6 Money Habits That Seem Stingy but Aren't, According To Kate Kaden
If you saw someone wearing the same clothes repeatedly, would you think they’re broke or frugal? How about someone who cooks and eats at home instead of dining out for every meal?
You might be inclined to think this person is running low on funds, but it’s important not to pass any judgment based on appearances. Putting certain financial habits into daily practice is a savvy move, even if your frugality looks awkward from the outside.
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What other habits can signal financial savvy rather than stinginess? These six behaviors, according to frugal living YouTuber Kate Kaden, quietly reveal you’re being intentional with money.
1. Saying No Without Explaining Yourself
A frugal person not only declines invitations to group trips, dinners and shopping sprees, but they don’t feel the need to provide a lengthy explanation why they can’t make it.
Some people will think this means you’re too broke to join in the fun. However, Kaden said the reality is most frugal individuals can afford it — they’re just choosing to set financial boundaries. After all, part of setting boundaries is protecting how you spend your money.
2. Wearing the Same Clothes Repeatedly
Kaden has worked out a fashion formula that works for her wardrobe year-round and allows her to avoid constantly buying new clothes.
Even though regular viewers have probably seen these ensembles many times over, she likes wearing her favorite outfits on repeat. Kaden said these repeat looks mean fewer impulse purchases, less laundry stress (more clothes equal more loads of laundry!) and more money in her bank account.
3. Eating at Home a Lot
One of the easiest ways to start saving money today is to make breakfast, lunch and dinner at home. Kaden recommended using ingredients that get a lot of mileage, like potatoes and eggs, when cooking simple meals.
What if you genuinely think it’s worth the money to dine out at restaurants? That’s fine. To ensure you’re able to save some money, Kaden recommends going a little less on something else that means a little less to you.
4. Purposefully Driving an Older Car
You might not turn heads when you’re driving down the street, but frugal individuals are perfectly okay with driving older cars that are fully paid off.
Not only do you benefit from paying one less bill (no car payment!) every month, but you’re also driving a working vehicle which gets you from point A to point B. That’s freedom.
5. Bring Your Own Everything
Whether you’re heading to the office, an amusement park or an outdoor event like a summer concert at the park, you should feel empowered to bring everything from home — that includes things like coffee, snacks and water.
Even if you can afford to buy something on the go, Kaden said these $5 habits add up. “If you’re already getting that stuff at home for a better price, just bring it. Being prepared is not being broke. It’s being smart.”
6. Choosing Peace Over Appearance
Many frugal individuals don’t obsess about their appearance. They might let months go in between visits to the nail salon or wear worn-in shoes. And they’re okay with that because they’re choosing peace instead of appearance.
Maintaining a wealthy appearance is not cheap, especially if your target audience are people you don’t talk to or care about in a meaningful way. Besides, Kaden said frugal people would much rather have more money in their pocket than an expensive bag draped on their shoulder with little to no money inside it.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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