What are some uncommon ways to work smarter instead of harder? originally appeared on Quora - the knowledge sharing network where compelling questions are answered by people with unique insights.
Answer by Skyler Irvine, Entrepreneur/Investor, on Quora:
- Take the first parking spot you see. Period.
- When vacationing with kids, order supplies like formula and diapers from Amazon and have it delivered to your hotel, so it's waiting for you when you get there.
- Buy a new car with a warranty: the poorest people end up spending the most money on cars when they purchase the cheapest one they can find that constantly needs repairs. $500 here, $1000 there. Sometimes trying to save money costs you too much.
- Starbucks mobile app when you are two minutes away. Or even waiting in a long line. As soon as the order comes through it's added to the queue, and skips the line you are standing in.
- Services like Trunk Club that do your clothes shopping for you, sends you a trunk, try on what you like and return what you don't like by returning the trunk. UPS delivers it and picks it up from your house. Not a necessity but much better than going to the mall. If you do have to go to the mall, take the first parking spot you see.
- Automate savings and investing. Whether it's a paycheck or other income source. Set up automatic transfers or withdrawal into another account for Future You. Set it and forget it (but maybe review it once a year and reallocate where necessary).
- Don't worry about trying to make a quick return on investments, instead focus on DCA or Dollar Cost Averaging. Be the tortoise, not the hare.
- Never stop learning. Turn your car into a university on wheels. No more talk radio, instead, replace it with audio books. Or better yet download AUDIBLE and subscribe to get discounts and two free books (Audible).
- If you don't drive then do this on your work commute. When you walk the dogs, or you work out, be more efficient with your time. Never waste time.
- If you aren't handy, hire a handyman. Whatever you do in life to make your money you are better at than trying to fix the toilet or repair an outlet. Spend your hours doing your thing so you can afford to pay others to do theirs.
- Wake up early. Exercise. Meditate. Eat well. Take care of your body. Be nice to others. Stay humble. Work hard even if you think you're smart. Everyone I know who does these things are happier.
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