There’s something about big brothers and their little sisters.

One minute you’re screaming at them, and in the next you’re running to them for protection. They help you move, listen to you complain about your boyfriend, send your gift cards to Starbucks, pounce on you at the holidays and always try to fix things. 

Funny thing is, no matter how old you get, how you morph from that awkward girlie to a young woman, they remain the same overprotective fixers. They’ll harp on you to get your car’s oil changed, or to buy a house, or will even tell you not work so hard.

That’s exactly how my big brothers are. And, they even know how to save a penny or two.

My brother, Tim, a business consultant and former Peace Corps Volunteer, tells it like it is: 

How to Save Some Coin

1) Don’t eat out so much!

You’ll save more money by cooking simple dinners at home. If cooking isn’t your thing yet, try one of those “pre-prepared home meal” services such as Let’s Eat.

2) Buy generic products instead of brand names

This goes for groceries as well as pharmaceuticals and other personal goods.

In many cases, the generic brands are actually made by the major manufacturers, but they put the retail store name on instead.

3) Limit your trips to the movie theater

Seeing blockbuster movies at the theater can be great but at $9+ per person it can be expensive. Wait for the rentals, order movies online or through the TV. Better yet check out DVDs at the library. And if you do decide to hit the theaters, bring your own snacks!

4) Limit your music CD purchases

Ok, so there are some albums that are a “gotta have” but instead of buying that brand new CD, listen to it first to see if you really like it. Check it out at the library, go online for samples, or head to the music store and listen to clips. Download singles online instead of entire albums.

5) Stop trying to Pimp Yo’ Ride

Car lovers hate to hear that “an auto just gets you from A to B.” But those cheap gadgets for the interior and exterior add up pretty fast. Furthermore, limit your time in the car wash! You don’t need the Supersonic Deluxe Extra Blingy Special. The basic wash will do fine. All that wax build-up isn’t good for your car’s finish anyway.

6) Avoid buying expensive gifts

Money won’t make ‘em love you any more! Limit trips to the mall to find presents. Do something more personal for that special person. Spend quality time with them by sharing a meal, getting a cup of coffee or enjoying the outdoors.

Tim

Age 33

Milwaukee, WI