Feeling wealthy isn’t just about how much money you have. It’s about appreciating what you already have, no matter how big or small your budget. Let’s take a closer look at five frugal hacks that will have you feeling like your heart is heavy with fulfillment, even when your wallet is light.
Practice Gratitude
This is an interesting one, because it’s not as straightforward as “clip coupons” or “go to happy hour.” But if you really want to feel rich, you have to practice feeling wealth and abundance. Nothing will help you do this faster than being more grateful for the things you have.
We recommend starting a gratitude journal where you jot down three things you’re grateful for every day. This will gradually shift your mindset from scarcity to abundance.
Create a Comfy Home for Cheap
You don’t need luxury furniture to make your home feel special. Small touches, like fresh flowers, scented candles, or just a clean and organized space, can make any home feel instantly more upscale. And if you do need new furniture, try shopping secondhand.
Many people would rather buy new, even if it’s low quality, and this is often an expensive mistake. Vintage furniture can be cheaper and more durable than anything you’d find at the glorified meatball kiosk, no matter how fun it is to say.
Host a Potluck
There are different kinds of rich. And one of the best kinds is feeling rich in love and relationships. Most people would go out for dinner with their friends and spend a fortune, but how much more time could you afford to spend with your loved ones if you did potluck-style dinners?
This is a fulfilling and affordable way to enjoy each other’s company. You might even find the same bottle of wine you’d find on a fine dining menu at your corner store for a fraction of the price — the perfect thing to bring if you can’t cook!
Dress Smart
Much like gussying up your home will make you feel rich, try and do the same for yourself! Careful outfit planning and taking good care of your clothes will make you feel rich. You can even tailor those special outfits to fit you like a glove.
This prevents you from overspending on new clothes while making the most of what you already have. And if you want to buy new clothes, buy things that have universal use. We recommend timeless pieces that you can mix and match effortlessly with the rest of your wardrobe.
Pay Yourself First
Many people “feel” poor because they don’t have control over their money. But the secret to feeling rich even if you don’t make a lot isn’t not spending your money — it’s knowing exactly where it’s going.
Frugal people don’t hesitate to spend money they know they have if they can afford it. Those who don’t budget are much more likely to overspend, ignore their bank and credit card statements, and fall further behind.
Sound familiar?
Give yourself the gift of financial freedom and budget for everything, including things that are just for fun, and you’ll feel richer and more responsible.
