I'm sure that you are just like me when it comes to managing money. When I go to the store for two things, I end up leaving with four bags of items. What can I say? I love to shop. I would make an amazing personal shopper for someone. But the one thing we struggle with is management, discipline and when to say 'no' to something that is screaming "BUY ME."

Whenever I shop at a store, I make sure that I am registered in their rewards programs, because then I can generate points to earn other goodies like money off a next purchase or any freebie items. That's always fun at stores like Ulta because then you get some travel-size cosmetics as freebies. Also, it's smart to go get the free tiny perfume samples before you give the cashier half your liver for the big bottles. The key thing to do is shop the sales. Yes, you may not find those suede booties in your size, but you'll find other pretty baubles.

So you really love going to the mall and shopping til you drop? Well, my friend, then you should start shopping during sales. The best times to shop for great deals and save cash for the real world, bills and such is to shop after Christmas, Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Winter is also great for scoring great deals that are easy on the wallet.

You could even save 5 cents when you're shopping! How, might you ask? By taking your own bags to the stores and using them instead of buying paper bags. I know it may sound silly, but saving 5 cents every day can save you a lot in the long run. But also, think of how many trees you could also be saving, too!

As a way to save money that isn't for shopping, try making a budget excel document. You can input your money used for groceries, rent, utilities, and other necessities and then see how much you can use for free money.

COUPONS HELP SAVE MONEY! They either take off a dollar or so, or you can get a second product for free. I know some of you roll your eyes at your moms when they're sitting at the table cutting coupons out. For instance, you can sign up for them to be sent to your phone which is a.) easy access, and b.) friendly for the environment.

Another habit I found that was helpful was the knowledge of knowing where your money went. For example, you have a tiny notebook, and every time you spent money, you wrote it down. Then, at the end of the month, you calculate and see where most money went and how to cut down.

In the end, we can save money for the real-life things and also shop for the things we love if we just coupon, budget and sign up for rewards programs.