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4 Tips to Keep Drooling at Bay
1. Decide ahead of time not to spend it. If you later change your mind, ask yourself, "is my *want* important enough to use this lump sum of money?"
2. Tuck it into savings immediately (preferably your emergency account). Or, if that sends you into a cold sweat, put up half of it. Avoid Money Sponge. Don't be tempted to leave it in checkbook! 3. Think of your tax return as *Freedom Money*, not as *extra*. Add bits of money to it for a 'Freedom-To-Be-My-Own-Boss' Account.
This is money you've managed to do without over past year. You didn't miss it then -- no need to miss it once you've tucked it away...
4. Picture yourself debt free... All credit cards are paid off. You have a few thousand dollars in several money accounts. You are contributing to your retirement account on a regular basis. Bill-paying time is stress free. You can go out from time to time, paying cash as you go. Emergencies are covered.
Your money is under control. Your control -- not that of credit card companies or debt collectors.
Will this year's refund bring you a new sofa, Perfect Pecs, or Feel of Freedom? You have *power* in palm of your hand -- to take a huge step forward in your financial life.
Will you DO it?
Darlene Arechederra is author of Rat Race Blues-How to Break the Stranglehold. She believes that everyone can save money -- once they find what *works* for them. Fr*ee weekly newsletter offers no-budget strategies and motivation for saving money and digging out of debt. Change your thinking, change your balance. Lots of encouragement! http://www.RatRaceRemedies.com