October  2008, Issue 12

Show Me the Money!

Imagine you're on a tropical beach with the bright blue sea in front of you. You're swinging on an over-sized hammock, a drink in your hand, while the light breeze gently touches your sun-kissed skin. How does that sound? Like a far-off dream or your vacation plans this coming winter?

Let's all aim for the latter. During these times of economic distress, vacations may seem to be out of the question. But wait - don't close any doors just yet! A vacation a few months away may be feasible if you make a few small changes starting today. Here are some simple tips to minimize stress, and maximize cash flow - and the possibility of that tropical vacation.

This month, turn lemons into lemonade.

1. One is Enough. Getting into the habit of buying duplicates unnecessarily is a sure way to lose money fast. Before you buy another bottle of ketchup or another roll of paper towels, make sure that you don't already have either item in stock. Taking a little more time out to check whether or not you already have the items on your shopping list will undoubtedly save you money. Try it out for a week, and total how much money you saved simply by checking your pantry first.
   
   
2. Organize Your Coupons. How many times do you find coupons after their expiration dates? Consider those days in the past, and decide to gather and organize your coupons today. Utilizing the 13-Pocket Coupon File (featured below), you can easily store your coupons based on the month that they expire. Next time you're out shopping, pull out this compact companion and check if you have any coupons for the store you're visiting.
   
   
3. Translate Clutter into Cash. Finding it difficult to part with clothing you've had forever, but haven't worn in years? Or how about that gift your mom gave you that you have yet to unwrap? Would some extra dollars in your pocket motivate you to let go of these items? Post them on craigslist.com or ebay.com and start tallying the totals as the checks arrive in the mail.
   
   
4. Enjoy the Outdoors. Gym memberships may be an unnecessary expense in your budget; whatever happened to just going outside for a brisk walk or run? Enlist some walking buddies, and you're bound for daily bursts of fresh air, time to catch up with friends, and more money in your pocket.
   
   
5. Gift Creatively. Buying, packing and sending presents can make quite a dent in your wallet. Instead of browsing online or going shopping in your neighborhood stores, think outside the box. Offer to babysit for your friend's kids, or pack a birthday picnic lunch and head to the park. Your loved one will appreciate the personal thought you put into their gift, and you will be dollars closer to that vacation in St. Lucia.