Expense Management

DH has a theory. A pasar malam theory...that when the economy is not doing well, the pasar malams grow in numbers.

He is right. In a span of 1 week, there were 2 different pasar malams in Tampines Central within 400 metres of each other. Each mustering their all to attract patrons - from Ramli burgers to delicious deep fried vadei to kiddy rides and carnival games.

Things sold there are cheaper than in the shops. There is also a lot more variety of goods. Quality may be waning a bit as I found out the hard way when my eldest's $10 Ben 10 school bag last all of 1 month.

With that in mind and being hit by daily reports of how bad the economy is doing (yes I get it already!), I have started a crusade to cut dicretionary spending at home.

1 Eat breakfast at home
2 Pack lunch to work
3 Practice delayed gratification more by actually (gasp!) saving for what I want
4 Go grocery shopping only once a week (steady...deep breath...in...out)
5 Saying "NO!" loudly and with gusto before hearing what it is that my kids want
6 Discretely pocketing the leftover chili packets and serviettes if I eat out
7 Take the MRT and avoid the taxi
8 Avoid window shopping like the plague
9 Walk instead of taking the car
10 Sell stuff on ebay

I have to say, these are not difficult to do or implement. Just needs a bit of good old discipline and self restraint (which I must say, stops at good food). You will be surprise how little you REALLY need.

I did not stop there...educating our next generation is important so all the shouting of the "NO!" has left an impression on my kids. They are now asking how much everything costs, comparing prices before making decisions and saving. I am proud that in times of difficulty, they are able to understand and help.

Now with all the belt tightening, I should give myself a reward...deep fried vadei here I come!