If you’re not doing these 5 things

Picture this: It’s the end of the year, and you’re staring at your bank statement. But instead of the usual “Where did it all go?” panic, you see an extra £1,000 sitting there. No lottery win, no inheritance—just simple, everyday changes that made a massive difference.

Sounds good, right?

Most people think saving money means cutting out everything fun—no takeaways, no holidays, no little treats. But what if I told you that wasn’t true? What if saving £1,000 this year was just about making small tweaks to what you’re already doing?

Here’s how you can start today.

1. The ‘Invisible’ Subscriptions Trick

It started with a £6.99 streaming service. Then a £4.99 app. Then a £9.99 gym membership “just in case.” Before you know it, you're paying £50+ a month for things you barely use.

Try this: Go through your bank statements from the last three months. Spot the sneaky subscriptions, cancel the ones you don’t need, and boom—you’ve just saved hundreds over the year.

🎯 Money saved: £300+ a year

2. The £5-a-Day Swap

A takeaway coffee here, a meal deal there. It doesn’t seem like much—until you do the maths. Spending just £5 a day on little extras adds up to £1,825 a year.

Instead, swap just three days a week for homemade alternatives. Bring your own coffee, pack a lunch, or batch-cook your favourite meal. You’re not giving up everything—just being smart about it.

🎯 Money saved: £500+ a year

3. The ‘One Month Rule’ for Impulse Buys

We’ve all been there. You see a sale, your heart races, and before you know it, you’ve clicked “buy now.” But did you really need it?

Next time, use the One Month Rule—wait 30 days before buying anything over £50. More often than not, the urge will pass, and your bank balance will thank you.

🎯 Money saved: £200+ a year

4. The Bill-Reduction Phone Call

Here’s a little secret: Your service providers don’t want to lose you.

A quick phone call to your broadband, insurance, or energy supplier to ask for a better deal can work wonders. Mentioning a competitor’s price often gets you an instant discount.

🎯 Money saved: £100+ a year

5. The ‘Loyalty Pays’ Strategy

Most supermarkets and retailers have free loyalty schemes. Signing up takes minutes but could save you £100+ a year through discounts, cashback, and exclusive deals.

Oh, and if you’re not using cashback sites like TopCashback or Quidco, you’re leaving money on the table!

🎯 Money saved: £100+ a year

What Will You Do With an Extra £1,000?

Here’s the best part—this money isn’t just “saved.” It’s freed up for something bigger.

💡 Pay off a bill?
💡 Take that holiday?
💡 Or… start investing in something that changes lives?

At Green Pastures, we’ve seen people use their savings to make a real difference—turning spare cash into housing for the homeless, all while earning a return. Imagine your money working not just for you, but for those who need it most. It's a win-win for everyone! Click here to find out more.

So, what’s your first step? Try just one of these habits today. A year from now, you’ll be glad you did.