In today’s troubled economy, we’re all looking for ways to squeeze a few extra dollars out of our monthly budgets. This practice can seem like an exercise in futility sometimes, but let me tell you about a saving strategy that’s consistently worked for me. The life-changing secret to saving money is to constantly ask yourself, WWHPD: What Would Homeless People Do?

1. Never be afraid to ask people for money.

Just don’t do it while sitting on the street accompanied by a dangerous-looking dog. It’s all in the presentation. In implementing WWHPD, you are not trying to transform into a homeless person, but rather adopt the thrifty mindset of one. Homeless people make the strategic error of looking like maggot- ridden street dwellers; avoid making that same mistake, and others will be more inclined to give you money. While waiting in line at Starbucks, for example, search frantically through your bag and look around helplessly. Turn to the people around you and ask, “Could you spare a few dollars?” You’re much more likely to succeed than the toothless, malnourished man asking for their change outside the door. People would much rather give money to someone who doesn’t seem like they need it, so it helps to put on a British accent.

2. Take advantage of public spaces.

There are hundreds of them across every town and city that anyone has the right to visit!* During these cold winter months, turn off the heat in your house and see how long you can park yourself in a café before the waiters become annoyed. Challenge: How long can you sit there without actually ordering anything? My personal best is 15 hours—three before ordering my small lemonade.

*I must stress how important it is to look good. If you are attractive, people will be more willing to tolerate your presence than the presence of someone whose skin is covered in layers of various grimy substances.

3. Coffee.

Next time you’re in a new neighborhood and want a cup of joe, keep your eyes peeled for a homeless man. They will always go for the cheapest coffee in the area. I have fond memories of trailing homeless men with my daughter until they led us to a 25-cent coffee cart. This is one of my favorite tricks! (Note: You should always keep at least ten paces away from the homeless man, lest he receive his coffee, search his pockets frantically, and then ask if you have a quarter. You can’t afford that.)

—E. Hitchcock