How to Take Control of Your Money in 2011

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I agree that I also have the January hangover myself. This year was especially hard as I was ill and did not shop for the holidays. None of my children, family, or friends received much (only a small box of necessities for the children for Christmas this year). It has made me want to make it a good Valentine's Day for my husband and children. Not that I want to go crazy, just that I want to get them something nice. That said, I am bad about the January hangover as is my husband. My biggest want at this time is to sit down with my husband and discuss our finances, so we are on the same page. Then to sit down with my husband and children, so everyone is understanding the big picture. That can be especially hard as I have more education then does my husband. He thinks I can miraculously put together our budget without any input from him or any open discussion as a family. I need his input to determine what he thinks would be a proper amount for the needs he has, such as car maintenance (his biggest need/want). How do you convince a man with no education after high school, just life experiences? Lost in personal financial sabotage!

Danielle Romeo of CO 9:35AM February 12, 2011

Great, simple advice. It is so true that much of our stress comes from worrying about things that we cannot even control. I think there are many people who feel like money is one of these things. But, with proper education and adjusted habits regarding money, it can quickly come back under our control. I think too that sometimes companies want us to think they can handle our money better than we could, sneaking us into a money trap of paying them and underestimating the power of knowledge. Taking control does not have to be scary. Begin with baby steps and before you know it you will be running in the right direction!

Shannon Marie Bennett of TN 9:20AM January 09, 2011

I find January particularly difficult because of the shopping I do in December in preparation for the holidays. Although I am within my budget for holiday shopping, I am still in the stores and exposed to so much in December that I actually have a bit of a hangover in January. I have realized that what keeps my shopping under control throughout the year is the ability to determine needs from wants. But, in December that seems to be lost in my shopping as I am focused on finding good deals. Then in January, I have to find a way to shut off the "good deal" shopping and go back to needs and wants. Of course, this is by no means a life or death issue - but it does amount to feeling deprived because a good deal doesn't necessary fulfill a need.

Susan of WA 6:41PM January 08, 2011