Get rich!
Here are five hacks to help you grow your savings.
It might seem impossible to save up for months to buy something really cool. But whether you must have those hot new sneakers or want to donate money to save rainforests, being patient with your money will definitely pay off. Here are some tips to get started.
See clearly
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To really see your savings, store your bills and coins in a clear jar to literally watch your money grow. It’s definitely more motivating than shaking a piggy bank and guessing how much is in there.
Spend some, save some
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You don’t have to put every last penny away for months. Whenever you have some spare change or birthday money, throw at least half in one jar labeled "save," and the rest in another marked “spend.” Leave the “save” jar alone, but the “spend” jar is all yours!
Take your savings smarts further and add a third jar labeled "give." When you’ve saved up enough, donate the cash to a cause that's important to you.
Take your savings smarts further and add a third jar labeled "give." When you’ve saved up enough, donate the cash to a cause that's important to you.
Goal for it
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What’s that one big thing you really, really want or need? Pick one big-ticket item or cause as your goal to save for. It'll be easier to put your money away if you have a specific purpose.
Time is right
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Stay focused on your savings goal by writing down the amount you'll need and the date you want it. Mark it on your calendar or write it on a sticky note by your bed—now it’s the first thing you see in the morning and the last thing you see at night.
Share with others
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The more you talk about your goal, the more likely you are to reach it. So tell people about what you’re doing—they might even help you!
Make more cents
The number one thing to remember when it comes to saving money? Be patient! Try not to touch your stash of cash unless you really need to. That way, if you unexpectedly need to buy a new bike tire or find out your favorite singer’s coming to town, you’ll be glad you spent your time saving instead of spending!
Text from the National Geographic Kids book Not-So-Common Cent$ by Sarah Wassner Flynn