The transition between college and the real world can be a bit of a culture shock.
Going from classes, studying, and an all-inclusive dorm situation to working full-time and needing to uphold your apartment, body, and personal life can be a major challenge on your mental well-being and your wallet. Luckily, there are plenty of shortcuts to making your life a little easier here and there. If you're a young man in your 20s, here are some of the best saving tips to get you through your next work week.
1. Buy a good electric razor
While it might seem counterintuitive to spend money to save money, sometimes bulkier upfront payments should be viewed as long-term investments. This is especially true for essential household and lifestyle products, where the more expensive, high-quality versions usually last a long time and ultimately save you money compared to their cheaper, easily breakable brethren. When it comes to shaving (a necessity for almost any man), a great electric razor will end up costing hundreds less than disposables in the long-run.
2. Start cooking at home
Eating out is definitely easier for anyone on-the-go, but eating in is a whole lot cheaper. And if you're looking to save some money, buying groceries and cooking for yourself is one of the most substantial ways you can do so. If cooking isn't a skill you've honed, start simple. Buy a basic cookware set on Amazon and start experimenting with eggs and pasta sauces. Grill up some chicken. You'll be surprised how far you can stretch a few dollars when you're making your own food, and it's not a bad skill to have with roommates and significant others, too.
3. Buy in bulk
Most things are cheaper in bulk. Luckily, most essentials are also available in bulk quantities. Large sets of socks, underwear, and shirts may seem bland, but they're also very cost-effective. Similarly, many food items can be bought in bulk too, especially if you have access to a Costco or similar club membership. That being said, always be careful not to buy more quantity of any product than you actually need. It's only saving money if you end up using it.
4. Game online
You've probably never seen anyone recommend playing video games to save money before, huh? Well, it's true, entertainment can get very expensive. From various streaming subscriptions to consoles to newly released games, every purchase adds up. But nowadays, many of the most popular games are free-to-play, with major hits like Apex Legends costing you nothing outside of the Internet service you already pay for. Of course, optional cosmetics are always a cash-sink, but if you can avoid those, your entertainment expenses just got a whole lot cheaper.
5. Get a therapist
Seriously, life is tough sometimes, and society often puts unfair stigma around men's emotions. Consider therapy an investment in your lifelong well-being. Even if you can only afford it once a month, having someone to openly talk with about all the issues in your life, whatever they may be, provides an amazing outlet for stress. Never let unfair social pressures prevent you from taking care of your mental health.
Ultimately, it's a rough world out there for 20-somethings of any gender. Make sure to prioritize your well-being over financial decisions. It's okay to splurge every now and again. But if you can save a little bit every so often, it'll serve you well as you move into the next stages of your life.
Dan Kahanis a writer & screenwriter from Brooklyn, usually rocking a man bun. Find more at dankahanwriter.com
- Majors with ROI - PayPath ›
- A Collection Of Business Advice for Women - PayPath ›
- 10 Ways to (Responsibly) Blow Your Tax Refund in 2018 - PayPath ›
- save on kids clothes - PayPath ›
- Talking About Money Is A Good Thing - PayPath ›
- how much money Americans spend on Halloween - PayPath ›
- How to Save Money When Moving Into a New Apartment - PayPath ›