STEP 2: SCREAM!! or make adjustments..

So you should have your budget done.. DO YOU???.. If not, go and DO IT!!!! Can't help you if you don't, duh??

OK, so screaming seems appropriate but you can make adjustments to the income or to the expenses. Don't worry people do it all the time.

Adjusting your income is not always easy. Is it time to step up and ask for a raise?? Maybe not in this economic time but you can try, maybe it will give you a time frame as to when a raise will be coming. There are other ways to get more money though

• Sell your old junk, I mean treasures, online or at flea markets or a garage sale. **Hint - sometimes junk is junk and should be thrown away!!
• Do you have other skills??? - writing, babysitting, crafter. Offer your special skills for pay.
• Call in IOUs - yes, friends are friends and some do take advantage of your generosity. It is time for you to collect all debts owed to you.
• Get a 2nd job - even 2 days a week will help with the groceries. Just be sure to weigh all the pros and cons. ie. cost of child care, gas, uniforms, etc.

Adjusting your expenses can be uncomfortable and down right PAINFUL!!! Do you know the difference between NEED & WANT? Bet you don't...

• Morning routine - does this involve a stop at a coffee shop or for a donut or breakfast sandwich??? $8 a day, $40 a week, $160 a month. ADDS UP DOESN'T IT!!! Buy cereal, it did not ill you as a kid, it won't now!!! **At least try to not buy 2 days a week. it will get easier.
• Cable/ Satellite TV - Call you provider and ask if there are any deals. If not, reduce your services for a little while. Still not happy with that. Keep track (yes, a list) of what you watch. Then look over it at the end of the month. Chances are you only watch the same shows and don't need the extra channels.
• Dining out - Reduce dining out at fast food places 1 time a week & you can save $20 a week for a family of 4. $80 per month. More if you reduce it even more.

I know those may seem absurd to some but THINK about it. $10 doesn't seem like a lot when you spend it but when you are short at the end of the month for bills. Look back and ask your self what you DID NOT NEED!!!

I speak for experience so I am not preaching in any way. I only want to pass on the simple truths I have learned the hard way.