How to have the best day without spending a dollar
I was introduced to the concept of a zero dollar day a few years ago by a fun and frugal friend.
Over the years, I’ve adopted this desire to enjoy more of the free stuff life has to offer — because it’s actually everywhere when you seek it out.
In New York, it’s a simple walk in your hood or a stroll and seat on a bench in Central Park. When I lived in Sydney, it was listening to the waves at the beach and smelling the ocean. In the United Kingdom, it was a drive in the countryside.
But as winter rapidly approaches and outdoor options dwindle, there are still loads of ways to have a blast without blowing the Benjamins. Give ’em a try!
Set the mood with music
When you cook (or order in!), play a Spotify soundtrack to match the cuisine’s country of origin. Mexican, Indian, Japanese — the playlists are endless! It adds novelty and a restaurant vibe. Why not? Light a candle while you’re at it and really enjoy your food.
Dust off any designer goods
Remember those expensive bed sheets Aunt Jane gave you as a wedding gift? Throw ’em on! I bet you have at least one expensive item of clothing, beauty product, or piece of furniture wasting away in a hidden corner of your home. Douse it in daylight, because today is special! Why not wear your most expensive shirt or shoes on a regular Tuesday? Or drink out of those wine glasses you inherited. They’re yours; use them!
Maximize your memberships
You know what else you probably don’t always use? Your gym membership. Your ClassPass spots. Your library card. Your access to any local club or community you signed up for but forgot about.
Go! You might even make a new friend or two. Or try restorative yoga for the first time. Or be pleasantly surprised that the gym equipment’s come a long way since January.
Bliss out with a boost
I love to reread a praise file I keep on my computer for a confidence boost whenever I want to feel good. Compliments, great feedback from students and clients, kind online comments — it’s all in there.
Create your own! The same feel-good fun can come from looking at old photo albums. Dust them off! And let memory lane make you smile. You’ve come a long way, kid.
Use what you have
The other day I was perusing my desk drawer for stamps and found a $25 Amazon voucher I won a year ago. It had not yet expired; there were two days left! So I jumped online and bought two new fiction books to enjoy during the cooler evenings coming up. It felt like a mini jackpot!
What unused gift cards, Groupon ticket or store credit can you throw down now? It feels not only free but also wise (because it’s the opposite of wasteful).