When I first started adopting a frugal lifestyle, I had to make some tough decisions about where I was spending my money. Over time, I’ve come to realize that living frugally isn’t about deprivation—it’s about making smarter choices with the resources I have. Frugal people, like me, prioritize long-term financial stability over short-term gratification. Through my journey, I’ve learned there are certain things that frugal people simply don’t do. Here’s what I’ve discovered:
1. They Don’t Buy Brand New All the Time
I used to think that buying brand-new items was the only way to go, but over time, I learned that frugal people don’t always go for the latest and greatest. Whether it’s electronics, clothes, or furniture, I’ve discovered that buying second-hand or gently used items can save a lot of money without sacrificing quality. Thrift stores, online marketplaces, and even garage sales can be gold mines for great deals. I’ve found that the thrill of the hunt for a good bargain can actually be just as satisfying as buying something new—and sometimes even more rewarding.
2. They Don’t Pay Full Price for Anything
Frugal people know the value of a good deal. I’ve learned not to pay full price unless it’s absolutely necessary. Sales, coupons, cashback offers, and discount codes have become my best friends. I now make it a point to wait for discounts or promotions before making big purchases, whether it’s for groceries or even vacations. I’ve also learned to track price fluctuations on things I’m considering buying and wait for the best possible deal.
3. They Don’t Buy on Impulse
Impulse buying is a trap that I used to fall into all the time. If I saw something that caught my eye, I’d often buy it without thinking. But over time, I realized that frugal people don’t act on impulse. They take the time to think about whether the purchase is really necessary or if it’s just something they’re temporarily excited about. Now, I wait 24 hours before making a non-essential purchase. This simple rule has saved me a lot of money and helped me focus on only buying things that truly add value to my life.
4. They Don’t Drive Everywhere
One of the biggest expenses in my budget was transportation. Frugal people don’t drive everywhere when they don’t have to. I’ve learned to embrace public transportation, carpooling, or even walking or biking whenever possible. Not only does this save money on gas and parking, but it also reduces wear and tear on my car, saving on maintenance costs in the long run. For bigger trips, I’ve even used ride-sharing services or car rentals instead of owning an extra car.
5. They Don’t Use Credit Cards for Non-Essential Purchases
I used to carry balances on my credit cards, thinking that it was “normal.” But the truth is, frugal people avoid using credit cards for non-essential purchases. Now, I only use credit cards for things I can afford to pay off right away. The interest rates on credit cards can quickly add up, turning small purchases into big debts. Paying cash or using a debit card for most things has helped me avoid unnecessary debt and keep my finances on track.
6. They Don’t Buy Expensive Coffee Daily
I used to stop by coffee shops every morning, thinking it was a treat I deserved. But once I started tracking my spending, I realized how much money I was throwing away. Frugal people, like me, don’t buy expensive coffee every day. Instead, I started brewing my coffee at home, which has saved me hundreds of dollars over the years. It may seem like a small thing, but the little savings really do add up.
7. They Don’t Forget to Plan Their Meals
When I didn’t plan my meals, I found myself wasting money on takeout or convenience foods. Frugal people always plan their meals in advance. I’ve learned that meal planning not only saves me money but also helps me reduce food waste. By buying only the ingredients I need and cooking at home, I’ve cut my grocery bills in half. Plus, it’s healthier and allows me to control portion sizes, which helps keep my spending under control.
8. They Don’t Skip Paying Themselves First
When I first started managing my money, I often paid bills and spent what was left on other things. But frugal people understand the importance of paying themselves first. Now, I set aside a portion of my income for savings and investments before I spend on anything else. This ensures that I’m always building my financial future, even when I feel like I don’t have a lot to spare.
9. They Don’t Overpay for Services
Frugal people are always looking for ways to save on recurring expenses like utilities, internet, and insurance. I’ve learned to shop around for better deals and switch providers when I find lower prices for the same quality of service. For example, I regularly review my insurance policies to make sure I’m getting the best coverage at the best price. Even small savings on monthly bills can add up to significant amounts over time.
10. They Don’t Ignore Their Financial Goals
Finally, frugal people never ignore their financial goals. I used to think that budgeting and saving were optional, but I’ve realized that they are essential to building long-term wealth. Frugal people set clear, specific financial goals and consistently work toward them. Whether it’s paying off debt, saving for a vacation, or building an emergency fund, having a financial plan in place has been one of the most powerful habits I’ve adopted.
Final Thoughts
Frugal living isn’t about deprivation—it’s about being intentional with your money. By adopting these habits, I’ve learned to prioritize the things that really matter while eliminating unnecessary expenses. It’s a mindset shift, and while it takes time to adjust, the rewards are well worth it. By being mindful of how I spend, I’ve been able to save more, live better, and build a more secure financial future.