuring your transcribed text is accurate and free of spelling/grammar errors
• Formatting the text file in line with brand guidelines 
• Completing transcriptions quickly and efficiently
• Using the latest transcription software 
• Meeting client requirements 

TranscribeMe provides flexible transcription work for freelancers. You can also find transcription work on Flexjobs or also Rev.com. Hourly rates vary between $12 and $36 an hour.

20. Event planner

Who said finding jobs for pregnant women near me can’t be fun? You can be creative, have a good time, and work as much or as little as you want! You will need a mobile phone, laptop and a good internet connection. 

The types of events you could offer your clients are:

• Corporate (conferences and meetings)
• Celebrations (birthdays, baby showers, weddings, graduations, local fairs)
• Promotional (charity events, fundraisers, new product launches, book launches)

I’ve found that the best way to get work as an event planner is to research my local area to find out what events need organizing and offer to help. Start small until you build relationships with vendors and suppliers and prove your planning skills. 

Event planning can earn you a respectable $16.07 per hour or more! 

Expert tip: How to tell your employer you’re pregnant

Being pregnant is an exciting time, so make sure you share your special news in a positive way. When you decide it’s the right time to tell your employer you’re expecting a baby, write down a few notes to help you plan what you want to say.

You should include your due date and a rough idea of when you want to start maternity leave. Keep it simple, upbeat and to the point! 

You can tell your employer that you’re pregnant in person and follow it up in writing, but if you’re not comfortable with this you can just do it via an email/letter.

Tips to get hired when pregnant

You may feel nervous about your chances of getting a job during your pregnancy, but you don’t need to be! 

Everyone needs to plan when considering a job change. Here are some steps you can take to help you feel fully prepared for applying for jobs and the interview stage. You’ve got this!

Carefully consider what you want to do first 

This is probably the most critical step for pregnant women. Ask yourself what you want to do. Think about your skills and the type of work that you enjoy. 

Your mental wellness is essential, just as your physical health. It’s also a good idea to think about a career that you could potentially continue when your baby arrives. 

Be aware of your rights 

It’s important that you know exactly what you’re entitled to when you’re pregnant.

You’re protected against discrimination under the Pregnancy Discrimination Act. Read through the information so you are armed with the facts if you need to use them. 

Decide if you want to disclose your pregnancy 

You should never feel pressured to tell anyone you’re pregnant if you don’t want to. Take your time, and don’t rush the decision.

Some women like to tell people as soon as they get past 12 weeks, and others like to keep it a secret for much longer. Either way is absolutely fine!

Apply for flexible jobs

Flexibility is like gold dust for expectant mothers. You’ll appreciate being able to change your hours at short notice or work from home if you need to.

It will improve your overall productivity and make you want to return to work after your maternity leave, which also benefits employers. 

Research companies before the interview stage 

You need to ask yourself whether they are a company you want to work for that shares your personal core values. If you’re not aligned with your employer, it’s probably best to find another opportunity where you will be happy and comfortable working. 

Interviewing tips

Remember that you don’t have to declare your pregnancy during an interview; the choice is yours. If your bump is noticeable and you want to tell your potential employer, go ahead.

Be prepared to address any concerns they may have and discuss your plan for minimizing disruption while you’re off. 

If you’re at the early stages of your pregnancy, focus on answering the questions to the best of your ability and demonstrating what you could bring to the job. 

The best employers will see your potential and want to work with you regardless of whether you’re pregnant. 

Create a plan to complete work deliverables before your due date 

Showing your commitment and passion for a job is a great way to make you stand out amongst other candidates. Tell your employer what can be done before you go on maternity leave to reduce the impact of your absence.

This could include training team members, working remotely, or creating detailed handover notes and project plans. 

What kind of jobs can I work while pregnant?

There are so many kinds of jobs you can work while pregnant you’ll be spoilt for choice! 

Here’s a summary of the ideal jobs for pregnant women: 

• Home working: Freelance writer, virtual assistant, transcriptionist
• Office jobs: Recruitment advisor, library assistant, paralegal (can also be done remotely)
• Retail positions: Travel agent, customer service rep, event planner
• Flexible jobs: Online moderator, grocery shopper, tutor, or high paying remote jobs

And the ones to avoid:

• Hairstylist
• Nail technician 
• Car mechanic 
• Working in a factory with chemicals
• Security at a chemical plant 

Remember to listen to your body and start your maternity leave early if needed. And don’t worry – you can still find plenty of ways how to make money on maternity leave.

Will jobs hire you if you’re pregnant?

Yes, jobs will hire you if you’re pregnant! Recruiters cannot ask if you’re pregnant or refuse to interview you. 

The fact that you’re pregnant does not affect your ability to do a job unless it requires physical exertion. Employers are obligated to treat you exactly the same way as other potential employees. 

Lots of women get new employment while pregnant. Laws are made to protect you from discrimination. 

If you feel you have been discriminated against when applying for a job because you’re pregnant, you should seek legal advice immediately. 

Where is the best place to work pregnant?

Ultimately, the best place to work when you’re pregnant is somewhere where you’re comfortable and well looked after by the people around you. This can be done remotely or in a place of work. 

During your pregnancy, you have the following rights to the following reasonable workplace accommodations according to the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA):

• Longer or more frequent breaks (depending on the type of work that you do)
• Extra time off work for scans and pregnancy-related appointments or health checks 
• Modification to no-food-or-drink policies
• Reassignment of heavy-duty or heavy-lifting work
• Protection against discrimination and unfair dismissal or treatment
• Your contract can’t be changed without your consent
• Time off to recover from childbirth even if you are not eligible for the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).

Pregnancy can be tough without dealing with unfair employers who don’t understand what you’re going through. If your current job isn’t suitable for your pregnancy, find one that is.

Should I let potential employers know I’m pregnant when I apply for a job?

You don’t have to let potential employers know you’re pregnant when you apply for a job, as disclosing your pregnancy is a personal choice in the U.S. You’re not legally obliged to tell anyone. 

Before deciding whether to tell potential employers, here are some benefits of disclosing your pregnancy and things to consider. 

Benefits of sharing your pregnancy with your employer

• Adjustments can be made to your job role if required
• A pregnancy risk assessment can be conducted to ensure you’re working safely
• The company can start planning your cover while you’re on maternity leave
• Your manager can give you time off for pregnancy-related appointments

Things to consider before telling your employer you’re pregnant

• Do you want people to find out yet? You can ask your manager to keep it quiet if you don’t want the whole office to know.
• Have you had your first ultrasound and midwife appointment yet? Most women wait until they’ve had these to check that everything is ok with baby.
• Do you need more time to come to terms with the news yourself? This is absolutely ok if you do!

Where can I find jobs for pregnant women near me?

The good news is that you can find jobs for pregnant women near you in the same way as anyone else! You want your search to be efficient, so you don’t end up wasting lots of time looking at jobs that aren’t suitable for your needs. 

We recommend starting your job hunt in the following places:

Job sites

Using websites is a quick and easy way to see what jobs are currently advertised. Use filters to narrow your search to ‘jobs for pregnant women near me,’ so you can quickly disregard unsuitable opportunities. Our favorites are:

• Glassdoor
• Monster
• ZipRecruiter
• LinkedIn

Local businesses 

Sometimes the best opportunities are just around the corner. Companies often list their current vacancies on their website and social media platforms, so regularly check them.

If there’s a particular business that you’re desperate to work for, you could always approach them and tell them what you’d bring to the team. 

Recommendations 

The best thing about working somewhere that has been recommended to you is you know that it’s a decent place to be. It’s also one of the best confidence building exercises, as you won’t be recommended unless someone has faith in your skills and ability. 

Articles related to jobs and pregnancy

If you enjoyed reading this article about jobs for pregnant women, you’ll like these other posts!

• Is Pregnancy Life Insurance A Thing?
• Natural Fertility Treatments That Won’t Break the Bank
• Freezing Your Eggs: What It Costs And How To Plan
• 25 Side Hustles For Women That Make Real Money

Working your way through pregnancy: Yes it’s possible!

Now you know the best jobs for pregnant women, you can relax and enjoy your pregnancy without worrying about money. Take it easy and listen to your body and your doctor’s advice.

If you want to learn more about managing your finances, Clever Girl Finance has a wealth of information and advice. Find simple ways to increase your income and get answers for how much does having a baby cost as you plan your finances and future.

The post 20 Best Jobs For Pregnant Women appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

Need to know how to get money fast outside of your typical 9 to 5? We’ve got you covered! If you’re looking for ways to boost your income without getting another office job, you’ll be pleased to know that there are plenty of genuine ways to make money. Keep reading!

In this article we reveal 18 of the best ways to get money fast without requiring huge investments or years of training.

1. Host city tours

If you’re an extrovert who loves to boast about your local area, being a tour guide could be the perfect way for you to get cash fast. The hours are flexible, and it’s a fun way to earn decent cash.

What does a city tour guide do? Planning and researching your local area, finding customers, and leading excursions. In America, you’ll need to apply for a Sightseeing Guide license before you can offer tours.

The amount you earn will likely depend on where you live and your experience. New tour guides can expect to earn between $8 and $15 an hour, and guides in high-tourist areas can earn up to $150 per day. Plus, if your customers love you, you may receive tips too!

Boost your earning potential by offering a wide range of culinary, adventure, and historical tours.

2. Wait in line for someone

Will someone really pay you to stand in a queue? Yes! Standing in line can be tedious and frustrating, and people are willing to pay others to do it for them.

This is probably one of the most unusual ways for how to get money fast without a job, with minimal effort required. But patience and a professional attitude are a must!

Professional queuers make approximately $25 an hour to wait in line for events, shops, banks, book signings, night clubs, and theme parks. What you earn will vary depending on how long you have to wait.

You can find line stander jobs by using an app such as TaskRabbit and Spotblaze that connects you with people that want to pay for your service.

Be aware that some apps may charge a commission for each job you complete, affecting your overall earnings. But it’s a super easy way to make some dollars!

3. Organize things for others

Sometimes, we all need some help to organize everything in our homes. So, if you have a natural ability and passion for organization or decluttering your life, this could be how to get money fast without a job for you.

I’ve found that organizing can also be rewarding and fulfilling, as I need to find new organizational systems and storage solutions that work for individuals and their lifestyles. Multi-tasking, discretion and flexibility skills, and organizational know-how are essential to do well as a professional organizer.

The salary range for a professional organizer in America is typically between $53,000 and $74,000 a year, but you can set your own rate. The more practice and recommendations you get, the more you can charge for your services.

There are certifications and courses that you can take to enhance your skills and make you more desirable to potential clients. Time to get organizing!

4. Give virtual babysitting a go

A virtual babysitter is basically someone who keeps a child entertained for an hour or so via a screen. It has become a lifesaver for busy parents who need to do work or household chores whilst their children are at home. It’s also a great money earner for people who don’t want a standard job.

Activities could include:

• Doing homework
• Playing games such as I Spy or Simon Says
• Learning dance moves
• Reading

So how much money would you make as a virtual nanny? The going rate is up to $25 per hour. You’ll earn more by going solo, but most people start out working for an agency until they’ve gained some experience.

You can use job platforms such as UrbanSitter to search for virtual babysitting jobs or start your own business. You don’t need to spend loads on equipment, but it’s worth investing in a good quality headset and ensuring your internet connection is reliable.

5. Become a mock online juror

Attorneys use mock online jurors to understand how the actual trial will go, almost like a pre-trial. When opportunities arise, it’s a great way to get money fast, but work is sporadic, so don’t rely on it for regular income.

As a mock juror, you will read case notes or watch videos and provide your opinion at the end, just like you would if you sat on a jury. Anyone can do it, but you do have to be at least 18 years old and have no criminal record.

Earnings will vary on average from $10 to 60 for a day’s work. You will likely find mock online juror jobs in your local newspaper or by signing up for online platforms such as eJury to find work.

6. Keep bees

Looking for an unusual and fun way to make money? Keeping bees can earn you a nice profit, and it’s not just about selling honey.

Here are the best ways our small buzzing friends can help us financially:

Sell pollen

Pollen is worth more than honey because it’s only available in tiny amounts. You can collect pollen via pollen traps in the beehive for a few hours daily. It’s essential not to take too much pollen from the hive because bees need it for their babies.

Once you’ve collected enough, you can either sell it fresh or preserve it by drying it (this also lengthens its shelf life).

Harvest wax

You can either sell beeswax in its natural form or have a go at making beeswax products such as candles and lip balms. This is a great, fun way to boost your profits!

The amount you can charge for beeswax and beeswax products will depend on the area you are selling in, but typically prices are around $2 to $8 per pound. However, Beeswax candles are also a lucrative market.

Rent your bees for pollination services

This method has the potential to earn you some serious dollars. But it does require more equipment and experience than the other ways to make money from bees. People typically pay around $200 to borrow your bees for pollination.

To start as a beekeeper, you will need a hive, bees, and beekeeping equipment such as a frame lifter, protective clothing, a smoker, and other hive tools. Do plenty of research first before investing in this new money-making venture.

7. Send and answer text messages for money

Do you spend lots of time on your cell phone every day? There are genuine ways to make extra cash by simply using your device.

We’ve done the research to find the top three websites and apps that pay you to text.

IMGR

This instant messaging app connects brands with users via chats. When you sign up to IMGR, you will receive offers, discounts, and information on new products in exchange for points. Your points can then be exchanged for cash.

1Q

The 1Q platform is designed to help businesses gather valuable marketing data. To do this, they send users questions, polls, or surveys to answer. You only need to respond with a text message and get paid $1 for every four answers you provide.

Just Answer

Just Answer is a Q&A platform where you earn money from answering questions in an area of specialism, for example, technology, cars, or animals. As an expert, you can make more money than the other apps, sometimes up to thousands of dollars a month.

The amount you get paid will fluctuate from a few dollars to $100+ a week, but the best thing about this method of making money is that it’s quick and easy.

8. Take part in clinical trials

If you’re interested in medicine and helping develop new treatments, this is how to get money fast. It’s an unusual way to make cash, though, and it does come with some risks that you need to be aware of before signing up for a paid clinical trial.

Payment rates vary hugely and will depend on the trial itself. For example, you will make more for participating in a trial with risks.

In addition to money, you will also be covered for expenses such as travel, accommodation, and food.

Taking part in clinical trials may be worth considering if you’re comfortable with needles and taking untested drugs. The National Institutes of Health is great for paid trial opportunities.

9. Sign up for writing contests

If you write professionally as a freelance writer or as a hobby, you can get paid well to enter and win writing competitions. This is one of my favorite ideas to use my skills to get money fast.

The more contests you enter, the more chance you have of winning and earning cash. Another way of making money is to sell the stories or articles you have written for competitions to a publisher or publication. How much you win will vary from a few hundred dollars to thousands.

An effective way to find writing contests is to use web searches regularly. There is no limit on how many you can enter, so do as many as possible! Different search engines will generate different results, so don’t just use Google.

10. Translate for people

Translating is a good way to make money fast if you are fluent in another language. Businesses regularly need help translating text from websites and manuals to ensure nothing is misinterpreted. This is where your skills come in.

Freelance platforms such as Fiverr and Translate.com are a great way to find translation work. All you need to do is sign up, set your rate, and apply for listed jobs. How about offering your services as a live translator?

Translators can make good money. The average hourly rate is $31! You can set your working hours and earn as much or as little as you want.

11. Donate plasma

This way to get money fast may be a bit on the extreme side, but it’s a legit way to make dollars.

Plasma is a yellow liquid that is found in the blood. Its role in the body is to carry nutrients and proteins all over the body.

During the donation process, a machine extracts plasma from your blood so scientists can use it to treat certain health conditions such as blood clots, burns, and autoimmune diseases.

Before signing up, there are a few things you need to know:

• You must be over 18 years old.
• You’ll need to drink plenty of water and eat iron and protein-rich foods before donating.
• You won’t be able to eat junk food on donation day!
• The process can take up to a few hours, so take something to read or listen to while you wait.
• You may feel dehydrated and tired after you donate plasma, so it’s essential to rest.

The price you get paid for your plasma will depend on the rates set by your local donation center. On average, you can make $50 to $75 per donation, which is not bad for less than two hours of your time.

There is a however limit on how often you can donate safely, though (usually once per month).

12. Get paid to lose weight (If you’re on a weight loss journey)

If you’re on a mission to lose some pounds, you can earn some money in the process. Whilst this is a legit way how to get money fast, it isn’t for everyone, and there are things to consider before signing up.

Money is a great incentive to help you stick to your weight loss goals and help your finances too! So, how does it work? There are websites and apps that ask you to enter your goal in exchange for a financial reward if you meet it.

The amount of money you get will vary depending on the platform and plan you set yourself. Prizes can range from $200 to thousands of dollars.

Popular weight loss programs to consider are HealthyWage, DietBet, and Sweatcoin. If you sign up, remember that losing weight should not be detrimental to your health, and avoid overdoing it just to reach your goal and earn money.

13. Test products

Product testing is another option if you want to get cash fast. Companies send you their products for free so you can test them out and give your opinion on their usability, visual appeal, and value for money.

In exchange, you’ll receive cash, although sometimes you may receive gift cards or complimentary products, so make sure you find out what the reward is before signing up.

Look for product testing jobs with companies such as:

• UserTesting
• Johnson & Johnson Consumer Perception Program
• BetaTesting
• America Consumer Opinion
• SheSpeaks

Product testers can earn between $24 and $33 per hour.

14. Listen to people’s problems

If you are a good listener and like supporting people, this can be how to get money fast without a job.

Paid listeners make a massive difference in the lives of people that need someone to talk to, so it’s an extremely rewarding way to make money. You’ll hear from people with various issues, from relationship difficulties and mental health problems to those who need to learn how to stop worrying about money.

Even if you don’t have an advanced degree or certification, there are ways you can get paid to listen to people’s problems. Here are a few to consider:

Apply for jobs on FlexJobs

The FlexJobs site screens and lists genuine job adverts looking for listening experts for various roles.

Get paid to type

Transcription jobs are perfect for good listeners! Spend your time listening to audio and typing up the information. The best place to find transcription jobs is on job sites or transcription sites such as Rev.

Listen to podcasts

Everyone loves a podcast, and a lot of work goes into creating them. Editing podcasts is a great way to use your listening skills and get paid. Find podcast work on sites such as Fiverr and FlexJobs.

15. Sell your breast milk

Ok, so this method of how to get money fast isn’t for everyone, but it can help moms and babies who need milk to be healthy and thriving.

If you want to sell your breast milk, selling it via a milk bank is the safest way to earn money. Mother’s Milk Cooperative is a fantastic online community of moms who choose to sell or donate excess breast milk. 

If you’re currently nursing your own baby, you won’t be able to donate spare milk until your baby is at least three months old. You’ll also need to pass a donor and blood screening process first.

16. Play games

Yes, it’s totally possible to get cash fast by playing games! Earning while playing can be a good money earner if you know where to look.

Here are a few of the best apps that will pay you real money for simply playing their games. Keep in mind that you want to play games to win, meaning you should not be putting any money upfront. This approach is considered gambling and can be very dangerous.

Blackout Bingo

Play the classic game of Blackout Bingo against players worldwide. Climb the leaderboard and receive cash and prizes.

Solitaire Cube

The game of Solitaire Cube is a race against the clock to complete each game. The quicker you complete it, the more bonus points you receive. Play head-to-head with other players for cash rewards.

Cash Giraffe

Cash Giraffe allows you to play various games and cash out your earnings. Unlike some gaming apps, you only need a balance of $0.20 to cash out, so it’s an excellent way to make money quickly.

Swagbucks

Swagbucks is one of the most popular gaming sites. It offers members new games regularly that you can play for cash.

Mistplay

The Mistplay app encourages users to try new games in exchange for cash rewards and gift cards. There’s a wide range of card games, strategy games, puzzles, and survival games to suit everyone.

Exactly how much you earn will vary depending on pay rates and how much you play.

17. Sell your hair

Human hair is in high demand, and not just for the fashion industry. Hair is used to make wigs and extensions for people that lose their own due to age or an illness.

So, if you’re considering having the chop, why not make a difference in someone’s life and make some money too?

You can sell your hair online via eBay or other selling sites or direct to wig makers and some hair salons. Your hair must meet specific rules and criteria before the buyer will part with their cash, so ensure you know these before getting your hair cut.  

This isn’t going to earn you mega bucks (hair usually only grows up to six inches per year), but it’s a great way to get money fast.

The value of human hair can range from $100 to $1000, but here’s a handy hair price calculator to help you determine how much you could get paid.

18. Look for taste-testing opportunities

If you’re a real foodie, getting paid to eat food may sound like a distant dream. But it’s actually a genuine way to earn approximately $10.14 per hour!

You don’t need a bachelor’s degree for most taste-testing jobs, but you do need good taste and odor sensory skills.

Here are some top tips to help you find work as a food tester:

• Look out for market research companies and sensory testing businesses that often hire panelists in your local area.
• Restaurants sometimes hire food testers for market research purposes.
• Register with companies such as Focus & Testing and NC State University Sensory Service Center to hear about their latest opportunities.

So, what are you waiting for? Earn a living whilst trying delicious food. It’s a win-win!

Expert tip

To make money fast, I’ve personally found that I need to leverage modern technology and take on more than one small job. Not sure which is the right money earner for you?

I’d make a list of my skills and hobbies that make money, then narrow down that list to things that I want to spend my time doing (whilst making dollars!).

How can I get quick money right now?

The best way to get your hands on cash ASAP is to do something you can start right away and get paid quickly for it. Examples of things to do include, selling items, product testing, hosting city tours, listening to people’s problems and taking online surveys.

How can I get $1,000 cash fast?

The easiest way to make $1,000 cash quickly is to choose a hustle that has a higher chance to earn you more. For example, I’d recommend a small business like organizing people’s homes or beekeeping that is likely to make you a big amount of money fast.

Alternatively, you can try out several methods at once to bring in more money quickly. Consider this guide with “how to start business from scratch” ideas.

How can I earn $100 a day?

Earning $100 a day can be achieved by selling something for cash. Ideas of things you can sell include electronics, home-made skincare or beauty products, furniture, clothing, accessories and more.

Other side hustles that involved offering a service can also help you earn $100 a day. For example, tutoring, babysitting, organizing things for others etc.

Most of all, remember that the more side gigs you start or, the more you work on your business, the easier it will be to make $100 in a day.

Articles related to how to get money fast

If you enjoyed learning about how to get money fast, check out these other articles for more ideas!

• How To Make $500 Fast
• 29 Ways How To Make Money Without A Job
• How To Get Free Money Now! 15 Effortless Ways
• 21 Realistic Ways For How To Save Money Fast!

Earn money fast to help with your finances!

Once you know how to make money without a job, there will be no turning back to wishing your days away sitting in an office.

There are so many opportunities to earn cash these days but watch out for scams and remember to do something you love – life is too short to do anything else! And to make the most of your earnings, try out a money saving game!

The post How To Get Money Fast: 18 Ideas Outside of Your 9 to 5! appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

As a couple, it’s essential to spend quality time together. It can strengthen your relationship and improve communication. Perhaps you’re craving some fun stay at-home date night ideas but need them to be budget-friendly as you work on your financial goals. Well, check out these fabulous, inexpensive ideas!

43 Fun at-home date night ideas to try with your partner

It can be challenging to stick with a budget while dating because the average date night costs a whopping $159—ouch!

However, you can have a fabulous date night even on a budget – just try out any of these great solutions. Use them for an anniversary or just a fun date night with no special occasion. Let’s go!

1. Plan a board game night

You can double date or have an evening alone, playing some of your favorite board games or at-home challenge games. For example, you can break out your childhood favorites or try something new like creating memes or a drawing game.

A board game night is one of the best at-home date night ideas because it’s entertaining and budget savvy.

Need inspiration? Give these board and card games a try:

• Azul
• Watergate
• Pandemic
• Hive Pocket
• Splendor
• Exploding Kittens

2. Have a movie date night at home

One of the simplest yet romantic at-home date night ideas is a movie night or a series marathon. Even if you slashed cable to save money, you probably are subscribed to one of the popular streaming services such as Hulu, Netflix, or Roku.

You can binge-watch new television series or put on one of your favorite movies. You could also check out your local library for free DVD rentals or ask a friend if you could borrow some.

So, put on a good show or movie, pop some popcorn, and get to snuggling. If you can’t decide what to watch, work your way through this list:

• Romance – The Notebook, Ghost, Pearl Harbor
• Comedies – Pitch Perfect, What we do in the Shadows, Clue
• Marathons – Lord of the Rings, The Godfather, Harry Potter

3. Cook a meal together

Cooking a meal together is one of the most fun and romantic at-home date night ideas. Browse Pinterest for a new recipe, pick something from an old cookbook, watch a cooking show or use our list below for inspiration. You could also consider taking a virtual cooking class or just check out YouTube for cooking videos if you want.

Or how about creating your monthly meal plan and bulk cook together. Once your fabulous meal is done, set the table, light some candles, and sit down to enjoy the food. It will be like trying out a new restaurant!

Make date night extra special with these romantic meal suggestions:

• Beef Bourguignon
• Coq Au Vin
• Coquilles Saint-Jacques
• Lobster Thermidor
• Fillet Mignon
• Cheese Ravioli

4. Have a spa night

A spa date is one of the most relaxing and fun at-home date night ideas. Set the scene with tranquil music, scented candles, and slip into a comfy robe.

You can start with pedicures and move on to a nice massage. The date may even call for a nap afterward or early bedtime because you will be so relaxed.

Other at-home spa treatments to do together include:

• Face masks
• Steam facial
• Deep conditioning hair treatments
• Milk bath
• Soothing Eye Treatment
• Foot mask

5. Dance the night away

When was the last time you and your partner danced together? You don’t have to hit a dance club to cut a rug.

Dancing with your partner is not only fun; it increases your intimate connection because you are physically connecting.

Put on some good music, grab your partner, and dance away. You could also take online dance lessons or learn some new steps by watching YouTube videos.

These tunes are guaranteed to get you both moving at your next date night dance party:

• Kylie Minogue – Can’t Get You Out of My Head
• Madonna – Like a Prayer
• Lady Gaga – Bad Romance
• Bruno Mars – Just the Way You Are
• Taylor Swift – Love Story
• Prince – Raspberry Beret

6. Have a paint night

It doesn’t matter if you’re a natural-born Picasso or not because painting with your partner is wonderful. You can get paint supplies and canvases at stores such as Michael’s or Hobby Lobby on sale.

You can also check out sites like YouTube for free painting classes!

Of course, you could also opt for sites like Yaymaker and still spend only a little for your date night. Set up a paint station inside or outside and spend some quality time together while creating a fun painting.

7. Have a fondue party

A fondue party is one of the most delicious at-home date night ideas you will have. Fondue cooking is when the heat source is placed directly below the pot to melt the foods to dip into.

You can pick up an inexpensive fondue pot for between $40-$60+ on Amazon. So, grab some yummy cheeses or chocolate to melt and get dipping the following foods for a romantic date night.

Chocolate fondue:

• Fruit
• Bacon (trust us!)
• Donuts
• Almonds
• Gummy bears
• Marshmallows

Cheese fondue:

• Bread
• Apple
• Roasted potatoes
• Shrimp
• Cured meats
• Pasta

8. Camp out in the backyard or the living room

Depending on the season, you can have a fantastic camping trip right in your backyard. If you’re not in the mood to camp outdoors, you can camp out in your living room.

You may have an air mattress or pull out a bed and set up a big fluffy spot in the living room to camp out in comfort.

9. Have a bonfire

A romantic way to cozy up to your partner is a warm bonfire in the backyard or inside next to your fireplace. You can pair it with a good book and read to each other or enjoy some pleasant conversation.

Grab some graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows and make some yummy s’mores for one of the best at-home date nights you’ll ever have.

10. Have a cheese & wine party

A wine and cheese party is among the most popular at-home date night ideas. You can get a cheese sampler from the store or cut up some of your favorite cheeses and make your own platter to save even more money.

Pair your cheese with a delectable bottle of wine. You can buy a couple of bottles of wine and even have your own wine tasting party.

11. Look through old pictures

It’s so much fun looking at old pictures of your time together. You can also break out your old family pictures and share stories of your childhood you may not have remembered before.

Take a walk down memory lane together on your next date night.

12. Do a craft together for a date night at home

The most fun date ideas offer a chance for you to connect and do something unique and memorable together. There are a million DIY project ideas on Pinterest to choose from (see our pick of favorites below).

Crafting has limitless possibilities for creative date night ideas at home to do with your partner. Plus, you can also find cheap craft supplies at stores like the Dollar Store.

Here are some cute couple craft ideas to try on your next at-home date night:

• Painting pottery
• String art
• Sketching
• Make candles
• Frame memories
• Create a wine cork board

13. Make a bucket list together

You don’t have to wait until you retire to start your bucket list.

Making a bucket list together can be exhilarating because you’re planning on the fun part of your future. You can plan on starting a vacation fund to achieve it.

Make it even more fun by making a bucket list vision board. Take pictures of all the places and things you want to do and put them on a board so you can see them daily.

Not only do you have a good time making the vision board, but it will also motivate you to start saving towards your bucket list! Here are a few suggestions to start your list off:

• Stargaze and camp in a tent
• A couples massage
• Plan a road trip
• Sing a karaoke duet
• Volunteer together
• Climb a mountain

14. Cuddle to your favorite tunes

Sometimes you just need a good cuddle session with your partner. Did you know that cuddling is also healthy for you and your spouse? It’s true!

Cuddling releases a hormone called “Oxytocin, ” also known as the “love hormone.” So, slip into some comfy clothes, light candles, put on your favorite tunes, and enjoy cherished cuddle time with your spouse.

15. Bake a dessert together

As if you needed another reason to bake a delicious dessert. It’s one of the best date night ideas that is romantic and yummy.

You can whip up your favorite dessert or try making something new. Get a savory dessert recipe from Pinterest or from your favorite dessert blog, or give our tasty dessert ideas a go and enjoy the sweet treat.

• Meringue hearts
• Crème Brulee
• Poached pears
• Chocolate mousse
• Cherry cheesecake
• Champagne jelly

16. Color or draw for your date night at home

Break out the ol’ Crayola crayons and have a fun coloring session together. You can choose classic coloring books to bring out your childish side or get an adult coloring book.

You can even learn how to draw together thanks to tons of videos on YouTube.

Make the evening even more enjoyable by adding some tasty appetizers and opening a bottle of your favorite wine.

17. Take a bubble bath together

Add some bubbly romance to your date night and take a soothing bubble bath together. Intimacy is also an essential part of your relationship. Follow our top tips to make bath time extra special.

• Make sure your bathroom is sparkling clean
• Choose a time when you will be uninterrupted
• Add rose petals to the bath water
• Use bath salts and bubbles together

So, light some candles, put on some soothing music, and enjoy.

18. Have a yoga session

What is another fun but healthy date idea? Roll out the yoga mats and have a sensual yoga session together.

You can find a video on YouTube or find yoga workouts online. You get in your daily exercise while having a fun date night too. Plus, yoga has been proven to improve communication and increase trust.

The best couple’s yoga poses to include in your routine are:

• Double Dancer Pose
• Double Boat Pose
• Standing Forward Fold Pose
• Double Camel Pose
• Childs Pose and Backbend
• Seated Wide-Legged Forward Fold

19. Plant a herb garden

One of the most therapeutic at-home date night ideas is to plant a herb garden. Indoor herb gardens are becoming quite popular, and you can grow herbs such as basil, oregano, mint, and more inside your kitchen.

Not only will you have a quality date night, but you will also have a beautiful garden to remember your special evening together. Plus, you will have fresh herbs for your home-made dinners!

20. Gaze at the stars

Stargazing is mesmerizing and romantic, so it’s one of the best at-home date nights you can have.

You don’t have to have a telescope to enjoy the sparkling beauty of the night sky together. Get a blanket, sleeping bags, or comfy lawn chairs and a tent and gaze at the shimmering stars.

Other stargazing activities must-try activities are:

• Enjoying a picnic date
• Dancing under the stars
• Naming a star together

21. Make home-made wine or beer

What’s one of the most unique and fun date night ideas at home to try? Make your wine or beer and drink it too!

Making your own wine or beer is a blast; you don’t need to go to an expensive vineyard. Rather than going to a brewery, you can create your own homebrew on your next date night.

Here’s how to brew your own beer:

1. To make beer, get your brewing equipment ready (fermenting bucket, tap, airlock, long stirrer, caps, cleaning items)
2. Brew your grains
3. Ferment (typically for two weeks)
4. Bottle

To make wine:

1. Prepare your fruit
2. Add yeast
3. Ferment for between seven to 14 days
4. Change container
5. Ferment for a further four weeks to six months
6. Taste

22. Play a drinking game

Head back to your glory days of college and play a drinking game together. Think beer pong, drunk Jenga, or never have I ever.

Be sure to eat with this idea because the drinks may sneak up on you while you’re playing.

Other fun drinking games for couples to try are:

• Truth or dare
• Jenga
• Most Likely To
• Charades
• Russian Roulette
• Spin the Bottle

23. Have a theme night

So this sounds like one of the most fun at-home date night ideas to have. A theme night is where you pick something and surround your entire date night with it.

For instance, if you have an Italian theme you eat Italian food like pizza or pasta, listen to Italian music, etc. It will add fun and culture to your next date night!

For inspiration, consider your favorite dates of the past, or places you’d like to visit. Or work your way through our list of ideas below!

• Pick a letter of the alphabet and only have food, drink and games that begin with that letter.
• Choose a color to base your date night on
• Use your favorite film for a fun date night theme

24. Reminisce about the night you met

Remember how your stomach had butterflies on your first date or the first time you met? Reminisce about the first night you met and spark up those flames again.

It’s fun, too, because your spouse may remember things you don’t and vice versa! It makes for great conversation, laughter, and good memories!

25. Make a photo album or scrapbook

How many boxes of pictures are stuffed away in the closet? Have a fun date night making a photo album or scrapbook and putting all your beloved memories in it.

Include special moments that you’ve shared together, such as:

• How you celebrated anniversaries
• Love letters you’ve given each other
• Tickets for events that you’ve been to together and TV shows you love watching as a couple
• Include your favorite text messages to each other
• Add selfies
• Document your love story via a visual timeline

It’s a beautiful way to reminisce while doing something productive!

26. Watch home videos for a date night at home

How long has it been since you watched your wedding video or a treasured vacation you took together?

Make an appetizer, grab a glass of wine, and cuddle as you watch your old memories. It’s one of the most sentimental and fun date night ideas at home you can do.

Want to make this date night at home extra special? Use a projector to watch your home videos to create a romantic ambience.

27. Make a zen garden

Why not make something you can enjoy on future date nights? A zen garden can be a quaint space in your backyard or front yard for some quality time.

Here are some simple ways to create the perfect space outside:

• Use stepping stones to create a path
• Add a water feature and place pebbles around it
• Make an archway to create a beautiful focus point
• Include plants of different shades and textures
• Design a comfortable area to sit and relax
• Use sand for a relaxing and calming vibe

You can also make a mini indoor zen garden to enjoy inside.

28. Learn a new language

Learning a new language one can be the perfect date and lead to more fun date nights together. You can learn from apps such as Duolingo or Memrise.

Also, make it entertaining by talking to each other randomly and make it your new love language.

Some of the most romantic and exciting languages to learn are:

• French
• Portuguese
• Romanian
• Italian
• Latin
• Japanese

29. Redecorate a room

Have you meant to switch up your decor but feel like you need more time? You can make it a fun date night idea and redecorate a room together.

Let’s start with your bedroom and make it more zen or romantic for future date nights.

Design a room together like professionals by following these steps:

1. Set a budget
2. Design a mood board
3. Plan the layout of your room
4. Choose your furniture
5. Select paint colors or wallpaper design
6. Add your personality

30. Paint each other’s faces

Painting each other’s faces is one of the more unique and fun date night ideas at home to try-it’s not just for kids!

You can get face painting kits without spending too much money and have an epic date night.

Start with simple ideas like the ones below, then try a more challenging design.

• Fireworks
• Skull
• Flowers
• Tiger
• Avengers
• Zombie

31. Take a virtual class

Is there something you both have wanted to learn but have yet to take the time or need more money? If so, you can trial free online exercise classes!

YouTube is another great option for virtual learning; you can also find some inexpensive classes online. Here are some exciting ideas to try:

• Cooking classes
• Virtual yoga class
• Mixology lessons
• Art classes
• Museum tours
• Animal cams

Or what about one of our 30+ completely free finance courses?

32. Go for a bicycle ride or walk

Get some fresh air and spend quality time together as you ride bikes around your neighborhood or find nearby trails. Or you can go for a relaxing walk while holding hands because the simple things mean the most.

If you love a challenge with your partner, find a place to hike in your area. Also, remember water bottles and snacks for the road!

33. Have a treasure hunt

Pick random items and hide them for an ultimate treasure hunt. Use clues like “It gets people to places they need to be” to make it enjoyable.

Items that are fun to hide and find include:

• Laundry
• Art
• Pillow
• Photo
• Cutlery
• Stationery

Also, leave clues and do this outdoors or inside to make it more interesting. It’s one of the most fun stay at home date ideas that will make you feel like a big kid!

34. Make a date night at home jar

One of the most awesome at-home date night ideas is to make a date night at home jar! You can decorate a mason jar or container, then write down all these fabulous fun date night ideas at home and put them in the pot.

Each week you will draw out a note with your date night idea.

It’s such a fantastic activity because you won’t have to waste time deciding what to do each week!

35. Get a dollar menu dinner

So, if you don’t feel like cooking but are trying to stick with your budget, have a dollar menu take-out dinner!

You can get a sack full of yummy burgers or mix and match them for a budget-friendly dinner to go.

These popular fast food restaurants all offer $1 items on their menu:

• Taco Bell
• Burger King
• Wendy’s
• McDonald’s
• Del Taco
• Dunkin

36. Declutter together

You can have a fun date night and be productive too! Maybe you’ve been meaning to declutter your home but haven’t taken the time to do it.

You can turn your date night into a decluttering challenge and tidy your home while spending time together. Plus, you can make plans to sell your stuff for extra cash!

37. Plan your joint financial goals

How about some financial intimacy? Since you’re trying to stay on a budget, you can also use your date night to plan your financial goals.

You can plan for short-term, mid-term, and long-term goals together. For instance, you may want to save for a house or start a couple’s side hustle.

Above all, having financial goals can help you visualize and achieve them faster.

Six powerful financial goals for couples are:

• Talk about money openly as a couple – this one is super important!
• Make a realistic budget
• Track spending regularly
• Make a plan for getting out of debt
• Cut spending
• Save for your future

38. Play video games

For a unique date that’s a lot of fun, playing video games is one of the most budget-friendly and fun stay at home date ideas.

Video games can improve your communication and teach you how to problem solve together. It’s also a great way to relax and have fun!

Play the following popular video games for couples together:

• It Takes Two
• Spiritfarer
• Heave-Ho!
• Mario Party Superstars
• Overcooked
• Minecraft

So, break out those vintage video games or newer game systems if that’s more your speed, and have an epic evening of playing games.

39. Make your favorite cocktails

You could combine this idea with your movie date night at home! Mix up your favorite drinks or try a new creation and sip the night away while you enjoy your movie marathon.

Also, it’s much cheaper to make your drinks at home.

The following romantic cocktail ideas are also a great way to set the mood for your date night:

• Aperol Sour
• Ti Amo
• Strawberry Cobbler Martini
• Cupid’s Kiss
• Sweetheart Margarita
• By the Fire

40. Make an indoor picnic

Making an indoor picnic is one of our favorite stay at home date ideas.

Start by making some delicious snacks and sandwiches to eat (put them in a picnic basket if you have one). Top picnic foods for your date include:

• Charcuterie board
• Chocolates
• Fruit kebabs
• Marshmallows
• Nuts
• Olives
• Popcorn
• Cheese and crackers
• Sushi

Spread out a comfy blanket in the living room and set up an area to have your indoor picnic.

Remember the champagne!

41. Put together a puzzle

Grab an old puzzle or get one from the store for a cosy night in. Spend the evening chatting as you put the puzzle together.

Choose a puzzle that you will both enjoy, and you’ll both find it extremely satisfying to complete together. Or why not design your own? Photo puzzles are extra unique and will allow you to recreate a memory on your next date night.

Make it a romantic date night idea by adding to the ambience with candles and music.

42. Plan an at-home mystery game or escape room

If you like a good riddle, then you’ll love doing an at-home escape room or mystery game. It’s one of the most unique date night ideas that is also totally budget friendly.

You can host a mystery game night for your friends, or if you prefer, buy an escape room kit for an unforgettable date for just the two of you.

43. Go roller skating

For the adventurous couple, it’s time to grab your roller skates and head outside for an old-school date night idea.

Mix it up by skating in different places such as:

• An empty car park
• Around the city
• Cycle paths
• Skate parks

No matter your skating skill level, you’ll still have a great time together!

Expert tip: Remove all distraction

When you’re at home, it’s easy to get distracted. The dishwasher may need emptying or the dog wants walking.

But it’s vital to be in the moment with your partner on date night for the entire evening so you can focus on your relationship.

Turn off all technology, including your phones and the TV. If a pile of laundry needs putting away, move it to another room during date night. Arrange with a neighbor or friend to have your pet or children for a few hours.

These simple changes can help you have the best date night possible, strengthening your relationship and leaving you both feeling happy and satisfied.

How can I make my date night extra special?

Date nights don’t happen every week, so when you find the time for one you want it to be extra. That said, there are lots of ways that you can go the extra mile for date night. Here are our top three:

1. Dress up

Remember the early days when you made an effort with your appearance? Not only does wearing something you feel good in do wonders for your confidence, but it also helps keep attraction and spark in a relationship.

2. Make it a surprise

Taking the initiative to organize date night without your partner knowing will make them feel very loved. Arrange the babysitter and let your other half know when they need to be ready.

3. Keep household chores and children talk to a minimum

It’s easy for couples to fall into the trap of talking about everyday things during date night. Instead, try discussing your future plans and goals such as where you want to go on vacation next or even future date night ideas!

What are the top things to do on a stay home date night?

Staying in is just as much fun, if not more so, than going out. It’s the perfect option if you’re on a budget or don’t feel like blowing lots of cash at an expensive restaurant.

However there are so many things you can do too. You’ll always have inspiration. Here are just a few of our favorite stay at-home date night ideas:

• Play board games
• Do a DIY project or craft
• At home spa session
• Mix some tasty cocktails
• Take a virtual class together
• Enjoy an indoor picnic
• Dance the night away
• Share a bubble bath
• Plan your future
• Do a puzzle

How can I make my living room romantic for a date night?

When it comes to making your living room romantic, the right ambience can transform your next date night from average to extra special.

However, you don’t need to spend hours of your time or lots of money to achieve the right feel either. Follow our tips below for a romantic, calming and intimate environment.

• Arrange some fresh flowers in the centre of the room.
• Bring several throws, pillows and blankets down from the bedroom.
• Light a cozy fire or place many candles around the room (LED ones work well, too!).
• Turn off bright ceiling lights and use lamps or candlelight to see.
• Most importantly, ensure the room is clean and tidy for date night.

What should I wear on my at-home date night?

Ultimately, you want to wear something that you feel good in for your at-home date night!

It could be a skirt and heels or your favorite jeans and a blouse. But just because you’re not stepping outside your front door doesn’t mean you can’t wear a new top or dress. Maxi dresses are comfortable and stylish, making them a perfect choice of clothing for a romantic at home dinner date.

Also remember to dress appropriately for your at-home date night activity too. If you’re painting or getting crafty, you might want to swap the dress for a t-shirt and joggers. The most important part of date night is spending time together, not necessarily what you wear.

Why you should put your at-home date nights on your calendar

Now you have a ton of fun stay at-home date night ideas. However, you need to dedicate a specific night to spend together. Why?

Because we all tend to get so caught up with our busy schedules before we know it, the week or month is gone! This is especially true if you have children.

So, pick a night every week that you have your date night on. Whether it’s Wednesdays or Sundays, it doesn’t matter. Just set aside time on your schedule to ensure you are making time for the important things, like each other! 

Plan to try these fun at home date night ideas with your partner!

Our epic list of at home date night ideas shows that couples on a budget can have fun date nights without spending a bundle of money.

You can stay on course to achieve financial success together while spending quality time together. Try a couple or all of the ideas on this date night at home list.

You’ll build an amazing relationship and save some money while you are at it! P.S. Be sure to also check out these fun family night ideas for the whole family!

The post 43 At-Home Date Night Ideas For Couples On A Budget appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

What influential women do you have in your life? Whether it’s your mom, best friend, favorite female celebrity, or influencer, there’s no doubt that it’s important to have women in our lives that we can look up to and learn from.

Find out what the habits of successful women are and how to make them part of your life!

Good habits set the tone for the way you choose to live and are essential for living a healthy lifestyle and also well-being.

Here are 10 habits of successful women and also a look at the daily routine of a successful woman.

It’s time to get inspired. You won’t want to miss these!

1. Set goals and achieve them

Successful women know what they want and, more importantly, how to get their hands on it.

Start by writing your goals down, no matter how small or big they are.

In six months’ time, what would you like to have achieved? What about a year or 10 years from now? Describing your goals in detail and visualizing them with images can really help motivate you to meet them.

Create an action plan

Every goal should be SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound). You’re much more likely to achieve goals that have these characteristics because they give you a sense of direction.

Now that you’ve got your goals, it’s time to work out how you’re going to get there. An action plan is such a good way to capture the steps you need to take and keep an eye on your progress. Digital or paper form is good for writing them down, whatever works best for you.

Celebrating when you’ve achieved each goal is really important. It’s a great way to acknowledge your efforts, and being proud of what you’ve achieved puts you in the correct mindset for your next win. You’ve got this!

2. Believe in yourself

Ask any successful woman what the key is to achieve great things, and they will tell you it’s believing in yourself. Know what you’re worth and be confident in your abilities.

But how do you believe in yourself if it doesn’t come naturally to you?

Spend time with supportive people

Surround yourself with positivity and affirmations for self love. Ditch negative relationships and focus on the people that make you feel good.

In addition, build a network of like-minded people that thrive off positive energies.

You’ll be seriously impressed by what you can achieve just by believing in yourself.

Share what you learn

Sharing what you learn with other people is another great way to strengthen the belief you have in yourself. We all have something that we are skilled at and also passionate about. Why not help others learn a new skill and take pride in your abilities at the same time?

Ultimately, believing in yourself comes down to looking after your mind, body, and soul, only making decisions that you are comfortable with.

3. Say no sometimes

Saying no gives us the power to choose how we best use our time and where we focus our energies. The habits of successful women can help teach us the value of saying no.

It can feel like it’s impossible to say no, especially if you’re used to saying yes all of the time! But successful women know how to say no to opportunities that are unfair, don’t match their values, or if they simply don’t have enough time for them.

Why? Because it enables us to value ourselves and our time more and stay true to what’s important.

Practice your skills to improve

Saying no is a skill, and it does get easier with practice. Here’s how you can say no effectively:

Remind yourself why you’re saying no

Before you turn something down, it’s worth reminding yourself why you’re doing it to show confidence.

Be courteous yet assertive

Use firm words such as “No, I can’t at the moment” or “I don’t have the time currently”.

Don’t make excuses or apologize

Instead, provide a brief explanation if you feel it’s needed and move on.

Practice saying no

Start with small refusals, such as a coffee with a co-worker, to help build your confidence.

The above tips apply whether you’re saying no to a new work opportunity or even just saying no to a play date that you don’t have time for.

And remember, don’t feel guilty for saying no to something! Saying no to anything that goes against your personal core values frees up more time for the things you want to do – there’s not enough time for both.

4. Make time for self-love and mindfulness

To be successful, first, you need to take care of your own needs. This means maintaining both your physical and mental health.

Easier said than done? We hear you.

Creative ways to prioritize yourself

How does a successful woman include self-care and attitudes of mindfulness in her busy life?

Well, regular exercise and eating well are the first steps. Scheduling alone time into your week also allows you to reflect on you and your goals.

If you’re struggling for time, you can combine exercise and meditation to give you that much-needed time to yourself.

Self-care can be as simple as a morning walk to enjoying a cup of tea and reading a chapter of your book. You might even try a self care week!

Successful women also reward themselves with their desires when they meet their goals. Rewards could be anything from a full-body massage to a weekend away with the girls. It’s a healthy way to look after your mind and body whilst celebrating your wins and motivating you to achieve your next one.

These easy-to-adopt habits will help you prioritize self-care without making it feel like you’re adding to your to-do list.

5. Always have a backup plan

Sometimes things don’t happen the way we want them to, and that’s ok!

One of the most admirable habits of successful women is having a plan B. Things can go wrong.

Let’s say you don’t get the job that you really wanted, for instance. Or your car breaks down and needs emergency repairs.

Having a backup plan can get you back on your feet quickly and make you stronger than ever. A good example is to have a plan for the year, with extra ideas in case things change.

Make plans for finances, career, and life

To protect your career, always keep your resume updated with all your skills and experience and utilize your network of co-workers. When the unexpected happens to your finances, an emergency fund will protect you from debt.

Having a backup plan in life can provide feelings of safety and security, allowing you to live without stress and achieve great things. With patience, planning, and hard work, you can achieve anything.

6. Be comfortable with failing

Failure can make a person stronger. In fact, women have proved that failure is the path to success time and time again.

Failure causes us to have to start over and try again. Continuing to value hard work is key to success, as well as being resilient.

Successful women know how to cope with failure, and the good news is that adopting this habit is easy with our top tips.

Embrace your emotions

It’s ok to feel hurt, angry, and sad when something doesn’t go to plan. A good way to move on is to accept your feelings and also allow yourself some time.

Don’t worry about what other people think

You can’t control what other people think, so don’t waste your energy on it. Instead, take pride in your ambition and dreams, do what’s right for you, and learn from the habits of successful women.

Be kind to yourself

Beating yourself up about a failure will only make you feel a million times worse.

In addition, if a friend was experiencing a setback, what would you say? Follow the same advice for yourself, and you’ll soon bounce back from any unplanned event.

Instead of fearing failure, understand that failure is the first step to success.

7. Know when to accept help and say thank you

Our purpose in life isn’t to do everything alone.

Powerful women happily admit that they need help and that there’s no shame in asking for it. In fact, it shows courage, confidence, and resourcefulness.

Think of asking for help as one of your confidence building exercises. Asking and accepting help protects us from stress and burnout and can also increase our productivity and allow us to smash our goals.

Communicate honestly to connect with others

Need more reasons to start asking your support network for help? It’s also a lovely way to connect with fellow female leaders who share similar goals and values as you.

Once you’ve decided that you need some help, think about the best person to ask and how you might ask them. Be polite yet direct in your request, and don’t be disheartened if they say no. Chances are you will have other willing volunteers in your friend circle.

Remember to give back when you can and add this support to your daily gratitude list. Women helping women is a force to be reckoned with!

8. Strive for personal development

Enhancing your skills and experience has so many benefits for women, so never stop learning because life never stops teaching!

Aside from learning new things, you may also find that your mood improves too. As you improve yourself and your life, you naturally become happier.

Personal development also puts you in a great mindset to deal with change and evolve, and it’s one of the good work habits to learn.

Personal development takes many forms. You don’t need to commit a huge amount of time or money, either.

For example, here are some enjoyable ways that smart women add personal development to their busy lives.

Ask questions

Everyday life presents us with opportunities to learn without much effort. Try asking more questions during the conversations you have and see how much you can learn.

Read more

A great way to add personal development to your daily routine is by setting time aside for reading. You’ll learn something even from reading for just a few minutes a day, for example, check out these self help books for women!

Use a dictionary

When you find a word that you don’t know the meaning of, instead of skipping past it, look it up. This is a super simple way to enhance your vocabulary.

Sign up for newsletters

Receiving manageable information in the form of an electronic newsletter is also a good way to learn more. Plus, they are a free resource!

9. Don’t compare yourself to others

It’s hard to avoid comparison when we are constantly faced with images of inspiring women on social media, but it can make you feel insignificant, and that’s not healthy.

Badass women know that trying to be like someone else is self-destructive and unproductive. Nobody is you, and that is your specialty. So never compare yourself to others!

Try adopting these habits so the next time you start comparing yourself to others, you know how to stop doing it.

Start a gratitude journal

Most of us forget to pause and consider what we appreciate in our own lives. It’s a good way to remind yourself about what you have achieved and also motivate you to meet your next goals.

A gratitude journal forces us to look at the positives and find happiness in the little things. Or why not try a 30 days of gratitude challenge?

Compete with yourself

When somebody you know reaches their goal, use it as a chance to look at your own rather than feel jealous. Take a look back at the progress you’ve made and what you need to achieve to meet your next milestone.

Celebrate other people

A proven way to stop comparing yourself to others is to focus on their achievements and join in with their celebrations. So, when your friend gets a promotion, be happy for her instead of questioning your own career.

In addition to learning to celebrate yourself, be happy for the people in your life when something goes well for them.

Now you’ve got the techniques from the habits of successful women to stop worrying about what others are doing, so you can focus on your own game.

10. Accept the past and move on from mistakes

It’s human nature to make mistakes. It’s also essential for your future to know how to let go and move on.

Every successful woman knows that making mistakes are proof that you are trying, and it allows you to learn from them and become a stronger person. So don’t dwell on guilt or regret, instead, reflect, learn, and let it go.

Here are habits that will make letting go and moving on easier.

Look for the positives

When things don’t go to plan, remind yourself that the way you’re feeling is temporary. It might be a challenge to learn how to stay positive in a negative world. However, it is possible.

How can you turn something negative into a positive?

For example, if a new business opportunity falls through, what can you learn from it? If a relationship has been affected by a decision you’ve made, how can you resolve it? You might just find better things are just around the corner!

Create distance

Distracting yourself from a mistake is one of the best ways you can move on from it. Put your energy into something new or take some well-deserved me-time. Obsessing over a setback will only make your mood worse and won’t help you to move on.

Focus on what’s next

Life is full of exciting opportunities. One of the most admirable habits of successful women is looking to the future. Take the time to remind yourself what’s important. What path do you want your life to take?

Expert tip

As you can see, the habits of successful women are all about working hard and having confidence. And something to remember that will help you create great habits is to always be working towards financial goals as well as your professional, and life goals.

Making a budget, mapping out the next few years of your career, and deciding what big goals you’d like to reach in the next decade are great places to start.

The daily routine of a successful woman

Want to be successful? A good work-life balance is key. Let’s look at what a typical day in the life of a busy, modern woman looks like.

Morning

• 6 am: Wake up and drink a glass of water
• 6.15 am: Meditate
• 6.30 am: Shower and get dressed
• 7 am: Eat a healthy breakfast
• 7.30 am: Set your goals for the day with a cup of tea/coffee
• 8 am: Household chores
• 8.30 am: Go to work

Evening

• 6 pm: Finish work
• 6.30 pm: Self-care and exercise – yoga
• 7 pm: Have dinner
• 7.30 pm: Switch off social media
• 8 pm: Do some stress-relieving hobbies or take some social time
• 9 pm: Relax – read or enjoy a hot bath
• 10 pm: Get a good night’s sleep

Adapt the daily routine of a successful woman above to suit your individual needs, commitments, and lifestyle.

5 inspirational women we can learn from!

Women that show us it’s ok to make mistakes are great to draw knowledge from.

You’ve probably heard of the names listed below, but here’s a reminder of why they are so great!

1. Mother Teresa

Mother Teresa is a role model for selflessness. She was compassionate and recognized the value of giving to others.

She changed the world by giving to charity and also inspired hundreds of thousands of other people to do the same. Mother Teresa proved that you’ll have a fulfilling life if you stand by your values.

2. Kelly Holmes

Kelly was the first British woman to win two gold medals at the same game. She’s also an inspirational global speaker, award-winning author, and advocate for wellness, fitness, and mental health.

Her charity, Dame Kelly Holmes Trust, supports disadvantaged young people to use the skills of world-class athletes.

3. Oprah Winfrey

Oprah is a great role model for women that want to become leaders. She had a tough childhood and worked hard to achieve her dreams, earning her a reputation for being the most powerful woman on the planet.

Oprah’s determination has shown us that anything is possible.

4. Marilyn Monroe

“A wise girl knows her limits, a smart girl knows that she has none.” – Marilyn Monroe

Marilyn was an advocate for femininity, still inspiring women to be bold. The famous bombshell achieved so much in her life, showing us that anything is possible.

She also believed that you’re the happiest when you are true to yourself.

5. Michelle Obama

Former first lady Michelle Obama is, without a doubt, an incredibly inspirational woman. Her work and books have taught us to go for our dreams and not to sell ourselves short.

Michelle’s book, Becoming is a must-read for working moms who want to have a family and a career. She shows us that it’s absolutely possible!

What matters most for success?

Being determined and undistracted from your goals will take you far.

When you decide to do something, make a plan to get there, and don’t give up until you are able to accomplish what you wanted to. Determination is the essential factor that helps you get the results you want.

How do you create unique successful habits?

Start with the 10 habits listed here, and then find a way to apply them more directly to your own life.

For example, instead of just believing in yourself in general, make it personal by believing in your ability to make 100,000 dollars a year. Add your unique goals to your habits to remind you of why they matter so much.

How do you stick with your good habits when you want to quit?

Set up a system in advance to help you when you feel tired or unmotivated.

For instance, understand how to break down your habits into smaller mini goals, reward yourself often, and stay focused on the big picture.

When you’re tempted to give up, you can fall back on your systems and your habits until you feel more motivated.

Posts related to habits of successful women

You’ll love these articles if you liked this one about habits for success!

• How To Become Successful! Key Tips And Habits
• How To Create A Self-Growth Plan
• Daily Habits To Improve Life: A Good Habits List To Work On Now!
• Daily Routine Examples For Financial Success

Adopt these habits of successful women to enhance your life!

The women we choose to surround ourselves with shape our lives and the decisions we make.

It’s important to recognize a successful woman but also know how to be one! The habits of successful women can help you be the best version of yourself.

Discover more ideas about enjoying the life you have and other self-improvement ideas!

The post 10 Habits Of Successful Women appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

A challenging and time-consuming part of mom life is deciding what to cook for your family. What makes it even harder is to do so in a wallet-friendly way without compromising on nutritional value.

We are here to make mealtime easier and cost-effective for you! Feed your family for less with these 24 meal ideas.

1. Eggs

Eggs are super easy to cook with, affordable, and good for you. Not only are they a good protein source, but they also make a quick and tasty breakfast too. There are so many frugal meals for families that you can create with the humble egg.

Back to basics scrambled eggs

Sometimes simple meals are the best. Grab your eggs, some cream (milk or water will also work), and salt and pepper. Whisk the ingredients in a pan until frothy, then pour them into a hot pan with melted butter. Stir gently until your eggs are cooked through.

Baked eggs

Baking eggs gives them a delicious flavor and texture. Baked eggs with spinach and tomato are a popular breakfast choice.

Eggs Benedict

For an indulgent breakfast, rustle up some eggs benedict of poached eggs and bacon on an English muffin and impress your family!

Eggs cost approximately $4.25 for 12, making them a perfect food choice if you’re cooking on a budget.

2. Banana bread

Cake for breakfast? Yes, you can!

Homemade banana bread that doesn’t include refined sugar can be a much healthier choice than some of the sugary cereals that you can buy. It’s also really inexpensive to make.

Banana bread is basically sweet bread that is made from bananas. All you need are some eggs, whole wheat flour, vegetable oil, bananas, honey, vanilla extract, and seasoning. Here’s a proven banana bread recipe to try!

Banana bread ingredients will cost you less than $15 at most grocery stores. You could also make more than one loaf with the items. It’s perfectly safe to freeze, so you can save some for another day.

3. Frittatas

Frittatas are a popular choice for the whole family. They are similar to an omelet but with additional ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and cheese added to it.

Frittatas are traditionally cooked on low heat for a longer time than an omelet, and you can serve frittatas at room temperature so there’s no pressure to get it served immediately.

For a simple breakfast frittata recipe, whisk up your eggs with some cream and set aside. Cook some bacon, onions, tomatoes, and spinach in a pan, then add your eggs in. Sprinkle with cheese, give it a stir then let the frittata bake for around 15 minutes.

You might easily spend less than $10 to make delicious frittatas for the whole family. To find creative ways to save money, change some ingredients to make it more cost-effective.

For example, swap the spinach for mushrooms or broccoli.

4. Waffles

Waffles are so versatile! Many people prefer them to pancakes because they give you endless topping opportunities, and they don’t go soggy as quickly as pancakes do.

If you’re short on time, they are also great for breakfast in a hurry. Simply make a batter from eggs, flour, sugar, salt, milk, and butter.

Then add your mixture to your waffle maker, sit back, and wait. Adding fruit and yogurt to your breakfast waffles makes them a healthier and more satisfying meal, but you can add anything.

Waffles are a great frugal breakfast choice. You can spend as little as $1.20 per waffle! If you do have more cash to spend then you can add extra toppings such as chopped nuts or syrup. Check out these breakfast waffle recipes for inspiration.

5. French toast

The fantastic thing about French toast is that it looks fancy, but it’s actually quick to prepare and only costs around $4-5, depending on your choice of toppings.

To make French toast for your family, all you need to do is whisk together eggs, milk, and your choice of flavoring (typically vanilla or cinnamon). Soak the bread in this for a few minutes, then add to a hot pan of melted butter.

Cook for approximately five minutes, or until golden, then flip and cook the other side. Once cooked, top with your choice of ingredients.

You can make sweet or savory varieties depending on what you fancy.

6. Smoothie bowls

Smoothie bowls are an easy way to make sure you get your five a day all before 10 am! They are also a smart way to ensure you get lots of fiber in your diet.

But what exactly is a smoothie bowl? Think of it like a smoothie that contains fruit, seeds, and nuts that is served in a bowl rather than blitzed up and put in a cup.

A standard smoothie bowl will cost around $3-5 per portion. To make your smoothie bowl even more frugal, use frozen or tinned fruit, as these both cost less than buying fresh.

Start the day off well with one of these delicious smoothie bowl recipes.

7. Stuffed peppers

Are you looking for a frugal meal for families that is quick, nutritious, and tasty?  Stuffed peppers are a great lunch idea that you can make to suit your budget.

Peppers are either halved or hollowed out and filled with a variety of different fillings. Then they are cooked in the oven until done.

Popular fillings for peppers include:

• Ground beef
• Rice
• Cheese
• Tomatoes
• Onions
• Mushrooms
• Garlic

The cost of serving your family stuffed peppers for lunch depends on your choice of fillings, but it should cost between $4-$10 for the ingredients.

8. Sandwiches

Everyone loves a sandwich, including your bank account! They are so convenient, easily customizable, and extremely comforting.

The best thing is that they take minutes to put together in advance. You can rustle up a sandwich for less than $3 if you are savvy about your filling choice. The average cost of bread in America is $2.50, which will last you for several lunches.

And sandwiches don’t have to be boring with these mouth-watering ideas.

9. Pasta salad

Frugal meals for families can also be great time savers. Pasta salads are a perfect, quick, and fulfilling lunch that the whole family will enjoy.

They are ideal for taking to school or work or on a picnic as they are easy to store and eat for meals. Whole-grain pasta is also a great source of fiber and energy and can be eaten as part of a balanced diet.

Pasta salad is a good way to get rid of any leftovers in your fridge. From vegetables to meats and cheeses, you can pretty much add anything you fancy.

For a simple pasta salad recipe that’s guaranteed to get the family asking for seconds, follow this tasty recipe. Making this dish will cost around $10, a cost-effective choice for lunch!

10. Chicken fried rice

Frugal meals for families can be just as tasty as your favorite takeaway. This take-out classic is a real crowd-pleaser and so simple to make.

Chicken fried rice is basically chicken, onions, carrots, peas, eggs, and rice. You can also add some Chinese five-spice for flavor. The key to this is to use leftover rice from the previous day that has had time to dry out.

Scramble your eggs in a pan, fry the chicken then add all of your ingredients to the pan until they are cooked through. That’s it! Serve up this delicious lunch for 4-6 people for around $8.

11. Quinoa bowls

If you love a good bowl meal, this frugal family meal is for you. Quinoa bowls can be changed really easily, so you have an exciting new lunch each day.

The main ingredient of a quinoa bowl is cooked quinoa, which costs around $1.64 per kilogram. You will only need about 2 cups per bowl, so one bag will make several lunches for your family.

Once you’ve got your cooked quinoa, top it with your choice of vegetables, protein, and healthy fats such as nuts or avocado. You can add a dressing or simply eat the quinoa bowls as they are!

12. Muffins

Muffins don’t have to be sweet! Savory muffins make the perfect midday meal. They are also great frugal meals for families because you can hide lots of vegetables in them. You can either eat them alone or serve them with a fresh side salad.

Cheese, spinach, ham, zucchini, pumpkin, tomato, and carrot all work well in savory muffins. Simply whisk some eggs and add your choice of ingredients to a bowl, mix it all together, and then add to some muffin cases and cook them for 15-20 minutes.

You can pick up the ingredients you need to make some tasty muffins in a grocery store for $6-10. Get creative and make your own flavors or take inspiration from this savory muffin recipe.

13. Vegan shepherd’s pie

Hearty vegetables, a rich broth, and creamy mashed potatoes are hard to resist. What’s even better is that you can serve this dish to your family for less than $4!

Sometimes it can be hard to make vegan dishes as satisfying as meat dishes, but you won’t have this problem with a vegan shepherd’s pie.

Want to know how to do it? Here’s a tasty recipe to try!

14. Tacos

Tacos are one of the best frugal family meals that are guaranteed to fill your tummy without breaking the bank.

So, what can go in a taco? Anything you fancy! You can keep them simple or add some unusual ingredients.

If you’ve got picky eaters in your family, these are also great to schedule in your monthly meal planner, and you can hide some hidden vegetables, too.

Here are several of our favorite affordable fillings:

• Refried beans
• Veggies
• Cheese
• Avocado
• Battered fish

Serve them as a tasty meal for your family for between $5-$10.

15. Pies

Who doesn’t love a pie?

Pies make a frugal dinner choice for budget-conscious families. They make a great mid-week meal that can be made for between $10-$25.

Obviously, the price will depend on what you use as a filling, but there are ways that you can make one cheaply.

Whilst it’s definitely easier to buy a store-bought pastry, it’s actually much cheaper to make your own. Ready-made pastry will cost just over $4, whereas you can purchase the ingredients you need to make pastry for less than $2.

Cheap pie filling choices include cheese and onion, chicken and bacon, and vegetable pie.

16. Peanut butter chicken

Frugal family meals that have only a small amount of ingredients and take less than half an hour to prepare are like gold dust, but peanut butter chicken is one of them! Make this for dinner, and then try out some of the best family night ideas for a frugal but fun evening!

All you’ll need to create this tasty dish is chicken, peanut butter, tinned tomatoes, onions, and rice. This will cost you approximately $8.

Melt butter and some oil in a pan, then add your chicken until browned. Add the onion, tomatoes, and water, and season with salt and pepper.

Simmer for 10 minutes, then add some peanut butter to make a sauce. Leave to stew on low heat while you cook the rice. Once it’s ready, simply serve and enjoy!

17. Fajitas

Fajitas are another frugal family meal that can be adapted each week, so your family won’t get bored of the same food. It’s much cheaper to make fajitas at home than it is to eat them in a restaurant.

Buy some chicken, tortilla wraps, onion, pepper, garlic, salsa, and seasoning (optional) from your local grocery store for around $10. Simply cook your meat, add the veggies, and season to taste.

Serve at the dinner table and let the family create their own tortillas. Simple, delicious, and fun!

If you don’t fancy chicken fajitas, vegetables and steak also work well.

18. Seafood chowder

Seafood chowder is basically a creamy fish soup typically made with a mixture of shellfish, salmon, haddock, and potatoes.

There are no fancy steps involved, and it’s a tasty, inexpensive meal that you can rustle up for around $10 to 15.

You’ll find lots of different seafood chowder recipes online, but we’ve found one that keeps the price low.

19. Cheese straws

Snacks can become costly if you’re not careful, but they can help balance out frugal meals for families without busting your budget. Cheese straws are a great, cost-effective option if you’re feeling peckish between meals.

Fancy trying some yourself? All you need are three ingredients: cheese, flour, and ready-rolled puff pastry.

These will cost you around $8 and give you enough to make several batches that you can freeze and then defrost when you need them.

To make this a meal, add soup or a salad with it!

20. Popcorn

For an extremely frugal snack, try making your own popcorn at home. Not only is it less costly, but it’s also tastier! You can also control the toppings and make it a healthier snack if you wish.

All you need to buy is some popcorn kernels (approximately $3) and some oil.

Here’s an easy recipe to follow that will guarantee perfect popcorn every time.

 21. Yogurt

Yogurt is packed full of nutrients that make it a healthy snack choice. It’s also inexpensive and easy to find.

Plain Greek yogurt is a popular choice and only costs just over $1 in most grocery stores.

Want to make your yogurt snack into a meal? Top it with whatever fruit you have in your fruit bowl.

22. Veggies with dip

In a rush? Nothing is simpler or more satisfying than cutting up some fresh vegetables and serving them with a dip. Carrots, peppers, and celery all work well, but you can use a whole range of veggies. You can use up any leftovers that you have in your fridge.

Some great dips to add to your vegetables are:

• Peanut butter (trust us, it’s good!)
• Hummus
• Tzatziki
• Tomato salsa

You can easily prepare a plate of veggies and dip for your family for less than $5. Bargain! To make a full meal, serve with sandwiches.

23. Cottage cheese and crackers

If you’re looking for a snack that won’t break the bank or your diet, crackers, and cheese is a good choice.

Choose your favorite cracker (Ritz, Triscuits, and Wheat Thins all work well) and cheese with a strong flavor, such as cottage cheese. Spread on your desired amount and get snacking.

Add crackers and cottage cheese to your next food shop for less than $6. To make this snack into a meal, add deli meat like turkey or ham.

24. Homemade granola bars

There’s something extremely satisfying about making your own snacks. Granola bars are a great meal for when you’re in a hurry. They can be adapted to suit the tastes of both kids and adults.

The main ingredient you will need is whole rolled oats. These are relatively inexpensive at $4 for two pounds of oats.

Add things like mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, and honey to create a delicious bar. You can easily make a batch of granola bars for less than $10, which will be considerably less than the packs you can buy.

Give them a go, you may just be surprised at how much tastier they are than store-bought versions!

Expert tip: Make meals that require simple ingredients

There are plenty of easy meals to make that don’t cost a lot of money. As a general rule, try to pick recipes that use only a few ingredients to save on cost.

Frugal cooking tips

So now you’ve got some great meal ideas to choose from. Let’s help you cook in a frugal way too.

Cooking frugally is a skill worth learning, even if you’re thinking, “I hate cooking!”. The more you prep and cook, the easier you will find it to eat well on a budget.

These ideas will help you save both time and money.

Choose recipes that use everyday ingredients

Complicated recipes with lots of steps require a long list of ingredients that you’ll need to purchase, pushing your grocery spend over budget. Not to mention that they will take you way more time to prepare and cook than a simple recipe.

There’s no point buying saffron if you’re only going to use it once, then leave it sitting in your spice cupboard! Try out some frugal living tips and choose recipes that have fewer steps and mainly need everyday ingredients.

Prepare meals in advance

There are so many benefits to prepping meals. Not only can you save time, but you’ll also have more money in your pocket. By planning ahead, you may also find that you portion meals correctly, allowing you to freeze food for another day.

Follow our meal prep tips for optimum efficiency:

• Invest in a variety of different-sized food containers so you can store lots of meals.
• Keep stock of basic ingredients such as grains, legumes, and canned goods so you can streamline meal prep.
• Make time to bulk cook! Spend an allocated amount of time each week in the kitchen doing budget meal planning and cooking to make your week ahead easier.

Use less meat

Frugal meals for families don’t have to include meat. Meat can be pricey, so try to substitute it for beans and pulses where possible to make your meals more cost-effective.

Beans also add protein and fiber to your diet. Lentils, beans, and pulses usually come in tins and have a good expiration date, which means you are less likely to waste food (saving you money in the long term).

If you’re not quite decided on giving up meat entirely, use a 50/50 split of meat and lentils or beans to bulk out your meals.

Grow your own food

Make a tight food budget go further by growing your own food. It’s also extremely rewarding, and you avoid wasted money!

Bell peppers, cucumbers, garlic, tomatoes, and berries are some of the easiest foods to grow. The initial cost of seeds and compost is low, especially compared to the money you will save on produce when they are fully grown.

Cook with tinned food more

Not only is tinned food cheaper, but it is also just as great for you as fresh food, and were you aware that people who eat more food out of cans typically consume more nutrients than those that just eat fresh varieties? This is mainly because tinned food is easier to prepare and costs significantly less.

Other benefits of canned goods include saving time and longer shelf life, so less waste!

What is the least expensive meal to make?

A very inexpensive option is either eggs or sandwiches. Though you can use any of the frugal meals here and know that you’re saving money!

Can you really reduce your grocery budget by being more frugal?

Yes, you can if you are conscious of your purchases and choose inexpensive ingredients. It’s also essential to use what you already have at home when possible. The more you practice being frugal, the more you gain motivation for saving money.

What is an inexpensive meal to feed a lot of people?

If you have a crowd to feed, doubling up on a meal like chicken fried rice or tacos is an easy solution. These are frugal family meals that won’t ruin your budget.

Related articles on great frugal meals

Enjoyed this frugal meals article? Here are others to check out!

• 35 Delicious Frugal Meals For Every Food Category
• 8 Tasty Frugal Meal Plans To Try!
• 25 Of The Best Cheapest Meals
• Create A Monthly Meal Planner Your Budget Will Love

Frugal meals for families are easy to make!

Feeling inspired to start cooking frugal meals for families? The tips in this article prove that it can be done when you know how.

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The luxury bag industry is booming. In fact, it’s predicted to be worth $35.4 billion by 2031. But why do so many people choose expensive handbag brands over more affordable options?

What is it about designer purses that make them so desirable?

Without question, a handbag is a woman’s most treasured accessory. Not only do they give us somewhere to put our things and glam up an outfit, but they are an essential shopping companion.

Let's go over the details of why they are so popular.

The allure of designer handbags

For some, owning designer handbags like Chanel and Hermes is a status symbol. It shows that you have good taste and also possibly wealth. For others, it may be a reward for hard work, some self-love, or an investment, though this isn't a guarantee.

Known for their incredible quality, designer handbags are more than just practical fashion items. They are also a piece of luxury that you can wear with many different outfits.

No matter what you wear, a designer handbag can be the perfect accessory and can make your outfit look better and even more expensive.

How much does a designer handbag cost?

Thinking of treating yourself to a new designer handbag?

Well, unless you have tons of money secretly hidden under your mattress, you'll need to carefully consider the cost of a designer handbag.

Some bags actually increase more in value, more than watches and pieces of art! For example, a Hermès handbag sold for a record price of €352,800 ($346,802) at a Sotheby's auction. Now that’s an investment!

So, what determines the cost of an item made by expensive handbag brands? Here are a few factors:

Size

Smaller bags typically cost less than larger ones because they use fewer materials and take less time to make. However, this is not always the case. Some small handbags can cost more due to the intricacy of detail.

Material

The material of the bag is important. The higher the quality or rarity of the leather, the more you will pay. For example, there is a significant price difference between regular leather and exotic skins.

Collection

High-end designers release different collections. Some may also be limited editions, which will demand a higher price tag.

Time

Many expensive designer handbags are made by hand by skilled artisans, with very few, if any, parts made by a machine. So handcrafting a bag takes skill and a lot of time. How long will also depend on the size and complexity of the bag.

For example, Hermes is well known for its handbags being fully handmade.

The 15 most expensive handbags brands

It’s time for the exciting part….the most expensive bag brands in the world. They come with pretty large price tags and pricing depends on a variety of factors. These include:

• The type of leather including rare and exotic leathers
• Hardware
• Workmanship
• Where the bag is purchased e.g. direct from the store vs. from a reseller

That said, here are the most expensive handbags brands and examples of some of their most popular bags. We’ve got plenty of inspiration for you!

 1. Hermes

Hermes is known for their beautiful handcrafted bags, in particular The Birkin, Kelly, and Constance. These bags have risen in value over the years, making them the perfect investment piece for your wardrobe.

The Birkin

The Birkin is often referred to by collectors as the “ultimate bag”. Celebrities and everyone else obsesses over the Birkin.

It can take a craftsman up to 40 hours to make a Birkin bag! Birkins range in price from about $10,000 for a basic leather bag to $500,000 for a Himalayan Birkin bag.

The Kelly

The origins of Hermes’ most classic style handbag date back to 1852. With an eye-watering price tag of $3,000+ (depending on the model).

The Constance

The Hermes Constance bag features a signature “H” shaped fastener and an adjustable strap, making it a popular statement fashion piece.

And also, if you buy designer bags as an investment, you can’t go wrong with a Constance as it holds 161% of its retail value in the second-hand market.

2. Chanel

A bag from Chanel is instantly recognizable from the CC lock that features on the majority of this high-end brand’s products.

Classic flap bag

One of the most expensive designer bags made by Chanel is the Classic Flap bag. In addition, it was actually the first bag ever made with a shoulder strap, revolutionizing the way women carried handbags.

The $8,000+ price tag is totally worth it though as it’s one of those bags that continues to increase in value every year.

3. Louis Vuitton

Louis Vuitton (LV) is the best-selling French fashion brand. LV bags are not only stylish but durable too. The creators use coated canvas and high-end leather to create products that last for many years.

Capucines bag

Another bag to add to your LV collection is the Capucines bag. Featuring distinctive side rings, detachable straps, and reversible flaps, celebrities also love this bag. The cost of a Capucines will vary depending on the size, collection, and material.

LV Speedy

If you're looking for an elegant compact designer handbag, the LV speedy is a perfect choice. Prices start from around $1500, though it could be more or less, depending on where you buy.

4. Christian Dior

Christian Dior is an iconic designer in the fashion world and most women dream of owning a Dior handbag.

Lady Dior

This expensive handbag brand is famous for its timeless and easy-to-use bags, with the Lady Dior bag taking center stage.

Featuring soft lambskin, the iconic Cannage motif, and rounded handles, what’s not to love? Maybe the over $4000 price tag; but it’s an investment, right?

 5. Yves Saint Laurent

This designer fashion brand offers a luxury range of leather handbags and purses, from shoulder and crossbody bags to clutch bags and wallets.

Sac de Jour bag

One of Saint Laurent’s most popular statement pieces is the Sac de Jour (retailing around $2,500+). This tote bag is made from high-quality calfskin leather and comes in a variety of sizes.

Loulou

Another popular bag is the Saint Laurent Loulou shoulder bag. It's a stylish, practical choice for everyday accessorizing. Treat yourself to one for around $3,000+.

6. Gucci

If you want to treat yourself to expensive handbag brands that scream status, a Gucci bag does just that. Gucci increases its prices every year, like all luxury brands, so investing in designer handbags can be very lucrative.

Diana tote bag

The most expensive Gucci bag on the market right now is the Diana tote crocodile bag, made from a rare brown crocodile leather.  With a price tag of $38,000 and two distinctive bamboo handles, it’s a bag that will get attention wherever you go.

Horsebit handbag

A Gucci Horsebit handbag is another iconic item. One model in the range features natural-colored anaconda skin with a mustard yellow trim. Get your hands on this remarkable bag for around $3,000, more or less.

Marmont

Another iconic bag created by Gucci is the Marmont. It has a soft structure, zip-top closure, and the famous Double G logo. However, this designer handbag will set you back over $3,000 in some cases.

Jackie O

Gucci named the Jackie O handbag after Jackie Kennedy and it has been a staple Gucci item for many years. The latest additions in this range are priced at $2,000+.

7. Fendi

The Italian fashion brand Fendi is known for its timeless pieces and highly desired designer bags.

Baguette bag

Fendi’s baguette bag is small and compact. The purse sits comfortably under your arm so it's easy to carry. There’s nothing small about its price tag though which can be over $5,000.

Fendi First bag

For a more trendy vibe, invest in the Fendi First bag starting at around $3,000. You can either hold it as a clutch or add a detachable shoulder strap for a more practical daytime look.

8. Prada

When it comes to expensive handbag brands, Prada knows what it’s doing. Luxury leather handbags have been a staple product for the brand since 1913 and continue to grow in popularity.

Saffiano bags

For a classic look, the Prada Saffiano ticks all of the boxes. Saffiano leather bags retail between $1600 to over $4000.

Nylon backpack

Prada launched the nylon backpack in 1984 and it quickly became a must-have accessory with its high-quality leather and the brand's signature triangular metal logo. Prices for the Re-nylon start around $2,000.

9. Bottega Veneta

The Bottega Veneta brand rose in popularity after the launch of Intrecciato, a unique weave design used to craft bags and other products.

Jodie bag

The Jodie bag is an irresistible high-end accessory to add to your collection. However, a brand new Jodie bag will cost you around $2,650 to start, but you can also pick up a secondhand one for a more budget-friendly option.

10. Goyard

The Goyard brand stretches back to 1792. Their handbags are known for their geometric designs and are extremely popular among the expensive handbags brands.

Saint-Louis

The Saint-Louis Goyard bag is a well-known style that many people want to own. It ranges in price from $1200 to over $3000 in resale value.

11. Moynat

The Moynat brand is a Parisian company that produces beautiful, sleek handbags. Their subtlety and superior design make them very popular.

Rejane

The Rejane style boasts some incredibly expensive handbags. The pm version costs over $5,000 while the Rejane BB is over $4,000.

12. Salvatore Ferragamo

The Salvatore Ferragamo brand is a bold brand with gorgeous handbag designs. It is known for shoes but also makes high-quality purses.

Studio box bag

The Studio box bag is quite an expense at $2,400 and up. It features a timeless square design.

13. Lana Marks

Lana Marks’ handbags are inspired by nature and architecture, making them truly unique and collectible fashion pieces.

Cleopatra clutch

When it comes to rare designer handbags, the Cleopatra Clutch is definitely one of a kind. In addition, Elizabeth Taylor inspired the diamond-encrusted design which is worth a staggering $400,000. We will take two!

14. Judith Leiber

Judith Leiber is a high-end American brand that symbolizes elegance, style, and sophistication. She's known for her quirky novelty designs which involve intricate crystal work.

Rose Romance bag

The Rose Romance bag is a truly stunning handbag and one of Judith Leiber's most popular bags. It's made in the shape of a rose for a unique style that the designer has become famous for.

Variations of this bag are embellished with diamonds, sapphires, and tourmaline cut crystals. The fun and playful design make it a must-have for any designer handbag collection!

15. Mouawad

Mouawad is known for producing elegant watches and timepieces, but it also produces some breathtakingly beautiful bags too. It’s one of the most expensive handbag brands in the world.

1001 Night's Diamond Purse

Valued at $3.8 million, Mouawad’s 1001 Nights Diamond Purse holds the Guinness World Record for the priciest handbag in the world. And this record has remained unbroken since 2011. It’s a stunning handcrafted 18-karat gold heart-shaped handbag with 4,517 diamonds in total.

Expensive handbags brands may be worth buying if you consider the cost carefully

Expensive bag brands are something to think about. The cost may or may not be worth it to you after considering your budget.

Remember to do your homework about this before buying, and be sure you can afford it by saving up and getting a good deal when possible.

So, will it be a Christian Dior or Chanel bag first? Among the 15 most expensive options, you'll likely find one that's your favorite!

For more ideas, find out if you should rent a designer handbag, and how to get insurance for a designer handbag!

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