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Reduce Your Money Stress

By Diana Fletcher

Are money issues affecting your family life or your sleep?
One of the best ways to reduce the stress of a money problem is to look at it squarely in the face and resolve to take care of it. That first step is the hardest, but then you are on your way.
I would like to share three important steps to get you started to reduce your money stress.
1) You need to look at where the money is going. Carry a notebook or paper with you, and write down every penny you spend. At the end of a week, total up the amounts and see where the money went. I guarantee you will be surprised and will be able to spot changes you could make to lower your spending. Continue to do this as a way of staying aware of your habits. (It is hard to look honestly at ourselves sometimes, but it is the only way to make healthy changes.)
2) Leave the credit cards at home. Keep one with you if you absolutely have to, for emergencies, but leave the others at home. It will be easier to resist temptations.
Another tip is to use cash instead of a bank card. This can make you more aware of the amounts you are spending.
3) Make a date with yourself and if pertinent, with your partner. You need to spend some time thinking about your goals.
Attitudes about money can differ wildly. You need to get those attitudes out on the table without argument and bitterness. Do not wait until you get into trouble to discuss where money should go. Work on a plan, and then discuss the difference between needs and wants, and what you want to save for in the future.
If you need more help, you may want to explore working with a financial advisor, consolidating loans, or getting counseling. Ignoring the issues will not make them go away, and you will keep on worrying.
So - take control of the things you can take control of!
Diana Fletcher is the Stress Reducing Expert Life Coach, Author and Speaker. For 25 Free Stress Reducing tips, visit her website at www.dianafletcher.com or contact Diana at (412) 612-5977.

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For more articles, download the Summer '10 issue (PDF)