How to earn more and spend less…

We’re still busy wallowing in the middle of a massive financial crisis, no matter what the politicians say – I KNOW that I have no money, and that it is virtually impossible to find a decent job. The crisis isn’t over till you and I are earning a living. I would like to improve your chances of survival in the mean time by offering you some money saving and money making ideas. If nothing else it will help while away the hours of unemployment…

The first thing do do, is reduce expenses to the bare minimum. Easier said than done – we all like to eat a little now and then, and personally, I truly believe a roof over ones head to be necessary to my survival.

If your money disappears faster that a Chanel frock in Oxfam, it might be worth noting down every penny that leaves your pocket for a week or so. Hauling out the notebook, searching for a pen etc. each and every time you make a purchase will really put you off buying even the most essential items that you should see a significant drop in the expenses column form the very start.

If the act of noting down your outgoings is not enough in its self, you will have to take more drastic steps. Start by making a careful study of your notes. Count up the total for the week, and compare it to your weekly income (if you don’t have a weekly income at present, I strongly recommend you suspend all spending activities until the situation has been satisfactorily rectified). In the event that your weekly spending exceeds your weekly income, you must set your self to work immediately.

Remeber - you have two options – one is to decrease your spending, the other is to increase your income. I recommend you do both.

Have a good look at your spending book, and see if you can spot any obvious expenses, such as a holiday in Hawaii, a new car, or perhaps something as simple as an electric toothbrush. If money is tight, get used to being tight yourself – stay at home and watch telly – it´s free! Drive a banger, or if circumstances permit, get a bike, or walk – that way you get you exercise for free, as with brushing your teeth manually. Check out those biceps!