Economic Hardship (continued)

In my last post, I gave some ideas on how to help your finances in difficult times. In reviewing, know where your money is going and some suggestions on how to save when going out to eat.

Once you know where your spending money, it's time to work on decreasing the spending. Try setting a budget. I know many of us attempt this, but things always come up....someone's birthday, someone needs a new pair of shoes, etc. Try planning ahead and find things on sale. Maybe decrease your maximum amount that you normally spend on, for example, birthday gifts. Look in places you maybe haven't thought of and get creative. It's amazing what kind of things you may be able to find at a dollar store. A child's birthday, you could easily put a basket of creative play together-some coloring books, crayons, etc can be purchased very cheap at a dollar store. You could also change your budget for gifts. If you normally spend $20 on a gift, try reducing it to $15. Cards are incredibly expensive these days. Try having your kids make a card for a special occassion. It'll mean more as they put thought and time in to it. Try making gifts. If you're lucky enough to be a great photographer, you can do alot with ordering pictures and framing them for some great art to hang in someone's house. A nice fram can be purchased for under $3 at Walmart. It's not how much money you spend on a gift that makes it nice, but the thought you put into it.

It's these little things that can add quickly add up debt and put little money back in your pocket. Plan ahead, be creative, and look for deals.