January is a difficult month for most of us. Our budgets are tight. We’re trying to eat more healthfully. The weather can be less than cooperative. Having fun might seem close to impossible. However, even when things seem ho-hum, you can still have fun. Here’s how to entertain without money at all.
Go on a Gift Card or Change Hunt
During the current Financial Decluttering Challenge, I’ve been so surprised at how many people have reported finding gift cards. Even I discovered $13 on a rebate card I didn’t realize I had. Begin by looking around your house for possible gift cards you have forgotten about. Check your car, your wallet, your purse, and your desk drawer. Also consider digging up all the change you have. Use these unexpected funds to pay for a night out or in with friends.
Cash in Rewards Points
If you use any sort of Rewards program, see if you can cash out your points. You may be able to snag a gift card or a free experience or meal. Scroll through and see if you can use these to supplement your entertainment budget.
Classic Movie Marathon
Either head to the library or look on your favorite streaming subscription for movies to watch. Consider watching an epic series OR check off as many as you can from the American Film Institute’s 100 Greatest Movies of all time. Quit watching random episodes. Invest your entertainment time and resources working on a goal.
Game On
Pull out your favorite games and host a game night. Whether you play cards, take on a strategy board game, or power up your gaming console, host a game night. More than likely, you have hundreds of dollars of entertainment sitting on the shelves collecting dust.
Nailed It!
Why not bring reality TV to life in your house. If your friends and family love the fan favorite show Nailed It!, host a similar competition at your house. Find a photo of a fancy baking project and then challenge two teams to recreate it using only items you already have in your pantry and fridge. Even if it’s not pretty, in the end you’ll have a delicious treat.
Head Outdoors
Make the best of the winter weather! Head outside and enjoy the chill. Go sledding. Make a snowman. Many parks departments offer special winter hikes and experiences, too. Even if it’s just a quick walk to enjoy nature, you’ll spend time well without spending money.
Look for Free Events
The library, the community center, museums, and community organizations all offer free nights and activities. Get busy doing online research to find the most fun for the least money. OR seek out opportunities to volunteer
Scaling back your lifestyle in January doesn’t mean you won’t have any fun. It might take a little bit of creativity but you have options.
Our new book Your Money, Your Marriage is now available! Be sure to check out videos on managing money together on Facebook.
My book is now available: Slaying the Debt Dragon: How One Family Conquered Their Money Monster and Found an Inspired Happily Ever After. You can also check out The Debt Free Devotional
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