Over time, I've learned that embracing a thriftier lifestyle and learning more about financial literacy benefits not just me but my greater community. In simpler living, I've been able to reduce clutter and be more environmentally friendly and less wasteful. Shopping thrift stores and consignment, for example, allows me to reuse and enjoy clothing while decreasing my carbon footprint and landfill waste, and supporting local businesses and deserving charities such as Goodwill and the Salvation Army.

Frugal people do spend money, but want the maximum bang for the buck, without stressing themselves. 
Frugality does not mean compromising quality, neglecting your social life, or being a cheap stake. It is about making smart spending choices, like buying second-hand clothing, avoiding pricey subscriptions or brands.

Being Frugal Is Not Cheap

<ul><li>Smart spending is about balance and adopting a disciplined mindset, and ultimately is about increasing awareness about our spending.</li><li>Being honest with our loved ones about our financial frugality frees us from an additional burden of making excuses and also makes them support our budget planning.</li></ul>

Balancing Everything

<ul>
<li>Use tools like financial books, podcasts, and online savings groups.</li>
<li>Avoid indulging in unnecessary expenses daily, reducing them or finding healthier and more affordable alternatives.</li>
<li>Cultivate a healthier attitude and the right mindset towards your finances.</li>
<li>Know that small, practical, money-saving actions can compound into better living for you in the long run.</li>
</ul>

Be A Smart Spender

There are plenty of financial and budgeting tools and apps that can help us manage our funds, keep track of our expenses, and trigger us when we are off-track.
Simple hacks like carrying a debit card or cash instead of a credit card, or deleting our card details from shopping sites can help us avoid spending impulsively.

Use Smart Hacks

I'll be the first to admit that I live frugally. I like vacations and fashion, and one day plan to own a home, but I'm a millennial living in an expensive city, so most days, these goals feel like distant mirages in the desert.