How to Stop Spending at Takeaways: Break the Habit

Stop spending at takeaways and save money. Break the habit of excessive spending and empower yourself to adopt healthier financial habits.

The Fast Food Age

Spending money at takeaways and fast food is so easy and convenient but can become a costly habit that takes a toll on both your wallet and overall financial health. The fast food lifestyle is so ingrained in today’s society, influencing not only eating habits but also societal norms and values. They provide convenience for a fast-paced lifestyle but its financial and health impacts are often overlooked.

Our family used to hit the fast food drive-thru at least three or four times a week. Sometimes even more if we were too busy or tired to cook. However, during one of our toughest financial seasons, we realized we had to break the habit of excessive spending on takeout and fast food.

What it Costs

Recognizing the financial impact of frequent takeout or fast food is essential for understanding the need for change. While regular takeout may seem harmless, those expenses can add up quickly and significantly affect your budget and overall financial well-being. Additionally, the unhealthy eating habits linked to fast food can lead to higher healthcare costs down the line.

Our regular fast food drive-thru stops for a quick breakfast during our morning commute were costing us at least $85 a week. Over time, those costs really add up. When you consider that over a year, that’s a whopping $4,420 for just one meal in a day.

Why Break the Habit

Recognizing the need for change is the first step in adopting healthier financial habits. Take a close look at how much you spend on takeout each week and think about the long-term effects on your finances. Additionally, consider the potential negative impacts on your health and well-being.

Breaking our fast food drive-thru habit was challenging, especially since we passed it every day on our morning commute. However, overcoming this unhealthy pattern of excessive spending on takeout has enabled us to make important changes to our spending habits and embrace a healthier lifestyle for our family.

How to Stop Spending at Takeaways

Curbing the habit of spending at takeaways isn’t just about saving money. It’s a step towards better financial well-being and healthier lifestyle choices.

Breaking the habit of spending at takeaways requires practical and sustainable strategies that can differ for each person or family. Consistency is key. Aim for gradual progress rather than an immediate change. Here are some strategies to help you resist the temptation of fast food and takeout, allowing you to save money and develop better financial habits.

Meal planning: Plan and prepare meals at home to reduce the temptation of ordering takeaways or picking up fast food. Plan meals in advance, stock up on groceries so there’s no excuse to order takeaways or fast food. Have a meal before you head out for the day and keep food and snacks handy so you’re less tempted to buy food when you’re away from home.
Organization: Being organized is key when breaking the habit. This may mean spending time in the weekend to organize groceries and prep meals. Investing in this beforehand will save time during a busy week and meals can be reheated or cooked immediately as the prep work is already completed.
Budget allocation: Allocate a specific budget for takeaways, dining out or fast food to prevent excessive spending in this area. The goal is moderation. By allocating a reasonable budget allows you to indulge occasionally without compromising your financial goals.
Healthy alternatives: Explore healthier and cost-effective homemade alternatives to your favorite fast food and takeaway dishes. Remind yourself of the financial and health benefits of cooking at home.
Socializing: Breaking the habit doesn’t need to impact your social life. Opt for social activities that don’t revolve solely around dining out. Suggest alternatives like picnics or home gatherings.
Set goals: Redirect the money saved from cutting back on fast food and takeaways towards saving for a specific goal like a holiday, investments or paying off debt.

Summary

Breaking the habit of relying on takeaways and fast food is a crucial step towards achieving financial wellness and healthier living. By acknowledging the financial implications and embracing the need for change, you can implement practical strategies that will benefit you in multiple ways. You’ll save money, enhance your well-being and foster better financial habits. It’s time to stop spending on takeaways and embark on your journey toward financial and lifestyle empowerment today.