6 easy ways to be more money efficient post the Christmas spend

January is a hard month, getting back into the swing of things; school, uni, work - not sleeping in until midday, everyday... But not just that, a lot of us spend a substantial amount of money before Christmas, whether it be on presents or even just going out celebrating the season. So January brings a long month and a long wait for payday. Being as today is 'Blue Monday' (google it) I thought I'd send out a more positive post, here are my top tips for being money efficient this January.

1) Make your own lunch to take with you to work - don't buy your lunch, even if it is the meal deal from the local shop that is only £3, it all adds up! Use the food that you have already bought at home, there are various different meals you can easily and cheaply prepare the night before you head out to work - from ham sandwiches (standard) to pasta dishes or rice dishes.

2) Have friends over or go to friends houses instead of going out. Cook for each other and take it in turns rather than spending money eating out. One cook the meal, the other bring the wine. Everyone's a winner.

3) Have a clean out/declutter. Whilst finding space for the presents you've had this Christmas, have a look what you actually still use, what you actually need, and get rid of the 'crap' that just sits in your room. Have a big clear out and head down to a car boot sale, or sell it on eBay - easy money.

4) Write down everything you buy/spend money on - at the end of the week review the list and you'll be surprised how much money you could of saved. Did you really need two of those caramel hot chocolates with an extra shot of caramel and extra cream in one day? (yes)

5) Take a big bottle of water with you out the house - promise yourself to drink it all, this will help you avoid buying tea/coffee/other drinks throughout the day, it's cheaper and healthy - win, win.

6) Look for discount codes online before buying anything/going anywhere. Most the time you can find 2 for 1 offers on google for days out, and many shops have discount codes which certain journalists and bloggers promote. There are also normally offers online for restaurants and bars too - always check.