Member Questions

By the way, did you look into payment plans with the IRS? If you won't have the cash by 4/15, they will work with you.

1) Ask yourself, what's the worst that could happen? Chances are, you'd survive it, whatever it is.

2) Do your best to change your lifestyle to consume as little as you possibly can. Mother Teresa was my inspiration. A lot of things we think we need really are extras. And a simpler life can be more enjoyable if your mindset allows it.

3) Keep track of absolutely every penny you spend. After 1 month of watching the spending, put together a budget that cuts out everything you don't absolutely need. Extend the budget out until you can see "light at the end of the tunnel" and then some. (I used to extend mine out until I had enough money to live without a job.) As often as possible (but no less than monthly), check how closely you are adhering to your budget, figure out ways to do better, and see if there are any budgeted amounts that you can cut even more. Chances are, with a comprehensive focus on penny-pinching, you'll find new ways to save every month.

4) Be very careful to avoid fines and fees. Never drive fast enough to get a speeding ticket (actually you'll save a lot of gas if you stick to 55-60MPH on the freeway). Never pay a bill late. Never risk an overdraft. Those unexpected but avoidable penalties can really throw a wrench in your budgeting goals. If you do screw up and end up paying a fee, cut your lunches until you make up the difference. Don't dwell on past troubles, but learn from them.

5) Revisit your W-4 to make sure you are not having more tax withheld than necessary. Why should the government hold your money at zero interest, when you have a better use for it?

6) Don't buy anything to put in your mouth that doesn't enhance your health. Pack your (healthy) lunches if you don't already do so.

7) Take good care of your teeth, sleep enough, and exercise regularly. You don't need a gym membership to get moving. Diligent housework is one of the best types of exercise. Playing physically with your kids (or someone else's kids) is another great choice.

8) Aside from your budgeting sessions, take one day at a time, as suggested above.

9) Don't watch TV. It's depressing.

10) Perhaps most important, GIVE. The more you give, the more room you have to receive bounty. Trust me, this works. When you can't give much money, donate services and/or tangible goods. But don't wait until you have a bunch of savings to start giving money.

Hi, I have lived every day of every year for the last three budgeted to the last cent. The only thing I can say is learn to stop wanting. Thats it simple really but oh so much will power involved to get you through the addiction stage. Everybody these days is addicted to wanting and then financing themselves into bankruptcy to get what they want. I have finally learnt that just because I want it doesn't mean I need it.
And honestly, go read or watch or listen to (best to do all three for optimum saturation) The Secret.
If I really want something and if its something that I really need then when I make sure I ask properly it just simply turns up.
Like a dishwasher, which just happened to be a pay it forward gift from someone else.
Really, please, just do it. And every time someone smiles at you, smile back.
I feel your pain and I live with it, take it as a life lesson and run with it. Sometimes the learning curves are steeper than others but they are never bigger than what you can handle.

One day at a time...I know it's so cliche, but as long as you stick together, try to make responsible decisions, and find the good in each day, you'll surely make it through. My husband and I have felt like we've gone through very tough times in the last 2.5 years. I'll spare you the details, b/c the list goes on and on. My friends at work ask me how I can stay so positive, how come I'm not through the roof or more impatient with people or 'on edge,' but I've really toughened up and learned to put it in perspective...I see my silly challenges (the dumb life happenings that I'd just assume avoid--med insurance debacles, home selling problems, broken refrigeraters, no bed to sleep in, barely able to afford our monthly bills) as just part of the ride.

The economy and our housing situation hasn't helped in the least. I've had some really bad moments/hours/days...I feel like I'm drowning and I just can't get up for air. I sit in the bathroom and talk to myself and cry sometimes and feel the weight of the world on my shoulders. Actually, this is how I felt when the stress and changes in our lives started years ago, but now, I just do live 1 day at a time. I know what our family goals are (financial, fun, etc), and I keep those in mind when I'm making important decisions each day. My husband has grown into my greatest support and I look to my children for carefree joy. I'm sorry I can't offer anymore profound advice...but if you can find a moment to breathe out and simplify your life....focus on the good and hang in there, you will see...time will change things.