Simple Living: A Beginner’s Guide to Saving €100 Every Month

 

Introduction: Why Save €100 a Month?

Many people dream of saving more money, but finding the motivation and a starting point can be challenging in a busy daily life. This guide introduces easy-to-follow strategies for adopting a "simple living" lifestyle that helps you save €100 every month—without stress. Let’s explore how small, enjoyable changes can grow your savings effortlessly.

Step 1: Review Your Expenses

The foundation of saving is understanding your spending. Taking a closer look at where your money goes each month is the first step toward a sustainable saving plan.

Keep a Budget

Track your expenses with a notebook, app, or spreadsheet. By logging daily purchases, you’ll uncover unnecessary expenses—like frequent coffee shop visits or impulse buys at convenience stores—that add up over time.

Tip: Many small expenses can add up to €30–€50 a month. Identifying these can significantly impact your savings.

Review Regular Bills

Check your recurring expenses, such as utilities, subscriptions, or insurance. Canceling unused services or switching to better plans can save you €20–€50 each month.

Example: Downgrade streaming services or use a cheaper mobile plan.

Step 2: Build Simple Habits to Cut Costs

Save on Food: Cook More at Home

Eating out is convenient, but cooking at home saves money and is healthier. A single meal at a restaurant can cost €10–€15, whereas a home-cooked meal can cost as little as €3.

Easy Recipes:

• Vegetable stir-fry with eggs (€2 per serving).
• Pasta with tomato and garlic sauce (€1.50 per serving).
• Soup with lentils and seasonal vegetables (€2.50 per serving).

Replacing three takeout meals a week with home-cooked meals could save €50 monthly!

Reduce Transportation Costs

Walking or cycling instead of driving short distances can save on fuel and parking fees. Public transport or carpooling can also significantly lower commuting expenses.

Tip: A 10-minute walk to the store instead of driving could save €10–€20 monthly while boosting your health!

Step 3: Reassess Household Spending

Cut Utility Bills

Energy efficiency can lower your monthly bills. Simple adjustments to electricity and gas use can lead to significant savings.

Electricity Tips:

• Switch off lights and devices when not in use.
• Use energy-saving LED bulbs.
• Unplug electronics when idle to avoid "phantom power" usage.

Gas Tips:

• Shorten shower times.
• Use lids on pots while cooking.
• Lower heating settings and wear warmer clothing indoors.

These habits can reduce utility bills by €10–€30 per month.

Cancel Unnecessary Subscriptions

From streaming platforms to unused gym memberships, evaluate which services you truly use. Canceling even one or two subscriptions can free up €15–€30 monthly.

Step 4: Develop a Savings Habit

Prioritize Saving with the "Pay Yourself First" Method

As soon as your paycheck arrives, transfer €100 into a separate savings account before budgeting for other expenses. This method ensures savings become a habit rather than an afterthought.

Tip: Automate the transfer to make saving effortless.

Benefits of a Simple Living Approach

1. More Financial Freedom: Small savings add up over time, allowing for bigger goals like travel or investments.
2. Less Stress: A minimalist lifestyle reduces clutter and simplifies decision-making.
3. Eco-Friendly Lifestyle: Saving often aligns with sustainable habits, like reducing waste or conserving energy.

Conclusion: Enjoy the Rewards of Simple Living

Saving €100 a month doesn’t have to be difficult. By reviewing your expenses, adopting cost-saving habits, and committing to small lifestyle changes, you can achieve financial peace of mind while embracing a simpler, more intentional life.

Start today and enjoy the satisfaction of building a better financial future—one small step at a time!