How to Find Money in Everyday Life

In this tough economy, with no signs of it letting up soon, everyone is looking for some way to get extra money out of their budget. You're probably in this position as well, having scoured your budget several times and yet you still have too much month at the end of the money. What should you do? You've read the finance advice, cut back all you can but things are still not working out. Here are some ideas on how to make ends meet or revamp your financial outlook.

In terms of your financial outlook, remember that what you see on the TV is a good model for how not to live. The Real Housewives series are fun to watch for comedy, but it can make your jealousy rear up and the need for excess spending to overtake your normal spending. Shows like these are dangerous because they feed into our sense of entitlement and that we're falling behind. Just don't watch them.

I'm sure you've heard this one before, but if you find yourself just living in one or two rooms, think about getting a roommate. Rent out a bedroom or two and you'll have extra spending money, plus you'll have help doing the chores around the house. It's a scary proposition, but it sure beats losing the house or moving if you don't want to.

If you like collecting things, then think about collecting items that are high in resell value. It feeds your need to collect, and provides an income. I know some people that went to estate sales, flea markets, secondhand clothing stores and bought up vintage clothing that they knew would sell well at online auctions. They would get an average of $30 for a $1 item. They made thousands a month from this little venture. So take a look at things selling well on eBay and hop to it.

Another way to save a bundle is to be your own household repair person. I once had to call a plumber because my kitchen sink wouldn't drain. The plumber took 10 minutes tops and $70 to fix it. The next time it wouldn't drain I looked up how to unclog it online, and also talked with the local hardware guys, and unclogged it myself! I saved $70 and felt like superwoman. That same sink has clogged two more times and each time I thought of the money I was saving.