By now you have plenty of tips on how to save money, and you might have already started counting those pennies and stockpiling that extra cash. But if you still need a little push in the right savings direction, these additional tips will help. Remember: Start out with one or two of them, get comfortable with the way it feels, and then strive to do more. Saving money can be a major lifestyle change, and as with any big change, it takes time to grow accustomed to it.

• Get inspired! Wander around the web and find instances of families cutting corners, saving pennies, and making a savings out of what seems to be nothing. Look for sites that offer cheap recipes, homemade solutions, and inspirational tidbits to start counting your dimes!
• Team up with friends. Don’t hit that bistro for lunch and then worry about the prices. Pack sack lunches and go on a bike ride instead. Plan on a leisurely walk around the neighborhood, and don’t bring along the checkbook — there’s too much temptation afoot! When museums or zoos have freebie days, get together with your kids and take them. Have a blast for free and save the money you would have spent.
• Use direct deposit. Out of sight, out of mind. Have a small amount of cash taken out of your paycheck and sent to your savings account before the money ever touches your hand. That way, you know you will be saving money, and you will work with what you have.
• Rid your home of temptation. Magazines, shopping on the television or the internet, and other money-grabbers have to go. Throw the magazines in the trash, block the television channels that try to sell you something, and avoid sites on the internet that suck your time and money.
• Got a raise? An extra check here or there? Save it. The smallest amounts really do add up over time. That five dollar rebate check or that tiny refund you weren’t expecting will look nice in your savings account.
• Actually get that savings account. Many people will decide that getting a savings account is a hassle, or they worry about bad credit, and so avoid the savings account altogether. But this makes it very easy to spend the money you do save. If you absolutely cannot open up a savings account, spring for a safe deposit box or some other option that will keep the money safe, but out of your immediate reach. This will alleviate those tempting “gotta have it now” moments of impulsive purchasing.

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