Chances are you are overworked and underpaid. This is typical of someone starting off in the workforce, and don’t worry, things will get better. But don’t just think long run: think now! There are many small things that you can do to make yourself better off financially right away, and they don’t require large life changes at all. Among other tips found on this website, you can start with the first part of your everyday routine: coffee.

It seems like on every other block there is a Starbucks, a Peet’s Coffee, a Dunkin Donuts, or some local flavor of gourmet coffee shop. Most people make it a habit of starting their days off in these places, picking up a tasty, yet overpriced Latte or some other hot drink. It usually costs around two dollars and some change, and unless you are in the Bank of America Spare Change program (see article), that change will probably go to waste. Why spend 3 dollars when you could easily make that drink at home, or at the office? All offices provide free coffee, but if you can’t stand to make your morning commute without caffeine, you can buy a very affordable coffee maker at your local department store. Stop at your favorite coffee shop on the way home, and pick up a pound or two if you really insist on their flavors, but you can find cheaper coffee in other places.

If you make this simple change, the three dollars you would spend every day amounts to 750 dollars of savings annually! Think of that number as a percentage of your pay, its incredible! Now you can put this money in your pocket to use it for something more worthwhile, while you can still get coffee every morning.