use a lid when boiling water

Considering the proportion of our electric/gas bill that's used up by cooking, this isn't going to amount to much, but putting a lid on a pot while boiling water makes a huge difference in the amount of energy needed to cook. Boiling water with the lid off would be like running the a/c with a window wide open - not very efficient. On my stove, I can sustain a boil on a setting of 1 with the lid on, but lid off I need to set it to 4.5.

Other advantages:

• Water boils faster
• Kitchen stays cooler
  

it begins - identify the things that matter

I've spent a good chunk of effort throughout the years trying to optimize my life. Given the state of economy and how we're often misguided by bad advice from advertising, marketing, and dated social norms, I've decided to share a few tips on how to get by as a cheap bastard and save money so that you can have it for the things that matter.

The things that matter
We all want to live fruitful, rewarding lives. We should save money on the things that matter less so we can enjoy the things we value the most. For me, I value experiences, which means I'll funnel my cash into activities like going out with friends and travel. What do you value the most?