Money Management Made Easy

When Life Gives You Lemons...

2012-01-01T17:17:00.000-08:00

Do you consider yourself crafty or creative? Do you find yourself making more gifts than you buy? If you answered yes to these questions, you're probably a pretty talented person. What better way to bring in an extra amount of income than creating these products and putting them online for sale? Online shopping is beginning to take the world by storm. With sites like Amazon, Overstock, and even Craigslist, buyers can do all there comparing and reviewing from the comfort of their own home. So, why sit around and have a wasted talent? Sites such as Etsy, Ebay, even Blogger, give you the necessary tools you need to sell your handmade, personalized gifts online.

You Survived the Holidays!

2011-12-27T20:47:00.000-08:00

Congratulations, you survived the holidays! As we all know Christmas can be the most stressful time of year. Trying to get those layaway items paid off, making sure you've gotten everyone on your list, and even preparing for that holiday feast. As expected, your wallet may feel a little lighter. However, have no fear! The after holiday season is a perfect opportunity to take advantage of sales on items you may need for next year. Stores such as Wal-Mart have sales where items such as clothes and electronics can go as low as 50% off. Most stores may still have an abundance of Christmas themed gifts and decorations. Stores must get rid of this stock in order to not only make room for more merchandise, but also to make a profit on off season items. In saying this, stores will have sales on these items for as low as 75% off! This gives you the perfect opportunity to stock up on decor and dishes for next year. Stores that most commonly have these sales are the ones that are most commonly overlooked! Check out stores like Big Lots, Kmart, and even your local Dollar General Markets for great after holiday savings.

How To Get Started...

2011-12-15T18:32:00.000-08:00

To begin managing your money, you should organize your expenses. This means creating a budget. Think about all the things you spend money on. Bills? Clothes? Nights out? Categorizing these expenditures will allow you to set spending limits. Doing this will elevate unwanted stress from your life.
Here is an example of how I used to budget my money while working in a local restaurant. I would spend most of my money on small bills, entertainment, cosmetics, etc. By putting away small increments of my money I was able to pay my bills on time without being completely broke all of the time. I've provided a blank copy of this template below. Simply right click and select "Save image as...". Open this template in a paint document to tailor it to your financial needs!

All Hope Is Not Lost!

2011-12-14T19:40:00.000-08:00

got money?

Are hard financial times getting you down? Fear no more! On this site you will be schooled in the world of financial literacy. Check out this "reality check" provided by jumpstart.org to get an idea of how much money you will need to be bringing in an hour to survive in "the real world". Fill out this survey based on the lifestyle you would like to have someday.

http://www.jumpstart.org/reality-check-page1.html