Good day!

It seems that my new look template has disappeared on me.  Being a non-technical person I have decided to give up on it for the moment!

Thanks to Liz and Rob who offered to help out -- I may still take you up on that!

I know that a lot of people are hurting at the moment and however we like to brighten the dreaded recession up with a smile, some practical steps are needed to help too.  With this in mind I have written an article which can be found on EzineArticles.com.  It is here for you to read as the feature article.

I must be mad!! I've signed up to a challenge to write 100 articles in 100 days and the challenge had already been going for three weeks.  Still, I thought it would get me motivated and into a habit.  They say making a habit of writing gets rid of writer's block.  

Enjoy your week and untill next time...

Best wishes,
Lyn Bell

by Lyn Bell

1. If you are in debt find ways to get out as of this situation as quickly as possible. You may need the assistance of a financial professional or budget adviser who can help you with your budget. Think twice about putting anything on credit card, you do not want extra debt.
2. Make cuts on your daily spending. Do a budget and look at ways you can cut costs. When buying groceries, buy only what is necessary. Switch to a cheaper home brands.
3. Make sure you have some rainy day money set aside for emergencies.
4. We all have bills to pay and the most important of these is your mortgage. Always make sure you pay the mortgage as a priority so that you will not be forced to sell.  Speak to your bank if you can see a problem looming.
5. Take a look at your electricity, gas, mobile phone, insurances and even your bank account. Check to see if you can switch to another provider that offers cheaper rates.
6. Make lunches at home for you and the kids to take it to work and school. You'll be surprised at just how much this can save you.
7. Go through the spare room, wardrobes, the garage and attic. Search out any items you no longer use and have a garage sale.
8. Perhaps you can ask your employer if you can do some of the work at home. This will help you save gas as you don't have to drive to work. Be sure that you are as productive at home as you are in the office. If working from home is not possible, see if you can carpool with someone at the office or use public transport.
9. Cut down your electricity expenses by switching off the lights when you are not in a room. Switch off electrical items at the wall when not in use.
10. If you own an SUV or large vehicle, trade it in for a smaller vehicle. You will get better mileage.

Thanks to Harei for bringing this program to my attention.  It is is a great f*ree program and perfect if you want clarity, ease of use and an understanding of your financial situation.  I gave it 4.9 out of a possible 5. I particularly like the fact that you actually don't need to download anything and you don't share any information with anyone.  You can create another budget for your business or other purpose. There's also a billboard where you can share ideas with other users, if you like.

To Read the full review>>>

"Happiness cannot be traveled to, owned, earned, worn or consumed. Happiness is the spiritual experience of living every minute with love, grace and gratitude."

- Denis Waitley
 

Copyright © 2009 by Lyn Bell & Associates - All Rights Reserved.

Editor: Lyn Bell,  Lyn Bell & Associates
Lyn@SoundFinance.com

P O Box 38094, Parklands, Christchurch 8842, New Zealand
+64 3 3870219

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