In today’s fast-paced, consumer-driven world, it’s easy to feel like you need the latest and greatest of everything. But if you’re serious about saving more money, it’s time to rethink those everyday expenses that quietly drain your bank account. Over the past year, I’ve made intentional decisions to cut out a few key purchases, and by doing so, I’ve been able to save significant amounts of money. In this post, I’ll walk you through the six things I stopped buying and how these changes have not only increased my savings but boosted my overall quality of life.
1. The Latest Technology
There are two types of people: those who eagerly await the release of the newest iPhone, and those like me, who are perfectly content with older gadgets. I’m still using my trusty iPhone 8 Plus and a MacBook Pro from 2012.
Instead of chasing the latest tech trends, I’ve focused on keeping my devices functional by upgrading what I can. I bought a used MacBook and upgraded its RAM and memory for just a fraction of the cost of a new one. Not only has this saved me thousands of dollars, but my “outdated” devices still run smoothly, even handling 4K video editing!
Key takeaway: You don’t need to splurge on the latest tech every year. Opt for refurbished models and upgrade them where possible—it’s a massive money saver.
2. New Clothes Every Season
I love shopping, and it used to be tough for me to resist buying new clothes for every season. But I realized that many of the clothes I bought ended up sitting in the back of my closet.
To satisfy my shopping cravings without breaking the bank, I’ve turned to thrift shopping on platforms like Poshmark. I recently bought a designer polo shirt that originally retailed for $100, but I got it for $12! Buying secondhand has saved me thousands while still allowing me to enjoy high-quality, stylish clothing.
Key takeaway: You don’t need to give up style to save money. Thrift shopping or buying secondhand can help you build a wardrobe you love—without the financial guilt.
3. Cable or Satellite TV Subscriptions
For years, cable TV was a non-negotiable expense for me. But now? I barely miss it. Streaming services like Netflix and Hulu offer plenty of entertainment at a fraction of the cost, and the few live events I need to catch? I use a dollar-store antenna for that.
In the rare moments where I crave live TV, this $1 solution works like a charm. Plus, I get my news for free online or through YouTube, which has an abundance of free content.
Key takeaway: With the rise of affordable streaming services and free online content, expensive cable or satellite subscriptions have become unnecessary for many people.
4. Daily Coffee Shop Runs
I used to be a coffee shop enthusiast, spending $6 a day on lattes without thinking twice. But those daily trips to the coffee shop add up fast. Now, I’ve created my own little espresso haven at home. I invested in a machine, and each cup now costs me less than a dollar.
Not only does this save me money, but I also get the exact same coffee-shop experience from the comfort of my own kitchen.
Key takeaway: Making your coffee at home can save hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars over time. Plus, it’s more convenient and customizable to your preferences.
5. Bottled Water and Ready-to-Drink Beverages
Walking into a gas station and grabbing a bottled drink used to be a habit for me. But when you factor in the cost and environmental impact, it’s a lose-lose situation. I’ve since invested in a stylish reusable water bottle that keeps my drinks cold all day.
Not only does this reduce my spending on bottled water, but it also helps the environment. I also flavor my water with drink enhancers, which cost just pennies per serving—much cheaper than sugary, pre-made drinks.
Key takeaway: Invest in a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce waste. It’s better for your wallet and the planet.
6. Paid Self-Education Courses and Books
In my 20s, I was obsessed with buying self-help books and enrolling in expensive online courses. I thought these purchases were the only way to gain valuable knowledge. But I’ve learned that you can access nearly all the information you need for free.
There are countless free resources online, from educational YouTube channels to websites like Coursera, which offer courses from top universities for free. Just because something is free doesn’t mean it’s not valuable.
Key takeaway: Before buying that pricey self-help book or course, check out the wealth of free educational content available online. You can learn anything you want without spending a dime.
Final Thoughts: Saving Money Without Sacrificing Quality of Life
Cutting these six expenses has allowed me to save more money without feeling deprived. The key is to find smart alternatives that still give you the same (or better) experience for less. Every expense you cut, no matter how small, adds up over time. And before you know it, you’ll have more money to allocate toward the things that truly matter—whether it’s investing in your future, traveling, or simply having peace of mind.
Remember, saving money isn’t about self-deprivation—it’s about making choices that align with your values and long-term goals. I hope these tips inspire you to rethink your spending habits and take control of your financial future.
If you enjoyed this article, make sure to check out my video on the same topic by clicking here and subscribe to my YouTube channel for more tips on how to live a smarter, more intentional life.