As you may have noticed, I haven't published anything for a little while. I moved out of home almost a month ago and have zero internet; I'm currently at the library.
** Since originally writing this I have set up internet and am sitting in the comfort of my apartment.

So, I am here today to give you ideas and tips on how to save money realistically. Yes, realistically; the advice I will give you will still provide you with a flexible and enjoyable lifestyle.
I believe I'm a fairly good saver, but also a good spender (meaning I spend money wisely). I don't deprive myself from everything I want or live off bread and rice, so please read on...
*I am no financial adviser and just want to give you tips on what helps me.

1. INCOME
You need a job. We live in a time where money is important, so don't ask "How can I have things without working?" Don't be lazy. Having a job is beneficial in more than the 'having money' way. You sort of 'grow up'; you gain and earn respect, you learn different things and you meet new people and help yourself get out of your comfort zone. If you don't have much work experience, don't be fussy where you apply. You have to start somewhere and if it's at a fast food place, so be it.

2. BUDGET
Go get a cool looking note book and make it your budget/expenses book. I am serious when I say 'cool looking', you are more likely to stay motivated when you have nice stationary.
You will need to record your income and how often that comes in (weekly, fortnightly, monthly, etc), and your expenses within that time frame. It may be daunting at first to see your expenses all in one place, but you'll get used to it. If you have money leftover, try to include a savings deposit at least once a fortnight.

3. GROCERY SHOPPING
Don't throw away that 'junk mail'! When you receive supermarket catalogues once a week, pull them out and go through them. Get the 'Coles', 'Woolworths', 'ALDI' and 'IGA' brochures and find what's on special and what you need. When you write down your shopping list, note whether the item is on sale and where. If there is one of your staple items on special that has a decent shelf life, buy more of it; you were going to buy it anyway, you may as well get it cheaper.
Lastly, join up the free clubs (flybuys, everyday rewards, etc) every now and then you'll get select items cheaper or can save points up to use towards your next shop.

4. SCHOOL/WORK MEALS
Obviously it is convenient to buy your meals and you might tend to 'get over' your home made lunches and dinners. This might be because you think you don't have time to make anything or you're making the same meals and are beginning to find it unappealing. 1. Make your meals the night before; 2. Make something else. Here I have an opportunity for another blog post - Healthy & Easy school/work meals (stay tuned!) Have different lunches everyday and perhaps make something interesting about them so you aren't tempted to buy something from the cafeteria. In the morning we can all be a bit rushed, it's incredibly convenient to make your meals the night before so you can just grab and go in the morning; you do have time the night before.

5. BUYING THINGS YOU WANT
When following step number two (budget), perhaps consider a reasonable amount (depending on how high or low your income is) of spending money for the week. Either save up or it can be your 'treat' money for the week, keeping in mind that you only have that money for your little extras. If you don't have much money left over after your bills, etc. try your best to not buy those excess things and find new ways to keep yourself busy without spending money.

6. BEING SOCIAL
You can still be social and not spend any money at all. Yes, you may have to decline certain social outings from time to time, but you don't have to be a hermit. If you want to see a small amount of friends, invite them over and tell them to bring drinks and snacks; watch a movie, play video games or just have a nice catch up session. If you want to see more friends do a dinner night at someone's house where everyone brings a plate, if you are going to a bar where it's free to get it, eat before you go and perhaps only have one drink while you're are there and just drink water for the remainder of the time you are there.
When you do have a little bit more money to spend, sign up to emails from companies like 'Living Social' and 'Groupon' (Australia) and find a dinner deal voucher to use.
*If you would like me to give you more specific ideas on activities you can do, comment below and I'll do a post on it.