“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.” Philippians 2:3-4
You’ve decided to become a better steward of what you have. You’ve got your coupons clipped, shopping list ready, pantry organized, and you are on a quest to save money on your grocery bill! One small problem. The rest of the household is not. For instance, your husband insists upon drinking soda as his only beverage and your kids will only eat one brand of cereal. Don’t they know that water is free and any old cereal will do!? Here are a couple of tips to bridge the gap between you and your frugal unawares.
1. If you haven’t already, have a heart to talk heart with your husband about what you are trying to do by saving on your budget. Maybe you could come to a soda compromise – maybe if he understood your plan he would be willing to cut back a bit. Perhaps the rest of the family would agree as well on a limited time basis or trial period. Use positive words and try not be critical of his choices.
2. Try the ‘ole 50/50 trick. You know, half juice/half water, half of their favorite cereal mixed with half of a less expensive alternative.
3. Try other recipes and food and drink items and see if everyone will enjoy a less expensive alternative.
4. Pray and ask the Lord to help you sweetly meet the needs and desires of your family members while being a good steward. Maybe the Lord will reveal to you another area in which to save money.
5. Accept the fact that you cannot change people. Sometimes people just don’t see eye to eye. Ask the Lord to show you if you are being accepting of others and looking well to their needs in a gracious and respectful manner.
6. Last, but probably most importantly, keep up a positive attitude. You could get totally stuck on this difficulty and give up, but remember, you can do it! Have a can do attitude!
It’s not easy living with people, is it!? But, by the grace of God, you can live frugally with people who don’t understand the sense in your striving to save two cents!
Katina is wife to Graeme and mom to eight fun-loving kids. Some of Katina’s favorite hobbies are bargain shopping and couponing! She is excited to share good deals, fresh money-saving ideas, budgeting tips, and ways to use what you already have so you can best use your resources to further the gospel of Christ. She believes the first step to a healthy financial life begins with a grateful heart. American Christians are an extremely blessed people!