I’m starting a new series on this blog, and I’m calling it Frugal Friday. Every Friday I will post one tip that you can use. I chose Friday because it’s near the weekend, so you can use the tip as a weekend project

The next time you go for a meal at your local coffee shop, mamak stall or restaurant, don’t order drinks.

Those of you who have never tried it may have several concerns in mind, and I will address them later in this article.

The Benefits

There are several ways you benefit (we frugal beagles like to say, profit) when you don’t order drinks:

1. You save money. Even if you just order a glass of Chinese tea (costs 50 sen), you would be able to pay for an extra meal after one week. You save even more at restaurants where drinks can cost up to RM10.
2. Health benefits. Drinks are usually served with lots of sugar and the water quality is questionable.
3. You learn to eat properly, not gobble everything down.

I know that this idea would seem to be radical for some of you. Let me now move on to how you can do this.

How Can I Make This Work?

1. Go prepared. I myself have ordered drinks that I didn’t need to just because I was caught by surprise by the waiter, or because I just ordered out of habit.
2. Be polite. Usually I will smile at the waiter and say “no, thanks”.
3. Take advantage of free soup. Stalls selling economy rice or chicken rice usually offer a free bowl of soup. The soup may not be healthy, but you don’t have to pay anything for it if you really need to drink something to get your food down.
4. Eat slowly. Chew your food properly before swallowing. You don’t want to end up choking.
5. Order food that comes with soup, such as noodles. If you’re eating rice, put a bit more sauce it’s moist.
6. Bring your own water. Carry a small water flask with you wherever you go.
7. Avoid spicy food.

Concerns

In this section I will try to address some questions or concerns you may have. If you have further questions, please post them in the comments below.

Won’t I choke?

Not if you eat slowly. You will be surprised how quickly you can get used to eating without ordering a drink.

My friends will ask a lot of questions.

Just refer them to this article! I just tell them that I will drink later, and they will usually accept that. In fact, my colleagues don’t order drinks too!

I will be thirsty.

You can drink later. It doesn’t mean that you need to order a drink at the coffee shop. For example, I won’t order a drink at lunch. Instead I drink later when I return to my office.

I need my caffeine.

Make your own at home or in your office pantry. Instant coffee or tea can be purchased for a fraction of the price they charge you at the coffee shop or mamak.

It doesn’t feel natural.

Just try it. You will get used to it very quickly. Think of the money you’re saving!

I’m so thirsty now!

If you really feel thirsty, then please get a drink. No point suffering from dehydration. Plan better next time so you won’t feel thirsty when you’re at the coffee shop. For example, drink some water before going out or carry some water with you (or in your car).

Conclusion

Why don’t you give it a try this weekend? If you’re not sure, maybe you could start by sharing a drink with someone.

I’d like to hear you share your experience in the comments!

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