articles/frugal-habits-uncomfortable-everyone-else
Bracing Yourself: The Uncomfortable, Frugal Habits Everybody Else Can't Stand
Unveiling the Frugal Lifestyle: A Guide for the Uninitiated
11 Actions thrifty individuals undertake that subtly leave others feeling a bit uneasy:
In these trying times, it's no surprise that as many as half of Americans lack a savings account or an emergency fund, according to a U.S. News survey conducted by PureSpectrum. This financial squeeze has led to a resurgence of frugal living practices across age groups. Whether it's clipping coupons or making small sacrifices, these budget-friendly habits can make a significant difference when wages stagnate, job security is uncertain, and expenses continue to rise.
But just because they're necessary and useful doesn't mean they're always comfortable or well-received by everyone. In fact, there are several things frugal people do that can make others feeeel... well, slightly uncomfortable. Here's a rundown of the top 11 habits that might make you question whether your frugal friend has a hidden stash after all.
1. Coupon Crusaders
Have you ever found yourself waiting in line behind someone rummaging through piles of coupons, only to witness the cashier's growing frustration as they try to apply each one? That's the reality of being behind a frugal shopper. A study from Coupon Follow reveals that over 40% of purchases involve some type of online coupon, allowing shoppers to save money both in-store and online. The average person can save more than $1K a year on necessities like groceries and household items by using coupons, so it's a small inconvenience that brings significant savings.
Check out our related article: 7 Cost-Effective Hobbies That'll Help You Save, Not Spend
2. Calculating Tip Tit-for-Tat
It's common for frugal individuals to calculate the exact amount they'll tip before leaving a restaurant or café. While this might make them feel more in control of their spending, it can sometimes leave others feeling awkward, as if they're being scrutinized for their own tipping habits. However, it's important to remember that being intentional with tips ensures both the frugal individual and service workers are treated fairly.
Check out our related article: Woman Shares a List of People She Will Refuse to Tip in 20XX and People Are Divided
3. Equal Strife
Splitting the bill equally, regardless of what each person ordered, is a standard practice in many restaurants and social events. But when someone chooses a cheaper item and ends up paying more than they expected, it can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction. Frugal individuals often prefer to divide costs based on what each person ordered, which can sometimes be more equitable.
Check out our related article: 11 Things Frugal People Refuse to Spend Money On No Matter What
4. Regifting: Not Just for the Holidays
Regifting is a common practice among frugal individuals as it helps to reduce waste and save money. While reusing old gift bags and tissue paper can be a thoughtful way to save some cash, re-gifting the actual gifts can sometimes make recipients feel uncomfortable. Make sure to remove any old cards, names, and tags before regifting to minimize offenses.
Check out our related article: 11 Signs the Universe is About to Shower You with Financial Abundance
5. Bartering: Not Just for Flea Markets
Bartering has its time and place, but it can be awkward when done in situations where it's less socially acceptable, like corporate settings or retail stores with set prices. While there are still ways to save money, such as online couponing and price matching, haggling with service workers can be uncomfortable for others.
Check out our related article: 11 Common Habits That Keep People Broke No Matter How Much They Make
6. Sneaky Eats
We've all been there: filling bags with snacks before heading to the movies to avoid the astronomical prices. But sneaking food into events like concerts or restaurants can make others feel uncomfortable, as it can put people at risk for trouble and confrontations.
Check out our related article: 10 Old-Fashioned Etiquette Rules We Shouldn't Have Abandoned
7. Scavenging for 'Free' Stuff
Taking items from public spaces, like hotel soaps or salt packets, is a common frugal behavior that can make others uneasy. Not only does it take resources away from those who may need them in the present moment, but it can also disrupt the flow of social events and public interactions.
Check out our related article: 11 Things That Instantly Give Highly Intelligent People Secondhand Embarrassment
8. Borderline Money Police
Over-tracking every penny spent with friends using money apps like Venmo and Zelle can add a layer of money anxiety to social interactions. While it's important to be mindful of your spending, it's essential to find a balance that respects your relationships and doesn't make others feel judged or uncomfortable.
Check out our related article: 10 Toxic Money Personalities That Ruin Good Relationships
9. Chilly Encounters
Turning off the thermostat to save money, even when guests are present, is another behavior that can make others feel uncomfortable. While adjusting your thermostat can help save money, it might not be worth the discomfort and chaos of hosting a freezing, or overly-warm, gathering.
Check out our related article: 11 Things Frugal People Do That Seem Weird Until You're the One Paying the Bills
10. Expired Eats
Serving expired food to guests or reusing food that may no longer be safe to eat can be a relationship-ruiner, encouraging people to avoid coming to your house or judging you for prioritizing money over food safety and health.
Check out our related article: 6 Glaring Signs Money Is the Root Cause of Your Relationship Problems
A Final Word
Being frugal is a skill, and like any skill, it takes time and practice to master. While there are certain behaviors that may make others uncomfortable, it's essential to find a balance that respects your financial goals and your relationships. Remember, it's best to err on the side of graciousness and consideration to ensure that your frugal practices don't cause unintended discomfort for those around you.
References
- R. Taylor, “Why People Are Obsessed with Couponing: Couponing is on the Rise and Here’s Why,” Forbes, 1 Nov. 2021, https://www.forbes.com/sites/rachelscottorango/2021/11/01/why-people-are-obsessed-with-couponing-couponing-is-on-the-rise-and-heres-why/
- R. Smith, “10 Financial Mistakes Frugal People Make,” NerdWallet, 2 Feb. 2021, https://www.nerdwallet.com/blog/investing/10-financial-mistakes-frugal-people-make/
- Conversations about personal-finance and budgeting, once deemed taboo, are now commonplace in psychology literature, as many people are seeking ways to improve their financial wellness.
- In a study on wellness trends, nutritionist Ava Russell found that finance and budgeting are two areas where individuals are eager to make changes, along with pursuing hobbies that are cost-effective and learning to manage their love lives.
- The zodiac signs can provide interesting insights into an individual's approach to money management. For instance, Taurus, governed by Venus, the planet of love and beauty, may be prone to extravagant spending, while Capricorn, ruled by Saturn, the planet of structure and finance, is usually the saver in the group.
- Stories of personal transformation often revolve around overcoming financial challenges and learning to save money through budgeting and wise financial decisions. These narratives can inspire others to take control of their own financial futures.
- In a world where financial instability is frequent, understanding the importance of saving and budgeting can have a profound impact on one's life and relationships. Learning about these skills can be as empowering as discovering new ways to express love and connection in a romantic context.
