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Well, as you all know when I find something interesting to share with you I will. I report my experiences and will never ask you to substitute my opinions for your own. Here is an unusual experience I wanted to tell you about. Often in newspapers and online you will see ads asking for individuals interested in being cast as an extra in a film that is being made, or asking for individuals that are interested in becoming actors…well I saw one of those ads recently and decided to inquire about this. If something seems interesting and may prove to be a good method for individuals to earn a little extra money to add to their family budget, then why not? This could also prove to be work that is fun as well. I can still remember years ago when Jaclyn Smith was filming a television movie in my hometown, there was a need for extras for a church wedding scene, I was able to participate in that. There was no pay for this, but I was able to meet her and I adored her, so the opportunity to speak with her was all I needed. She is beautiful in person by the way. After calling the number listed in the ad and asking a few questions, I felt this would be interesting…flexible hours, the opportunity for individuals to work from home, work when you wanted to, no pressure. If something sounds too good to be true, remember it usually is. Then, the strangest question was asked of me. “Can you do an accent?” Well, I haven’t been professionally trained but felt I could do a decent job. Why did they want to know this? What kind of accent were they seeking? I thought they just wanted extras to fill in a scene. About a minute later sitting there holding the phone with my mouth hanging open, I realized why. This wasn’t a part time job I would necessarily rush out to refer to my friends desiring to work from home.
They were seeking actresses, but not to work as an extra. This over the telephone work was a little more than I anticipated because you would be fulfilling fantasies for others….talk about a misleading ad. So, the next time you see the advertisement claiming to provide a wonderful work at home opportunity for stay at home mothers desiring to make a good salary, set their own hours, become their own boss, have no stress, working one on on one with others, while facing new challenges daily, think again! They may be asking for a price, you are not willing to pay.
Make Yourself Number One
Every month as part of your monthly expenses, remember the first check should be written to yourself and headed directly for your savings account. This can often be difficult especially when you see the numerous bills awaiting you, but there are ways to lessen this pain. Set-up direct deposit, and assign an amount to go to your savings, money market account, investments…do this today so that you no longer have to worry about making the contribution or find yourself wondering where the money went. You will know that your money is being placed where it belongs and is starting to work for you.
Save for the Rainy Day
We hear this one too often, and we often take a chance that this day will be down the road. But, what seems to happen is it attacks us when we least expect it. We are then stuck shuffling things around to try to pay the bills, or have to place a charge on a high interest credit card because we didn’t have a backup plan. Make a cash reserve or emergency fund available. Many credit unions are offering Christmas funds, vacation funds etc. to help consumers. Some take as little as $5 to get things started. For years Financial Advisors have stressed setting aside a 6 month reserve, but with the volatile state of the economy it is wise to accrue 8 months of savings because of the length of time it is taking to obtain a new job. Set goals, and look at what is short range vs. long term. Plan accordingly and make it fun. Check out Suze Orman’s Expense Tracker for assistance. Live Within Your Means In 2010 make your primary goal- reaching a cash based way of living. Of course there are times you may need to use a credit card for expenses that run higher, but eliminate the day to day living on a credit card for survival. Too often we spend more than what is coming in without realizing it because the process becomes familiar and we get comfortable with our actions. Making more money will not make a difference if you are not taking the proper steps, and doing something positive with it. Make your goal getting in the black and building the wealth today that will provide you with a relaxing future tomorrow.
