Just Some Ramblings Part 2

Still on the topic of spring

Something else we can do in the Spring is go through our closet, shed or basement, giving us the perfect opportunity to discard those items we no longer use.  I create three piles: the first for items I wish to keep, the second for items going to the consignment store or for resale, and the third for those items that will go to charity.  If I have not used an item during the previous 12 months or more, there is little chance I will use it again.  Ridding ourselves of items we no longer use gives us a sense of freedom, as well as taking up less storage space.  As a society, we generally keep and store far too much.  Consider the boom in self-storage units, despite having larger houses.   After I have completed the sorting, I make a list of necessary items to complete my wardrobe, household supplies or gardening needs.   I take my list shopping with me and stick to it, starting at consignment or second hand stores, and then moving on to regular retail for the items that I could not find previously.  This will keep more money in my pocket, and if I sell some things this will improve my cash flow. 

If you are a gardener, growing your own fruit and vegetables is a great help for your pocketbook.  If you have not planted a garden before, you may want to consider starting a small one in your backyard.  If you don’t have a backyard, try planting fresh herbs, small tomatoes and greens in plant boxes on your deck.  The process of gardening is inexpensive, gives you some exercise, and rewards you with fresh produce.  The greatest part of gardening is sharing produce with your friends, and storing it to enjoy over the winter months.  The cost of starting a garden is minimal and the rewards are great. 

Both of these ideas help to save money, and reduce waste.

  If you have a small business you may be interested in this event.

Title: Small Business Savings Tips
Time: Thursday, May 10th at 9:50am Pacific
Listening method: Phone + Web Simulcast
Password: 54321
Phone number: (206) 402-0100
PIN Code: 316040#


To attend, visit:
http://InstantTeleseminar.com/?eventID=28725636

Just Some Rambling

I have been thinking about the changes that come with Spring: the days are longer, birds start to sing again, and new growth is everywhere.  Together with the New Year, this is a common time to make changes in our life, so I’ve put together some ideas on how you might  save a penny or two.  By saving these pennies, we can have more cash in our pockets, and feel richer, less stressed, and able to meet our financial obligations.

When it comes to personal taxes, the best place to be is at zero.  We should not be excited when we get a refund; it means that someone has held your money, has not paid you any interest, plus you’ve lost all access to that money.  If you are self-employed, the goal is to put away approximately 25% of gross income for both HST remittance and personal taxes.  If you’re an employee, you want the employer to take off just the right amount of money.  You can go to your employer and have the deduction changed, usually by completing some simple paperwork.  A zero balance on our taxes keeps as much cash in our pockets as possible, without the shock of owing the government at year end.

With spring already here and summer just around the corner, consider the great outdoors rather than a membership at a local gym.  There are probably walking trails, running tracks and bike trails within easy reach, and even sidewalks just outside your doors.  Most of these activities require only a quality pair of shoes and your time.  To quote a friend, “air and water are mostly free so take advantage of them”.    Your local community center is usually less expensive than a private club and can be an alternative for those who like to be inside as well this can be a great option for the winter.

Watch for my next blog and more money saving ideas.

For information on personal cash flow contact womenswealthness@live.com

Small Business Saving Tips
Thursday, May 10, 2012
10:00 -10:45 am PST
*FREE Webinar

Do you want your business to be better organized and more profitable? Are there systems and habits you could change to make that happen?

Organizing Help and smk Business Services want to help with a free webinars that includes time and money saving tips to make your business more productive and profitable.

If you are interested in participating please send an email to womenswealthness@live.com