THREE THINGS YOU CAN DO NOW TO SAVE MORE

1

BOOST YOUR EARNINGS. Anne worked multiple jobs when she was young to make sure she could contribute to her RRSP. If that’s not feasible, find other ways to bring in extra cash, such as casual weekend work, having a garage sale or renting out a spare bedroom, she recommends.

2

AUTOMATE IT. Set up a monthly bank transfer, even if it’s only $ 25. Increase your contribution every three months; eventually, you’ll get on track and be able to contribute 20 percent of your income, says Staff. And stick with it, says Anne: “Don’t take out that money because you want to get your hair or nails done. It’s a waste— leave your money to grow and take comfort in knowing you’ll have financial freedom.”

3

REDUCE YOUR SPENDING. Not sure where to trim? “Keep track of your spending for three months— there are usually a few surprises,” says Staff. And if you’re prone to making impulse purchases on your credit card, ditch it. “I had my problems with a credit card,” says Anne, “so I cut it up, and that was it.”