10 Ways to Buy More of What You want

Having a spending plan means that you can spend your money the way you want to. Too many people think that budgeting means less money when it really means more -- more of what you want. Impulse buying is really having less. If you spend your money because people ask you to, then you won't have any when you see something you really, really want.

So here are 10 ways to have more because you planned:

1. Stay out of the convenience store -- you'll only buy expensive stuff you don't really want or need.
2. Write a spending plan -- you'll only give your money to people who are going to give you something important in return.
3. Give yourself (&your partner) an allowance -- here is money you can splurge with, just remember when it's gone, it's gone until next month.
4. Stop paying interest -- cut up those credit cards and live within your means. You'll save hundreds of dollars in interest. And that's more money in the long run.
5. Record what you spend for one week -- it will surprise you just how much you waste.
6. Check your spending at least once a week -- sit down and look and what you spent and where. Adjust your plan, as needed. Now you are in charge of your money!
7. Put pocket change in a "fun" jar. Save your change. It's amazing how quickly it adds up to real money!
8. Before depositing your next pay check, move whatever is left from the last paycheck into savings. Even a few dollars will grow (here's where you get interest) more than you think.
9. Start getting interest -- Forget your savings for six months and see what it does while you're not looking. Compound interest is the best!
10. Use a grocery list -- buy only what's on the list -- eat out less and cook more. You'll save money and be healthier. Put $10 worth into building your pantry. When money is tight, a homecooked meal will be sitting on the shelves at home.