Hello friends, and welcome back to another Frugal Living Friday here at ASW Homestead!
When money feels tight, it’s easy to get discouraged. Groceries cost more, gas prices rise, and unexpected expenses always seem to appear at the worst times. But the truth is, small changes can make a big difference—especially when you approach your budget with creativity, intention, and faith.
Over the years, our family has had to tighten our belt more than once. And while it isn’t always easy, those seasons have taught us that living frugally isn’t about scarcity—it’s about stewardship. It’s about finding joy and contentment in simple living and trusting that God will provide what we need, right when we need it.
If you’re facing a season where every dollar matters, here are a few practical ways to cut your living expenses right now—without losing your peace in the process.
Even with LED bulbs, energy waste adds up quickly. Turn off lights when leaving a room, unplug small appliances that draw “phantom power” (like chargers and coffee makers), and take advantage of natural daylight whenever possible.
Consider setting lamps and outdoor lighting on smart plugs or timers so they run only when needed. Wash laundry in cold water, air dry when you can, and run full loads in the dishwasher. These small shifts can save several dollars each week—and they’re easy habits to maintain long term.
Living simply often means being mindful of the little things, and energy use is a great place to start.
Many of us are paying for services we rarely use. Review your monthly subscriptions—streaming, apps, software, even magazines—and cancel or pause what’s not essential.
You can always rejoin later if you miss something. You might find that you don’t, and your evenings become calmer without the constant noise. Replace screen time with board games, reading, or creative hobbies. Frugality isn’t just about saving money—it’s about reclaiming time for what really matters.
Eating out adds up quickly, even for something as small as lunch. Packing lunch from home three days a week can easily save $100 or more each month.
To make it easier, pack your lunch the night before while cleaning up dinner. Repurpose leftovers into wraps, soups, or grain bowls. Keep simple sides on hand like fruit, nuts, or yogurt for grab-and-go convenience.
On the homestead, we call this “intentional eating”—using what you already have before it goes to waste. It’s kind to your budget and the planet.
Whether you’re on city water or a well, conservation helps both the environment and your wallet. On the homestead, it’s easy to overlook how often we use water—especially when tending the garden or filling animal dishes. I’ve lost count of how many times someone (sometimes me!) has left the hose running after watering plants or refilling the dogs’ buckets.
To avoid waste, make a habit of turning the spigot off the moment you’re done and coiling the hose neatly so it’s not left dripping. A simple shut-off nozzle or timer attachment can also help.
Inside the home, shorten showers, use a timer if needed, and fill the bathtub only halfway. Collect water while you wait for it to warm up and use it for plants or cleaning. Fix small leaks quickly—they can waste hundreds of gallons a year—and only run dishwashers or washing machines with full loads.
These small acts of awareness save both money and resources. They’re also a quiet way to practice stewardship—caring well for what God has given us, one drop at a time.
The grocery store is one of the best places to see immediate savings. Plan meals around weekly sales, and check store apps for digital coupons. Choose store brands whenever possible—they’re often the same quality at a fraction of the price.
Stock up on pantry staples when they’re on sale, and make simple meals that stretch ingredients—soups, casseroles, or sheet-pan dinners. Bake snacks or bread at home instead of buying pre-packaged ones.
A helpful rule: shop with a list, and don’t go hungry. Intentional shopping helps you stay focused, avoid impulse buys, and walk out knowing you’ve stewarded your budget well.
Heating and cooling make up a large share of household energy use. Lower your thermostat a few degrees in winter and raise it slightly in summer. Dress in layers, use cozy blankets, and let the sun naturally warm your home during the day.
Ceiling fans can help circulate air efficiently, and programmable thermostats can automatically adjust temperatures when you’re asleep or away. These simple habits teach us to live with the rhythm of the seasons instead of fighting them—another quiet lesson from homestead life.
Gas and travel costs add up quickly, but thoughtful planning can make a big difference. Carpool with coworkers, combine errands into one trip, and keep your tires properly inflated to improve mileage.
If you work from home, set a “no-drive” goal for a few days each week. Those days often become the most productive and peaceful. You’ll save money, reduce wear on your vehicle, and spend less time rushing.
And when possible, walk or bike to nearby places—it’s good for your health, your budget, and your soul.
Cutting expenses isn’t about deprivation—it’s about wisdom. Each mindful decision helps you build a life rooted in gratitude and freedom. When we choose stewardship over stress, we discover that contentment doesn’t come from having more—it comes from managing what we have with care.
The journey toward financial peace often begins with one small change—a light turned off, a meal cooked at home, a trip skipped. Over time, these small steps add up to stability, peace, and even generosity.
Remember, frugality isn’t a punishment—it’s a practice of faith, discipline, and trust in God’s daily provision.
If this post encouraged you, I’d love for you to:
Share it with a friend who could use a little financial encouragement this week.
Or simply pick one idea from this list to start with today—because even small changes can make a big difference over time.
“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much.” – Luke 16:10
Around here, we’re learning as we go—one season, one project, and one lesson at a time. I’m glad you’re along for the journey.
Frugal Living Friday: Giving Tuesday and the Heart of Generosity Home / Frugal Living Friday: Giving Tuesday and the Heart of Generosity Frugal Living Friday:
