Lose the Latte

I can actually hear the audible gay gasp as you read the headline. Yes, you know what I'm about to say. That $5/day coffee run has got to go. Buying overpriced coffee everyday is not good on your wallet, and depending on what you order, not good for your waistline either.

When I was in my 20's and early 30's, I visited fancy coffee shops at least once per day. $5 here, $5 there didn't seem like much. But at the end of the month, I was spending an astronomical amount of money on coffee; something I can make at home for pennies. One year, I actually spent nearly $1,200 on coffee. I should have been committed!

If you absolutely need your latte, substitute the fancier coffee shops with McDonald's or Dunkin'. You may not feel as trendy as you do when holding a cup from other coffee chains, but at least you'll have enough money for lunch.

I'm not alone here. On any given episode of Shark Tank, you will hear Kevin O'Leary aka Mr. Wonderful, talk about overpriced "foo foo" lattes and how they are a complete waste of money. 10 years ago, I wouldn't have listened to his advice. Today, I completely agree. I can't even imagine how many thousands of dollars I spent on coffee throughout my lifetime. And not just at Starbucks...most chains or even mom and pops charge the same amount for a flavored latte.

Instead, make coffee at home or enjoy the office coffee. It may not taste as good as the fancy stuff, but at least you didn't pay a lot for it. This doesn't mean you can't treat yourself every now and then.

If you have a 5 day a week habit, I'm not asking you to go cold turkey on this one. Maybe try cutting it down to 3 times per week, then 2, then once. You'll thank me when you have an extra $20 in your pocket at the end of the week. Multiply that by 52 weeks and you'll be laughing all the way to the bank!

For more personal finance advice, visit www.frugayity.com