I have been called cheap several times by people because of how I choose to spend my money. There is a difference between being frugal and being cheap. The main difference is the mindset behind being frugal vs being cheap. People who have a cheap mindset buy things because it is cheap or to save money. While people with a frugal mindset prioritize how they spend their money.
Here are some more cheap vs frugal examples
Couponing (Please follow the store’s coupon policies and do not commit coupon fraud because that can lead to stores raising prices for everyone or restricting coupons even more)
Cheap
Someone who is cheap would try to use expired coupons or not follow the store’s coupon policy. Or they might buy items they won’t use or eat because they had a coupon.
Frugal
Someone who is frugal would only use coupons on items that they will use or eat. They will also follow coupon policies. (I am not trying to attack couponers, instead, I am trying to urge people to follow the rules).
Clothes/Shoes Shopping
Cheap
Buying a pair of $20 dollar sneakers and consta
Buying a quality pair of sneakers that may cost more but last the whole year. Now quality does not necessarily equal high end or expensive things.
I choose to be frugal which means I prioritize how I spend my money. This enables me to spend money on things that I enjoy. Such as experiences with friends and family, cosplay, travel, and more. One of my ambitious goals is to graduate from college debt-free or as close as possible. In order to do that, I limit my impulse spending, budget, and save around 70% of my money for savings, college, and emergencies. However, that savings percentage is high because I live with my family when I am not at college. Some people may think that I am cheap because I do things such as use coupons, go thrift shopping, or make handmade gifts. But my reasoning behind them is not solely to save money. I use coupons occasionally if I find ones for products that I use. I go thrift shopping to be more eco friendly. I may make handmade gifts because I want to give several people gifts but I can’t afford to buy them all presents. Or I want to give someone a thoughtful gift that I think that they will enjoy.
Overall everyone spends and manages their money differently and that’s okay. My goal is not to shame or judge people but instead share my experiences with others. If you would like to connect on social media follow me on Instagram @frugal.genie or Twitter frugal_genie.
