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One of the best ways to have more money is to spend less of it! Saving money can seem like a challenging task but there are many easy ways to cut back on what you are spending. I have compiled a list of ways to save money that are simple and easy:

1. Come up with a budget if you haven't already and stick to it.

2. Turn off the lights! Use daylight to light your home by day. At night, make sure you turn off the lights as you leave a room.

3. Wash your clothes in cold water. It works the same, really.

4. First, keep track of how much you normally spend on food. Then, try eating at home for an entire month. Use any leftovers for lunches the next day. You will be amazed by how much you save!

5. If you have a bike, ride it! Whether it is to work, the grocery store, or the neighbors house, you can save a lot (especially with today's gas prices). If you have small children, you might consider a light weight bicycle trailer to tow them along.

6. It might seem like it's not worth the hassle, but shopping for bargains can save you money big-time. Clip coupons or check grocery store ads for the best bargain.

7. Change all of your regular light bulbs to compact fluorescent light bulbs. These bulbs can save you 50+ dollars a year on your energy bill. That may not seem like much, but it adds up and combined with other money-saving measures it can make a significant difference.

8. If you really want to see a movie, wait for it to come to a dollar theater or rent it on dvd.

9. When something breaks, try fixing it yourself. The internet is a wonderful, free information resource.

10. Try making home decor and gifts by hand. Most projects are simpler than they seem if you just give them a shot. Again, the internet is a great resource.

11. Try buying some clothing items from a thrift store rather than shopping at the mall. You might be surprised by the name-brand clothes you can find in great condition.

12. Only start the dishwasher or washing machine when they are full.

13. Try hanging clothes out to dry sometimes. Not only is it gentler on your clothes, it saves you loads on your gas or electric bill.

14. The library is a wonderful resource for books, dvd's, cd's and more.

15. Buy food and other essential items in bulk. Also, when you see a great deal, buy more than one. You can save almost anything in the freezer.

16. Sometimes, spending more can make you more in the long run. Buying quality items that are built to last can save you over the years. Instead of buying 2 of the cheapest potato peeler (because you know it's going to break) buy one that will last.

17. Before you buy something, ask yourself if you really need that item. Avoid compulsive spending by making a list and sticking to it.

18. When you are hot, try opening a window before cranking up the air conditioning. When it's cold, try a warm sweater and socks.

19. Take lunch to work. If you are eating at home regularly, there should be plenty of leftovers for a lunch to take to work.

20. Buy used cars. The value of a brand new car drops the moment you drive it off the lot! You can save yourself thousands and still get a nice, quality car by buying used. Applying this same idea, consider buying other items used as well. Frequent pawn shops, yard sales, and thrift stores.

21. Drink water. It seems like such a great deal to get a hamburger in a meal with fries and drink included at a discounted price. But it's actually just a way to get you to contribute more of your dollars to the local fast food dive. Order a water and save yourself some pounds by foregoing the fries, too!

22. eBay or local online classified ads are a great way to recycle things like old Halloween costumes that only get used once.

23. Take care of the things you have. Learn how to properly maintain your computer, car, etc. Make sure your kids value the things they have and don't leave them outside in the backyard to get rained on and faded by the sun. If we looked at our possessions as money, we certainly wouldn't leave them out in the rain!

24. Pay more than the minimum on credit cards and mortgage payments. Interest is a killer!

25. For birthday and other parties, make your own cards or send an invitation by email. Make decorations or try to find discount decorations at your local dollar store. Think of creative party favors that are hand made. A great gift for your child might be a savings account of their own where you can put all the lose change they discover.