Being a single mom for seven years taught me invaluable lessons in budgeting and smart grocery shopping. Even after remarriage, I continue to apply these skills to ensure my family gets healthy meals without overspending.
Learning to Make Every Penny Count
During my time as a single mom, I had to stretch my income to provide for my son and myself. Grocery shopping was a significant part of my budget, and I was determined to make nutritious meals without breaking the bank. This experience honed my ability to shop wisely and prioritize health within our financial constraints.
Smart Shopping Strategies
One of the key strategies I adopted was shopping at multiple stores. By comparing prices and keeping track of the cost of staple items, I could make informed decisions on where to shop for the best deals. While this approach may require extra time and effort, the savings it brings make it worthwhile.
Meal Planning for Savings
Utilizing sales and discounts to plan weekly meals became a routine for me. I would base our dinners on discounted meat and produce, ensuring variety in our diet without overspending. By taking advantage of lower prices on bulk items, I could switch up our meals and enjoy occasional treats without straining our budget.
Buying Smart in Bulk
Contrary to common belief, buying in bulk doesn't always translate to savings. I learned to calculate the price-per-unit for different pack sizes to make cost-effective choices. Opting for practical pack sizes helped me manage both our budget and storage space efficiently.
Indulging in Occasional Treats
By prioritizing savings on essential items, I could afford occasional treats like salmon or seasonal favorites. While these items may be pricier, enjoying them sparingly added a special touch to our meals without compromising our budget.
Choosing Affordable and Nutritious Options
Over time, I identified foods that were both affordable and nutritious for my family. Items like bananas, baby carrots, and bone-in chicken became staples in our diet due to their cost-effectiveness and nutritional value. Prioritizing foods that we enjoyed ensured that every purchase was a worthwhile investment.
By combining budget-conscious shopping habits with a focus on health and enjoyment, I continue to navigate the grocery aisles with confidence, ensuring that my family's needs are met without overspending.
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By: insider@insider.com (Ashley Archambault)
Title: How I Mastered Grocery Shopping on a Budget as a Single Mom
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/budget-grocery-shopping-single-mom-meal-planning-sales-treats-2024-7
Published Date: Tue, 09 Jul 2024 09:42:03 +0000
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