Wise Bread (Tisha Tolar)

15 Bad Networking Habits That Will Kill Your Job Prospects

Tisha Tolar — Fri, 21 Feb 2014 10:48:36 +0000

For those facing the competitive arena of the job market you likely know that networking with other people in your peer group and beyond could be the ideal way to get your foot in the next door with a job opening. Networking has helped many land great jobs. (See also: 15 Simple Networking Tricks)

However helpful networking can be to your job-finding success, it can also kill any prospects you have on a potential job, especially if you are doing it wrong. Here are 15 job prospect-killing moves you may be guilty of in your search for a new job.

1. Networking With Your Current Boss's Allies

Many people make the mistake of not researching with whom they are speaking. If you talk down your current boss to an acquaintance of his or hers, you likely not only kill any chance of getting a new job, you may be putting your current job at risk.

2. Projecting Poor Body Language

When meeting a potential job contact in person, it is important that you maintain a professional presence no matter the location in which you are meeting. Make sure to make eye contact, offer a firm handshake, and watch your non-verbal actions. If you have a tendency to smirk or roll your eyes, your contact may dismiss you before even finding out about your experience. (See also: 16 Ways to Improve Your Body Language)

3. Using Terrible Grammar

If you are meeting a networking contact via email, you better make sure your writing skills are up to snuff. Use complete sentences, and don't speak in Internet slang better reserved for texting your friends. Keep profane words out of the conversation and double-check for typos prior to hitting send. If meeting in person, enunciate your words and speak concisely and clearly without slang words.

4. Being a Wallflower

If you are in an environment that is all about networking and making connections but choose to cling to the edge of the room instead of mingling, you likely are ruining a possible good first impression. It may be better to skip these events altogether than give off a bad vibe.

5. Having Poor Manners

Whether online or off, manners are still required. A simple "please" and a "thank you" will get you far. Never interrupt conversations already in progress just to get in a handshake. Lack of manners or basic courtesies are a turn off to many people looking to recruit new talent. Those who consider you to be rude are likely not going to refer you to their own contacts. (See also: Etiquette Rules You Should Follow)

6. Missing Contact Info

If you are providing others with your business card or other contact information, make sure the details are correct. Someone may be more than interested in giving you a shot at a job but will easily become frustrated when they can't get in touch with you because your phone number has been disconnected or your email account is no longer active.

7. Delaying a Response

If you tend to procrastinate on new interview requests or other job inquiries, you may be showing your true colors to a potential employer. If you have successfully networked with other contacts who in turn contact you for a job, make sure to follow up on emails or phone calls. If you fail to get back in touch within 24 hours, you may be perceived as unreliable.

8. Network Spamming

If you have been lucky enough to get the contact information of people with an "in," use it wisely. Make the initial contact and wait for a reply. If no reply comes within a week's time do one follow up contact. Avoid becoming a harassing presence in the other person's life with repeated phone calls, emails, or contacts on social media.

9. Missing Appointments

If you have the opportunity to meet with a networking connection, be sure to show up and show up on time. If someone takes the time to hear you out about job opportunities, have the decency to be respectful of their time. Otherwise you will be viewed as irresponsible and not reliable. (See also: How to Always Be on Time)

10. Telling Lies

While it can be difficult to toot one's own horn to another person in a position of power, some people find it all too easy to hype up their experience by just plain lying. Be truthful about your skills and experience even if you aren't speaking to a hiring authority. No one will want to recommend a known liar to their employer or other acquaintance. (See also: How to Tell If Someone Is Lying)

11. Making Inappropriate Confessions

In the process of making small talk with a networking connection, make sure you are aware of what you are saying and how it can impact your job prospects. For instance, if you freely admit to having a house full of stolen office supplies, your connection may find a reason to step away from you quickly.

12. Complaining

While communicating with your potential networking contact, always keep things positive. If you are perceived as a negative person because you constantly complain and rarely seem satisfied with anything, you may be the last person an employer wants in the office. Save your rants for your close friends that are totally unrelated to your job.

13. Burning Your Bridges

If you have had a successful interaction with a networking connection only to discover things didn't work out in your favor, don't burn the bridges you have established out of spite. While this particular job may not be a win for you, the networking contact may be instrumental in the near-future. Don't bad-mouth your allies or be rude because things didn't work in your favor.

14. Offering Too Much Information

There are people that have a bad habit of talking entirely too much for their own good when nervous. When networking with a potential employer practice a few breathing exercises and watch what you say. Telling your potential boss too much information about your personal life can put you at a serious disadvantage.

15. Not Cooling Your Emotions

If you have been without a job for some time or just plain dislike the job you currently have, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed and generally emotional about a new job prospect. If you lose control of your emotions during your networking contact, you may be seen as unstable. Don't cry, yell, or in any other way have a meltdown in front of someone who may be interested in hiring you.

Anything I've missed? What networking mistakes have you made or have you seen others make?

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This article is from Tisha Tolar of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

13 Things Successful People Do Every Morning

Tisha Tolar — Fri, 07 Feb 2014 11:24:12 +0000

While there are many factors that influence a person's success, those who have discussed their preferred habits or have documented their own tricks of the trade seem to have several common denominators when it comes to reaching their goals. Many of these commonalities involve the morning routine. (See also: Habits of the Financially Successful)

Here are 13 things that successful people do every morning.

1. Do Prep Work at Night

To create a peaceful morning routine, start preparing for the next day the night before. Select your outfit, pack your lunch, and arrange everything that needs to go with you in the morning near the door. This gives you time to incorporate more productive elements into your morning rather a chaotic morning day after day. Every night, make a to-do list for the next day so you can focus only on what matters.

2. Rise and Shine Earlier

By resetting your internal alarm clock to awaken earlier than your usual time, you can accomplish many things on your to-do list even before you head to work. This allows you to feel a sense of accomplishment early on, and there can be less stress when facing the rest of the day. (See also: 5 Things to Start the Day Off Right)

3. Make Me Time

By rising earlier, you can give yourself some needed "me time" before the rest of the family wakes up. This time of quiet allows you to focus on what needs to be done to achieve your daily goals. It also allows you an opportunity to get in touch with your inner self, so you'll know what you want in life. If mornings are not conducive to quiet time, allot at least 30 minutes in the day for uninterrupted quiet time.

4. Get Into a Positive Mindset

The old adage "mind over matter" is true. If you start each morning by thinking positive thoughts and visualizing your successes for the day, you'll be more likely to bring those things to fruition. Wake up thinking about a new day and not lamenting yesterday's mistakes.

5. Get Your Blood Pumping

Exercise is a vital part of overall good health and mental well-being. By rising early and fitting in 20-30 minutes of exercise before starting your day, you can get your blood pumping, your brain functioning, and your focus refined for the day's activities.

6. Eat Breakfast

A healthy breakfast provides the body with the nutrients and energy necessary to stay alert and on top of your game throughout the day. Not eating a good breakfast can cause you to experience a draggy feeling that leaves you feeling drained and too tired to actually get things done. Plan an overall healthy menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner to help sustain your concentration and energy throughout the day. (See also: 10 Healthy Breakfasts for People on the Go)

7. Tidy Up Your Space

Before you leave your house each morning, make your bed, put dirty laundry where it belongs, and load the dishwasher. When you come home to a more organized living space, it will give you more time to focus on things that matter to your personal success than stressing over all the little things that needs to be done.

8. Make Time Your New BFF

Forget hoping for more hours in the day. Instead, calculate how you spend your time using your to-do list as a tracking tool. This will help you gauge what can be accomplished during your hours awake and help you prioritize what needs to be done within your day. It can also help to set a specific period of time to get tasks done to keep yourself from wasting time. (See also: Simple Hacks to Make Your To-Do List More Effective)

9. Get Some Sunshine

If the majority of the tasks you accomplish are inside your office or your home, make a point of taking some time to go outside into the fresh air and sun. Sunshine has health benefits so find ways to get out and enjoy it during your daily exercise routine or your introspective "me" time.

10. Forget How to Procrastinate

The tendency to procrastinate is pretty common, but you can overcome it and be more efficient every day. When you are utilizing a to-do list, you may be less likely to put certain tasks off. Become proactive about taking care of business when it comes up no matter how unmotivated you feel. By tackling the things you don't really feel like doing, you'll have a much bigger sense of accomplishment and confidence before you even leave for the office.

11. Take a Step Outside of Your Comfort Zone

Many of the most successful people have risen to the top because they took risks. Make a commitment to doing at least one thing outside of your comfort zone every day — no matter how big or small the step is. You'll build your confidence and likely discover more opportunities than you may have otherwise. Think about what steps you'd like to take during your commute to work. (See also: Break These Habits to Be More Confident)

12. Read More

Successful people stay on top of things. Read the newspaper, read magazines, read autobiographies, or read fiction — whatever you can use to keep growing your mind and your perspective. Read for at least 30 minutes a day. Get a jump start by reading the paper while walking on the treadmill or while eating breakfast.

13. Be Grateful

As you have smoothed out your morning routine, you have more time to think about what you are grateful to already have in your life. This goes along with adopting a more positive mindset first thing in the morning. Strengthen your gratitude by writing down on thing you are grateful for each morning when you wake up. Use this list as a reference when you are feeling burnt out, frustrated, or ready to give up.

What does your morning routine look like? Is it helping or is it holding you back?

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This article is from Tisha Tolar of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

13 Things You Must Inspect Before Signing a Rental Agreement

Tisha Tolar — Mon, 03 Feb 2014 10:36:09 +0000

Before a renter ever signs a lease, he should be proactive about practical matters. While there may be a lot of excitement in looking at a new house or apartment and all it has to offer, it is also important to take the time to check out every aspect of your potential new home. (See also: When You Should and Shouldn't Rent)

When you are looking at a house and feel confident you are going to sign the lease, take out a pen and paper as well as your camera or cell phone and perform a thorough check to save yourself a headache — and your security deposit — later.

Here are 13 things you must check before renting a new house.

1. Interior Paint

Go from room to room making sure all painted surfaces look to be in good condition. Any scratches or other damage to the paint should be documented. Any areas where the paint is affected by mold or water damage should be pointed out to the landlord immediately. Ask about restrictions on changing decor in the home.

2. Carpeting

Inspect carpeting in all rooms to assess the condition of each one. Determine areas where carpeting is new and document areas where carpeting appears permanently stained, ripped, or otherwise damaged and take pictures of each issue. Then, discuss them with the landlord.

3. AC and Heating

Ask the landlord or property manager to operate the heating and cooling system in the home and check that all vents, radiators, or air conditioning units are working in every room. Note any parts of the heating or cooling system that appear excessively dirty or damaged. Inquire about the insulation in the home, as a poorly insulated place can cost you more in heating and cooling bills. (See also: Frugal Ways to Keep Your Home Warm)

4. Windows

Check out the windows in each room to ensure they are able to be locked and that they open. Note any damage to the glass or screens before signing the lease. If possible, note any drafts coming through the window area that may require sealing for proper insulation.

5. Plumbing

Look at exposed pipes in the basement and under the kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Note any signs of wetness, mold, or other damage that needs repair. Run water out of all faucets inside and outside the home and flush toilets. Take pictures and inquire about repairs prior to agreeing to the lease. Make note of the shower and tub if any mold is present, or if there are signs of water damage on the floor. (See also: Easy Plumbing Repairs You Can Do Yourself)

6. Appliances

If the home is equipped with appliances, ask the landlord to operate each one to ensure it is in working order — this includes the refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, and washing machine. Ask about repairs or replacements if problems are noted. Document in photos any signs of damage to the appliances like scratches, dents, or broken parts.

7. Electricity

Go from room to room and operate the lights and ceiling fans. Find out what every switch in the house operates to make sure all electricity is working properly. Ask the landlord to test the electrical outlets in each room to ensure they are also functioning. Note where all electrical outlets, cable wires, and telephone connections are in the house and ask the landlord if additional lines are permitted in case you need to have them installed after moving in.

8. Safety Equipment

Make sure the house has at least one working smoke detector on every floor. Ask to see the fire extinguishers and make sure they are accessible. If the home has a furnace in the basement, ask if a carbon monoxide detector is also in the home. If the home has a security system, ask for a demonstration to ensure it works.

9. Exterior

Document any damage to the exterior of the house itself and the yard including fence damage. Inquire about parking on or near the property. Discuss what is permitted in the yard such as burning trash, having a garden, or pets. Consider the neighborhood during your exterior checks including those that have unkempt yards, barking dogs, or other nuisances that may make living nearby uncomfortable before signing a lease.

10. Lease Terms and Other Stuff

In addition to checking the physical structure of the home, it is also important that you clarify all other important details before signing the lease including:

Total of the rent and what it includes. Review the lease and make sure all details as disclosed by the landlord are also in writing including any utilities also covered in the rent payment. (See also: 6 Ways to Haggle for Cheaper Rent)
Total amount of the security deposit and additional fees. Find out exactly what you need to pay for upfront. Ask for a list of issues that could cause you to lose your security deposit at the time of move out. Find out if there are associated fees after move out, including for cleaning.
Inquire about repair work. If there is repair work that needs to be done before you move in, make sure the lease agreement covers arrangements before you sign. Find out exactly what the landlord will take care of in repairs and what, if anything, you must pay for out of pocket.
Turn in documentation. When you have thoroughly read the lease agreement and have it signed, print out pictures and your notes documenting issues discovered in the house. Attach the additional paperwork and photos to the lease and have the landlord initial each page to show they have been reviewed.

At the end of the day, your goal when renting a home is to protect yourself from future problems. While many landlords are accommodating and friendly at the start of the lease, they can become very focused on their property when tenants move out. By documenting what was not working or in perfect condition upon move in, you can help protect yourself and ensure you get back your full security deposit when you choose not to renew your lease.

Did you inspect your last rental before signing the lease? Do you wish you had?

This article is from Tisha Tolar of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Get a Great Container Garden Started With This Guide

Tisha Tolar — Fri, 24 Jan 2014 11:24:12 +0000

As the price of fresh, organic produce keeps some consumers away from healthy eating habits, there is a remedy practically anyone can try to keep the crisper drawer full. Even if you don't have the yard space to create a garden at home, you can still use a variety of containers to grow your own vegetables, herbs, and even flowers. (See also: Foods You Can Grow in Your Home)

Here are some quick steps for getting started on the road to container planting success.

Gathering Your Containers

The general rule of thumb for container planting is the bigger the better. You want to have a container large enough to hold the plant as it grows. A container too small will require replanting but could also hinder the growth of your vegetables.

The good news is you can use a variety of containers including items you repurpose from around the house like plastic drink jugs, milk cartons, old tubs, and five-gallon buckets. Your local home improvement store will also have starter containers for plants but at a higher cost. (See also: Disposable Products You Can Reuse)

Each planter will need drainage holes, so before adding soil or seeds, make several small holes at the bottom of your container. Make the holes large enough to release excess water but not so large that you lose all of your soil. You will then need to supply each container with something to catch the excess water like a plastic planter dish or an old baking pan. You may also want to line the bottom of each container with small rocks to aid with water drainage.

Choosing Your Soil

Ideally, you'll want to choose a soil that is sufficient for containers, which can be found at plant nurseries. Container soil may not even contain soil at all, but often includes a mixture of bark and peat moss. This is to help keep it moist and well aerated for proper drainage since a container is more confined than a backyard garden. (See also: 4 Things a Vegetable Garden Needs)

You can opt for a good quality potting soil that has a mixture of peat moss and sand, but don't import dirt directly from your yard, as it will not promote plant growth. You can also add extra materials like crumbled Styrofoam to hold moisture.

When adding soil to the container, make sure to have a sufficient amount to accommodate the plant. Buy more soil than you think you will need to add when the soil has settled after watering. You'll need to read the seed packages to determine how much soil to add to a container based on the necessary planting depth.

Thoroughly water the soil in each container and let sit for an hour or more to ensure the soil is moist throughout. Fertilizer that is safe for vegetables and other plants can be added to the soil starting about a month after planting them, per the seed manufacturer's recommendations. (See also: How to Plan Your Garden)

Seed Suggestions

You can plant many kinds of vegetables and herbs in containers. Herbs can often be planted in the smaller containers and easily kept on a sunny window sill in pots with a 4–6 inch diameter. Lettuce, radishes, beets, and onions need larger containers with at least a 6–10 inch diameter.

If you plan to grow peppers or lettuce, you'll need a container that holds at least one or two gallons of soil. Taller vine plants like tomatoes and cucumbers will require the largest containers and about five gallons of soil. Carrots, broccoli, cabbage, eggplant, green beans, and peas can also do well in a five gallon or larger container.

Plants will need room to grow in a place that receives at least six hours of sunlight each day. It will be helpful to place the plants in a location that is also easily accessible to you for watering purposes but won't be bothered by pets or children. During the warmer parts of the day or the summer months, containers can be set outside on the patio for fresh air and sunshine. (See also: High Tech Tools to Help Your Garden Grow)

When sowing the seeds, follow the package directions and plant the seeds at the same time as you would if you were planting them in an outside garden. Spread seeds out but add additional seeds than you want to compensate for those that do not germinate.

Water, Tend, Thin

Watering is the most important factor in successful container plants. You can't overwater, and you can't forget to water. Most container soil mixes have extra materials to prevent soil from losing moisture but you should maintain a watering schedule. (See also: 10 Gardening Lessons Learned the Hard Way)

As plants begin to grow, you'll need to tend to them to keep them healthy. Remove dead leaves and watch for signs of insect damage or plant diseases. Weed any excess things that grow from the soil. If too many seedlings grow, you can thin out the plants, so you have a reasonable amount left to harvest.

As plants become sturdy, you do have the option of transplanting them outdoors into a garden with high quality soil. You can continue growing plants in containers but keep an eye on their growth process to ensure the container size is sufficient.

Herbs

Harvesting herbs requires a little more detail. Depending on what kind of herbs you grow, you'll need to know when to harvest them. Herbs used for their leaves will need to be picked before they flower, or they may end up with an off taste. Herbs harvested for seeds will be ready when they change color from fresh green to a brown or gray color and should be harvested before the seeds open up. Flowering herbs like ginseng should be harvested before their leaves die off. You can freeze or dry herbs to preserve them for later use in your favorite recipes alongside your freshly picked container vegetables. (See also: Cheap Ways to Flavor Your Food)

Enjoying the Harvest

Producing your own produce is the best part of the process. Watching your plants go from seed to food is gratifying. You'll want to harvest your vegetables when they are a good size to consumer. It is best to keep picking fresh vegetables and herbs from the plants so they will continue to produce more.

Have you tried container gardening? Were you happy with the results?

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This article is from Tisha Tolar of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

25 Ways to Slow Down and Actually Appreciate the Holidays

Tisha Tolar — Mon, 25 Nov 2013 10:30:12 +0000

Christmas is coming. The goose is getting fat. Your hair is turning gray, you can't sleep, and your ulcers are constantly flaring up. If this sound like your typical holiday pre-show, it's time to start doing things differently. (See also: Stress-Free Holiday Giving)

Here are 25 ways to slow down and actually appreciate the holiday season with your family and friends.

1. Categorize Your Priorities

Deep down you know what you love most about the holidays and what you despise. On a sheet of paper, make two columns. List what you love on one side and what you hate on the other. Fold the sheet in half with the 'love' side showing and focus on those things only.

2. Sketch Out Your Perfect Celebration

Even if you are not a writer, take pen to paper and just freestyle your vision of the perfect holiday season. Jot down things and ideas that you'd like to see happen. By putting your thoughts into words it can be easier for you to turn your ideas into reality.

3. Budget Your Holiday Funds

Money is often a huge source of holiday stress, especially when there doesn't seem to be enough to go around. Figure out just how much you can afford to spend throughout the holiday season (don't even look at those credit cards!). When the funds run out, understand that is all you have to offer. Keep the budgeted number in your wallet so you can continually be reminded to watch you spending. (See also: How to Avoid Holiday Debt)

4. Shrink Your Gift List

Free up some money by shrinking your gift list. You'll have the extra perk of not having to shop till you drop to cover everyone on the list. Exchange names with adult family members and spend more on the kids. Tell co-workers and friends you'd rather opt out of gift-giving this year, so you can focus more on your family. Many in your circle will likely be relieved they too can cut back on spending.

5. Gather After the Fact

Buck tradition and hold the annual Christmas dinner with all your friends and family one or two days after the fact when nothing else is going on, and everything is already marked for clearance. Keep the actual day a quiet one with just family but really celebrate with everyone when you can get food, decorations, and gifts at a considerable discount.

6. Opt Out of the Madness

Most people are fully aware of the madness that goes on during the holiday season such as Black Friday shopping extravaganzas. For one year, commit to opting out of the intentional craziness if it is not something you actually enjoy. There is no shame in not getting every single 'bargain' being advertised.

7. Cybershop

Use the power of the Internet to find what you need. Save on gas and time by skipping the mall shopping altogether and having the goods come right to your house.

8. Buy Local

Stay close to home when doing the shopping. Change your way of thinking by seeking out gift ideas that are readily available from local businesses rather than hunting down items you think you need. Shopping local is a two-fold blessing. You can skip the endless traveling and keep money in your own community by keeping local businesses thriving.

9. Focus on the Kids

It can be hard to believe that the traditional favorite holiday of kids worldwide is the same holiday where grown adults literally throat punch each other for the last toy on the shelf. Work at getting into the mindset of your own children or the kids in your family. Make the holiday effort about making the kids happy and creating lasting memories for them.

10. Select a Central Location

For large families especially, it can be stressful to have to spend the entire holiday season in the car traveling to visit extended family and friends. Opt to go to just one or two places and make plans to meet as many people as possible in one central location. (See also: Ultimate Guide to Holiday Flying)

11. Freeze Your Menu

If you are hosting the family dinner, start preparing the meal early. Make what you can in advance and freeze it. Don't spend the entire day cooking and cleaning when you should be sitting down and laughing with your family.

12. Adopt Old School Traditions

Take some time to consider your own childhood during the holidays. It likely wasn't filled with the hustle and bustle and materialism that has become the focus these days. Look through your childhood photo albums and make a point of reviving some old school holiday traditions with your family.

13. Unplug Your Brain

When you are done with work for the holidays, unplug your devices and commit to spending time with actual people. Don't update your Facebook. Don't answer work emails. Don't get lost in the digital world like you do the other 364 days of the year.

14. Reset Your Expectations

There is so much influence about the holidays on TV, in magazines, and at your neighbor's house, it is just too easy to lose your way. Forget what everyone else is doing for the holidays and consider what you and your family want to do. There is no law that everyone has to celebrate a Martha Stewart Christmas. Keep your expectations in check and make the best of what you have within your family.

15. Stand Firm on 'No'

Over-committing yourself during the holidays can make it the most unpleasant time of the year. Don't be afraid to say 'no' to the things you don't have time to do or just don't want to do. Understand that not everyone else is going to be Zen this time of year and learn to be okay with enjoying some down time even if other people may feel let down.

16. Reach Out By Phone

When was the last time you had an honest-to-goodness phone chat with close friends or long distance relatives? Take some time to sit with a cup of hot chocolate and reach out to those you love by phone rather than email or text. Relive some of your favorite holiday memories with them to truly get into the holiday spirit.

17. Decorate for You

Deep down we may be a tad bit envious of the head of the Griswold household, but when it comes to decorating for the holidays, don't make it a competition. Do what you can afford to do where lights and trees are concerned. Going overboard for the sake of beating out your neighbors is pointless in the grand scheme of things. Unless a holiday decorating competition is your reason for the season, keep it simple. (See also: Stress-Free, Last-Minute Holiday Decorating)

18. Tune In for Holiday Specials

Print out the television schedule for the holiday movies you love most. Make a point to sit down with the whole family, bowls of popcorn, and low lights to enjoy the best Christmas movies ever made. It's a great way to stay connected to the family and relive a bit of Christmas past.

19. Write Daily Thank You Notes

When the day gets hectic, sit down at the kitchen table and write a thank you note. This is a good way to remember what actually matters. Whether you share the notes with your family or keep them private, it's a good way to stay in touch with what really matters in your life.

20. Create a Legacy

Go into the holiday with the intent of making it a holiday to remember. Make a point to take pictures and keep a journal with things that happened to make the holiday special. Create a scrapbook for yourself or as a gift for next year.

21. Host Story Time

Take time out to sit with the family and reminisce about Christmas past. Tell stories from your own childhood to recapture the Christmas spirit while slowing down to enjoy time spent with your loved ones.

22. Get Away from it All

For a true break, plan a holiday getaway with your family and forego the chaotic traditions of the holidays. Plan early so that all your family members or friends can join you and use gift funds for travel money rather than exchange presents.

23. Count Your Blessings

Take the time, especially during the holidays, to count your blessings and remember what you are grateful for every day of the year. This can help you gain some new perspective on what the holiday season should really be about.

24. Make Good Use of Time Off

Rather than sit back and wonder where your time off went, plan in advance how to use the extra few days off from work for the good of your family. Feeling accomplished after the holiday madness can do a lot of good going into a new year.

25. Get Some Sleep

With the holiday parties and midnight shopping, we often put sleep on the backburner. But a lack of sleep can catch up to you so make sure you get eight hours and take day or two to actually sleep in and veg out to recharge your batteries for a new year to come.

How do you slow down and appreciate the season?

This article is from Tisha Tolar of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

5 Things Your Teen Needs (or Doesn’t Need) in a Bank Account

Tisha Tolar — Wed, 18 Sep 2013 09:36:07 +0000

Teens taught to save from an early age may gain an advantage over kids with no parental direction concerning finances. How you handle your money matters will have a strong impact on your child's view of money and the values they hold into adulthood. While many people across the county are still struggling to put away cash from each paycheck they receive, teens that learn healthy financial habits will likely struggle less with their money management. (See also: Helping Your Teen Understand Money)

In addition to prioritizing savings, teens also should start learning the basic fundamentals of personal money management such as being responsible for balancing their checkbook and paying any financial responsibilities on time. As a teen's financial responsibilities increase, they will need to establish a savings account and a checking account. (See also: Top 5 Prepaid Debit Cards)

Here are 5 things every teen needs in a bank account.

1. Money, Money, and More Money

Opening a bank account with or for your teen isn't enough to teach a savings lesson. Parents would be wise to sit down with their child and talk about the benefits of savings and the best methods for hanging on to their cash.

Ideally, establishing a must-follow rule of savings, such as 10% of all money they earn or receive, will help a teen get into the habit of heading to the bank first rather than the mall. The savings account should never be touched for any purpose so it can be allowed to grow and earn interest for long-term financial stability. Checking accounts will need to have sufficient amounts of cash for checks written. (See also: Advice From a Financially Savvy Teen)

2. More Benefits Than Fees

Banks have been capitalizing on the many fees they are creating to keep making huge profits. When it comes to a new account for teens, it is best to shop around at different banks rather than just head to your preferred branch. Your teen should have a bank account that doesn’t charge a ton of excessive fees for administration or transactions. Be sure to review the associated fees with your teenager.

3. Avoid Flashy Incentives

There is still a lot of competition in the banking industry, so it is important for teens to understand what makes an account suitable for them. Banks often offer incentives that seem great on the surface but could leave the customer dissatisfied with the other account terms. Teach your teen to look past the free stuff and focus on the bank's conditions, fees, and limitations. They should find a bank that offers low-cost or free accounts that do not limit transactions including at the ATM and through checking accounts.Take time to read the fine print with your teenager and if you don't understand the terms, visit with the bank's manager for an explanation.

4. Accessible Banking

There is a good mix of brick and mortar banks and online banks offering great deals on bank accounts. However, some online banks or smaller institutions are not as accessible as a teen needs them to be. If they plan to use an ATM card for withdrawals or need to make cash deposits, they will need to be able to access a bank in person. Consider the accessibility of both the bank and its ATM locations when helping teens make a decision. If you anticipate in-person visits to the bank to cash or deposit checks, an online bank may not make as much sense as opting for a bank with a local branch.

5. Seek Out Banks With Educational Resources

Since your teen is just entering the world of personal finance, finding a bank that also offers free resources for financial education is a wise move. Many of the major banks offer online tools and guides for learning the basics of money. As parents can find it difficult to get lessons across to their kids, online tutorials can help close the gap in learning. Phone apps and other technologies offered by banks can be a very effective teaching tool for today's teens. (See also: Money Tools and Toys for Every Age Group)

Wells Fargo offers Teen Checking (SM) that include parents in alert messages and account management.
Bank of America offers a lot of free information on their Student Bank Accounts and Solutions page.
Chase also offers a High School Checking Accounts program for teens to help them manage their money.

Have you set up a savings or checking account for your teen (or younger child)? Has it been educational?

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This article is from Tisha Tolar of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How to Get Back on Track When You're Behind on Your Bills

Tisha Tolar — Thu, 12 Sep 2013 09:48:04 +0000

There may be many reasons why your bills have gone late. Whether you miss a bill deadline once in a blue moon or if you are consistently late and behind in paying your bills, it is time to get your financial life back on track and realize what the consequences are of paying bills late. (See also: Get Rid of and Avoid Late Fees)

First, the Consequences

No matter the reason for getting behind in your bills, know that you are doing damage to credit and your overall financial life. Late or missed bill payments drop your credit score significantly, and if you are paying all of your bills late or carrying a large balance from one month to the next, you are doing yourself no favors. Late payments will stay on your credit report for several years so you will feel the effects for many years to come.

In order to reorder your financial life, it is a must-do to start perfecting a strategy for paying your bills on time without fail. Here is a guideline for what to do to get current again.

Begin Eliminating Outstanding Debts

When people are behind in their bill payments, they generally are fully aware there is a problem but may not necessarily realize just how much of a problem they have. It is time to start reorganizing your system to ensure bills are taken care of and balances are eliminated in a reasonable amount of time. (See also: Why Can't You Make Your Payments On Time?)

Write It All Out

Gather in one place all of your monthly bills and anything with a balance showing. Review each statement or bill and write down on a separate sheet of paper who you owe, how much you owe monthly, how much you owe in total, and due dates for the amount to be paid.

Highlight the Worst

If there are some bills you are keeping up with monthly, it's a good start but you'll need to formulate a plan for keeping up while paying past due balances at the same time. Highlight the past due balances that need to be tended to each month.

Do the Math

Once all bills and balances are accounted for, add up the columns to find out how much is due each month. Any bills that you haven't been paying should have an amount of money allocated to them on a monthly basis. Say you owe $1,200 to your doctor on an overdue bill. Review your budget to find an amount you can afford to pay towards the debt each month and add that into your monthly totals.

Find a Solution

If you find your monthly must-pay amounts total more than you earn, resist the urge to stop paying back the balance. Your goal at this time is to find a way to make payoff possible. You may need to reduce other expenses from your budget or find a secondary source of income to allow your plan to work effectively for eliminating debts.

Consult With Your Creditors

You may already be getting contacted by creditors to whom you owe money. With a new strategy in place, you should have more confidence to contact your creditors directly and let them know of your intent to make a set payment amount each month. This can keep the lines of communication open between your and your creditors, who may choose not to take more drastic measures once they know you are trying to make good on your debts.

During the Debt Elimination Process

Commitment to eliminating debt will be essential, so stay very involved through the process. It may be difficult to allocate so much of your cash towards old, overdue debts but the end result will be well worth it.

Be Willing to Sacrifice

During the time you are working towards debt elimination to get back on track, you have to be willing to make sacrifices, including saying no to even the best deals and discounts.

Keep Your Own Records

Your creditors have probably kept very good records about the debts you didn't pay, but you owe it to yourself to keep good records of the debts you are paying. Keep track of how much you are sending each month to your creditors, and check statements to be sure everything is correct. Creditors can make mistakes, and you'll want to ensure they are not getting more money from you than they are owed.

Regularly Reallocate

If you have managed to pay off your old cell phone bill, you'll need to go back to your plan and reallocate the cell phone payment money towards another bill. Do this every time you eliminate one of your overdue bills to make your debts go away faster.

Avoid New Debts

You already know how hard debt elimination can be so why get yourself into the same mess twice? During your balance elimination plan, avoid new expenses like the plague. (See also: How to Paddle Back to Good Credit)

Living Life After Balances Are Zeroed Out

Once you have caught up on your overdue bills and have things back on track, your goal should always be to prevent history from repeating itself.

Set Up a Foolproof System

Today's technology can help you avoid the trap of forgotten or missed bill payments. Use one of the many available phone apps or online banking resources to automatically pay your bills on time each month. For bills that can't be paid automatically, post a calendar where you can always see due dates or set a reminder on your mobile device when a bill payment needs to be made.

Stockpile Your Cash

After eliminating your debt, you now know you have the willpower and commitment to having a better financial life. Eliminating old debts should not be the end of your strategic plan. Keep sacrificing for a few months longer as you stockpile the collective bill payment amounts into a savings account. If the reason why your bills were always late was due to a lack of money, a healthy savings account can certainly prevent history from coming back to haunt you. (See also: Savings Changes You Can Make Today)

Check Your Credit

As you are getting your bills back on track, make sure your creditors are on the same page. Order a copy of your consumer credit report and follow the progress you are making. Check in with your financial records every few months to make sure appropriate changes have been made and that your credit score is on the rise.

Don't let another month go by knowing you have unpaid or habitually late bills. A reasonable system to keep up with your bills is not very difficult to set up or maintain. It will be far easier to be proactive about your money matters than have to run scared from creditors for the next few years.

How do you keep pace with your bills? Do you have a system or do you just wing it?

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This article is from Tisha Tolar of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

8 Financial To-Do's for College Freshmen

Tisha Tolar — Tue, 20 Aug 2013 10:00:31 +0000

College freshmen are often leaving home for the first time and will therefore need to be responsible for their own personal finances, without direct help from mom and dad. Ideally kids and teens should be learning financial lessons as they grow up, so the transition to college isn't overwhelming.

Students headed off to college will need to learn to manage their money as well as build their knowledge about personal finance. Not only will they need to stay on financial track during their school years, they will need to be prepared for the "real world" in just a few years' time.

Here are the eight financial to-do's every college freshman needs to do.

1. Go Away Frugally

It can be very exciting to shop for your new dorm room or apartment, but if you don't really know what to expect, you can blow a lot of cash you can be using for other things. Shop for the basic essentials you know you need, but wait to see what college life is really like before spending all your (or your parents') money. Find used items that typically have big price tags like small refrigerators and furniture when you get to school, so you don't have to spend a lot of money on transportation. (See also: Best Money Tips: 12 Things College Students Don't Need)

2. Create a College Budget

Budgeting is a simple concept but one that many people do not put into practice. A college budget will give you a clear picture of the amount of money you have to spend each month, whether it be your savings, your parents' allowance, or cash you earn from a new job. The "income" you have should be reduced by the set expenses you have for meals, books, rent, and the essentials. If you pay your own way, you'll need to include that, too. Money that is left over should be budgeted further for your entertainment. If you spend without a thought of priorities, you'll likely find you come up short for cash every month. (See also: The College Freshman Budget)

3. Save With a Purpose

Some college freshmen will be walking a thin line between financially comfortable and completely broke depending on their circumstances.

If you are earning money from an on-campus job, it is important to put a portion of that into a savings account no matter how difficult it may be. By putting a portion of your paycheck into a savings account, you can earmark money for emergencies, airline tickets home, or for other things you'd like to do or buy. Figure out how much you need to save each month to achieve your goal. If airline tickets cost $300 and you plan on going home in three months, make sure at least $100 goes into savings each month.

4. Understand Credit Cards First

Many financial disasters start in college when kids spend recklessly on credit without any idea of the consequences. New credit card regulations may not permit college students to get a credit card until they are 21, unless a parent co-signs the agreement. If you do have access to a credit card, don't spend a cent until you know what the process involves. Using a credit card does not mean you are getting stuff without paying. The reality is that the stuff you buy impulsively can end up costing you (and your parents) three times more than the purchase price and can set you on a downward spiral very early in your financial life. Ask your parents or another trusted adult for a basic lesson in credit cards or do your own research about how credit cards work. Keep the plastic in your wallet but for emergency use only.

5. Assume Responsibility for Your Own Finances

Some students will have parents to take care of all money issues throughout their college career. This could actually have negative effects after graduation. It is wiser for college kids to start getting a handle on financial responsibilities early in life. Be sure you know what your expenses are each month and learn how to manage your financial responsibilities to ensure your bills get paid on time. If you share an apartment, make sure you have the money to cover rent, utilities, and groceries every month before you go out to restaurants or splurge on unnecessary extras. (See also: Degrees of Frugality: 7 Tips for the College-Bound)

6. Research Available Free and Cheap Resources

If you attend a big college, you may not be fully aware of what is offered to you for free on campus. To be able to save money, consider using the free Internet in campus buildings, rent textbooks for your classes, and use the free gym facilities to stay in shape. Take advantage of the on-campus resources before you spend money elsewhere. (See also: My Number One Tip for College Students)

7. Figure Out Your Means, and Live Within Them

Because college freshmen come from a variety of financial situations, it can be easy to befriend people with different financial means than you have. You may have a rich roommate with parents that always say "yes," and it can be tempting to try to live a similar lifestyle, even though you are paying your own way. Understand now the importance of living within your means. Follow the guidelines of your budget so you can save money and prevent major financial mistakes.

8. Keep Your Personal Business Personal

Never, ever share your personal information with anyone. This includes your Social Security number, your credit card, your online passwords, your ATM card, or any other personal bit of information. Never let your friends borrow your credit card for any reason. Be cautious with roommate situations, and financial commitments and information. There are people you may encounter that aren't interested in maintaining their own financial lives, so they'll happily steal yours. Get a lockbox and hide the key.

What frugal lessons do you wish you had learned earlier?

This article is from Tisha Tolar of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Leave Town Fast: Essentials for Making a Last-Minute Move

Tisha Tolar — Fri, 02 Aug 2013 09:48:39 +0000

A cousin of mine has had just a few weeks to plan a total relocation thanks to a job offer halfway across the country. I have also relocated out of state a time or three, so I understand the confusion and chaos that can ensue during a move, especially when it’s at the last minute. (See also: The ABC’s of DIY Moving)

Relocating to a new place can be extremely exciting but also stressful. There are the concerns of the unknown in addition to trying to pack up your life and haul it along with you. Here are seven tips to help keep you sane and safe, without going broke, during a last-minute relocation effort.

1. Set Up Several Utility Tubs

Invest in several plastic tubs of varying sizes. While you are packing your belongings, designate a few tubs for the most important stuff you need during your move, like paperwork, relocation information, and the things you will continue to use until you physically leave. If you put these items in a designated tub as you go, you won’t have to go searching for them later.

Designate a notepad for your moving notes. If you start writing down important information on scraps of paper during a move, you’ll regret it very quickly. By keeping one notebook up to date with to-do lists, reminders, and move-related information, you’ll always have one go-to place rather than having to spend your time searching for details you’ve lost again. Always return the notebook to one of the tubs.

2. Seek Relocation Advice

If you are moving because of a new job, be sure to ask your new employer for any resources they have to help you relocate. They may be able to refer you to a landlord, provide you with contacts for utilities and other services, or even offer assistance with some of your relocation expenses. Even if they do not offer up the information, be sure to ask about it. Your contact at the new company likely lives in the area and can provide their own personal assistance to get you started.

3. Map It Out

Start with master list of all you have to do, and then sub-divide those tasks into daily to-do lists. By writing down all of the things you need to do and breaking it down, the tasks will be more organized and less overwhelming. You should note the things that you will need help in doing, so you can round up friends and family as soon as possible. Keep all of your to-do lists in your notebook, so you’ll know exactly where to find them.

4. Take Only What You Need

The cost of moving, no matter what methods you are using, can be very expensive.

Ideally, you should plan to pack up only what you need to survive until you get settled. Compare the cost of hauling your bedroom set versus buying a new one. You may find it more cost-effective to sell off what you have and start anew. You can get rid of a lot of stuff by hosting a moving sale, and the money you make can be put toward the new purchases or to help with the costs of moving.

Anything of importance that you can’t take with you can be put into storage until you can make further decisions. Remember that the less you store, the less the storage fee will be. Leave the key with a trusted friend or family member who can access things you may need down the road. Take an inventory of what is in your storage shed and take pictures. Take it from one who knows — even your closest relatives may find it hard to resist browsing, borrowing, or outright taking your stuff from storage.

5. Get Set Up Ahead of Time

Thanks to the advantages of technology, you may be able to set up most of the basic things you need for the new place without being there in person. If you are renting, speak to the landlord about getting services set up before you arrive. They may be willing to let service companies enter your apartment and hook up your utilities as a convenience to you. With a rush move, you can get settled in the new place a bit more quickly by having the necessities waiting for you.

6. Do as Much as You Can on Your Own

If you have a lot of things to haul with you, consider your options. You can rent a hauling truck if you plan to drive and can handle that load. If you plan to fly, you can enlist a moving service that is more reasonably priced when you pack your things yourself. ABF Freight System, Inc, for example, drops off a trailer for you to pack and will only charge you for the space you fill. Check out a few different companies, and compare quotes before making a decision.

7. Settle In One Step at a Time and On a Budget

You may not like living with just the bare necessities, but take your time as you settle in. Give yourself a chance to get to know the area and the people. If you rush out to the only mall you know about, you’ll end up spending way too much for things you probably don’t need. As soon as you start settling in, create a new budget. As money becomes available you can start adding to your new place. Be sure to save some of your money to attend to things you may have left behind such as your storage unit. Putting a few dollars away each week can help you cover the cost of having the storage items shipped to you when you are ready.

How did your most recent move go?

This article is from Tisha Tolar of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

6 Back-to-School Items You Should Always Shop for at the Thrift Store

Tisha Tolar — Tue, 30 Jul 2013 09:36:41 +0000

Thrift store shopping is not a passion shared by everyone, and some people can be intimidated by it, thinking that you need a lot of time or skill to find a great deal. While it does help to have the right mindset and an eye for a find, just about anyone can score real deals on quality stuff at thrift stores. And during the coming back-to-school frenzy, a thrift store deal is exactly what parents need to help save some much needed time and money. (See also: 10 Things to Look for Every Time You Visit a Thrift Store)

From designer jeans to new-to-your-kid dorm furniture, your local thrift store probably has lots of ways to save you a bunch of cash during your back-to-school shopping spree. Consider these six.

1. Jeans and Uniforms

The price of jeans for kids who are still growing is almost obscene. They often cost as much as the adult-sized versions but only may be useable for a single semester of school. The good news is that because kids grow out of jeans so quickly, many pre-owned pairs donated to the local thrift store are still in like-new condition but priced for just a few dollars. Designer names can often be found at a steep discount, and no one but you would be the wiser. If your local school district enforces a dress code, be sure to see if any uniform pieces have been donated to your local thrift store each time you stop by. Families that no longer have small children often donate any clothing in good condition including school uniforms.

2. Sporting Gear

Parents with kids no longer involved in sports or kids who have outgrown their gear will often donate it to the thrift store. Before you go shopping at the pricier sporting goods store, check in with the local thrift store to see what is available. When your own family outgrows their supplies, consider a donation to help other families save money, too.

3. Winter Gear

Winter coats are another necessary expense that can often prove too costly when trying to clothe multiple children. As with jeans, the price of winter coats, insulated boots, and snow pants can be high for clothing that kids will soon outgrow. Check the local thrift store, especially in the fall and spring when people are cleaning out the clutter from their homes and making donations. Keep an eye out for some fun winter accessories like sleds, skis, and snowboards, too.

4. Office Supplies

Personally there is nothing like making a trip down the pen and paper aisles while back-to-school shopping. But if you are trying to cut back, check out your local thrift store to see what supplies you can find. When people are clearing out their clutter, they often find things they have too much of in the school/office supply department. They will keep what they need but donate the rest. You can often buy pencils, folders, and other supplies in bulk amounts for a very reasonable price.

5. Containers/Dishware

Students headed off to college will be in need of household supplies for their apartments or dorms. The thrift store is a great place to find quality pots, pans, dishes, and glasses. Many times you can even score vintage pieces that look as cool as they are functional. It’s a great way for your child to get some starter pieces for cheap.

6. Furniture

In my local area, there are several thrift shops that have opened recently, and all of them showcase some great looking furniture on their Facebook pages for incredibly reasonable prices. Sure, a lot of the items are mismatched, but they are still in great shape. Why buy new stuff for a college apartment? Many times the furniture will get damaged from frequent moves and the wear and tear of visiting friends. Spend money on good quality linens and comforters, but check out the local thrift store for bed frames, tables, and bookcases on the cheap.

How do you save on back-to-school supplies?

This article is from Tisha Tolar of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

8 Things You Must Do to Throw a Frugal, Fun Backyard Party

Tisha Tolar — Fri, 26 Jul 2013 09:48:32 +0000

Believe it or not, the days are already getting shorter. That means now is a great time to host a little soiree to celebrate the remaining days of summer and create those wonderful memories of time well-spent with family, friends, and neighbors. (See also: How to Throw a Kid’s Birthday Party That’s Fun, Happily Memorable, and Not So Expensive)

Plan ahead, borrow what you need, and make use of what you have to make your bash fun for your friends and family without being a burden on you.

1. Open the Pantry

The trick to having fun on a budget is to make the best of what you have. Rather than write out a list of what you want to have at the party, make a list of what you already have in the pantry, and create your party menu based on ingredients you already have on hand.

2. Ask Friends for Fresh Finds

It you have friends and family who garden, ask them to bring along ingredients for a salad, a homemade salsa, or a veggie tray. You’ll get lots of fresh produce at no cost to anyone.

3. Prep the Traffic Areas

If the party is to be held out in the backyard, clean only the necessary areas like the kitchen and bathroom. Close the doors to your other rooms. Do have a backup, like the garage or the rec room, spruced up in the event of rain. If you live with a busy schedule, do a little cleaning every day, so you are not completely stressed out on the day of the party.

4. Make It BYOB

Don’t let alcohol drink up your budget. Let guests know there will be plenty of food and soft drinks available, but anyone who wishes to imbibe must bring their own booze.

5. Borrow Coolers, Chairs, and Tables

Don’t spend your money on what other people already have. Ask to borrow from family and friends the items you only need temporarily including coolers, chairs, and tables. Coolers are especially important because you can keep everyone out of your fridge during the hot day. Stock several coolers around your yard, and label each with its contents to make it easy for guests to find what they're looking for.

6. Provide Home Comforts

Make sure to set out comfort items for your backyard guests including towels to cover hot chairs, sunscreen, and bug spray. Also consider providing several shady areas for seating either under a tree or under a canopy.

7. Keep It Clean

Outside parties can include uninvited and unpleasant animal and insect guests, so create an area away from the party for trash disposal. Set up several cans with lids and recycling bins for cans and glass. Post a sign for guests to outline what gets recycled. You should also keep a small side table nearby with hand sanitizer, baby wipes, and paper towels. Monitor trash cans throughout the day, and tend to them as they get filled to minimize insects and the potential for trash to blow around your yard and neighborhood.

8. Keep Kids Busy

To keep your adult guests happy and relaxed, you need to consider how to keep the kids happy and busy. Visit the local dollar store and pick up small toys like bubbles, water balloons, glow sticks, and badminton rackets. Also make up a list of good yard games for adults and kids to play throughout the day like egg races. For super-hot afternoons, bring out a sprinkler, and a hose and let kids cool down.

Throw a backyard bash recently? What did you do to make it a success?

This article is from Tisha Tolar of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

5 Reasons to Travel Off the Beaten Path

Tisha Tolar — Wed, 22 May 2013 10:36:35 +0000

Traveling has been a passion of mine, but growing older and raising a family doesn’t allow for as much downtime as I had in my 20s. However, we still make every effort of getting out of town and visiting new places. (See also: Housesit on Your Next Vacation)

We don’t often schedule trips to world-famous tourist destinations. We prefer to travel off the beaten path, selecting locations that will not be swamped with annoying tourists or priced completely out of our range. To date, Maine has been one of our favorite locations to visit, even though we went to a small area and rented a cabin in the middle of nowhere. Actually, the privacy was one of the reasons our Maine trip was the best. We had an entire ocean cove to explore with access to a rocky shore and no one bothering us. A short drive brought us into a small harbor town that was fascinating to explore despite the lack of traditional tourist traps.

Since our vacation to Maine a few years back, we have come to appreciate the many benefits of the vacations less taken. Here are five reasons you might consider traveling where the rest of the world doesn’t.

1. Discount Attractions

Lots of places have great things to see and do that aren't well known outside of the region. It’s all about finding a place related to what you love or love to do and doing some research.

If you like the water, find an out of the way beach location or other body of water. Boat rentals may be less expensive and beaches less crowded, and you can truly relax especially with family in tow. Many places will promote their small business tourism with big discount attractions that can really make travel affordable and fun. You should plan ahead by visiting the local community pages for activity information and coupons. The larger, more popular attractions often have no problem getting business and provide very little in the way of discounts and deals.

2. More Lodging Amenities

If you typically go to the same big-time tourist spots each year, you know the competition for hotel bookings can be tough. When you go to a less-traveled location, you often get much more for your money without stiff competition. Lesser-known locations may also offer several options for your lodging comfort including bed and breakfasts and private home rentals that are more reasonably priced and more accommodating.

3. More Privacy

There are people that enjoy the hustle and bustle of popular spots, but there are also many who travel to get away from all the noise. Our family always rents homes for affordability and for convenience. We don’t have to worry about being too loud for the neighbors and vice versa. Traveling with kids also means we find places with a backyard or private swimming pool, so we can kick back and enjoy without dealing with crowds and partiers.

4. More Downtime

When you don’t have to constantly worry about the crowds, you can spend more time actually enjoying your day — and your fellow travelers. Without a dinner rush to beat, you have more time to explore a new place and do things as you feel like doing them, rather than be concerned with what the herds of people are doing and where they are going. Traveling should be about doing things at leisure, not rushing around through the days and missing the actual fun.

5. Less Stress

Especially when traveling with kids, it can be highly stressful to constantly worry about a child’s safety in big crowds. When venturing in a quieter, private setting, kids can have a little more freedom to explore and parents can relax. Absorbing a community’s culture can also be very rewarding. You get to learn about new places, histories, and the community at large in a more relaxed environment. Many places offer great food selections that can’t be found elsewhere. There can be a lot to look forward to visiting an out of the way location.

For added benefits, consider traveling to off-the-beaten path locations that are still close enough to the larger attractions you are interested in. You can spend a day in a more chaotic environment and still have the advantage of a nice, comfortable place to relax for the rest of the time.

To what off-the-beaten-path locales have your travels taken you?

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This article is from Tisha Tolar of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How to Prevent a Windfall Money Mistake

Tisha Tolar — Tue, 21 May 2013 09:36:58 +0000

Another week goes by where my numbers didn’t match those of the Powerball. Of course the odds of winning large jackpots like that are quite slim, but a windfall of cash landing in your lap is not unheard of. Windfalls can come from many sources — a lottery winning, a bingo jackpot, a casino score, a work bonus, or an inheritance from a loved one. In many cases, people aren’t especially prepared for receiving a windfall, and as a result they end up making mistakes they live to regret both personally and financially. (See also: If You Won the Lottery, You Would...)

Even if you are not expecting a stranger to show up at your front door with an extra-large check, you should still contemplate the realities of having unexpected cash at your disposal — including tax refunds. Proper management of your personal finances means being prepared for what may come, so take some time to consider how you could use the extra cash responsibly. And who knows, maybe your windfall planning will lead to some insights about how to prioritize your spending and saving with your regular income.

Here is a starter guide on what you should consider when pre-planning your financial strategies involving a windfall of cash.

Eliminate Your Debts

Use your windfall responsibly and leave yourself with a clean slate, debt-wise. Credit card bills, back taxes, loans, and your mortgage debts should be prioritized first.

By eliminating the burdens of your existing debts, you are freeing up cash for your future. You are using your cash in a responsible way and solidifying your overall financial foundation. If there is not enough cash to meet all of your debt demands, make a plan to at least tackle any bills that are past due or charging you the highest interest rates or penalty fees.

Invest in Your Future

Monies remaining after your debts have been dealt with should be allocated towards your future no matter how old you are. Investment strategies should be explored and money can be used to fund your retirement portfolio. If your current retirement savings is at its beginning stages, consider paying a professional financial advisor for initial advice and guidance rather than risking your cash with faulty investments not relative to your financial situation.

Go Play

If your windfall paid all the bills and set your future financially on track, you can feel more confident about spending some of your cash on your "wants." This is the category many people will place as priority after a windfall and as a result, all the cash is gone with very little to show for it. Even when planning to play with some cash, you should prioritize your wants rather than let reckless spending lead to regret. Consider the things that mean the most to you and which will have a positive impact on your life and create memories that will last longer than the money.

Winners Beware

If you have ever watched a news report on the aftermath of a large lotto win, you’ll know that many lucky winners turned out to not be so lucky after all. The pressure that comes with having a lot of money suddenly often ends in heartbreak. There have been several well-known stories of lottery winners who have lost their money and even their lives. Supposed loved ones come out of the woodwork and endless calls from everyone asking for a piece of the pie can quickly turn good fortune into disaster. If you come into a large inheritance or win a large cash award, do nothing until you have secured an attorney and hired a reputable financial advisor.

Stick to your plans for prioritizing your money matters and always remember to be grateful for what you already have rather than focus on what you don’t have.

Have you made plans to spend any windfalls that may come your way? What are they?

This article is from Tisha Tolar of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

5 Questions You Should Ask at Every Job Interview

Tisha Tolar — Mon, 20 May 2013 10:24:56 +0000

When you go into a job interview, you likely have rehearsed what you're going to stay to the interviewer about your skills and experience. But then comes the part of the interview when your potential employer offers you the opportunity to ask questions. Many in the hot seat will often reply that they don't have any, even though their brain is rapid-firing plenty of unanswered questions.

The presented opportunity to learn more about a company hiring new employees is one that should not be wasted. You want to be sure you are pursuing vacancies that are actually worth going after. If a job or company is not right for you, you will end up wasting everyone’s time. If a job does sound like a good fit, you will want to be sure you have the right expectations if you do get hired.

Here are five great questions to bring up during a job interview. (See also: How to Answer 23 of the Most Common Interview Questions)

How Often Does Your Current Staff Receive Promotions?

You should understand how committed a company is to promoting from within. Many employees take positions just to get a job but fail to find out what the advancement potential is in a company. If the employer has a lot of positive things to say about an employee’s ability to move up the ladder, you can ask more specific questions relevant to your own career path. If they are unable to provide you with information or try to avoid the question, you need to carefully consider whether the opportunity is right for you.

How Are Employees Compensated for a Job Well Done?

There are a wide variety of ways a company shows appreciation for loyal employees that exceed expectations. While financial rewards are always good, it is important to explore what else the company may provide outside of money. You want to identify businesses that do not acknowledge employee efforts, and asking such a question can give you a more in-depth look at how a company treats its staff.

Have You Ever Mentored an Employee to Help Achieve Their Career Goals?

If the interviewer is the person who will be your direct supervisor, you can learn a lot about their leadership characteristics through their answer to this question. There are many great leaders who are happy to help others get ahead and there are many in leadership positions just looking for a paycheck.

How Do You Promote Teamwork and Maintain a Motivated Environment?

If you are interviewing just to secure an income, you may not care to pose this question. However, if you are interviewing for a long-term career positions, you will want to check out the health of the work environment and understand things from the management’s perspective. You may also want to reach out after the interview to employees who already work for the company to see how their experience compares. If you get a positive review from management and a negative one from current employees, you may want to do more research into the realities of the work environment.

What Is the Process for Employee Reviews?

Career-focused individuals should want to know how they are doing periodically. Find out how employee reviews are done and if they are done on a regular basis. Some employers do not bother to communicate effectively with their staff, which can ultimately leave you dissatisfied and frustrated on the job in the near future.

While there are many more situation-specific questions to ask during an interview, you can use these starter questions to help you brainstorm. Ideally, you should take time to prepare your questions on paper in advance of your appointment day. As people tend to be nervous during the interview process, they forget their concerns and leave with too many unanswered questions.

A job interview should be much more than just finding out what the salary and benefits will be. If you plan to commit to a job, you should have a good understanding of the company policies and the right expectations about the kind of work environment you will be reporting to every day.

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This article is from Tisha Tolar of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Great Ways to Save Money by Volunteering

Tisha Tolar — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 09:48:33 +0000

I’ve always been the volunteering type, especially since I became a mom. I believe strongly in helping others, and I want my daughter to learn that value, too. For the last decade I have been part of a community recreation board, helped with youth sports programs, and served as a Girl Scout leader. Recently, I have taken an interest in helping out at a friend’s equine farm. (See also: Money-Making Lessons From the Girl Scouts)

I have found that my volunteering has been personally rewarding, but those efforts have helped me financially, too. No, none of those volunteer positions were paying positions, but they nevertheless helped me save money and boost the bottom line.

Free Admission

I have been able to attend a lot of great events, even with my family, at no cost to me. I may have to spend some time behind the concession stand, and I may have to stay later to help clean up. But it has always turned out to be a great time, and we don’t have to worry about expenses for a night out. We have also been able to eat free at the events.

No-Cost Extras

Sometimes at the end of the night there are extra things like food that didn’t get sold or cannot be used again. In most cases, these items are given away rather than tossed into the trash. Food is not the only thing I have scored at the end of an event. I’ve gratefully accepted craft and art supplies, clothing, and other promotional items.

It’s All About Who You Know

There are a lot of great people you want to know, especially when you are in a pinch. Plumbers, carpenters, lawyers, and a host of other professionals are all volunteers. I’ve met many people who I might not have otherwise become friendly with that have helped me at a lower cost or for no charge at all. As a big fan of the barter system, I have also been successful at helping people with marketing and website content in exchange for getting my lawnmower repaired.

Networking Opportunities

As a freelance writer, networking is vital to my work. Since I also dabble in marketing, I have found that local connections give me the opportunity to meet small business owners and organizations that could benefit from my help. I can do this kind of connecting on a casual basis without spending a dime. I am also more likely to get the work because I get to know people on a personal level.

Fun Privileges

There have been many occasions in the past that have allowed me access to places and things I may not have been able to get without my volunteer connections. I’ve been able to borrow character costumes for my kid’s birthday party, march in parades, and participate in many fun things at no cost. I’m currently planning my daughter’s birthday party at the horse farm at no cost to me, saving me a few hundred bucks in rental space.

No Gym Fees

Volunteering definitely keeps me moving. Some opportunities provide much more activity than others, but the fact is I am getting out of the house and moving around. As a work-at-home writer, I don’t have much occasion to leave the house outside of local errands. With my volunteer work, I have a reason to get out and about. I can’t beat the physical activity at my latest opportunity. A few hours of barn work replaces several hundred dollars a year in gym membership fees. Not only that, but I love the work I do — something I cannot say about formal exercise.

Certainly you should volunteer your time because you genuinely like to help people and spend your time purposefully. But if you have been considering taking on some volunteer work, you can look at things from your own perspective as well as for those you are directly helping. You never know what awaits you!

Have your volunteer efforts helped you financially?

This article is from Tisha Tolar of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

9 Unexpected Benefits of Volunteering

Tisha Tolar — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 10:24:31 +0000

From large scale operations to small community events, volunteers are always needed. There are plenty of stories promoting the work of celebrities who volunteer their time and talents, but there are many more people that work silently without recognition. They do it for personal satisfaction and to make a difference in someone else’s life. Along the way, most volunteers reap many additional, also often unheralded, rewards. (See also: Surprisingly Easy Ways You Can Support Charity)

1. Develop Real World Skills

Volunteering your time and talents only allows you to utilize the skills you already have, and it allows you to learn new ones. When you volunteer, you mix with a diverse group of people who can teach you something new. The best part is you can pick up these skills in the real world by actually putting them into action, giving you experience you can use in your work life and your personal life.

2. Set an Example for Your Kids

The next generation needs to learn the value of volunteering, and you may be the ideal role model for the kids in your own life. By volunteering, you may also have a great impact on the children of the future when your work directly makes a difference in their lives. They may be more likely to grow up and pay the favor forward.

3. Make Professional Connections

Many of the other volunteers you will meet may be connected to your life or career in some way, but you have only met through volunteering. If you are looking for a new job or other opportunity, those fellow volunteers can be instrumental to your success. The people you volunteer with already know you are generous, giving, and outgoing, but also hardworking, effective, and committed — characteristics employers and potential clients are always looking for.

4. Boost Your Current Career

Your volunteer experience can take you to a new level at your present job, too. The skills you are learning through your volunteer work can make it easier to rise up in the ranks as you gain more experience. Employers are always seeking leaders, and as a volunteer, you have already demonstrated important leadership qualities.

5. Save Your Money While Doing Good

If you have causes that are close to your heart, but your budget is tight, you can give whatever spare time you have in place of cash. Keep your money growing in the bank but take some time out of a weekend to volunteer at a local organization or event. While monetary donations help, physical help is often much more appreciated. You may not be able to reasonably afford to buy supplies for the local SPCA, but you can spend an afternoon playing with shelter animals who love the attention.

6. Meet Like-Minded People

If you are trying to save more money but have friends that are mostly interested in costly nights on the town, you may feel somewhat left out of the social circle. By volunteering your time, you can associate with a lot of like-minded people you may not have had the opportunity to meet before.

7. Fill Your Social Calendar

If your family life or financial life has caused you to spend more time at home, you may at times feel trapped between four walls. By volunteering, you get the opportunity to attend events, meet new people, and explore new experiences you may not have known about before. In many cases, volunteers get to attend activities for free and can reinvent their social life without financial burden.

8. Get New Experiences

You can choose to remain local and help with youth or community activities, or you can travel the world as a volunteer. There are many organizations that can provide you with travel opportunities to countries in need of medical help, housing assistance, or education. Exploring the many opportunities available can lead you to new experiences you may not have previously considered.

9. Understand Gratitude

One of the best things that can come from volunteering is the realization of what you have in your life when you see what others do not. Gratitude is an important component of a well-rounded life. Being grateful for what you already have can help you resist the urge to want more. You can get a fresh perspective on what really matters, so you can live a simpler, less stressful life.

What have you gained from your volunteering?

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This article is from Tisha Tolar of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

6 Reasons Your Great Startup Business Is Doomed

Tisha Tolar — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 09:48:32 +0000

There are many people who have great ideas and the spurt of ambition to pursue their dream of working for themselves. Unfortunately, many of these same people have also gone bust — even before getting their business up and running. If you have been toying with the idea of starting your own venture, you should take time to evaluate what you think running a startup is really like, and what it means to be in business for yourself. (See also: Freelancing: A Beginner's Guide to Doing It Right)

1. You Think You Can Bootstrap It

There are many that go into a business idea without a dime to their name, utterly convinced they were going to make it big. Before telling your boss to take your job and shove it, you should really work through the realities. No matter what your business idea is, there will be overhead expenses to be covered until your business makes money, which can take years to happen. Consider working fulltime for a paycheck until you can truly stabilize your side business.

2. You Don't Believe in Business Plans

As a writer, I’ve been asked to create a lot of different types of material. To date, my least favorite inquiry was from a couple who wanted me to write their business plan.

At first I thought they meant "rewrite" their plan into something more professional. What they actually meant was for me to create a business plan for their proposed trucking company. This couple had not a single clue about what it would take to get the business up and running. They had absolutely no idea how to deal with the immediate future of their company let alone the long-term vision or profitability.

Whether or not you plan to seek the financial assistance of investors, you need to work through a business plan. If you cannot answer the questions common in every business plan, do not open for business until you can answer those questions clearly and confidently.

3. You Are All Talk

Again, in my line of work, I deal with a lot of startup companies looking to cement their presence on the Internet. There are some who will ask for 20 quotes for web content and in the end never do anything about it. It’s one thing to feel excitement about a business idea, but if you are unable to see the project through to completion, starting your own business may not be the best move for you.

4. You Cannot Follow Through

There are some people that are so full of ideas but rarely does one stick around long enough to see it through. Jumping from one idea to the next can be dangerous, especially if you are putting forth your hard earned money for something that is going nowhere. Sort through your ideas in writing and sit with them for a while to see if any stick. Then consider pursuing that idea.

5. You Don't Understand the Business

There are some businesses that fail right off the bat because people fantasize about what the business would be like rather than researching the realities. For example, opening a bakery may look great on television, but it would be to your advantage to really see what it is like on a day to day basis. You should make an effort to talk to owners of businesses you are interested in starting for yourself and find out what really happens. You can even shadow a few business owners for real life experience.

6. You Rely on Others to Do the Hard Work

As a business owner getting ready to launch a startup, it is important to realize just how much of the actual work falls on your shoulders. You wear many hats, especially during the first few years when paid help may not be a viable option. You have to be committed to doing all of the hard work and seeing it through or you will be closing the doors soon after they open.

You also need to really consider your target audience. If you are planning to open a jewelry business and think having only your friends and family as customers will keep you afloat, you may want to reconsider your business plans and keep your jewelry-making skills as a favorite hobby.

Not everyone is cut out to be an entrepreneur. Surely there are things that can only be learned through trial and error, but when you are investing your own time and money, you may not be able to afford too many errors. Do your research, complete a full business plan if only for your own benefit, and really consider the pros and cons of what you are venturing into.

Have you gotten your startup business through the difficult first few years? What do you know now that you didn't know then?

This article is from Tisha Tolar of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Up Before the Roosters: Becoming an Early Riser

Tisha Tolar — Tue, 15 Jan 2013 11:24:33 +0000

One of the goals I contemplate for myself on a near weekly basis is rising earlier every day. As a person who works from home and knows what damage slumps can do to motivation and productivity, I’ve wanted to create a better way to do things. The few times I’ve found myself up before the sun turned out to be very good days where I truly felt accomplished.

But saying I’ll wake up earlier when I go to bed at night only leads to my snoozing through several alarms the next morning. Surely many people experience the same defeat. But I am still motivated to try and change my undisciplined ways, and I was happy to discover that waking up earlier actually has many benefits. (See also: How to Naturally Reset Your Sleep Cycle in One Night)

Advantages of an Early Wake Up Call

As a writer with a family, a lot of my evenings are filled with constant interruptions that leave me frustrated and unproductive. At one time I was a night person who preferred to sleep all day, but the older I get, the earlier I find myself dropping into bed exhausted. Getting up earlier in the day has distinct benefits and can change the direction of your entire day.

Less-Stressful Start

Consider how many days you wake up in a rush, trying to get everyone out the door and getting yourself to work on time, which leaves you irritated and exhausted before lunch. By getting up earlier, you give yourself the pleasure of a more relaxed start. You can grab some time alone to fully wake up and get a grip on your day before rushing into life with everyone else.

More Productivity

In line with having more time for you, early risers also tend to be more productive. Even with just 30 extra minutes a day, a lot can be done. The dishwasher can be loaded, laundry folded, dinner ingredients prepared.

More Reliability

My grandmother used to say certain people in the family would be late to their own funerals because they were habitually late for everything else. By rising earlier, you can be more accomplished before leaving home and arrive at your destination without the rush. You may see better opportunities at work and become known as a reliable, dependable person rather than a harried, stressed-out mess.

Better Health

Waking up earlier allows you to finally have the time to eat a healthy breakfast and fuel your body for the day. Giving your body time to wake up and digest your food properly is necessary for good health. The chugging-coffee-shoving-a-bagel-down-your-throat breakfast you’re used to can become a thing of the past.

5 Ways to Roll Out of Bed Earlier

You can make it happen. Here's what to do.

1. Start Incrementally

If you want to wake an hour earlier than you usually do moving forward, don’t try to do it all at once. Start with just five minutes and build up from there. When you go to bed each night, think about what you can accomplish in that first 5-10 minutes. It will get easier to reach your hour-earlier goal within a few weeks, and eventually it will become a habit.

2. Adopt a Bedtime Routine

You may find it hard to wake up earlier because you find it so hard to go to bed at night. You’ll need to start cutting out the distractions in the hour leading up to bedtime, including television and caffeine. Try reading a book before bed rather than watching cable or sitting with a to-do list for the next day. By implementing a bedtime routine in your life to ensure you get enough sleep, you will find it easier to rise earlier.

3. Don’t Snooze

Most people put their alarms conveniently right next to their beds at night, making it too easy to slam the snooze button every five minutes. Try moving your clock to a table on the other side of the room. Or get a more annoying alarm clock that doesn’t have a snooze option.

4. Prepare the Night Before

Even with extra time in the morning, it can make you crazy to face a thousand things to do each time you wake up. Start preparing the night before for an easier morning. Have your clothing selected, your lunch packed, and your car keys in a safe location. This way you can get up with your coffee and quiet time to look forward to each day.

5. Reward Yourself

While the extra time in the day can be rewarding enough, don’t forget to pat yourself on the back for achieving your goal. Pick a morning or two a week that is all for you. Rather than getting household chores done, use your early morning time to dive into that book you’ve wanted to read, take a long soak in the tub, or watch your favorite show on the DVR without interruption. It will give you something to look forward to each week and remind you of your success.

Much of adopting a new way of life is mind over matter. Continue to realize the positives your changes are bringing about and find the motivation to keep moving forward with positive changes in your life.

Did you switch from being a night owl to an early riser? How did you do it?

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This article is from Tisha Tolar of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Find Your Hidden Spending Habits and Save

Tisha Tolar — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 10:36:33 +0000

We all know saving is important — some of us may have even made “Save More” one of our New Year's resolutions. Unfortunately, though, when the end of the month rolls around, many of us don’t have anything left to save. (See also: 37 Savings Changes You Can Make Today)

But it doesn’t have to be that way; there may be some hidden spending habits you haven’t uncovered. I know there are some purchases I still don’t believe actually matter much for my budget, such as when I buy a discounted book for my Kindle. But the truth is that all spending matters, and you need to fess up to your hidden habits if you want to put more into the bank — even $150 more.

To that end, I’ve gathered up a few common spending hideouts for you to investigate.

Household Cleaning Supplies

I am starting here because I am guilty of this hidden spending flaw.

Buying one product for one purpose can get really expensive. Add expensive, pleasant-smelling candles, supposed-to-be-magic carpet cleaners, fabric refreshers, and so on into the mix, and your cleaning supply bill each month can clean out your wallet.

Cut down on your cleaning bill by getting back to basics, using home recipes for effective cleaning. Vinegar alone can clean most of the house. Stock up on ingredients your Grandma used to keep the house clean rather than go for overpriced, ineffective, smell-good products. Imagine the savings you’ll have by instead using a gallon of vinegar and a box of baking soda.

Grocery Store Meats

I am also guilty of this spending habit.

I rely on the grocery store for meats when I have a ton of other options that are more cost effective. We have a local butcher shop in the area as well as a farmers market where locally-produced meats can be purchased fresher and at a much lower price than their packaged counterparts. I also have the option of buying larger portions of beef or pork from local farmers, which I can use to stock my freezer for months to come, freeing up more cash from the grocery bill that can go into savings. Consider that cutting four $10 roasts a month saves you $40 right off the bat.

Software Downloads

Technology has made it so easy to buy the latest app, game, or song with a brief touch of your finger.

You may not actually realize how much these little $.99 purchases add up to at the end of a month because you don’t actually look at your credit card statement or review your cell phone bill very closely. If four people in the family are downloading 25 apps each a month, that’s at least $100 spent unnecessarily. Make the kids buy their own gift cards for app downloads, and cut off permission to add download charges to your bill for everyone on the plan, including you.

Convenience Products

I should make a T-shirt for myself to remind me that every dollar matters! I still can dismiss that $2 cup of coffee I get before attending my monthly soccer meeting or when heading out to see a friend. Fact is, I have a better brand of coffee at home, but I am too lazy to make it for myself on most occasions. It’s easier to stop at the gas station, but it is really ruining my plan for savings.

Other convenience products like fast food stops, pre-made groceries, and the like can also be avoided with some pre-planning and a little food prep in advance.

Stuff You Already Have

I swear that when I walk into a Staples store, I hear angels sing. Staples and other office supply stores are a temptation I just cannot resist.

Everyone needs new pens, another notebook, and fresh highlighters, right? Luckily, I realize how dangerous it is for me to hit the office supply aisles in any store and do my best to avoid them as much as possible. But I also know I am guilty of falling for “great deals” on things I already have a ton of at home. Keep your interests in check and know your weaknesses. That $20 you just blew on stuff you already have would have served you much better if it were deposited into savings.

Guilt Gifts

A lot of spending occurs out of guilt. Just because the rest of the office is buying Suzie a gift for her birthday does NOT mean you have to buy too, especially if you can’t afford it.

Peer pressure can guilt you into spending more than you want to, need to, or should. Take a stand with yourself, and don’t fall for the pressure. If you feel the need to contribute to a celebration, offer to decorate her desk, make a card, or have another task that won’t cost you money. Let’s be honest — it is far wiser to invest in yourself than to buy useless stuff for people you hardly know.

Get Motivated

Whatever you have to do to motivate yourself, do it. Paste pictures of piles of money around the house to remind you how nice it would look sitting in your bank account. Consider life without having to worry about paying for emergencies. Whatever it takes to keep you focused on savings and related goals, find a way to make it work. If $150 is too high a goal starting out, make it $50 and find a way to get it. Keep adjusting your goals, and aim for a larger cut of your income to be safely stashed in savings.

What spending habits have you transformed into savings habits?

This article is from Tisha Tolar of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Get Organized for Next December Now: Holiday Take-Down Tips

Tisha Tolar — Thu, 03 Jan 2013 00:42:45 +0000

I just saw a really cool tip courtesy of a Facebook friend that got me to thinking about the importance of doing things properly after Christmas to save me the hassle a year from now. The tip was pretty simple — wrap your holiday lights around a plastic hanger to prevent the tangled wires (and cursing) next year. The lights should go around the body of the hanger, leaving the top hook exposed so that you can even hang up the lights rather than cramping them in a box for another year.

There are other things that I found that will also make the holiday next time around less irritating — here are some to consider right now. (See also: An Organized Year: A Month-by-Month Guide)

Recycle Your Gift Packing for Safety

If your family finally got that big flat screen television, do not put the box out for the trash collection. Crafty thieves like to stalk trash piles to see what everyone got as gifts; it makes it easier to target the houses with good stuff to steal. Sad as it is, you should hide your present boxes and wrappings, and recycle your packaging to prevent temptation for criminal activity.

Create an Inventory List

One of my biggest pet peeves about my Christmas take-down process is that by the time the next year rolls around, I have forgotten most of what I have concerning decorations. It never fails that I go out and buy new stuff because I think I am lacking only to find I actually did have a wreath for the front door and I did have enough net lights for the front yard. As you begin to disassemble your decorations and tree, take a second to write down the stuff you have. It may help to categorize items you used by room. I have a friend who takes photos of all her decorating strategies so she will remember where they go next year. It also will help you remember exactly what you have.

Buy Reliable Storage

In the madness of after-holiday shopping, head out and start buying up storage containers. The red and green Rubbermaid tubs might even be on sale after the holidays. Then pack away your belongings by room they are displayed in, taking care with the fragile pieces. You can then attach the inventory list to the lid. Slide the paper into a sheet protector and tape the inventory list right to the top. It will make it super easy to decorate in stages next year rather than having to rip out the entire stash of stuff all over the living room floor.

Create a Christmas To-Do List Now

Every single Christmas since I have had my own family, I have thought to myself "I should write this down" when we are attempting to create a tradition or I think of a good timeline for getting things done. Recently I have been trying to list all the things we like to do and have to get done leading up to December 25, so I don’t regret missing out on stuff. There are a few things we have down pat, but it would be really helpful next year to have a reminder of Christmas past and what our family really loved to do. It will also help to reduce the common holiday stresses by getting a head start 12 months in advance.

Open That Christmas Account

Again, every year I kick myself for not investing in a Christmas Club. My birthday is just a week before Christmas, so I do get side cash, which would be perfect for my first deposit into a Christmas Club account. I have not disciplined myself enough to follow through with this action though. Making regular deposits into a savings account now would make my financial life less screwed up at the holidays and can help me plan a realistic budget for gift giving.

Organize the Essentials

In addition to better organizing the decor of the holidays for easier retrieval next year, it’s also a good time to write down all the accessories you already possess at home including gift tags, boxes, and bows. It is really easy to be dazzled by the aisles of new Christmas stuff stores put out just after Halloween and you may be tempted to throw that extra stuff you don’t need in your cart. Make an inventory of what you have already so you won’t blow cash unnecessarily. Store your extras in a tub so you don’t have it scattered in different locations throughout your house.

Put It All Together

In addition to your holiday tubs, pick up a loose leaf binder at the store and file all your Christmas inventory lists, to-dos, and copies of your favorite holiday recipes on one place. Go a step further, and do the same kind of organizing for all the other big holidays. Store it with your cookbooks or on your bookshelf for easy access all year around. As the year moves forward, collect any new ideas and tips and paste them in your Holiday Binder so you’ll always have them on hand.

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This article is from Tisha Tolar of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread: