Coupon pep-talk!

Since I've been using coupons for years, I am used to the negative side of them.  When I go to the store, I'm sure I am the cashiers nightmare with the amount of coupons I use.  Now I am proud of my savings and I do not care what they may think, but it can be almost intimidating using coupons.  Make sure you know the rules for the store you are shopping at because the cashiers can be wrong sometimes! 

Here are some ways to make coupons less stressful for newbies:

1. Organize, organize organize!  I always keep an ongoing list on our fridge and before I go shopping I check out sales, finalize my list and get my coupons out that I may need.  I put the coupons for that shopping trip in a separate envelope so I know exactly where they are.  If I'm getting something like trash bags and I don't know what I will end up buying, I get out all coupons for trash bags, so I don't fumble around in the store. 
2. You don't have to hit every great deal.  This tip is one I should really follow.  You should see our linen closet and pantry.  I am addicted to free toothpaste and cereal.  If you try to go out and get every great deal, you would drive yourself crazy!  Buy what you can use.  Also, just because you have a coupon doesn't make that the best price- if you are trying to use a coupon for salad dressing, but there is a better deal without the coupon, go for the better deal!
3. Dont feel bad about using coupons.  Before you get in line to check-out, make sure you have everything you may need out and ready to go.  As long as you are organized, there is NO reason to feel bad about using coupons.  I get all sorts of comments from people behind me and I try to not let it get to me, but I will admit its hard to not want to give up.  Especially with a grouchy cashier.  My opinion is, if people get annoyed with you they can go in a different lane! 
4. Stand up for yourself.  This goes back to the whole "grouchy cashier" category.  Some cashiers refuse to deal with coupons and they will do anything they can to say "nope, we cant take this".  In my experience, 8 times out of 10, they are wrong.  If you know your coupon is right, say something!  If the cashier is still salty, go right up to the customer service desk after your transaction.  Yes, this sounds time consuming, but its worth it.
5. Have fun!  Coupons are not for everyone.  Its hard for me to understand, but a lot of people hate using coupons.  If you cant have fun saving money and you think of coupons as a burden, stop using them.  I find saving money fun, so I brush aside the negatives of couponing.  Once you get the hang of it, couponing is really quick and easy...I promise!

If you have any beginner questions, as always I'm here for you! 
My new email is: beingcheapiseasy@gmail.com or you can message me through this blog. 

I love all comments!

Ashleigh