Clinging to familiarity to stay in our comfort zone can cost us a lot of money. We don’t like change, but it’s important to audit your expenses from time to time to see if you can get a better deal on something or completely eliminate it.

 

We all know that human beings are creatures of habit. The above picture shows 5 shirts from my husband’s closet. And, I know somewhere out there he has another blue one that looks almost exactly the same. Looking in his closet, it’s clear to see that humans are creatures of habit. Once we find something that we are comfortable with, we stick as closely to it as possible.

 

This affects us in every area of our lives. Walking back to my house from the mailbox, in the first driveway I pass sit three different Nissans, two the same model. The next house has two royal blue Chevrolets (and most of their clothes and Christmas decorations are also the same color). Then, in our garage sit two VW Passats.

 

We Are All Naturally Lazy

Studies have shown that the human brain is inherently lazy. In order to conserve energy, it always seeks out what is most familiar and therefore easiest. Analysis and decisions require effort, so the brain prefers to just stick with what it’s used to.

 

This even affects our spending habits. When I was 16 I bought a car and needed insurance. So, I bought a State Farm policy because that is what my mom had. And I was with State Farm for 17 years.

 

I spent half of my life with an insurance company, not because of their products, price, service or quality, but because they were familiar to me and I was too lazy to see if there was anything better out there. They insured 6 cars and 2 houses for me. Finally, I contacted an insurance broker who found me the same coverage for a lot less per year. I wonder how much it cost me not to shop around years ago?

 

How To Audit Your Expenses

It is very easy for us to get into a rut with certain areas of our spending. When was the last time you did an audit of your expenses? You may not have many options when it comes to utility providers, but what about internet service, credit cards, cell service, TV, insurance, or the gym?

 

Go through your budget and for each expense ask yourself two questions:

 

• Do I really need this?

• Can I get a better deal?

 

 

Sometimes you can save significantly by changing providers or at least bundle services to get discounts. Do you really need cable, or would Netflix be sufficient?

 

Sometimes you may find that you don’t even use the service at all anymore. Did someone say gym membership?

 

What could you do with an extra $100 this year? How about $500? Taking a few minutes to glance through your budget and then an hour or two to shop around could make a difference of hundreds of dollars in your pocket this year. My laziness cost me. What is your laziness costing you?

 

What about you, have you ever found significant savings by getting out of a rut? What are other budget areas where savings might be found by shopping around? Have you used any websites or online tools to help you shop around?