Social spending
None of this is expert advice. It's what people worked out for themselves, usually the hard way — what actually helped, and what they'd tell someone standing where you are. Take what fits and leave the rest.
If you only read a few
Locate top local happy hours to spend less on an evening out.
4 people, independently
Cook meals together with friends at home rather than eating out.
It helps with frugality and is described as fun.
one person who lived it
Replace expensive restaurant dates with home hangouts featuring snacks and TV shows.
It avoids the cost of items like $12 margaritas.
one person who lived it
Fully experience simple pleasures like tea, songs, sunsets, or hot showers to find peace and joy.
There is a real encounter between you and the object that makes peace, happiness, and joy possible.
one person who lived it
Cook large batches of dishes like chili or stew to share with friends for meals over several days.
2 people, independently
Accept that peer judgment about staying home diminishes as you age and friends drift away.
one person who lived it
Set a maximum spend limit for gift exchanges like Secret Santa.
One family found this approach worked out great.
one person who lived it
Watch movies at home instead of theaters.
Theaters are expensive and watching at home is more comfortable with shorter wait times.
one person who lived it
Pack finger foods like cut fruits, veggies, hummus, and small sandwiches so kids can graze while distracted.
Kids are always distracted when picnicking.
one person who lived it
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Invite friends over for potluck dinners, appetizers, game nights, wine and cheese tastings, or themed parties.
It is much nicer than expensive outings, especially in places with tiny apartments.
2 people, independently
Play low-stakes games like penny poker, euchre, or cribbage for cheap entertainment.
It is cheap and entertaining.
one person who lived it
Socialize outdoors in parks or on trails when the weather permits.
These environments cost nothing and allow you to enjoy good company.
one person who lived it
Agree with your family to skip exchanging gifts and focus on spending time together.
One family found this great, especially when balancing other commitments.
one person who lived it
Meet friends at coffee shops but order only water or a cheap item.
Unlike restaurants, there isn't a social imperative to order something.
one person who lived it
Ask guests to bring their own alcohol when hosting dinner parties or game nights at home.
3 people, independently
Reframe 'going out' as engaging in a hobby, sport, or exercise rather than just consuming at bars.
one person who lived it
Host autumn-themed parties involving activities like pumpkin carving or painting.
Pumpkin carving or painting is described as a great group activity.
one person who lived it
Suggest a picnic at a park or farm instead of an expensive restaurant for casual get-togethers.
one person who lived it
Write positive online reviews for local businesses you patronize.
They would appreciate it.
one person who lived it
Treat frugality as a tool for finding balance rather than an identity that requires sacrificing enjoyment or connection.
one person who lived it