keep a tight rein on self and cut down on expense
Chinese idiom, Pinyin is j ǐ NSH ē NJI é yॸng, which means to cultivate one's character and practice, save one's use. From the book of filial piety, chapter of common people.
The origin of Idioms
"The book of filial piety, the chapter of common people:" be cautious and use it to support your parents. "
Idiom usage
If a villain has few desires, he can be careful and frugal, which is far from the fault of a rich family. "Training thrifty to show health" by Sima Guang in Song Dynasty
keep a tight rein on self and cut down on expense
the declining age is like a candle in the wind - fēng zhú zhī nián
get half the results with double the effort - lì bèi gōng bàn