What's the first thing someone should do when they begin..

[thrifty gal]

to live a frugal lifestyle?

[QuilterMom]

Keep track of every single penny you spend to see where your money is going and where it's being wasted.

[forestdale]

plus, convince yourself, and I mean REALLY know in your core, that it's the right thing to do for you.

[slowtypinwoman]

Know your debt

[Ellise]

Also see where if any you can cut back. Even if it's only $5.00 a week in 52 weeks that's $260.00.

make a shopping list when you go for groceries, and STICK to it

[homesteadmamma]

And pay cash for everything, assuming no new cc debt.

[Shell]

I found reading, "The Tightwad Gazette" a great way to start.

[Michele Annette]

Prepare ahead of time so that when temptation arrises you have a plan no matter what!

Examples:

cooking healthy meals and snacks. keeping some in the freezer so when your nights are busy you have something quick for dinner or a quick snack instead of the temptation of expensive take out.

Keeping just $10 in a safe spot for those emergency trips to the store for milk and bread, the post office to mail a package or to buy stamps, a piece of material for the back of a quilt you are making for a gift, a cup of coffee at the cafe in town. This little bit set aside for the "extras" in times of internal struggle will be your saving grace when you want to get a special treat or need something. I felt that once in a while I needed or wanted to get something, but did not want to bring the checkbook or CC's with me that would cause temptation. This has worked many times for me in the past, but sometimes I don't use that $10 for two months or more. Just knowing that it's there makes me feel comfortable that I have it just in case and I play a game with myself to see how long I can last without spending it. It really does work!

[Milhos]

Yep, what they said! I started out a bit more gradual with coupons and the "wait 2 weeks, then if you really need it..." Something else to try is when you pick something up in the store to look at it and it's over $10 (which it always is) say out loud, "That's the ugliest thing I've ever seen." and then put it back. I say this particularly loudly around this time of year hoping dh will take a hint . Once I got into the habit of looking for lower priced items, I found myself annoyed if things were more than I became used being able to find them for! Eventually, it becomes a habit and you may find yourself start to itch if you have to do otherwise.

[Lori Biever-Launder]

Hit the library and check out everything you can find on the frugal lifestyle. Make sure to read all three volumes of "The Tightwad Gazette"!

[PrairieRose]

Make it a rule to never ever pay full price for anything, and stick to it.

[MelinaG]

I would write down your goals and then before every purchase ask if this is towards your goals are not. And get a support circle. A little frugal support and competition saves a lot more money then trying to keep up with the jones!