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Money & Career

Want to increase your happiness? Save this amount each month

According to a recent survey, saving $79 each month can improve your mood and well-being
By Caroline Cakebread
pink piggy bank Getty Images

A new survey  reveals that saving even a small amount each month can improve a person’s mood and financial outlook. In the survey by UK-based National Savings and Insurance, the average amount respondents said they need to save to feel happier is £50 a month — which is about $79 Canadian or just $2.74 a day.

Could you save $2.74 a day? I know I could. That’s less than the cost of a latte or the amount you'd save if you turned your heat off for a few hours a day. And the payoff seems worth it — less worry and anxiety about finances, improved well-being and being in more control of your savings.

Here's a list of what some people are doing to save just a little bit more each month:

Cutting out meat from meals a few times a week

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Planning ahead before shopping and using discount cards or vouchers

Buying items that are on sale

Collecting loose change

Buying in bulk

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Putting aside a portion of earnings in a savings account every month

Finding ways to save money on transit, such as with carpooling

Growing their own vegetables and fruit

Giving homemade gifts and cards

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Do you agree with these findings? Do you think saving $80 a month can increase your happiness?

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