So, you’re working at a job you hate and you’ve decided to move on to something you love. However, you still need money for rent, groceries, bills, and other things. This is a tough problem to solve, especially if you’re not making much money at all.

Here are some tips for cutting your spending without having to cut back on the things you need in order to live.

1. Start paying yourself first

In other words, start putting money away before you put money towards your bills. Put $50/week into your savings account for example. This amount will build up a small nest egg and give you a little bit of extra spending money when you need it.

2. Use cash

Most places that have an ATM are going to charge you a fee for using it. If you’re going to pay with a credit card, use the cash back features on your card to maximize your savings.

3. Keep your eyes peeled for coupons

Coupons are a great way to cut down on your grocery bill. Also, many stores have coupon promotions that allow you to buy items for a lower price. It’s important to look out for these promotions because they won’t last forever.

4. Get rid of the car

If you don’t need a car, then don’t own one. Many people spend too much money on their vehicle. If you’re not able to drive, you can use public transportation instead.

5. Find ways to earn more money

If you want to get more money, you’ll need to find ways to make more money. Some ways to earn more money include getting a second job or looking for freelance work.

6. Look for opportunities to save money

Some things are just expensive. For example, your electric bill is going to be much higher than the national average, so you should try to cut down on how much electricity you use.

7. Shop online

Online shopping has become very popular over the past few years. Shopping online is cheaper than shopping in person because the overhead costs for brick-and-mortar stores are very high. You’ll also be able to use the free shipping options offered by most stores to get free shipping on your purchases.

8. Don’t shop when you’re hungry

Shopping while you’re hungry is the worst possible time to shop. You’ll be tempted to buy food and end up buying things you don’t need.

9. Avoid unnecessary services

A lot of businesses will charge you for services you don’t really need. For example, you don’t need to get your hair cut every month. If you do, you’re just wasting money.

10. Plan your meals

Plan your meals in advance so you don’t end up spending money on fast food. Instead, go to the grocery store and prepare your meals the night before.

11. Cook from scratch

Many restaurants will charge you for ingredients that are already prepared. If you cook your own food, you’ll be able to avoid this.

12. Use reusable bags

Reusable bags are great for helping you keep your money and the environment. Instead of paying for plastic bags, you can use cloth bags to carry your groceries home.

13. Shop at thrift stores

Thrift stores are great places to find deals on clothes, furniture, and other things. You can even find deals on groceries and household items.

14. Go for the sale

Sale days are great times to save money. They’re also a great time to get new, used, or discounted items.

15. Take advantage of sales

Sales are a great way to get a discount on items you need. You can also find sales on other items that can be used to save money.

16. Have a garage sale

People love garage sales. They’re a fun way to get rid of old items you don’t need. Make sure to clean up your garage before you sell anything.

17. Donate

Donating your clothes and other items is a great way to help others and save money.

18. Avoid impulse purchases

Impulse purchases are usually the ones that cost the most money. If you have to stop and think about whether you should buy something or not, you’ll be less likely to make a purchase.

19. Look for bargains

Bargains are a great way to get a better deal on items. If you want to get a deal on something, look for sales on that item.

20. Pay off your debts

Your debts are going to be a drain on your finances. You’re going to end up spending more money than you should on interest.

21. Save for the future

Save for the future by setting aside money each month. If you do this, you’ll have more money to use towards bills, retirement, and other things.

22. Avoid debt

Debt is a vicious cycle. You’ll be stuck paying for your debts even if you don’t have enough money.

23. Start a side business

If you have a hobby that you enjoy, you can turn it into a side business. You’ll be able to make money off your hobby and make a little extra money at the same time.

24. Keep a budget

Keeping a budget is a great way to stay on top of your finances. You’ll be able to see what money you have coming in and what you have going out.

25. Sell your stuff

Selling your stuff is a great way to get a little extra money. You can also make a profit by selling your stuff on eBay, Craigslist, or other online marketplaces.

26. Make your own cleaning products

Making your own cleaning products can save you money and time.

27. Use your phone wisely

You probably have a phone that’s paid for and one that’s on your plan. Don’t pay for your phone unless you really need to.

28. Eat at home

Eating out is adds up to a lot of money people spend each month.  Try to eat at home instead.