It’s easy to dismiss the art of list making as something trivial, as something for people with poor memory. But the professionals (like you) think differently.

Making a list before bum-rushing the grocery store can help prevent you from splurging on trivial things. It keeps you focused, as it reminds you what your priorites are. Place the items that are most vital to your household at the top of the list and the nonessential items closer to the bottom (like lint).

Here is an example:

Note: to save paper, create a list using your smartphone.

My Shopping List

Note: placing the value in parentheses besides the product helps you stay within your budget.

Toilet Paper (buying this in bulk will definitely help you save)
Toothpaste and mouthwash (3- 6 dollars)
Laundry detergent (10 dollars)
Fruit (10 – 15 dollars worth)*
Veggies (10- 15 dollars worth)*
Pasta Shells (4 dollars)
Potato Chips (1- 3 dollars)

The items listed alongside an asterisk (*) are not only inexpensive, but are also good for your diet. Plus, a healthy diet means, in the long run, lower medical bills and more positive energy in your body. If you want to take this a step further, you can start visiting farmers markets. The deals are great, the produce is fresh and is untainted by harmful factory- related chemicals. And if you want to take it even further, toss some seeds into that patch of dirt in your backyard. Growing your own veggies will save you a tedious trip to the grocer (which means you’ll save on traveling expenses).

And while you’re waiting for the tomatoes to sprout in your garden, you could fill out some surveys through MyShopDiscounts for some extra bucks. There are no membership fees. Just an endless batch of benefits to give you chances to make money online (while working from home).

You could put that at the top of your list.