Today, frugal has an entirely different meaning than it did years ago. People actually live, but they are trying to spend money on things that are priorities, and spend less where they can. People have different goals – some have had to take lower paying jobs and are struggling to make ends meet. Some want to be able to stay at home and raise their children. Some people just want to step away from our consumer driven society and live a simpler life. Others have specific dreams of owning a home or achieving financial independence. Then there are those of us stuck on a financial merry go round, and we just want off.
No one wants to spend any more than they need to spend. Even so, sometimes it’s difficult to find the best way to achieve your goals. Everyday retailers and manufactures are pulling out all the bells and whistles to entice you to spend your money. It's hard to know when you are getting the best deal for your money.
Whatever the reason is, you have picked up a copy of this book to try to do something different in your life. While this isn’t the “be all - end all” of all of frugal living books, it does examine how to best exploit market cycles to spend less for the things you need or want. It examines how to time and anticipate your needs so that you spend the smallest amount necessary to achieve your goals. I’ve also outlined practical tips and ideas about using technology to save money and earn money - including an entire section on coupons in our digital age. It examines many items that have multiple uses, and finally it examines practical, old fashioned, tried and true methods, hands-on tips and ideas to save money and live frugally. Ultimately, it’s about living well, without breaking the bank.