Wasting Money.

We don’t think much about the things that we waste money on on a daily basis . . . but we should. There are so many places in our daily routine where money can be wasted without us knowing it. It’s ridiculous enough to make a list. So here are 10 things we waste money on in America today.

1. Credit card interest

The only thing stupider than buying something you can’t afford is buying something you can’t afford at (insert huge interest rate here). You don’t get anything for the extra money you fork over.

2. Deal websites

Hey, remember that time we bought a laser hair-removal deal for 78% off from that startup place all the way across town and used it for the full amount and within the specified time limit? Neither do I.

3. Appetizers

Restaurants already have lunch and dinner portions so big you need a box to bring home the leftovers. Why pay an extra six bucks to get something that will take up more room in your stomach before the main meal is even brought out?

4. ATM fees

When you use a bank that is not ours, it charges us. Then your bank charges you again. Don’t think that it’s just two bucks here or $3 there. It adds up, and don’t even get us started on the overdraft fees that could result from bounced checks. Speaking of which . . .

5. Overdraft fees

For these, there’s just no excuse. If you add correctly and spend less than you make, you’ll never pay a dime of overdraft fees. Fees result from sloppiness, pure and simple.

6. Speedy shipping

Seriously? Do you think that book or those clothes you ordered online are so important that you can’t bear to wait four to 14 days for a package to arrive? With priority shipping, the only thing that moves faster than the package toward you is your money away from you.

7. Designer baby clothes

Also known as “glorified stain gatherers.” Why do we spend $20 on a “Feed me or no one sleeps” T-shirt that is three ticks away from being covered with breakfast? On top of that, they’ll wear it two or three times before either outgrowing it or the season changing.

8. Unused gym memberships

How is it that so many people join a health club around the New Year's Day resolving to lose weight and there are so many empty treadmills come January 15? Unlike the commitment, the monthly dues don’t stop.Besides, you can run around the block for free.

9. Premium cable packages

Not only do we not watch 90% of the channels that are on, but with so many “reality” shows and specialized stations, TV as a concept is about as rich as a person who lives paycheck to paycheck.

10. Daily coffee trips

Back before coffee shops started popping up on every street corner, people brewed it themselves. We as a culture seem to have gotten away from that. And you don’t need the caffeine to get your heart thumping—just take a look at how much money you dish out for that sugary brew over a month or two.

Think !

PR