Zen Tips for Self Improvement

Although the price of gas has dropped from almost $5.00 a gallon to about $3.00 in Aouthern California, I’m sure we are all still feeling the economic crunch.  Financial reports say the the price of milk and eggs has increased by almost 200%, and $50.00 just isn’t what it used to be at the grocery stores.  Sad to say, specialists say the economy will likely get worse before it gets better.  This is something I believe since we are still participating in the war and it will take at least 2 full years to get our troops back home.

With all that being said, sometimes it just isn’t enough to meditate our way through harsh financial times.  The good news is that if you are already leading a zen lifestyle, you can incorporate zen into some pretty cool money saving tips for yourself.  The even better news is that even if you aren’t into the whole zen thing, it’s never too late to learn.  Zen-Tips.com has come up with a list of How To Save Money Tips with the Powers of Zen.  Check it out:

1.  The early bird gets the worm.
Zen wisdom says you should fuel your car when it’s cooler, which is usually in the morning.  The theory is that cooler gas is more dense, so you will get more bang for your buck in the gas tank.

2.  A penny saved is a penny earned.
Don’t forget to pay yourself.  Use the powers of zen to discipline yourself to save at least 10% of your paycheck, no matter what.

3.  The 20/80 rule.
The 20/80 rule says that 20% of the things in our lives fulfill about 80% of our lives.  For example:  If you are in sales, more than likely 20% of your clients are bringing in 80% of your income.  Meaning, once you can figure out what that 20% is, you can trim the fat and focus on earning more by working less.

4.  You aren’t what you own.
Many of us associate ourselves with the things we own.  Some examples include luxury cars, designer handbags like Louis Vuitton, and the list goes on.  Separate your identity from the things you own.

5.  Become a Coupon Clipper
Coupon Moms around the nation are cutting their grocery bills by up to 70% by saving coupons from the Sunday paper and visiting sites like coupons.com

6.  Just say No
I know it’s hard to turn your little ones down when you visit the mall for a request for the latest pair of Jordan gym shoes or new toy.  However, saying No and teaching your kids the value of money from a young age is a great benefit to them. 

7.  Stay healthy.
I know that sounds so simple, but it really is important to make sure you eat healthy, and exercise daily.  As we all know, medical insurance is at an all time high in America.  If you are self-employed like I am, then medical insurance costs are even more expensive out of pocket and can cost up to $500.00/monthly.  Ouch!  Using the power of zen through yoga and meditation can help you make sure you are at your peak in health for a long time, to avoid expensive medical costs.

8.  Slow down.
Take the time to stay in the present and smell the roses.  Many of us are running from the time we wake up in the morning to the time we get back in the bed to go to sleep.  We spend so much time chasing things we don’t have yet, instead of enjoying the present and appreciating the good things we have been blessed with at this very moment … such as taking the time to read this article.

9.  Save the planet … save money.
Do a check of your household to see where you can save money.  For instance, consider installing a shower timer in your bathroom to save money on your water bill.

10.  Know your worth.
Make sure you getting the salary you are worth by doing your homework prior to interviewing for a job.  We suggest sites like glassdoor.com or Payscale.  Aim a little higher when negotiating your next salary.

Zen-Tips.com