You may see this list and worry it’s yet another article scolding you for buying coffee every morning…that somehow by foregoing your morning $5 beverage is the answer to your saving issues.

Not me! I actually want you to buy your coffee! The reason many find it hard to save is because they cut things they love OR they cut drastically across the board. Saving money this way isn’t realistic. It’s like dieting; if you eat nothing but kale and quinoa for five days, you will be diving into a party sized bag of M&Ms headfirst by the end of the week (Yes, I am very familiar with the different sized M&M bags. Party is the biggest and best.).

Now, spending $5 every day on a Starbucks latte does add up to some serious cash: $1,800 a year to be exact. And yes, you can make your coffee at home. But those of us who buy a mocha latte during the week don’t do it just for the coffee. We do it for the social interactions and the feel and smell of a coffee shop. It’s the finale of a morning routine that tells us we have officially started our day. That to me is worth the $5.

Here are 10 simple and realistic ways to cut down on spending and save money, without setting yourself up for failure. Or making yourself miserable. Or becoming too decaffeinated.

1. Save on bills: Cut the cable cord and stream. Or tell your cable company you’re going to cut services and see how quickly they offer a promotion. While you’re at it…reevaluate your home wifi package. Consider using a mobile hotspot instead.
2. Save on repairs: Maintain your house, appliances and car. Getting the oil changed regularly is much cheaper than replacing your engine. Don’t always buy cheap. It may seem counterintuitive, but when it comes to appliances, electronics and items you will use for a while, don’t buy something that you will have to replace in a month. Also, be your own handy-man. You can save thousands if you paint your own walls, put together your own furniture and learn how to fix simple problems around the home. This is why YouTube videos exist.
3. Save on life insurance: Buy term life insurance instead of whole. I recommend term to all of my clients. Term is a fraction of the cost, and meets most insurance needs. I wrote a comparison of the two here.
4. Save on credit cards: Pay off your credit card each month. If you can’t pay all of them, at least pay down your high interest cards then call your credit card company and ask them to lower your rates. Tell them you are considering a balance transfer to a low interest rate card. Often companies will work with you because they want to keep your debt. If they don’t lower, consider transferring your balance to a card offering a low or 0% promotional offer .
5. Save on food: Plan out your groceries and meals for the week. Don’t browse the aisles for what looks good. It’s all good (meaning – stay out of the M&M aisle). Pack food, snacks and drinks for car and day trips. Fast food and convenience stores are expensive.
6. Save when shopping: Buy generic when it makes sense. Big brand companies spend loads of money on making their brands appeal specifically to you. Often the only difference between brand and generic is the name. Wait for one week before purchasing anything large to prevent impulse buys. Consignment shop where you can. There are high quality consignment stores everywhere, selling almost new clothing, furniture and decor. Finally, make a list for Target and stick to it. I went one time for laundry detergent and came back with luggage and an iPhone. True story.
7. Save on entertainment: At holidays and birthdays ask for zoo memberships, fandango gift cards or tickets to a concert. Check out your local websites and find the free events going on near you. Also, just get outside – nature is free. Looking for entertainment for the kids? Use the library. All the time! They provide free toys, books, workspace, playdates and entertainment.
8. Save on the “stuff” for your kids: Accept your friend’s kids hand me downs. Onesies and sweatpants don’t EVER need to be bought new. Only buy dry-clean kids clothes for special occasions. Visit second hand stores for those expensive big toys/gear that your kids are dying for now but will forget about in 2 weeks. Think Barbie Dream House, rocking horses, easels, etc.
9. Save on childcare: Swap days with your neighbor for babysitting each others kids. Find a mommy’s helper instead of a nanny. A mommy’s helper can be a neighborhood teenager who will entertain your child for a few hours while you’re home.
10. Save on clothing: Buy staple pieces of clothing that you can mix and match… Fashion is not my area of expertise, but according to Glamour this can include an elegant blazer, nice white tee, knee length skirt, black pants and good jeans. Then make sure you take care of your clothes. Hang up that sweater at the end of the day, it will last longer. (Do as I say not as I do). Finally, don’t buy dry clean only. I know this narrows down your options, but limit the dry cleaning to only a few necessary pieces – it’s an unnecessary expense.