My grandmother used to go grocery shopping once a week, on Saturdays, as that was the only day she had access to their one car. In this day and age, we all have cars and are on the road every day, with a grocery store on every other corner. If we need something, we just stop and pick it up. But, we all know what happens when we do that. Suddenly we think, “Oh, that’s right. I need this, too” or, “I might as well grab that while I’m here” or “That looks good, I’ll pick up some of that.” Before we know it, instead of walking out with that one item, we’re carting three or four bags out to the car.
It does take a little time to plan out your grocery list for the week ahead instead of popping into the store on your way home and picking up whatever strikes your fancy and your taste buds at the moment, but in the long run, you will save not just money, but time, as well. You don’t have to use that extra 20-30 minutes each day on your way home to stop at the store. You’re saving time that could be better spent with your loved ones or doing something else.
In the realm of saving money, you’re no longer tempted by those impulse purchases three or more times a week. You make your list and stick as closely to it as possible. You know what your meals will be for the week, so that’s one less worry off your mind. You get the necessities and you’re done; for the whole week!
And lest we forget, if you have to drive at all out of your way to get to the grocery store during the week, you’re saving gas money as well and reducing the use of fossil fuels.What a concept!
It encompasses it all. With a little planning, you have saved time, money and the environment in one fell swoop. What if we all did that?