Unfortunately the holidays have become so commercially driven that when the commercials start airing in October (I know, I too have a hard time with this super early airing), we are lead to believe that we "better get our shopping started".
So the real question is...how to keep up with life and all the expenses that come along with living in today's world?
There are several answers and here are some of what I have personally witnessed people do:
Option #1 - Cut back on expenses by being frugal. If your income only allows you to spend "X" then don't go overboard. Really, the question in the end is "Who are you trying to impress anyway?"
Option #2 - Get another source of income. Now I don't suggest doing anything illegal or immoral, but there are options to make extra $$. Most people prefer to work a regular 9 to 5 job, however if this is not cutting it in the income department, then look for a part-time job you can do...say from home perhaps?
Option #3 - Get rid of the expensive items around your home that are killing you in maintenance.
Old furnace - replace it with a high-efficiency one (check with your local utility company for any incentives they may have for energy efficient options).
Vehicles - if your car is old and costly in repairs or a gas guzzler, think about replacing it with a less expensive fuel-efficient option.
Toys - Not the kid type, but the adult vehicles (parked in the driveway for 10 + months/year) that only cost a fortune to insure and run for the short little blasts of use they get. Sell them and free up space and $$. Consider that it may be cheaper overall to just rent when you would like a "fun" weekend on the lake or ocean.
The main thing is to look around your home and be honest with yourself. Why do you need/want this stuff taking over your life?
As a friend of mine once said to me "there are no luggage racks on a hearse"! Ain't that the truth.
Until the next blog...happy holidays!
Liz
No comments:
Post a Comment