As the economy worsens, it seems food prices increase. One way to muddle through is to become savvier when it comes to grocery shopping. Just as with parenting strategies, or perhaps anything that we want to change in our lives, it takes a conscious effort to make and stick to changes.
The first step is to find an idea that really resonates with you. I, for one, am a big believer in making a weekly grocery list as opposed to shopping on the fly. It’s a big time and money saver. However, when I read the tip in this article about shopping a minimum of two weeks, I get a little overwhelmed. I don’t enjoy being in the kitchen for long periods of time, and the thought of making and freezing all of the food just doesn’t appeal to me. On the other hand, it would mean less time in the kitchen throughout the week which could be a big bonus. I need to think this one through a little more. For some, the commitment to shopping just once per week may seem a little overwhelming. Do we make the effort to change in order to save time and money? Is it worth it? Is it necessary?
After finding an idea that resonates with you, the next step is to find a way to engrain it into your routine. Perhaps the best advice that I received early on is that it takes 28 days to create a habit. In terms of weeks of creating a shopping list- maybe it takes about a month or two.
Once it becomes habit, enjoy the rewards and reap the benefits. When we can streamline to save time and money, it feels good. As times are tight, it is empowering to know that we can adapt and make positive changes. In the case of grocery shopping: minimizing waste, saving time and saving money.
In the meantime, we create teaching moments for our children. Many baby boomers will reflect upon the positive lessons learned by their parents as they survived the depression. Hard as it is, this time can create an opportunity to teach children financial responsibility through our example.
What works for you? Do you clip coupons? Do any of you shop twice per month or less and pre-make and freeze food? Any other secrets to share?
