Noticing you need more money in your budget is one thing.  Taking action is another.  It doesn’t take long to convince yourself that everything you spend money on is absolutely necessary.   Changing this mindset is the first step to getting rid of unnecessary expenses.

Each time you get ready to spend money on something, ask yourself, “What’s the worst that would happen if I didn’t buy this?” and “Are there any cheaper alternatives?”

Pretend you’re out shopping and you pick up a pair of pants.  You ask yourself question one and answer, “I wouldn’t have any black pants to wear to work.”  That may be a viable reason for buying new pants, but then ask yourself the second question.  You’ll likely answer that you can find some cheaper pants at another store.

By asking yourself those two questions and answering honestly, you can start spending less money on things you don’t really need.