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have better visibility and less clutter. Maybe Goodwill really needs a few navy blue sweaters.

Make lists. Always shop with a list. You do this for your groceries, right? Check your cabinets, peek in the fridge. You spend a lot less when you force yourself just to buy the items written down.

Know when to buy. Would you buy a lawn mower in December? Probably not, but it is wise to shop out of season. Take inventory at each season change and make a list of what you need.

Watch for sales. Know what the regular price really is. Make a mental or written note for those big ticket items. If you shop during the day, during the week, you will have the attention of regular full-time store employees that really know their stuff. Bonus: fewer crowds.

Don't deprive yourself. If you do, you will probably cheat and/or give up. Allow yourself a set amount each month for fun money. Whether you splurge on an hour long massage or a couple of candy bars, that is for you to decide. Find activities that don't cost you a red cent. Go for a walk. Play board games with friends.

Volunteer. It will help you appreciate what you have.

Carry cash. Sounds simple, right? It just hurts a little more to hand over a stack of green bills than that shiny plastic. You will be more conscious of how much money things really cost. Don't carry more than your budget will allow you to spend. When your cash allowance is gone, you are done shopping.

Get support. Enlist your family or a few friends. Challenge each other. Inform them. They will better understand when you say you can't go to that movie or buy those Minolos. Check out online message boards for more ideas. Arm yourself with knowledge. Stick to it and you'll stay out of financial hell.

Learn more about this author, Terra L. Fletcher.
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