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One of the biggest lessons from the coronavirus pandemic was the need to have an emergency fund handy. As many people lost their jobs, they likely came to the realization they couldn’t pay their bills. And while they could borrow from friends and family, some probably used credit to pay those bills, putting them in deep debt that they’ll regret in the future.

How can you start an emergency fund? The obvious answer is to save some extra money each month and put it in there. That can be easier said than done, though, if you’re spending way more money than you make.

It may take a bit of discipline, but you’ll be surprised at how simple it is to minimize your monthly expenses. We urge you to look at all of your regular expenses to see how you can cut them, but to give you a head start, here are some of the more obvious culprits that should be reduced:

1. Subscriptions

According to a 2019 study by Mint, people spent $640 throughout the year on digital subscriptions. This includes services like music streaming, Netflix, dating apps, and cloud storage. While some services are used daily to the point that they could be seen as necessities, here’s the sad truth: We don’t even use many of the subscriptions we pay for.

Take a look at your recurring subscriptions. If you’re not using them or can live without them, eliminate them now and search for free alternatives like the radio, YouTube, etc.

2. The Gym

Investing in your health can save you money down the line, as medical costs can be anything but cheap. But if you joined a gym that you never step foot in, it’s time to end that membership and keep adding to your savings.

3. Cable

One form of entertainment that’s taking a huge hit as of late is cable. Many people no longer need it, as there are too many unwatched channels and better alternatives.

Call up your cable company and tell them you want to cancel. You’ll probably get an instant rebate offer to retain you as a customer. If not, cut the cable and join a cheaper streaming service, or go 100 percent free by installing an HD antenna that gives you local channels at no cost.

4. Car Insurance

Switch to a new company. Bundle different types of insurance. Raise your deductible. Drive less. Downgrade to a smaller car. Cut unnecessary coverage. All of those are tips to lower your car insurance costs, and they work wonders.

5. Food

Challenge yourself to eat at home for one month. This includes no eating out at restaurants or hitting the drive-thru, and even eliminating prepared foods from your grocery store’s deli.

After the month is over, you’ll probably realize that you didn’t miss those overpriced foods and that you saved a ton of money while slimming down significantly.

6. Cell Phone

Whatever you’re paying for your cell phone, assume it’s too much. Call up your provider, tell them you want cheaper service, or go to Wirefly.com and find it yourself.