Cash is Queen

A thriving lifestyle also requires a healthy checks & balances. With adulting in full swing - here are a few tips & tricks I use to hold myself accountable because every debit has a credit.

1) Look But Don't Touch: The Culprits

Target, TJ Maxx, Homegoods, & Marshalls - I am here to tell you NO you do not need that fake marble potted succulent or 'Good Morning Gorgeous' coffee mug. These are all draining wants not needs that end up collecting dust on your already cluttered night table or desk. If you feel the urge to enter the depths of Target - LOOK for pure inspiration & DON'T touch for mere self card swiping protection. Avoid sneaky sales pitches in your email by cleaning up & unsubscribing from the tempting '40% & Free Shipping' culprits.

2) Invest in Investment Pieces

'I like my money where I can see it, hanging in my closet.'

My spending justifications were as followed: No I cannot afford the one well-made, quality $75 item from Nordstrom. So instead, I'll buy 8 $10 pieces from Forever21 because you know... it's a deal. Now I am stuck with random crop tops & 'trendy' off-the-shoulder blouses.

Capitalize on Poshmark or find your closest consignment/second hand shop to cash in on old clothes. THEN buy a big girl wardrobe and find your uniform.

3) Coupons

CVS receipts are a golden ticket. After years of using my mother's CVS card - I finally enrolled in my own - digitally! Every other day I receive emails from CVS that enclose ExtraBucks that are sent right to my account - no card needed. Other online resources are RetailMeNot & automated coupon code finder - Honey.

4) Diversify

Don't only invest in your statement pieces, but invest in your mind, health & savings. Explore Ellevest's Magazine that highlights key tips & approachable insights on how females can be successful & independent investors. Keep spreadsheets, spend journals/Iphone notes and stay top of mind of your spending by using mobile trackers such as Mint.

5) Social Saving

GNO's can be be budget savvy by splitting dinner dishes & appetizers. For all NYC socialites - use the app Pulsd to get the best deals on events, shopping & bottomless brunches. For my fellow dirty-water yuppies - use Groupon's LivingSocial! Be hostess of the mostess by playing bartender at your next GNI (girls night in) or host a dinner party potluck.

6) Swap Out The Unnecessary Necessaries

Life's little luxuries can still be accessible! Skip the nail appointment for an at home gel manicure. Shop store brand or step up your city step game by opting out of ubering. Cut out cable from your utilities for a Fire Stick. Check out this helpful info graphic.

7) Brew Your Own Damn Coffee

And bag your lunch while you're at it! It is proven that with the simple switch of Venti Skinny to Keurig Mocha, you can save up to $1000 a year. Sweetgreen is my weakness so I try to buy my order's ingredients to recreate in chic tupperware.

8) Find Your Free Self Care

Whether it be baking, reading, watering plants, bullet journaling, walking, find your free peace. Love to read or just a good ol' magazine? Check out your local library - you will be surprised to what it can offer. Here is a list to spark some inspo!

9) Grocery Shop Like A Mom

You can have your Whole Foods & eat it too! What was once Whole Paycheck is now semi obtainable. Sign up your email for personalized store location alerts of all Whole Foods deals & steals! Products such as chia seeds, flax, quinoa etc. can be cheaper to buy in the loose bulk section of your local Whole Foods rather than prepackaged. If you're lucky with a local Trader Joe's, you're lucky enough. Check out The Financial Diet's Grocery Store Tips!

10) Side Gig It

The hustle does not have to be a hustle. Find your hustle here or here!