This is from an earlier PM I sent to Streetcat. I'm too lazy to write it out again.
(ETA: These are ways my expenses went down post FIRE. DH still works, so healthcare is still fully paid by his employer. When he retires, his pension will include a health insurance benefit, but it will be far below current coverage, so that will be a big increase. Boo-hoo.)
More time to comparison shop.
More time to make food from scratch.
More time for exercise, possibly leading to lower healthcare costs.
More time to clear out clutter from your life. I swear, better organization leads to more efficient use of stuff, which ultimately costs less.
More time to anticipate future expenses, giving you time to find most cost-effective ways of obtaining what's needed. i.e. gifts, seasonal items, tools, supplies.
More time to scour Freecycle, Craigslist, garage sales for the few things you will need.
More time to get places, so you can choose slower modes of transportation. Walk, bike, bus, etc.
More time to scour your town for free activities.
More time for volunteer activities.
-I see free plays in exchange for ushering at our regional theater.
-I never pay more than $1.00 for a book because I volunteer at my library's book sales. At the end of the day, a whole bag is $5.00. When we take town the sale, anything leftover is free.
- I used to volunteer at golf tournaments. We were thanked with a free round of golf.
- If you volunteer to work elections, specifically in your own precinct, you get paid a stipend, and you also get to meet more of your neighbors.
You have time to learn how to repair things. YouTube is your new best DIY friend. Watch as many as you want, you'll never run out.
Same for TED talks.
You can make new frugal friends by joining your local Buy Nothing Group.
More time to surf Frugal Living and ER blogs for constant inspiration.