Student Writing

This English writing sample was produced by a student of Sprachschule Dr. Schrenk as part of structured language development practice.

Consumerism Giving Advice

I need to save money, but I can’t.

Help! I earn a pretty good salary but I always seem to spend it. At the end of the month, I constantly have the feeling that the money is simply gone. I am worried now about not having enough money when I need it in the future.

Once when I had a free minute and thought about how many small expenses added up: Coffee to

go, spontaneous online-purchases, delivery food etc.  In the end, it was a real „eye-opener“. How can I stop spending too much money? What can I do? Kind regards,Sarah

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Dear Sarah,

We would like to give a few -  hopefully  helpful – tips:

1. Create a spreadsheet or use the new App, FinanceGuru. Here you should jot down your monthly expenses. This simple step will give you an initial overview of your spending.

2. Compare the amount you spend to your available monthly income.

3. Consider Saving. Think about an area you could or would like to save money in. This doesn’t mean you should do without anything, but rather that you should make conscious choices when shopping. You may find that I this way you are able to retain money beyond the end of every month.

4. Avoid spontaneous purchases. If you see something you really want, take some time and consider whether you truly need it.

5. Pay in cash – whenever possible. This way you can immediately see how your money is being spent and keep better track of your spending. This often helps avoid unpleasant surprises when you receive your credit card statement at the end of the month.

6. Reduce your fixed costs. Check your subscriptions, contracts and insurance polices. Compare prices; there might be cheaper options. And by the way, you may find yourself thinking: Do I really use all the streaming services I have at the same time?

7. Change your buying habits. Ask yourself with every expense: Do I really need this? Will this really make me happy?

These suggestions may ultimately help you to be more conscious of how you manage your money.

You’re surly familiar with the saying:

„Where there‘s a will, there’s a way“.

GOOD LUCK!

Shop smart...save money

Submitted November 2024