Simple Ways to Save in 2009

With difficult financial times here for all of us, it's important to find simple ways to cut expenses. Although we all want to hold onto the little luxuries in life we've come to enjoy, difficult times call for a "back to basics" approach. Here are some simple ways to save:
1. Cut the premium coffee
Do you stop for a cup of premium brew everyday? Try making your own cup of Java at home with less expensive coffees from your local grocer. Don't stress too much - you can still enjoy a cup of premium brew one day a week to reward yourself for your money saving efforts.
2. Buy generic
While there are certain things you may not want to trust to anything less than a name brand, discount chains such as Target carry their own generic brands that cost less. From cereal to laundry detergent, these little savings per item can add up. Another big area for savings is generic over-the-counter drugs. Compare the active ingredients of the brand name with those of the generic. If they're the same dosage, then you're paying more for the name and not the medicine itself.
3. Turn off the lights
Do you or your family members forget to turn off the lights when you leave the room? Electricity is an easy bill to reduce. For more savings, replace your incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs that use up to 75% less energy. Just don't forget to recycle these light bulbs when they burn out as they contain Mercury; Ace Hardware recycles them for free at your local store.
4. Slowdown
Expressway drivers who go faster than the 55 mph speed limit are wasting fuel. Plus you can save yourself the expense of a ticket and an increase on your Auto Insurance. Not to mention it's safer for you and your family.
5. Cut the channels
Do you really need 200 cable TV channels or could you make do with 60? Cable is outrageously expensive and you usually end up paying for channels that you never watch. Pick up some books at your local library or break out a board game for some family time. You could even exercise and help keep that New Year's resolution.