Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Little Switches That Make a Difference

I'm a firm believer that it's the little things that make the biggest difference!

Several months ago I decided to make a switch.  I set a goal and started working towards it.  My ultimate goal is to lose 30 pounds and I'm already half way there.  What did I switch?  I cut out my daily trip to Starbuck's and switched it to a monthly "reward" trip.  Not only have I lost 13 pounds but I've also saved a large amount of money in the process as well!

In addition to cutting back on my coffee, I've switched to being more active in my everyday outings and activities.  Instead of taking the elevator I'll take the stairs.  I park at the far end of the parking lot instead of as close to the store as I can get.  I use the downstairs bathroom during the day instead of the one upstairs.  I walk the 1/4 mile to get the mail instead of driving.

Another switch that my husband and I made recently was how many meals we eat at home rather than out.  Of course, eating out is often times more convenient but it's also so much more expensive.  For our family to eat at even fast food restaurants, Taco Bell for example, we're looking at between $20 and $25.  For that same meal, we can prepare it at home for under $10 and have food left to use for a meal later in the week.  Another easy way to save money and be healthier too!

Another little switch that makes a big difference is buying generic whenever possible.  More often than not, the generic brand is just as good (maybe even better) than the name brand.  This goes for both grocery and clothing items.  If you can't buy generic, use coupons!  Coupons are a great way to save money and the savings really adds up quickly!

My kids love watching movies and when they see a fun, new movie coming out they want to go.  Of course they do, it's only natural.  Who doesn't enjoy watching a movie on the big screen while eating that delicious buttered popcorn.  Instead we pick a movie through Netflix, pop our own popcorn and cuddle up under a blanket on the couch.  This makes movie night frugal, personal and memorable for our children.

If you sit down and think about it, there are endless ways to make a big difference.  With a little creativity you can go a long way.  In fact, you just might amaze and impress yourself at the differences you can make!

What little switches do you use to make a big difference?



About Cottonelle

The Cottonelle brand provides innovative comfort solutions for perineal personal care. Cottonelle toilet paper is available in three forms: Cottonelle Ultra toilet paper, Cottonelle Aloe & E toilet paper, and Cottonelle Premium toilet paper. To help people feel cleaner and fresher than with toilet paper alone, Cottonelle offers Cottonelle Fresh Flushable Moist Wipes and Cottonelle SoothingClean Flushable Moist Wipes enriched with Aloe & E.

**I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Cottonelle blogging program, for a gift card worth $25. 

1 comment:

J Rodney said...

I love that you are losing weight and saving at the same time. Great job Bridget!