Are you searching for ideas on how to have a budget-friendly Halloween? If you're looking to celebrate Halloween without breaking the bank, there are plenty of ways to have a great time without spending too much money. By following some simple tips and tricks, you can create a fun-filled Halloween experience that you and your loved ones will treasure for years. Whether it's getting creative with your costumes, making your own decorations, or finding low-cost ways to enjoy spooky treats and activities, there are plenty of ways to have a great time without breaking the bank. As an Amazon Associate, this post may contain affiliate links. How to Budget for an Affordable Halloween Skip the Store-Bought Costumes Shop at Discount Stores for Decorations Host a Free or Low-Cost Halloween Party Volunteer Your Time Bring the Kids to a Free Event Make the Most of Your Pumpkin Have a Costume Contest Watch Halloween Movies Visit a Pumpkin Patch Skip the Store-Bought Costumes With a bit of creativity and resourcefulness, you can easily find affordable and unique costume ideas online or at a nearby thrift store. Don't be afraid to put your own personal touch on your costume by incorporating your own clothes and accessories. For example, a simple outfit and some fake blood can easily transform you into a spooky zombie. Shop at Discount Stores for Decorations When it comes to Halloween decorations, my favorite spot is the Dollar Tree. Discount stores and dollar stores are great places to find affordable Halloween decorations. You can find a variety of spooky decorations like plastic pumpkins, fake spiders, and eerie tablecloths and napkins. If you're looking for even more budget-friendly options, thrift stores and garage sales often have good deals, too. See my feature in Real Simple How to Budget for the Holidays Host a Free or Low-Cost Halloween Party Why not host a party at home instead of going to a bar or restaurant? You can affordably provide some simple food and drinks while inviting your guests to bring their own costumes. It's also a great idea to ask your guests to bring a dish to share while you provide the main course or dessert. Volunteer Your Time If you're looking for a way to celebrate Halloween while positively impacting your community, consider volunteering at a local soup kitchen or homeless shelter. Not only will you be able to enjoy the spooky holiday and save money, but you'll also be able to help those in need. Volunteering at these organizations can involve preparing and serving meals, organizing donations, and assisting individuals experiencing homelessness. It's a great way to give back and make a difference in the lives of others. Bring the Kids to a Free Event Numerous communities across the country present a plethora of free Halloween festivities, including trunk-or-treat activities held at local schools or churches. These events offer a convenient and cost-effective way for families to celebrate this beloved holiday without breaking the bank. These events are held during school hours or earlier in the day, so you don't have to stay out late at night going door to door. Make the Most of Your Pumpkin Instead of just carving your pumpkin and throwing it away, consider repurposing it into tasty treats such as pumpkin soup, bread, or pie. Not only will this help reduce waste, but it's also a great way to use the entire pumpkin and enjoy some delicious meals. So next time you're done with your pumpkin carving, save those seeds and get cooking! Check out The Great Big Pumpkin Cookbook for inspiration for your next fall get-together. See my feature in U.S. News 10 Simple and Free Budgeting Tools Have a Costume Contest Instead of Giving Out Candy Planning a costume competition is an excellent initiative that can engage all members of the community while simultaneously providing a cost-effective alternative to distributing candy. It is a fantastic opportunity for people to showcase their creativity, express themselves, and bond with each other in a fun-filled environment. Moreover, it can foster a sense of camaraderie and promote a positive community spirit. Overall, organizing a costume contest is a well-thought-out idea that can benefit everyone involved. Spend Time at Home Watching Halloween Movies To fully immerse yourself in the Halloween spirit, why not whip up some delicious popcorn and settle down on the couch to enjoy an array of classic Halloween movies? Some great options to consider include "Hocus Pocus," "The Nightmare Before Christmas," and "Beetlejuice." These movies are sure to provide the perfect blend of spooky and fun for a memorable Halloween movie marathon. Visit a Pumpkin Patch In the past, my children loved visiting Pumpkin Patches during the autumn season. Pumpkin patches offered an overload of exciting activities, including games, bounce houses, corn mazes, hay wagon rides, petting zoos, and other fun fall foods to enjoy. It was an excellent way for them to revel in the joys of autumn and create unforgettable memories. What's Next? Don't let a tight budget hold you back from enjoying the spooky season - with a little bit of creativity and planning, you can have the Halloween of your dreams without spending a fortune! So, why not give it a try and see how much fun you can have while still sticking to your budget? Here are some additional tips for staying safe on Halloween: Trick-or-treat with a buddy. It's always safer to go trick-or-treating with a friend or family member. Stay in well-lit areas. Avoid going trick-or-treating in dark or isolated areas. Don't eat any candy that you haven't opened yourself. This is to avoid getting sick from tampered candy. Be aware of your surroundings. Don't walk alone, and be careful crossing the street. I hope these tips help you have a safe and affordable Halloween!

Looking for a hobby that can double as a profitable side hustle? I've gathered ten unique perspectives from CEOs and founders on this topic. From the unconventional venture of ghost hunting to the creative pursuit of blogging for passive income, these hobbies offer a fun and fulfilling way to spend your free time. They can also help to generate a steady stream of income. So why not broaden your horizons and explore these exciting opportunities? 10 Hobbies That Can Be Profitable Side Hustles Ghost Hunting: An Unconventional Business Venture Investing in Startups: A Risky but Rewarding Hobby Monetizing Social Media: A Modern Side Hustle Writing: A Profitable Passion Real Estate Investing: A Scalable Side Hustle Baking: A Delicious Way to Earn Extra Metal Detecting: Unearthing Hidden Treasures for Profit Pet Training: A Niche Market with Potential Photography: A Creative Outlet for Passive Income Blogging: Creating Passive Income through Writing Ghost Hunting: An Unconventional Business Venture Going against the grain, it can be said that a lot more hobbies can be turned into a side hustle than one might think. Take ghost hunting, for instance. This hobby involved a lot of learning, doing, and purchasing the right equipment. Eventually, selling that equipment became a side hustle, and now it's a business called Spirit Shack. In the beginning, there would have been many doubters if the idea of turning this into a side hustle was proposed, and there wasn't a direct path to making it work. However, finding the right rhythm eventually led to the creation of a unique business that has a market and earns money. Sam Ashford, Director, SpiritShack Investing in Startups: A Risky but Rewarding Hobby It may not exactly be a side hustle, but investing in startups is a project that I quite enjoy being involved in and am very passionate about. It is also a very good avenue to earn a passive income. In my downtime from my main project of co-founding a gaming website, I engage in either business-related advising or working with startups. The startups that I am usually drawn to have the potential to assist future generations; they are generally linked to educational purposes. While holding substantial risks, a startup can have a massive future payout if successful. Basically, we provide capital to a budding business, and, in return, we own rights to a portion of the business and the profits they make. Not only is it a good income opportunity, but it is also a method of creating generational wealth for your future descendants. Neal Taparia, Co-Founder, Cribbage Online Monetizing Social Media: A Modern Side Hustle Social networking is a thriving industry with enormous earning possibilities. If you know how to earn likes on Instagram or go viral on TikTok, social media may be the ideal location for your side hustle. There are numerous social media side-hustle options available, such as photo/video editing, social media administration, caption writing, and scheduling. Alternatively, you can grow your own page and use it to your own liking, such as affiliate marketing, online selling, advertisements, and more. These are valid ways to generate income from your scrolling hobby on social media. The best part about this side business is that you can do it from anywhere in the world! Samantha Hawrylack, Founder, How To FIRE Writing: A Profitable Passion If you love to write a journal before bed and have the skills to write stories and articles, you may monetize your hobby. Writing can help you generate a side income. If you have skills and a passion for writing, you can pitch to different clients or companies with your outstanding writing samples. You can be a copywriter for advertising content, as they are in high demand. Also, you can diversify your hobby by creating short e-books for major platforms. You will make a reasonable sum of money as your side hustle. Perry Zheng, Founder and CEO, Pallas Real Estate Investing: A Scalable Side Hustle Real estate investing can start as a hobby and become a serious side hustle—or even a full-time business. This is a lesson learned from my grandfather, who earned enough through real estate to have consistent income streams long after his early retirement. It's scalable (start small and buy more rental properties as your income grows). It's recession-proof (people will always need affordable housing), and you don't need to be an expert to get started. Ryan Chaw, Founder and Real Estate Investor, Newbie Real Estate Investing Baking: A Delicious Way to Earn Extra Baking and selling homemade treats is a hobby with great side hustle potential. It's a win-win—you enjoy baking, and others get delicious goodies. There's a demand for homemade and unique treats, making it a viable income source. You can start small, sell at local markets or online, and gradually build a customer base. The low initial investment and flexible hours make it suitable for busy schedules. Plus, your passion for baking adds an extra touch to your products. With consistent quality and creativity, it's a great way to earn some extra bucks. Ann Young, CEO, Fix The Photo Metal Detecting: Unearthing Hidden Treasures for Profit One hobby that can become a steady income is metal detecting, just like my friend, who often spends weekends doing it. He explores different areas with a metal detector and finds various items, some of which have surprising value. Many people lose rings, coins, or other valuable metal objects; a skilled hobbyist with a good metal detector can find them. After cleaning and sometimes restoring these items, my friend can sell them to collectors or others who appreciate their value. It's a hobby that can pay for itself and generate extra money. It's exciting and rewarding, making it a great side hustle. Martin Potocki, CEO, Jobera Pet Training: A Niche Market with Potential One hobby with the potential for good money is helping pet owners with pet training and resolving problems. Most people own pets today but get frustrated when their pets destroy things, seem out of control, or appear untrainable. Those who have had pets, taken classes with their pets, or love and know about animals are a perfect fit to help. Since it involves working with the pet and pet owners in the home as a personalized service, you will be in a unique niche that pet stores and obedience schools aren't offering. You can charge decently, and it can be fun as well. Bruce Tasios, CEO, Tasios Orthodontics Photography: A Creative Outlet for Passive Income One hobby that holds the potential to generate a consistent income as a side job is photography. In today's digital age, photographers can monetize their art by selling it online to a worldwide audience. This can be accomplished through stock photo websites, print sales, or even bespoke commissioned projects. Furthermore, photographers can offer their services for special occasions such as weddings or business events. Photography is an ideal side hustle due to its flexible nature, creative outlet, and potential for passive income through online sales. As businesses increasingly recognize the importance of high-quality visuals, the demand for professional photography services continues to rise. Photography is an ideal side hustle due to its flexible nature, creative outlet, and potential for passive income through online sales. As businesses increasingly recognize the importance of high-quality visuals, the demand for professional photography services continues to rise. Khurram Mir, Founder and Chief Marketing Officer, Kualitatem Inc. Blogging: Creating Passive Income through Writing If you love to write and have been thinking about getting paid to do so, blogging is a great option for you. There are tons of websites out there that will pay you to write about a certain topic, product, or service. You will need to research and find the right websites that will be the best fit for you, but once you do, you will create passive income by writing content for them. Matthew Ramirez, Co-Founder, USMLE Test Prep What's a hobby that you have that's been profitable? Leave a comment below.

Did you receive a P-EBT card in your child's name? Summer Pandemic Electronic Benefits Transfer (P-EBT) is a program that provides food assistance to children who are eligible for free or reduced-price school meals but were missing meals due to school closures or reduced hours caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. With P-EBT, benefits are loaded onto an EBT card with your child's name on it, and it can be used to purchase food at authorized retailers. Florida has taken it a step further and issued Summer benefits for children who may go without food during the summer months. As an Amazon Associate, this post may contain Affiliate Links. What is Summer P-EBT all about? In Florida, the amount of P-EBT benefits a child will receive is $120 per student. To be eligible for P-EBT, a child must: Be enrolled in a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP) Be eligible for free school meals, TANF, Medicaid, or Have attended a school that participated in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) If you don't have SNAP benefits, your child will receive a card in the mail. However, if you already receive SNAP benefits, the P-EBT benefits will be loaded onto the same EBT cards, so you may notice an increase in your eligible spend for the month. Why is Summer P-EBT being issued to children? As stated by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), a staggering one in four children in the country experiences food insecurity, a term that encompasses the lack of access to adequate food for a healthy and active lifestyle. Summer P-EBT food benefits are helpful for children because they can help to prevent hunger and malnutrition during the summer months when children are not receiving meals at school. Hunger can have a negative impact on children's physical and mental health, their ability to learn, and their behavior. Here are some additional things to know about P-EBT: Benefits can be used to purchase food at authorized retailers, such as grocery stores, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Benefits cannot be used to purchase alcohol, tobacco, or hot prepared foods. Benefits cannot be transferred to another person. The child must not be currently enrolled in an approved summer feeding program. If you have any questions about P-EBT, you can submit an inquiry to the Florida Department of Children and Families. How To Find Healthy Food When You Live in a Food Desert

Navigating through debt post-divorce can be a daunting task. Luckily, there are a variety of strategies available to help manage debt post-divorce. To help you manage this effectively, I've gathered six insightful strategies from content marketing and business leadership professionals. From considering debt settlement post-divorce to negotiating with creditors and seeking professional help, these are the top tips they've shared. How to Manage Debt After a Divorce Consider Debt Settlement Post-Divorce Prioritize and Strategically Pay Off Debts Stay Organized and Create a Monthly Budget Establish a Financial Action Plan Remove Your Name From the Ex-Spouse's Debts Negotiate With Creditors and Seek Professional Help Consider Debt Settlement Post-Divorce If you end up solely responsible for a debt accrued during your marriage and cannot afford to pay it after the divorce, debt settlement could be an option. Debt settlement allows you to pay off debts for less than you owe. Most times, working with a trusted debt settlement company is advised. Companies that provide debt settlement programs will negotiate with creditors on your behalf to secure new terms that lower what you owe so you can get out of debt years earlier and for much less than other repayment methods. If you enroll multiple accounts in a program, you can merge and lower your monthly payments, which takes immediate pressure off your budget. It's a great option for people who can't keep up with minimum payments and want to avoid filing for bankruptcy. Anna Caldwell, Content Marketing, Accredited Debt Relief Prioritize and Strategically Pay Off Debts Knowing what matters most to you will help you prioritize your financial goals following divorce. Prioritizing and strategically paying off your debts is an important method to help manage debt repayment. Start by compiling a table of all your debts and sorting them according to interest rate, placing the loans with the highest interest rates at the top. Next, pay off the bills with the highest interest rates first while making the minimum payments on the remaining loans. This will save you money in the long term by decreasing the interest you pay over time. You'll soon be on the road to financial security after divorce if you stick to your strategy and keep moving forward. Samantha Hawrylack, Founder, How To FIRE LLC Stay Organized and Create a Monthly Budget Dealing with debt after a divorce can be tough. But here's a smart move: create a monthly budget. It gives you a clear view of your finances and lets you adapt to your new situation. Start by jotting down your income sources and categorizing your expenses, including those debt payments. Look for areas where you can cut back and prioritize debt repayment. Loren Howard, Founder, Prime Plus Mortgages Establish a Financial Action Plan A successful way to handle debt following a divorce is to establish a financial action plan. This plan should include details about all your debts, income, and expenses. Start by listing your assets and liabilities—any property or money you owe. Next, outline how much money you bring in every month from work or other sources of income. Finally, list your expenses, including any money you are obligated to pay in spousal or child support. Once you have an accurate picture of your financial situation, creating a budget and prioritizing payments will be easier. Keith Sant, Founder and CEO, Sell My House Company Remove Your Name From the Ex-Spouse's Debts You should remove your name from any outstanding debts in your name, but for which your ex-spouse is responsible. Brush up on the rules of the co-signed loan. You share many things in common when you are a spouse and in a relationship. You both pay expenses equally, but getting divorced makes things worse. Post-divorce, bear expenses on your own. This will not be easy if you have kids too. You can ease some burden by removing your name from outstanding debt. It can lessen the burden of expenses on you. Obtain a co-signer release. You can also have other borrowers refinance the loan into their names. Or, if you are the only one who has to pay loans, sell the asset and pay off the loans. However, removing a name from a co-signed loan will not be easy. Saikat Ghosh, Associate Director of HR and Business, Technource Negotiate With Creditors and Seek Professional Help Reach out to your creditors and let them know about your situation. They may work with you by adjusting payment plans or interest rates. Don't be afraid to negotiate. Remember, they want their money back too. You may also consider seeking professional help from a financial advisor or credit counselor who can guide you throughout the process. Johannes Larsson, Founder and CEO, JohannesLarsson.com Handling the burden of debt that comes with divorce can be daunting, leaving individuals feeling lost and overwhelmed. These six strategies offer a starting point if you are struggling with debt post-divorce, allowing you to take control of your finances and move towards a brighter future.

Going through financial challenges during and after a divorce can be overwhelming. I have compiled six valuable tips from business founders, CEOs, CMO, and an owner to support you in achieving financial independence. These experts provide advice on managing finances during and after a divorce, including ensuring a fair distribution of debts and understanding your finances. Divorce Tips to Help You Handle Your Finances Ensure a Fair Division of Debts Adapt to the New Lifestyle Post-Divorce Create and Stick to a Budget Update Insurance Policies Manage Stress for Sound Financial Decisions Understand Finances Before and During Divorce Ensure a Fair Division of Debts Don't just split assets; split debts too. It's a common misconception that a divorce is only about dividing assets. But let's not forget about the debts. They're just as important, if not more so. It's crucial to ensure that all debts are accounted for and divided fairly when going through a divorce. This includes credit card debt, mortgages, car loans, and other liabilities. If you don't, you might be shouldering more than your fair share of the financial burden, hindering your journey to financial independence. So, my tip? Be as meticulous about dividing debts as you are about dividing assets. It might not be the most popular advice, but it's practical and works. James Allen, Founder, CPA, CFP, CFEI, Billpin.com Adapt to the New Lifestyle Post-Divorce You might have gotten used to a certain lifestyle and division of income or breadwinning in the relationship. Clinging to that after a separation can stop you from grieving and building your new financial life. If you saw yourself as "someone who no longer works" while married, that might need to change at the identity level before it can change at the financial level. The same goes for if you see yourself as "the one who works long hours" because someone else took care of the house and the personal life: you'll need to change your identity around these personal conceptions and learn to accept a different view of yourself before you can change your financial life. Alex Boyd, Owner, Mindfully Investing Create and Stick to a Budget When going through a divorce, it is essential to monitor your finances and create an effective budget carefully. Without one, you could be spending money unnecessarily or not saving enough for your future. Start by calculating your monthly income and necessary expenses such as rent or mortgage payments, utilities, food costs, car payments, etc. Once you know how much you have to work with, determine areas where you can cut back and look for ways to save money. Be sure to build in a bit of flexibility so that unexpected expenses won't throw your budget off track. Once you have established an effective budget, stick with it and make sure to track your expenses. This will help you stay on top of your finances while giving you a big-picture view of where your money is going each month. Keith Sant, Founder and CEO, Sell My House Company Is Budgeting a Dirty Word? Update Insurance Policies Factoring in and updating insurance policies is one best practice. During a divorce, insurance policies do not change on their own. If a soon-to-be ex is listed as a beneficiary, they will still get the benefits if something unexpected happens to the policyholder. Make sure to update beneficiaries to a child or sibling. Otherwise, they will not receive the benefits that would otherwise go to them. Max Schwartzapfel, CMO, Schwartzapfel Lawyers Manage Stress for Sound Financial Decisions Managing stress and emotions during a divorce can impact financial decisions. By prioritizing self-care and stress management, individuals can maintain a focused mindset for financial independence during and after a divorce. This can include regular exercise, meditation, therapy, or other relaxation strategies. For example, taking daily walks or cooking healthy meals can reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and foster a positive outlook. These strategies can provide a solid foundation for making informed financial decisions and achieving long-term financial goals. Roy Lau, Co-founder, 28 Mortgage Understand Finances Before and During Divorce Divorce can be devastating financially. However, it doesn't have to be. You can achieve a high level of financial independence after divorce by being smart about how you handle your finances. The first step is to clearly understand your finances before you get divorced. This will help you to avoid surprises after the divorce has been finalized. Once you understand your finances before the divorce, you should create a detailed budget that can be used during the divorce process. It is important that you stick to this budget so that you don't end up in more debt. You should also keep good records of all your financial transactions, as this will come in handy when you are negotiating with your ex-spouse about how to divide up your finances after the divorce is finalized. Matthew Ramirez, CEO, Paraphrasing Tool

Starting a conversation with your partner about finances can be challenging. To help you navigate these discussions more smoothly, I've gathered six tips from professionals, including psychology experts and mental health advocates. Their advice focuses on promoting emotional intelligence and fostering a non-judgmental atmosphere when discussing money matters. Creating a Safe and Judgement-Free Zone for Discussing Finances Embrace Emotional Intelligence Dedicate Time for Open Communication Establish Regular "Finance Dates" Foster Empathy and Collaboration Practice Patience and Empathy Create a Judgment-Free Zone Embrace Emotional Intelligence In fostering a safe and open environment for discussing financial matters with a partner, I'd recommend, as a life coach, emotional intelligence. It's about creating a judgment-free zone where both parties feel secure in expressing their financial perspectives and concerns. Approaching these conversations with mindfulness allows us to actively listen and validate our partner's opinion before sharing our own. Having an open and trustful dialogue is key. By following this approach, we can transform stressful confrontations into constructive discussions. Bayu Prihandito, Psychology Expert, Life Coach, and Founder, Life Architekture Dedicate Time for Open Communication As a CEO, I understand the importance of fostering a safe and open environment for discussing financial matters with your partner. One valuable tip for achieving this is to prioritize open and non-judgmental communication. Create a space where both partners can openly express their thoughts, concerns, and goals without fear of criticism or judgment. Start by setting aside dedicated time for financial discussions to foster this environment. Choose a calm and relaxed setting where you can both focus on the conversation without distractions. Begin by acknowledging that discussing finances can sometimes be challenging but emphasize that your goal is to work together towards financial well-being. Active listening is key in these conversations. Encourage your partner to share their thoughts and actively listen to their perspective without interrupting or dismissing their concerns. Sai Blackbyrn, CEO, Coach Foundation Related: The Benefits of Financial Coaching for Couples Establish Regular "Finance Dates" One strategy I find helpful is setting up regular "finance dates." You might think, "A date to talk about money? Really?" but hear me out. Every month, my partner and I sit down with some good food and discuss our finances. We started this tradition early in our relationship, making discussing money much less intimidating. These dates are judgment-free zones. We openly share our financial goals, worries, spending habits—everything. And this is crucial—we celebrate our financial wins, no matter how small. Remember, the goal is to foster a space of empathy and understanding. Yes, it's about the numbers but more about supporting each other. Building financial trust in a relationship is a journey, but starting with open and regular conversations makes the path a lot smoother. John White, MBA in Sales, Manager, and Golf Instructor, John Carlton White Foster Empathy and Collaboration It isn't easy to empathize with other people's emotions when they don't align with yours. If you must discuss a sensitive topic like financial matters, start by encouraging open dialogue and validating their emotions and experiences. Avoid blame or defensiveness, and focus instead on collaborative problem-solving. If they overreact, don't escalate. Take a deep breath, listen, and try to understand their point of view. Do this, and you can have honest financial conversations, allowing each of you to feel valued, respected, and heard. Dennis Consorte, Digital Marketingandleadership Consultant for Startups, Snackable Solutions Practice Patience and Empathy When discussing financial matters with your partner, it is crucial to practice patience and empathy. Money is a sensitive topic that can trigger emotions and differences in perspectives. By being patient, you allow your partner to express their thoughts and concerns without rushing or interrupting. It is equally important to show empathy and try to understand their point of view. Recognizing that each individual has unique experiences and beliefs about money and being empathetic allows for a more compassionate and supportive environment. Avoid judgment or criticism and instead focus on active listening and seeking common ground. Practicing patience and empathy creates a safe space for open and honest discussions about finances, fostering a stronger and more harmonious relationship. Sacha Ferrandi, Founder and Principal, Source Capital Create a Judgment-Free Zone Money can be a sensitive topic, often laden with emotions and personal values, so it's important to establish a judgment-free zone. Recognize that money operates metaphorically in our lives, representing many other things such as security, opportunity, trust, and the delicate balance between dependence and interdependence. So it's best to create an atmosphere where both partners feel comfortable expressing their thoughts, concerns, and financial goals without fear of criticism or judgment. Encourage active listening, empathy, and open-mindedness to ensure that discussions about finances are approached with mutual respect and understanding. Remember, the goal is to work together as a team to achieve financial harmony and shared objectives. Julie Muir, Celebrant and Mental Health Advocate, Julie Muir - Celebrant Related: How to Begin the Process of Combining Finances

Need a gift but don't know what to buy? Here are a few items you can gift to hard-to-shop-for friends, associates, or family members. No more wandering the store aisles. The perfect thing can be found here! All of the items in this gift guide are under $40 for the budget-conscious consumer. And yes, I've bought everything on this list. This post may include affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate or Advertiser, I earn from qualifying purchases. Find the perfect fit for: Gifts For Men Gifts For Women Gifts For Babies Gift For Children Gifts For Teens Gifts For Content Creators Gifts for the Hard to Shop For Gifts for Men 1. The Grumpy Octopus Grumpy is the new adorable gift. Similar to Elf on the Shelf, you can place grumpy anywhere. Do you have that grumpy guy in your life? Then, place grumpy around the house on a shelf or in a drawer to turn that frown upside down. Honestly, grumpy can be used as a gift for anyone to bring laughter to your friends, family, and yourself! 2. Customized Boxer Briefs for Men White Kiss Red Lips Gag Gift I know what you're thinking...these are so cute! Yes, my husband thought so, too! This is the perfect gift for anniversaries, Valentine's Day, or even weddings. The quality of the image came out perfectly clear. 3. Beard Grooming Kit The Zeus beard kit is perfect for the bearded individual in your life. The oil included has rave reviews and has been mentioned to have kept the skin underneath the beard moisturized. It comes in different scents and is sulfate and paraben-free. 4. Travel Toiletry Bag Travel Bag with hanging hook This travel toiletry kit was a lifesaver. My husband threw everything in a big gym back with no organization when we used to vacation. Before our summer vacation, I surprised him with this gift for Father's Day. He has kept it stocked and well-organized ever since. Tip: It's also stopped him from asking me where everything was. I think that's a win for everyone. Gifts for Women 1. Chanasya Super Soft Fuzzy Faux Fur Throw Blankets This blanket is perfect for a meaningful sympathy gift, a hospital gift, or as part of a gift basket. My sister-in-law received this gift just because it was purple (her favorite color). It's warm and cozy plush microfiber, and Sherpa makes this blanket great for cuddling up in bed, on the couch or chair, or outdoors. 2. Fun Verbiage Elegant Wide Brim Beach Pool Floppy Hat This is a perfect gift for that jet setter or beach person in your life. This hat comes in various sayings, from Good Vibes to Beach Please. This hat was the perfect addition to my vacation to Jamaica. What do you think? 3. ZESICA Women's Summer Bohemian Floral Dress As you can see, I'm ready for the beach. I have this dress in floral and navy blue. It has elastic that keeps it from falling down and is very lightweight. It's perfect for wearing around town or as a cover-up before you hit the beach. 4. Personal Jewelry Boxes I'll be honest, this gift is great for any occasion. It can be given at bridal showers, baby showers, or birthdays. It's a cute personalized gift box that can be treasured for a lifetime. It can also be used to memorialize one of these special occasions. Gifts For Baby and New Parents 1. Pampers Newborn Swaddlers Disposable Baby Diapers You can never have too many diapers. New parents will thank you for weeks to months to come with these often-used disposable diapers. Pampers are perfect for baby showers, birthdays, and holiday gifts. 2. VTECH Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker From sitting to standing, this toy can grow with little ones. They can get ready to walk and play with the detachable activity panel on the floor while discovering animals, colors, music, shapes, and numbers. This is perfect for new parents or as a gift at a birthday party. As babies grow, they'll continue to learn as they move along. 3. Huggies Simply Clean Unscented Baby Wipes You need something to clean up the mess that's in a diaper. These Huggies can be used for newborns or parents. We all want a clean bottom, so whether or not you're an infant or a parent, these can be taken anywhere you need to be simply clean. Gift Guide For Children 1. Difficult Riddles For Smart Kids: 300 Difficult Riddles And Brain Teasers Families Will Love (Books for Smart Kids) Make reading fun and a little bit challenging for those smarties in your life. This kids' book is a collection of 300 brain-teasing riddles and puzzles. Their purpose is to encourage children to think and stretch their minds. 2. Lot of 30,50,100 pcs Random PVC Different Shoe Charms for Shoe Decoration Whatever size lot you choose, the randomness of these Croc charms can make the pickiest gift recipient fashionable. They are adorable and enjoyable to look at, too! Do you have blue, yellow, green, red, or tie-die crocs? These accessories are versatile in many colors! 3. Brain Flakes 500 Piece Interlocking Plastic Disc Set My nephews are receiving these as a holiday gift. If you're tired of stepping on Legos, these are a great alternative since they're flat! They are also all the rage with elementary school students this year. You will receive rave reviews from any kids who receive this gift. Gifts for Teens 1. Eyelash Extensions - Colored Individual Lashes If you have a teenager in your life, they are more than likely into eyelash extensions. They do not lose their curl and are really affordable. Not to mention, they make your lashes look fantastic too! My daughter adds these to her eyelash extensions to give them a pop of color. 2. Roblox Gift Card It's the ultimate gift for any Roblox fan. Roblox fans can discover millions of free games on Roblox and play with friends on their computer, phone, tablet, Xbox One console, Oculus Rift, or HTC Vive. 3. Amazon.com $25 Gift Card in a Gift Box Reveal When you don't know what to get, or they won't give you a list, you can't go wrong with an Amazon Gift Card. Let's face it: you might even prefer a gift card as opposed to something someone "thought" you might like. Gifts For Content Creators 1. Phone Holder Bed Gooseneck Mount - Lamicall Cell Phone Clamp Clip for Desk Let me tell you, it is so challenging to get your camera angle right if you don't have the appropriate phone holder. This phone holder is sturdy and can be clamped just about anywhere. The Lamicall cell phone holder is perfect for Zoom videos, YouTube videos, or even Facebook live events from the kitchen counter to the office desk. 2. UBeesize 10" Selfie Ring Light with 50" Extendable Tripod Stand & Phone Holder Many ring lights are available now, ranging from $30 to $100 and up. The UBeesize ring light is affordable lightweight, and enables you to adjust the lighting with the click of a button. It's also very sturdy and can be moved to any room in the house or even used outdoors. This is one of my favorite purchases and holds steady after months of use. 3. Veleasha Eyelashes 7 Styles Faux Mink Lashes - Reusable Lights, camera, action! But wait, is your face ready? Many content creators are the face of their brand, so makeup, eyelashes, and accessories are essential for the video shoot. The most exciting thing about the Veleasha Eyelashes is that they are reusable! Variety is the spice of life, and these lashes give all of that! Gifts for People Who Are Difficult to Shop For 1. Give the Gift of Amazon Prime Perfect as last-minute gifts or for those who have it all. Some key Prime benefits: FREE Two-Day Shipping on millions of items No minimum order size Instant streaming of thousands of movies and TV shows Unlimited, ad-free access to over a million songs and hundreds of playlists 2. Audible Gift Memberships If you know an avid reader, this gift keeps them engrossed in their next adventure or self-help book. Every Premium Plus gift membership includes: The Plus Catalog: the all-you-can-listen catalog including thousands of audiobooks, podcasts, and originals 1 credit a month, good for any title in the app to keep forever All the best audio entertainment, all in one free app Here are a few additional tips for saving money on holiday gifts: Set a budget and stick to it. Don't feel obligated to buy a gift for everyone on your list. Make a list of gift ideas and cross them off as you buy them. Shop around for the best prices. Consider giving gifts that are homemade or secondhand. Don't forget the importance of giving thoughtful gifts. By following these tips, you can create a holiday gift list that's both festive and frugal. With a bit of creativity and planning, you can find the perfect gifts for your loved ones without breaking the bank.

Do you ever feel like you're stuck in a financial rut? Like you're working hard but never seem to get ahead? If so, you're not alone. Millions of people around the world struggle with their finances. But it doesn't have to be this way. Here are a few of the most inspirational personal finance books that can help you bridge the gap between your financial dreams and your financial reality. As an Amazon Associate, this post may contain affiliate links. Personal Finance Books for Every Stage of Life The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry The Why of Wealth Nudge: The Final Edition Predictably Irrational The Psychology of Money The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer If you're struggling with the pressures of a busy and stressful life, I suggest reading "The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry." This book can guide you in slowing down, reestablishing your priorities, and achieving a more content and satisfying life. Some of the spiritual disciplines that Comer discusses in the book are: Silence and solitude: This practice involves setting aside time during the day to spend alone with yourself and God. It can be achieved through prayer, meditation, or sitting in nature. My daily exercise or yoga time is perfect for this. Sabbath: This practice requires taking a break weekly to relax and think. It's a chance to detach from work, gadgets, and duties and concentrate on spending quality time with family and friends while focusing on spirituality. However, don't let your spirituality occur just once a week. Remember living a Godly life with a Christian worldview occurs daily and in everything you do. Financial Changes: This practice involves taking a close look at your spending and identifying ways to cut back. It may require you to pay down debt, create a budget, automate your savings, and invest for the future. It's all about not being consumed by material possessions and living a life of simplicity. Simplicity: This practice involves leading a more deliberate and less chaotic life. It may include simplifying your living space, organizing your schedule, and cultivating meaningful relationships. One way that I do this is by using my annual closet-clearing routine found here. Slowing down: Practicing this discipline involves slowing down and appreciating each moment. It may require taking time with daily activities, speaking more relaxed, and calming your thoughts. I practiced driving the speed limit, not over, and was amazed at what I saw on my drive home to my rural neighborhood. These are just a few of the spiritual disciplines that Comer discusses in the book. If you want to learn more about them, I encourage you to read The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry. See my feature in Lovely Impact 7 Coaches Share What Books Inspired Them Most The Why of Wealth by Cassandra Smalley This book is designed to help women maximize their wealth and earning potential but can also assist men. It recognizes women's challenges in the workplace compared to their male counterparts, aiming to reduce the wealth gap between genders. Cassandra details the compensation decreases when women leave the workforce for various reasons, whether childbirth, taking a career gap, or finding a new career path. One of the book's standout moments is when Cassandra advises women to safeguard their financial futures. "Proactively using your voice will enable you to work toward achieving financial freedom... Coordination with your partner and professionals will help you best accomplish the big and small goals along your journey." Ultimately, the book aims to cultivate a wealth mindset, leading readers to financial security, success, and freedom. Nudge: The Final Edition by Richard Thaler and Cass Sunstein Are you ever in need of a little push to start a project or take a leap of faith? "Nudge: The Final Edition" by Richard H. Thaler and Cass R. Sunstein explores using "nudges" to influence behavior positively. For example, many people need a nudge to save money for a goal. When speaking with my clients, I often hear that they require someone to guide them in the right direction or to offer helpful resources. The book is divided into three parts. The first part explains the science of choice architecture, which studies how the way choices are presented can influence people's decisions. The second part explores various types of nudges, and the third part provides examples of how nudges have been used in real-life scenarios. What I found most inspiring about the book is the author's emphasis on the importance of choice architecture. They argue that the way choices are presented can significantly impact people's decisions. Therefore, we should be mindful of this when deciding how to live happier, healthier, and more fulfilling lives. See my feature in Yahoo 10 Financial Books That Will Change Your Life (and Finances) Predictably Irrational by Dan Ariely Dan Ariely's "Predictably Irrational" book delves into the underlying factors that influence our decision-making. As a behavioral economist, Ariely conducts various experiments and shares anecdotes to demonstrate how our behavior is often more irrational than we realize. One experiment involves going to a restaurant and ordering your meal last to see if you change your choice based on the daily specials or others' orders. Interestingly, my husband always orders last and changes his selection based on mine, demonstrating his predictable irrationality. Predictably Irrational Video Review I found the book inspiring because it offers insights into how to make better decisions. Ariely explains how understanding our biases can lead to more rational choices. He suggests simple tricks that can improve our decision-making, like using checklists and avoiding decisions when tired or emotional. Have you ever shopped excessively or overeaten due to emotions? Identifying triggers can help you prevent these incidents and make better decisions. I highly recommend reading "Predictably Irrational" as it was an enlightening and motivating book for me. It gave me a better understanding of the subconscious influences that impact my decision-making process and equipped me with practical techniques to make more informed choices. If you want to improve your decision-making skills and learn about the brain's inner workings, this book is worth checking out. The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel explores money's emotional side. Housel, a former investment banker, uses short stories and anecdotes to show how our emotions can influence our financial decisions. One of the things that I found most inspiring about the book is Housel's willingness to be honest about our financial weaknesses. He doesn't sugarcoat the fact that we are all susceptible to making irrational financial decisions, like purchasing Bitcoin or an unplanned vacation that wasn't in our budgets. However, he also shows us that we can learn to make better financial choices by understanding our emotions. Another thing that I found inspiring about the book is Housel's emphasis on the importance of delayed gratification. He argues that the best way to build wealth is to save and invest for the long term. Housel explains that saving money for the future can create happiness and emotional well-being. He also shows us how our emotions can sabotage our efforts to save and invest. Overall, the book is thought-provoking and engaging, with Housel doing an excellent job of explaining complex concepts in a way that is easy to understand. He also provides practical tips for overcoming emotional biases and making sound financial decisions. Housel's book inspires us to take control of our finances and make wise choices for our future. I hope you find these books helpful on your financial journey and that one of them inspires you to master your wealth.

Navigating the delicate balance between individual and shared financial goals in a relationship can be challenging. To help you find the right approach, we've gathered nine expert tips from founders, CEOs, and other professionals. From communicating and budgeting together to allocating income for individual and shared goals, these insights will guide you toward financial harmony in your relationship. Tips for Creating Individual and Shared Financial Goals in a Relationship Communicate and Budget Together Allow Individual Spending Freedom Adopt a "Yours, Mine, Ours" Approach Understand and Align Money Perspectives Practice Monthly "Money Dating" Support Each Other's Financial Goals Prioritize Regular Financial Discussions Embrace Financial Empathy Allocate Income for Individual and Shared Goals Communicate and Budget Together Balancing individual financial goals with shared goals can be tricky in a relationship. One tip I can offer is to have open and honest communication about your financial values and priorities. This means discussing your long-term goals, such as saving for a house or retirement, and your short-term goals, such as paying off credit card debt or taking a vacation together. It's important to work together to create a budget that supports your goals while prioritizing your shared goals. Additionally, it's helpful to regularly revisit your financial plan and adjust it as needed to ensure you are both on track to achieving your goals. Georgi Todorov, Founder, ThriveMyWay See my feature in How to Begin the Process of Combining Finances Allow Individual Spending Freedom Allocate a certain amount of money every month that you can each spend on whatever you want, no questions asked. This way, you don't feel guilty about spending money on a hobby or indulgence, and it also helps prevent any resentment from building up. Of course, this doesn't mean you shouldn't plan and budget together for bigger expenses like vacations or buying a house. But having some wiggle room for individual spending can make the whole process feel less restrictive and more enjoyable. Remember - money doesn't have to be a source of stress in your relationship. Johannes Larsson, Founder and CEO, JohannesLarsson.com Adopt a "Yours, Mine, Ours" Approach Using a "yours, mine, and ours" approach to budgeting and financial management can help individuals maintain financial autonomy while contributing to shared expenses and priorities. This approach can help prevent conflicts over money and promote a sense of fairness and balance in the relationship. For example, each individual can have their own personal account for individual expenses and then contribute a certain amount to a joint account for shared expenses such as rent, utilities, and groceries. This way, both individuals can maintain some control over their personal finances while also contributing to shared responsibilities. Roy Lau, Co-founder, 28 Mortgage See my feature in 5 Reasons You Shouldn't Get a Joint Bank Account With Your Partner Understand and Align Money Perspectives Building a solid financial foundation in a relationship requires a deep understanding of each other's distinct money perspectives. Acknowledging and adapting to the individual money personalities within the couple is vital. By doing so, couples can balance their personal financial goals and the shared objectives they aim to achieve together. This approach fosters harmony, cooperation, and effective financial management. It also promotes improved communication, enabling couples to navigate financial decisions more quickly and clearly. This understanding and alignment ultimately create a stronger financial footing, nurturing a healthier and more resilient relationship. With this in mind, couples should work together to create a financial plan that is mutually beneficial and promotes their shared goals. Hilary Kozak, VP of Marketing, LivSmooth Practice Monthly "Money Dating" One tip to balance personal and shared financial goals in a relationship is to practice "money dating." Once a month, sit down with your partner for a "money date." This isn't the typical dinner-and-movie night; it's a dedicated time where you discuss your financial situation, individual financial goals, and shared goals. It's like a meeting but casual and relaxed. On these money dates, you can share updates about your personal financial goals and discuss progress on your shared goals. This practice helps balance personal and shared goals and encourages regular communication about finances, which is often overlooked in relationships. Remember, the idea is to keep it light and open. This isn't a time for accusations or heated arguments. The goal is to understand each other better financially, align your goals, and move forward together. Simon Niklaus, Founder, simonniklaus.com Support Each Other's Financial Goals Couples should acknowledge and respect each other's autonomy and individual financial goals to create a healthy balance between shared and individual financial goals. By supporting each other's financial endeavors, individuals will feel valued, which can lead to a stronger relationship. For example, if one partner wants to save for a down payment on a house while the other wants to invest in a new business venture, they can allocate their respective funds accordingly while contributing to shared expenses and goals. Ben Lau, Founder, Featured SEO Company Related: 7 Ways to Develop Financial Trust in Your Relationship Prioritize Regular Financial Discussions Regular financial discussions are my best tip for balancing individual financial goals with shared goals in a relationship. Openly talking about your individual and shared goals can foster understanding, set clear expectations, and establish a unified financial plan. During these conversations, discuss your financial aspirations alongside shared objectives like homeownership, vacations, or retirement plans. By acknowledging and respecting each other's goals while working towards shared ones, you can build a healthy financial life catering to both partners' needs and aspirations. Michael Sena, Founder and CEO, SENACEA Embrace Financial Empathy Often, financial disagreements stem from a lack of understanding of each other's financial perspectives, priorities, and anxieties. Financial empathy involves understanding your partner's financial goals and appreciating the values, experiences, and aspirations that shape these goals. It means creating a safe space for open, judgment-free conversations about money. This might require patience, as money can be a sensitive topic, riddled with personal insecurities and societal pressures. Once you've established this mutual understanding, creating a financial roadmap that respects individual goals while working towards shared dreams is easier. This might involve compromise, prioritization, and setting timelines. For instance, you may allocate a certain percentage of your income towards shared goals like buying a home or saving for a vacation. At the same time, another portion goes towards individual goals like starting a business or pursuing further education. John Cammidge, PPC Trainer, Jcammidge Allocate Income for Individual and Shared Goals One tip for balancing individual financial goals with shared financial goals in a relationship is to allocate a portion of income towards individual financial goals and another portion towards shared goals. This allows each partner to pursue their own financial objectives while contributing to shared goals such as a joint savings account or a down payment for a house. For example, partners could allocate 70% of their income towards shared goals and 30% towards individual goals. This ensures that both individuals are working towards their financial goals and prevents resentment or conflict surrounding money. Jason Cheung, Operations Manager, Credit KO

Have you ever tried to break a habit, and after a while, you gave up? You may have tried a new diet or exercise routine, set a plan to save for a television, or even decided to stop procrastinating. How did that turn out for you? Did you succeed, or did it seem too tough for you, and you abandoned it altogether? How to Combat Anxiety I used to be very anxious and often worried about things out of my control. I tried to break this habit by practicing mindfulness and meditation, but it wasn't easy to stick with it. I would often get frustrated and give up after a few weeks. I eventually realized that I needed to be more patient with myself. I started by setting small goals, such as meditating for five minutes a day. Once I was able to stick with that for a few weeks, I gradually increased the amount of time I spent meditating. It took a lot of time and effort, but I eventually broke my habit of worrying and became more mindful. How to Stop Being Impulsive I also used to be impulsive and often made decisions without considering the consequences. I knew this was a bad habit, so I tried to break it. I started by making a list of all the times I had made impulsive decisions and tried to identify the triggers that caused me to act impulsively. Once I knew my triggers, I started to develop strategies for dealing with them. For example, if I was feeling stressed, I would take a few deep breaths before making a decision. My meditation helped with this. I made some progress at first, but it took a lot of work to change my habits. I would still have impulsive moments and sometimes give up and return to my old ways. However, I didn't give up completely. I kept trying, and eventually, I was able to reduce impulsive decision-making. Why is it so difficult to break bad financial habits? There are a few reasons why people often go back to what they know when trying to change their financial situation. Familiarity. People are creatures of habit, and we often feel more comfortable doing things we're familiar with, even if they're not the best choices for us. This is especially true when it comes to our finances. If we've always lived paycheck to paycheck, it can be scary to try something new, even if it could help us improve our financial situation. Fear of failure. Everyone experiences fear of failure at some point in their lives. However, when it comes to our finances, this fear can be incredibly paralyzing. We may be afraid of making a mistake that could lead to even more financial problems. As a result, we may stick with what we know, even if it's not working for us. Lack of knowledge. Many people don't have the financial knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their money. This can make breaking out of old patterns and adopting new financial habits difficult. Procrastination. It's easy to put off making changes to our finances, especially if they seem daunting or overwhelming. We may tell ourselves we'll start tomorrow or next week, but tomorrow never comes. As a result, we never actually make any progress. If you're struggling to change your financial situation, it's important to understand why you keep going back to what you know. Once you understand the root cause of the problem, you can start to develop strategies for overcoming it. Tips for Breaking Bad Financial Habits Here are a few tips for breaking out of bad financial habits: Educate yourself. The more you know about personal finance, the better equipped you'll be to make informed decisions about your money. Several resources are available to help you learn about personal finance, including books, websites, and financial advisors. Take small steps. Don't try to overhaul your entire financial life overnight. Start by making small changes that you can stick with. For example, start by tracking your spending or setting a budget. Find a support system. Having people to support you on your financial journey can make a big difference. This could include family, friends, or a financial advisor. Don't give up. Changing your financial situation takes time and effort. Keep going even if you don't see results immediately. Just keep at it, and you'll eventually reach your goals. Are you ready to break your old financial habits and begin new ones?

The American Dream does not necessarily entail owning a house, as it is accompanied by several emotional factors that make it worthwhile. Take some time to think about how much space you need, and don't forget about the hidden expenses of owning a home. And remember, putting all your money into a house may only sometimes be the best financial choice. It is crucial to think about multiple factors of home ownership, from expenses to the current housing market to societal pressures of buying a house. Here are a few important questions to consider when deciding whether it's the right time for you to buy a home. Considerations for Buying a House for the First Time The Financial Benefits of Owning a Home Stability and Community Involvement in Homeownership The Drawbacks of Homeownership Impacts of the Current Housing Market Cultural and Societal Pressures of Homeownership 1. What are the financial benefits of owning a home versus renting? Building equity: When you make a monthly mortgage payment, a portion of that payment goes towards paying down the principal balance of your loan. This means that you are gradually building equity in your home, which is the difference between the market value of your home and the amount you owe on your mortgage. Over time, this equity can be used to finance other major expenses, such as college tuition or retirement. Tax deductions: Homeowners can deduct mortgage interest and property taxes on their federal income taxes. This can save you significant money each year, especially if you itemize your deductions. Appreciation: In most cases, home values appreciate over time. This means that your home could be worth more than you paid for it when you sell it. This can be a great way to build wealth and generate a profit. Stability: Homeowners tend to have more stability than renters. This is because they are not at the mercy of their landlord's rent increases or decisions to sell the property. Of course, there are also some financial drawbacks to owning a home, such as the upfront costs of buying a home, the cost of maintenance and repairs, and the risk of your home losing value. However, for many people, the financial benefits of homeownership outweigh the drawbacks. 2. How does homeownership affect an individual's sense of stability and community involvement? Homeownership can significantly impact an individual's sense of stability and community involvement. Sense of Stability Homeownership can provide a sense of stability in several ways. First, homeowners are less likely to move than renters. This is because homeowners have a financial investment in their homes and are less likely to want to give up that investment. Second, homeowners are more likely to stay in their neighborhoods for longer periods of time. This can lead to a sense of community and belonging as homeowners get to know their neighbors and become involved in their local community. Community Involvement Homeownership can also lead to increased community involvement. This is because homeowners have a vested interest in their neighborhoods. They are more likely to be concerned about the quality of their schools, the safety of their streets, and the overall well-being of their community. As a result, homeowners are more likely to get involved in community organizations and activities. Here are some of the ways that homeownership can lead to increased community involvement: Homeowners are more likely to be familiar with their neighbors. This can lead to stronger social ties and a greater sense of community. Homeowners are more likely to have a vested interest in their neighborhoods. This can lead to them being more likely to get involved in local organizations and activities. Homeowners are more likely to feel like they have a stake in their communities. This can make them more likely to vote, volunteer, and participate in community events. Of course, only some people who own a home will be involved in their community. However, homeownership can provide a foundation for community involvement and give people a sense of stability and belonging that can benefit both individuals and communities. See my feature in 12 Questions to Ask when Buying a House. 3. What are some drawbacks of homeownership, such as maintenance costs or unexpected repairs? Maintenance costs. As a homeowner, you are responsible for the maintenance and repairs of your home. This can include things like lawn care, snow removal, painting, and repairs to appliances and fixtures. These costs can add up over time, so it is important to factor them into your budget when you are considering buying a home. Unexpected repairs. Even if you budget for maintenance costs, there is always the possibility of unexpected repairs. These repairs can be costly, and they can happen at any time. For example, your roof might leak, your furnace might break down, or your pipes might burst. These repairs can be a financial burden, so it is important to have an emergency fund set aside. Mortgage payments. You will be responsible for making monthly mortgage payments if you finance your home purchase with a mortgage. These payments can be a significant financial commitment and can be difficult to afford if you have other debts or a low income. Property taxes. In addition to your mortgage payments, you will also be responsible for paying property taxes. Property taxes are based on the value of your home, and they can vary depending on the location of your home. HOA fees. You may be responsible for paying HOA fees if you live in a condominium or townhouse. HOA fees cover the cost of maintaining common areas and amenities like pools, gyms, and security systems. Lack of mobility. Once you own a home, it can be more difficult to move. This is because you will have to sell your home before moving, which can take time and money. If you have a family or pets, moving can also be difficult because you will have to find a new home that meets your needs. 4. How does the current housing market impact buying or renting a home? The current housing market is a major factor to consider when deciding to buy or rent a home. Here are some of the ways that the current housing market can impact your decision: Home prices. Home prices are currently at an all-time high in many parts of the country. This means it may be more expensive to buy a home now than in the past. Mortgage rates. Mortgage rates are also on the rise. This means that your monthly mortgage payments will be higher if you buy a home now than they would have been if you had purchased a home a few years ago. Rent prices. Rent prices are also rising in many parts of the country. This means it may be more expensive to rent a home now than in the past. Supply and demand. The supply of homes for sale is currently very low. This means there are more buyers than homes for sale, which can drive up prices. Economic conditions. The overall economic conditions can also impact the housing market. For example, if the economy is doing well, more people may be able to afford a home, which can drive up prices. It would be best to weigh what's important to you, such as your budget, lifestyle, and long-term goals, to decide what is best for you. Here are some other things to consider when making your decision: Your financial situation. Can you afford a down payment and monthly mortgage payments? Do you have other debts that you need to pay off? Your lifestyle. Do you plan to stay in the same area for a long time? Do you have a family or pets? Your long-term goals. Do you want to build equity in a home? Do you want to be able to move around easily? Once you have considered all of these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether to buy or rent a home. 5. Are there any cultural or societal pressures to own a home, and how do they influence individuals' decisions? Yes, there are cultural and societal pressures to own a home in many parts of the world. These pressures can influence individuals' decisions in several ways. Social expectations. Homeownership is seen as a sign of maturity, success, and financial stability in some cultures. This can create pressure for people to buy a home, even if it is not the best financial decision for them. Family expectations. In some cultures, parents may pressure their children to buy a home as soon as possible. This can be because parents see homeownership as a way to provide their children security or to see their children achieve the American dream. Media portrayals. Homeownership is often portrayed positively in the media. This can lead people to believe that homeownership is the only way to achieve the American dream or to have a successful life. Government policies. Some governments offer tax breaks or other incentives to homeowners. This can make homeownership seem more affordable and create pressure for people to buy a home. It is important to be aware of these pressures and to make a decision that is right for you. Here are some additional thoughts on how cultural and societal pressures can influence individuals' decisions about homeownership: People may feel like they are letting their family or friends down if they don't buy a home. People may feel like they are not being responsible if they don't buy a home. People may feel like they are not achieving the American dream if they don't buy a home. It is important to remember that there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to homeownership. The decision of whether or not to buy a home is a personal one that should be based on your individual circumstances. If you are feeling pressure to buy a home, it is important to talk to someone you trust about your decision.

Where did money superstitions come from, and are they true? Many money superstitions have been passed down from generation to generation; for some, the superstition may come true through sheer luck. Others may get discouraged and give up believing in money superstitions altogether. Have you ever had a money superstition come true? If so, you may be one of the lucky few. Here are a few money superstitions and the meaning behind them. Money Superstitions Don't Put Your Purse On the Floor, or You'll Lose Your Money When Your Palms Itch, You Have Money Coming To You Eating Greens On New Year's Day See a Penny Pick it Up, and You'll Have Good Luck Getting Pooped on By a Bird Brings Good Luck/Fortune Banks Can't Keep Your Money Safe During a Recession Putting Money Face Down is Bad Luck Don't Put Your Purse On the Floor, or You'll Lose Your Money I'm not sure where this money superstition came from, but generally, floors are dirty, and you don't want to put your most valued possessions there. If you place your purse on the floor, it's seen as a sign of disrespect. Most say if you don't value your money, you'll lose it by putting your bag on a dirty floor. So, if you're in a restaurant, sit your purse in a chair or by a purse hanger where you can hang your bag on the edge of the table. You'll have a clean purse and reduce the risk of losing your money. When Your Palms Itch, You Have Money Coming To You I've heard this all my life. Typically, I'm standing next to someone, and they begin scratching their hand. The next words out of their mouth are, "I must have some money coming to me." Or, I'm about to hit the lottery numbers today. Personally, when my palms itch, I've always had to wait until payday. So, I guess it could come to fruition if you don't have a problem waiting until you receive your next paycheck. Eating Greens On New Year's Day Every year I have a tradition of cooking black-eyed peas and collard greens on New Year's Day. My daughter always asks me why I do this. Cooking black-eyed peas on New Year's means you will have a prosperous year. The combination of cooking collards, mustard, or turnip greens also symbolizes that you will have a financially prosperous year as well. The greens represent the color of money, so as long as the color of money doesn't change, it may mean a prosperous financial year for you. Year over year following this superstition has been fruitful for me, so it may be for you too. See a Penny Pick it Up, and You'll Have Good Luck Finding money on the ground is like an unexpected cash bonus. If it's a quarter, a dollar, or even twenty dollars, it's highly unlikely that you'll pass it up. What if it was a penny? Would you take the time to bend down and pick up a penny? Finding a penny with Abraham Lincoln's face showing is said to bring good luck if you stop and pick it up. The flip side of that coin is that if the penny is face down, it can bring bad fortune. I've seen many pennies on the ground face down, but I haven't been tempted to press my luck. Have you? Getting Pooped on By a Bird - It's a Good Sign We were on a road trip when I was younger, and my sister rolled down the car window. My mom had the a/c on, so she told her to roll the window back up. Seconds later, a bird pooped on the window. My mom said, if you had been pooped on, that would have brought you good luck and money. My sister was happier that we only had to wash off the window and not her. Banks Can't Keep Your Money Safe During a Recession Depending on how much money you have in a bank, your money will be protected if a recession occurs. The FDIC protects the money that you deposit in a bank up to $250,000. If you have more than $250,000 in your account, it's important to diversify your funds into different categories of accounts or with joint account holders so that your money is not spread amongst various financial institutions. Putting Money Face Down is Bad Luck There is a superstition that putting money face down is bad luck. This superstition is believed to have originated in China, where it is said that putting money face down is a sign of disrespect for money. The term that is used most often when money is placed face down is "sleeping". When money is sleeping, it won't bring you any wealth. If you believe this superstition, always make sure your money is facing up when you put it away in your wallet or use a money clip. Here are some other money superstitions from around the world: In China, it is considered bad luck to lend money on New Year's Day. In Japan, it is considered bad luck to give someone a wallet as a gift. In Italy and Russia, it is considered bad luck to count money after dark. In Russia and Brazil, it is considered bad luck to step on money. What's Next? Work hard towards your financial goals so you don't have to lean on money superstitions to help you get ahead. Mapping out a financial plan can help ensure you have a solid and secure financial future. What's one money superstition that you hear the most often?