by Triple Water Astrology

Created on: March 14, 2009   Last Updated: November 20, 2009

Fasting is unpleasant, at times, but will make you healthier in the long run. If you feel that your financial life is unhealthy, perhaps a financial fast is in order.

Determine what you absolutely need to spend money on, and don't spend money on anything else. Normally this involves spending a minimal amount on housing, food, clothing, and transportation.

Fasting is usually not fun, but it gives a person a good chance to use some creativity and perhaps break out of a normal routine or rut. Obviously a person won't be making extra payments on a mortgage during a financial fast (although that may actually be the purpose of doing so, which would be the exception). Eating out is out. Taking the bus or walking will become more of a way of life. Turning out the lights and visiting the library might replace watching television.

Setting a set period of time for the fast is useful. A good month of fasting is better than not following a fast for six months. Even a week of fasting can be beneficial and most people wouldn't mind a week of giving up a few comforts. Having a clear goal or objective is also useful. No purpose to a fast makes it less likely to succeed. Fasting to obtain a down payment on that nice car that you want is very ample motivation.

The rest is relatively easy, on paper. Comprise a list of your monthly expenses. Housing, transportation, and food will probably top the list. Clothing and entertainment are also important. Most lists will include cell phone bills, utility bills, credit card bills, and various other bills as well. This is the month when all non-essential items will be cut. You have to pay the mortgage or rent - but you probably will not be doing any home improvements. Even something that needs to be fixed will have to be done somehow without spending. Can you fix it yourself with materials you already have?

You need to eat. But it won't be at a restaurant. You will be using coupons and cooking a lot from scratch. Are you able to bicycle or walk to where you usually go? Limiting the use of the car as much as possible will be a priority. Riding the bus might work well, although it's not as convenient as driving. Cut the use of your cell phone; don't charge anything to your credit cards; and find ways to make your home more efficient, such as always turning out the lights and unplugging unused appliances.

Almost no one likes a financial fast, but some determination and clear objectives can make it worthwhile.

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