How Can I Stop Starving Myself?

Despite having a substantial amount of money saved in your accounts, you may frequently find yourself putting your savings deposits ahead of grocery shopping. Your mind might tell you to save more money rather than spending it on food because you are considered to be frugal. Here are three steps to help you change your behavior and ensure you eat healthily.

Assess Your Spending Habits and Optimize Them

The first step is to examine what you are eating and make adjustments. One of the reasons people find it hard to manage grocery expenses is that they tend to prefer eating out. Especially before the pandemic, I spent a considerable amount of money at restaurants. However, a $10 steak at the grocery store can cost up to $40 at a restaurant. By preparing your meals at home, you can significantly reduce these costs.

For instance, I used to buy frozen French fries, which often contained unexpected ingredients. However, by buying potatoes and cooking them myself, I ended up saving money while enjoying a better taste. Scratch cooking can be cheaper and more nutritious; it does not necessarily require more time or effort.

Evaluate Your Diet and Consider Major Substitutions

The second step is to reassess what you are consuming. Consider whether you can save money by buying items in bulk. Cooking from scratch is not only easier but also tends to be more cost-effective. Make simple substitutions, such as buying and using seasonal vegetables and avoiding packaged or processed foods. These changes can help you save money without compromising on nutrition.

Explore Local Resources and Assistance

It is crucial to recognize that not eating can have severe consequences. Let’s break it down: the average American household spends approximately $8 per day on food. Without this daily expenditure, you could save up to $320 a month. However, this does not mean that you should starve yourself. It’s entirely unrealistic and unhealthy.

Instead, consider the following options. Every town, big or small, in the USA has a soup kitchen that can provide free meals. Many communities also have food pantries that offer food assistance to those in need. These resources are intended to be a short-term aid until you can provide for yourself. It’s also a good idea to contact your local Department of Social Services (DSS) social worker for more comprehensive assistance. They can guide you to the correct organizations, such as food banks and health insurance resources, especially if you are homebound.

Conclusion

Do not deprive yourself of the basic necessities, including food. It is essential to maintain your strength and health. Resources are available in your community to help you navigate through difficult times. By following the steps outlined above, you can improve your financial situation while ensuring you are well-fueled and healthy.