Thrifty living!

I've recently had a bit of an epiphany, after quitting University in January I have had a bit of a life change. I started University in September last year and used it as a form of escape, I spent my student finance frivolously and when I quit (the course was not for me) I was left in debt and had to go on job seekers allowance. I felt so low and ashamed that not only did I quit my education I was un-employed and in debt. Living on £56 a week is horrible and it's forced me to make better decisions when it comes to finances.

I struggled for a long time and I was to stubborn to ask for help. However I re-applied for University and will be studying History, Museums and Heritage in September. My mum has been my rock through all these ups and downs and has given me amazing advice that I will always follow.

I have now moved into my dads flat with my boyfriend and it's given me the opportunity to start living thrifty. I've been inspired by a lot of things and people lately (I will give details of links at the bottom).

Firstly I have started meal planning and making a list before we go food shopping, we've also decided to only spend £20 a week on food each, we shop at Aldi and it never comes over £40 hoorah! I always search the internet for cheap recipes and how to make my food last before we go shopping. I've also started using a spreadsheet to log all my spending. I love charity shops and car boots so I'm trying to only use them as a source for new clothes and accesories. Also I'm checking thrifty blogs, my main inspiration is http://www.athriftymrs.com and watching SuperScrimpers I love it! Lastly I'm always checking sites such as http://www.ilovefreegle.org and http://www.studentbeans.com.

I'd love to hear how everyone else does thrifty living and any advice on how to be more thrifty?

Hannah.

*Image created by my lovely boyfriend!