The season to celebrate the Prince of Peace is anything but peaceful for many of us. Hijacked by our culture of consumerism, we’ll spend far too much of our time shopping for others with money we do not have. According to a recent survey conducted by Experian Consumer Services, shoppers anticipate spending nearly $800 this year for gifts alone, with forty-nine percent of … [Read more...]
The Art of Impulse Buying: How to Know When It’s Right
I had to be out of the office this week at an off-site training in the City. Normally, I get in, I get out, I get on with my life. But New York City summers are something I marvel and savor. I took the long way to the train and found myself outside a thrift store whose mission is to raise money for the homeless and for AIDS patients. I really had no intention of … [Read more...]
10 Ways to Get Alone Time with Your Mate When You Have Small Kids
You need time alone with your mate. It goes beyond wanting or desiring; you need time with your mate. Time alone is valuable to your marriage relationship. It is understandable that some of us can spend more alone time with our mate than others because of different schedules and lifestyles. Nonetheless, even with small kids and busy schedules, thoughtful planning can get you … [Read more...]
Money Monday: 4 Ways to Practice Mindful Spending in 2014
Several years ago, food psychologist Dr. Brian Wansink released Mindless Eating, a revolutionary book that examined how we consume food without even thinking about why or what we're eating. Our eating, in essence, becomes habitual. This mindless eating, Wansink argues, is a prime reason so many Americans are overweight. His take home lesson: we can lose and keep off the … [Read more...]
Money Monday: Create Spending Barriers To Move Ahead Financially
I love Mike and Ikes. I'm an addict for these small chewy fruit flavored pieces of candy. Like potato chips it's nearly impossible for me to stop at just one. One piece, two pieces, three pieces, and before you know it I've gone through a large box. Despite my best efforts, I have been unable to control myself, until recently. My big breakthrough came after eating a … [Read more...]