Money can solve many problems. Plain and simple, the more capital you have available, the more resources you can draw on and the more help you can get when you encounter difficult issues. The bad news is that many people can’t afford to throw money at a problem until it goes away. Rather, in order to maintain their budget and avoid debt, they have to find innovative solutions to address common challenges that they face on a daily basis. With that in mind, here are five innovative, cost-effective ways that regular people can use to get out of a jam:
Call on an Expert
Believe it or not, sometimes the most expedient and cheapest way to solve a problem is to consult an expert. For example, it’s preferable to speak with a doctor about foot pain than to try and address the issue yourself with expensive and ineffective over-the-counter products. In reality, only medical professionals can provide, say, bunion relief or plantar fasciitis through surgical procedures. Though it may not always make sense to go straight to an expert if you’re struggling with a problem, you shouldn’t rule out the possibility either. (Especially when it comes to your health.)
DIY
If you have the time, the skills, and the drive, you can save a lot of money going the DIY route. Of course, some projects are more conducive to handling on your own than others. As mentioned above, it’s important to realize if you’re overwhelmed and need to ask for help. Still, learning how to handle basic issues like changing a tire or fixing a leaky faucet could save you hundreds of dollars.
New Alternatives
Say, for example, your car breaks down. You don’t have enough money saved up yet to buy a new one, and it could be several weeks before it gets fixed. What do you do? The best and cheapest way for dealing with such a problem is to look for alternatives. In this scenario, taking the bus or the subway can provide a viable alternative to driving a car. Apply this logic and you’ll find plenty of ways to manage your finances more efficiently.
Rent
Why buy when you can rent? Books, movies, CDs, and other media are often available for very cheap rentals. Your local library can prove to be a lifesaver if you’re ever short on cash.
Ask a Friend
Though it’s not wise to develop a habit of asking friends for loans, it is okay to request the odd favor. Remember, a really good friend will almost always be there to lend a hand when you’re in trouble. Just make sure you go out of your way to do the same for them! What goes around, comes around.
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Buy almost everything used at yard, estate and garage sales. When you’re bored with things or find out you don’t need them, have your own sale and put them back in circulation. Look at people’s trash piles on garbage day and you can harvest interesting and useful or salable stuff. Ask your friends if they have things they don’t want. Offer to sell their unwanted things on shares using Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. People have too much stuff and often enjoy passing it on IF YOU PUT THE IDEA IN THEIR HEADS.