Money can't buy happiness. Maybe that's true.

While we wouldn't say no to complete existential fulfilment... from time-to-time we all need some cash to blow off a little steam 🥵

If you're trying to stick to a tight budget then you'll probably already know that regulating these impulses can be a real challenge, because humans are wired to prioritise short-term gratification over long-term satisfaction.

Here at Plum, we're all about promoting healthy financial habits for when your human nature needs a helping hand 🤝  

So... the next time that impulsive urge to splurge strikes, we want you to be armed with ideas for extracurricular activities that won't break the bank 🏦

Get Some Exercise 🚴‍♀️

Ok, it's a sensible one to start!

We often talk about financial fitness, but we thought we'd begin by looking after your physical health. And you definitely don't need to join a fancy gym to do it!

You can do a quick HIIT session in the park, blow the cobwebs away with a blast on your bike, or (if that sounds too energetic) just go for a gentle stroll 🏃‍♀️

Explore the Area 👀

For many people, a few pounds in their pocket means one thing... time to go travelling 🧳 There are many potential benefits to expanding our horizons, but holidays are often the first thing that's cut if we start to feel the pinch.

So why not remind yourself of cool stuff that's right on your doorstep! You might even find some unexpected inspiration for the next big trip.

Get Social 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

However tight your social circle, there will be times when differing disposable income levels within the group can causes tension.

Chances are, if you're reading this you may have already experienced times when you wished your pals would be a little more considerate when planning paid activities 🤑 Thankfully there are plenty of FREE local activities that may also allow you to meet new, like-minded people.

Check your area for meet-up groups with similar interests.

Pick Up a New Craft 👩‍🎨

You may be reading this thinking, "I don't do hobbies".

Perhaps your passion for trainspotting would have emerged already, if it was going to do so 🚂 It's never too late to learn a new skill though!

Creativity is free, and crafting materials cheap. So, if you haven't picked a crayon since school... perhaps you've forgotten what you're missing out on...

Soak Up Some Culture 🏛

Many museums only ask for a voluntary donation on entry. Obviously it's nice to support them by making a contribution... but your karma can probably take the hit just this once, if you're really short of funds 😌

As well as museums, you may be able to find theatre matinees, open mic nights, or student performances that you can check out completely free.

Do Some Good 👍

We may be on a budget, but we can still give something back.

So whether your karma needs a boost due to all the museums you've taken advantage of (see above), or you just feel like being a good citizen, the volunteering opportunities out there are almost endless.

Reconnect With Nature 🍃

If you're feeling restless, then getting outdoors for some fresh air is a great way to rectify that. There are million things you could do now you're out of the house... but how about taking a break from 'doing' at all?!

If you're feeling open-minded, you could try the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing. The principle is that you can regain perspective by simply basking in the calm surroundings ‍🧘‍♂️

Be the Host With the Most 🥇

If you don't have the budget for nights out on the town, fancy restaurants, or the cinema, then take matters into your own hands! Host a game/movie night, or potluck dinner party (everyone brings a surprise dish) for your friends 😋

Free Your Inner Worm 📚

Does the book-worm (if you wondered where we were going with that) inside you crave new recommendations? Do you wish you had someone to rave about the latest page-turner with? Then start a book club 🤓

Stick the Boot in 🥾

Whether this one counts as 'fun' may be subjective...

What this suggestion lacks in excitement is more than made up for, because it'll actually help you earn more money.

Collect up your unwanted junk and throw it in the trunk ️🚘 It's time to engage in that great British tradition... the car-boot sale.

Fine-Tune Your Finances 🔧

It was a lack of funds that started your quest for cheap entertainment, so it seems only fitting that our final suggestion be something to help with that!

For many of us, this one may sound the opposite to fun. But that's the funny thing about finances... once you take the plunge and get started, the blinkers lift, and the process can become strangely addictive. Perhaps even fun! 🎉

If you're looking for some help with your finances and would like to learn more about how Plum can help, then you can check out our website.

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