Money is a big stress factor, no matter how much you have, or don't have. You worry about what you are going to do with your money, where you're money's going to come from and how you're going to pay this months bills. Money can be a cause of stress to single moms or stay at home moms because they are the sole moneymaker or can't contribute from employment to help with bills.
Here are some helpful tips to combat it.
Budget
To manage your money stresses, you're going need to work out some money changes. This might mean that dreaded "B" word, budget. Being on a budget, and more importantly sticking to that budget should lessen the stress money is causing you.
Sit down and write out what you have. List the money coming into your home. The money you have coming in usually is not going to change, at least not immediately. Do away with unnecessary expenses like takeout food every week. That same money could have been used for a trip to the grocery store, which provides enough for food for several meals.
Get organized
Being organized will help you avoid money stress. Keep good, concise records for tax purposes and so you know how much is coming in and going out of your home or business each month. Set up a plan, stick to it and watch what's being spent. Take control of your bills and expenses.
Start Saving
Another way to lower your stress about money is by creating and sticking to a savings plan. A savings account can be started with just five dollars a week. As small as that may be, when you really have an emergency you don't have to stress since you'll have the money set aside. Learn to cut expenses. Lower your thermostat a few degrees in winter and wear a sweater. Use energy saving light bulbs. Turn off lights when you're not using them. Take shorter showers. Find simple ways to lower the regular bills.
Barter for the things you need.
Learn to barter and trade. Look online for sites that allow you to trade old stuff you no longer need for stuff you do really need. Like trade your old stereo for children's clothes. If you can do a service, such as bookkeeping, or maybe you're a great cook, offer these services to a friend or neighbor who can do something in return such as fix your car or repair the computer.
Stock up on Staples
At back to school sales, stock up on paper and pencils. Look for good buys on socks. Stock up on canned goods when they go on sale. If you have the storage space, stock up on paper goods and bottled water. If you have a freezer, stock up on frozen foods and large portions of meats. Having your cupboards and freezer filled saves time, gas and money-all big stressors when you have kids.
Bargain Shop.
Reduce your money stresses by saving at yard sales and estate sales. Look for children's clothes at great prices. If you're an avid reader, you can often find boxes of books for as little as a dollar. Look for bargains at store and inventory clearance sales. Need a new sofa? Last years discontinued models are almost always a great bargain.
Find inexpensive ways to relax.
Read a book. Pop some popcorn and spend time with the family with a great movie. Rent a movie or visit your local library for DVDs you can check out. Have a cup of herbal tea while you meditate. Take up an inexpensive hobby. Knit, crochet, sew, or some other creative outlet. And who knows, you might enjoy it so much it becomes a new career. Write in a journal or blog to your online friends. Play a video game with your kids. Listen to mellow music.
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