Get ready in three steps If you'd like to get a handle on your spending habits, all it takes is a small notepad and a bit of determination.
Step 1: Figure out how much cash you need to cover a week's worth of gas, groceries, entertainment, dinner on the town, breakfast at McDonald's, books, music CDs, cosmetics, gifts -- the whole gamut of casual expenses.
Step 2: Be honest. Don't deliberately overestimate so that you're sure to have enough cash to get through the week.
Step 3: Set the anticipated amount aside and don't use debit or credit cards.
If you get through the week with the cash set aside, congratulations! If you need to make a trip to the ATM, it's OK. Review your purchases and see where you could have trimmed costs. This is about developing a mind-set where you seriously consider daily cash expenditures. It can lead to more money in your savings account and long-term financial plans that stay on track.
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