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before Christmas when you were a kid staring longingly at the wrapped packages under the tree? Be honest. Sometimes the wanting was the best part. If there is something you want, save for it or buy it on lay away. Make the wanting part of the pleasure instead of going for the instant gratification hit.

Prune the Easy Stuff

There are many small things you can do that will immediately yield results, make you feel that you're on the right track, and probably generate more cost-saving ideas by association.

- Change all the light bulbs to compact fluorescent and turn off lights you aren't using.

- Turn the thermostat up a couple of degrees in summer and down in winter.

- Talk to your insurance company. Are their reasonable ways to lower the premiums on your homeowners and car insurance?

- Eat at home and reserve restaurants or take-out for special occasions or "treats." (You could add a little weight loss on top of successful budgeting in the deal.)

- Buy store brands instead of the name brands you buy now (for no better reason than your Mother bought them.)

- Clip coupons and use them. (Also, always take a list to the store with an idea for several days of meals in advance. This cuts down on impulse buying.)

- Shop at big box discount places for things that are less expensive when purchased in bulk. (If you don't need that much, make an agreement with a friend to share the cost and split the supplies.)

- Use your freezer. Buy meat and other items on sale and freeze them until needed.

- Turn your clothes wrong side out when they go in the dryer to minimize fading and wear. (Use cold water detergents and shave a little more off the electrical bill for the water you didn't heat.)

*There Has to Be a Carrot*

Finally, reward yourself. Even the most dedicated dieter has the cheeseburger from time to time. When you've had a good budget month, all the bills are paid (and hopefully you've put some of the excess in a savings account for a rainy day), do something for yourself, no matter how small. Remember, this is a lifestyle change, not a prison sentence. You may be surprised how good it feels to take yourself to the movies for a budget job well done.

Learn more about this author, Rana Williamson.
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