What if saving more was easier than you think—and you could start today?

I've declared 2025 as my savings and investing year! These are simple, practical steps I’m committing to this year when it comes to savings, and I hope they can inspire you as well, where it makes sense. While some of these suggestions come from my experience as a parent of two boys, they’re applicable to anyone looking to save more.

1. Slash Your Subscriptions:?

• Goodbye, Netflix—much to my kids’ dismay but it wasn’t the most watched streaming service in our household. (Apologies to my Netflix connections on here. I might resubscribe to catch “Nobody Wants This” Season 2 though ??)
• BODi by Beachbody – With warmer days approaching on the East Coast, I’m planning to get outside more—whether it’s morning dog walks or lunchtime runs.

Pro Tip: Don’t overlook the free workout videos on YouTube. Check out one of my favorites, the PopSugar Fitness channel—grab a set of dumbbells and you’re all set!

Take a close look at your credit card and bank statements too—you might be surprised at the subscriptions you’re still paying for. (Like that evite service you use only twice a year for your kids’ birthday parties! Learn from my mistakes.) ??

2. Discover Apps that Do Good:

Have you heard of the Too Good To Go app or similar ones? Its mission is simple: save perfectly good food from going to waste. Depending on where you live, local restaurants, bakeries, or grocery stores list surplus food at the end of the day at a discount. I’ve scored great deals on bagels, pizza and baked goods right here on Long Island, NY (because my kids love their carbs... and let’s be real, so do I). ??

Pro Tip: Slice the bagels, wrap them individually, and freeze them. When you’re ready to eat, pop them in the oven or air fryer for 5 minutes—perfectly fresh and delicious!

3. Rediscover Your Local Library:

When was the last time you visited your local library? They’re more than just books—they’re goldmines of free resources! From computers and museums passes for all ages to even Nintendo Switch games (what?!?), you never know what hidden gems you’ll discover! ??

Pro Tip: Your library might have an app that lets you browse all their available resources right from your phone.

4. Join Your Local Parents or Free-Cycle Facebook Groups:

With spring around the corner, it’s the perfect time for some spring cleaning! If you don’t have the dumbbells I mentioned earlier, these groups are a great place to ask if anyone has a set they’re looking to give away or sell. You might find someone nearby who’s ready to part with what you need—plus, it’s a great way to keep things local and sustainable! ??

Pro Tip: You, too, can offer up items you no longer need to keep the cycle going. You can finally get rid of all those board games you’ve collected over the years if you have children and how many hot wheels do kids really need anyway?

5. Stock Up on Winter Clothes Now for Next Year

I’ve been doing this for years—buying winter clothes off-season or grabbing holiday-themed outfits when they’re on sale after the holiday or occasion. It’s such a smart way to save! For example, I know my little one will be in size 5T next winter, so I’m already picking up a good jacket. Oh, and my boys’ Christmas pajamas are already picked out too! ??

Pro Tip: If space is tight for storage, there are plenty of creative solutions—think under-the-bed storage with wheels or hanging door organizers.

I’d love to hear how you’re saving this year! Share any tips or tricks you’ve found—let’s inspire each other.??Whatever your goal is for 2025, believe in yourself and stay consistent.

#believeinyourself #yougotthis