How I went from Miss Spendthrift to Miss Thrifty

So I started a blog... The main reason for doing this is that I was in debt and living way beyond my means before six months ago (I'm still in debt now obviously, but the positive thing is I'm paying it off MUCH quicker now and can see the light at the end of the tunnel), and I want to help other people in the same situation. Or even people who just want to spend a bit less to save for a holiday, a house deposit, or even a designer handbag if they're that way inclined! 

The truth of the matter is, I never would have started this journey to frugality if I hadn't been in debt; we all have a little bit of snobbishness/laziness in us that can prevent us from making wise, frugal choices; but I'm so glad I did because I've never looked back (apart from a small relapse a couple of weeks ago but nobody's perfect)! Even if I got a really high paid job (unlikely!) I would never go back to shopping at Sainsbury's again now that I've discovered the joys of Asda, Lidl and various £1 shops; for any of you who recoil at the idea of shopping at these places, I'll be doing plenty of reviews of great bargains I've found that might help win you over (there will also be reviews of some not so great 'bargains' that are best avoided)!

I'm lucky because I pass various cheap and cheerful shops and supermarkets on my lunch and way home from work so I can shop around for things without much hassle, but I understand that most people don't have the time (or inclination) to shop around like I do and that's why I want to pass on my knowledge. The main thing I want to show people is that you don't have to spend a lot to have a nice life. If anything my new thrifty shopping habits have enabled me to have more treats. I can now afford/justify the occasional meal out, plus I'm going on holiday this year (another bargain) for the first time in years and I don't even have to feel guilty about it because I have saved, and am continuing to save, so much on a weekly basis. I hope you will all enjoy my first posts over the coming days :-)