How to stop spending money you don't have

Feeling guilty because you can't buy your kids the toys, sandbox, swing set, video game, etc.? Think of it this way. If you do not spend money that you don't have, you are doing the following great things for you and your family!

• You are keeping your budget simple and easier to balance (or keep track of)
• Teaching your children the value of a dollar by not spending money you don't have
• Giving yourself a feeling of freedom (not guilt) by living with your means
• Teaching your children to be creative by coming up with their own new games or toys
• Making less clutter and mess to clean
• Most likely, making your relationship with your significant other better based on better financial decisions

Now...do you still want to buy that item??

Does money control you or do you control your money?

Well, I am on my way! I am motivated and determined to save money! I was talking to my friend one day and it occurred to me that she never seems totally stressed out about money. So, I asked her about it. She explained that she does in fact get stressed about money but she keeps 3 months of living expenses for her family in the bank so that if an unexpected expense comes up (and it always does) she is not too upset since she has a cushion.
Well, this started my quest to get some control over my spending. A few things occurred to me during this quest.
1. Saving money is just a practice of self discipline. I have lost weight before so I can do this too!
2. My happiness is not based on "things". I took a long look at my husband and my daughter playing together and I realized what makes me truly happy....those moments are truly priceless.
3. Asking "What is a need" vs. "What is a want?" I tend to make this idea complicated sometimes but it really isn't. If I stay in my budget and give myself a few wants than I will be heading in a good direction for our family budget.
4. Buying something on sale or using a coupon does not mean I am SAVING money. If I use a coupon for something that is a true NEED than I am saving, but if I use it for a hot pair of heels I am not SAVING money-I am spending it!

Well, so far so good. It hasn't been the most FUN quest in the world but nothing that builds character is "fun". I have sat down with my husband to go over finances and I'm really trying to seek ways to spend our money differently and more effectively. I want us to take control over our money and not have money control us. Stay tuned...