I think when it comes to achieving goals and being a responsible citizen, one must be efficient.  Efficiently using money, resources, time, talent, and energy.  With that in mind I’d like to share what I’ve been doing more efficiently in my pursuit of financial independence.

Since I’m a college professor (not meant to be pretentious at all, trust me its not glamorous and it certainly doesn’t pay well), I have access to the resources of my school.  Part of our wellness program, which is voluntary, involves working out for 1/2hr a time, 3 times a week, for 8 weeks straight for a $20 gift card to Walmart.  Not a lot I know, but that’s $20 bucks that I can buy toilet paper, paper towels, or dog food with and free up extra money in my budget.  Also, when I work out in the morning I shower at our gym which saves on my electric bill because I don’t have to heat the water at my house.  I ride my bike to work which saves gas and is a workout in and of itself.  Additionally, our school puts on some nice plays and dance recitals.  Not only does it build some social capital for me to watch my students but it also creates a nice free event that my lady friend (Frgualbyassociation) and I can attend.  At work I’m also able to charge my phone and tablet for free (very small savings here, but it all adds up).

I’m now teaching at a community college where I enjoy all the benefits I’ve mentioned above but now I have additional access to our brilliant trade instructors.  I have access to a full auto shop where I can get my car aligned and repaired for free (I still do all my own work though) minus parts which we get at a discount, I can ask our electrician instructor for help trouble shooting a stubborn fixture at my house, and I’ve taken an auto upholstery class where I recovered seats for a restoration project I’m working on for just materials, also purchased at a discount.  In short I’m saving lots of money and learning new and valuable skills.  It’s awesome!!!

Frugalbyassociation works at a law firm and has been able to streamline a few things in her life as well.

So these are some of the efficiencies in my life that I’ve exploited at work.  What does your job afford you?