raise
It’s exciting to get a raise, especially if it’s bigger than you expected. That’s why it’s understandable and common that in the afterglow, many people rationalize an immediate increase in spending. Perhaps you’ve been waiting to purchase a new vehicle, have your eyes on a nicer place to stay, or just want to take a few more vacations. There’s nothing wrong with financial goals, but all too often, a modest pay increase gives us a false sense of security in overextending our finances. Before we realize it, we’ve already more than accounted for our increase in income, and besides a few new gadgets or perks that quickly lose their novelty, we’re no better off than we were before. This is what many term “lifestyle inflation,” and if you want to increase your net worth, it’s a pitfall to avoid.
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morning coffee
There have been many studies on the habits of rich and successful people. In most cases, those who are successful have distinct habits. Here are just a few of them you should consider adopting.

They Wake Up Early

I have listened to a lot of successful people share their top habits, and one of the most common ones is to wake up early. The days I wake up an hour or two before my children get up are my most successful and peaceful days. Waking up early allows you to have extra time for self-improvement tasks, such as working out, meditation, reading, as well as business tasks, such as freelancing. Waking up early is just bound to put you in a better mood because you won’t spend your day trying to catch up. Instead, you will feel ahead of the game. This alone can be the game changer you are longing for.
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Everybody loves to find new ways to save. After all, it’s quite thrilling to know you did something productive to save a bit of money even if the amount is miniscule. And plus, every little bit counts when you’re trying to build your savings. But could your money saving habits actually be hurting you? The answer is surprisingly yes.

Despite the best intentions, many people are actually doing things all wrong. Yes, certain habits might save you some money, but it can cost you quite a bit of time too. Spending your time to save a few bucks isn’t always worth it. Remember the saying “time is money?” Here are five instances when spending extra time doesn’t actually save you money:
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Everyone deserves to be pampered once in a while. After all, self-care and relaxation are a key part to rejuvenating our often over-worked selves. But let’s face it; luxuries often come at a hefty price and thus are seemingly out-of-reach for most of us. Or if they are in reach, they will take a serious bite out of our budgets.

Don’t let this small roadblock hinder you from enjoying the little luxuries you so deserve though. I’ve found a few ways to indulge for less recently, and I want to share them with you.

If you want to live the good life without shelling out hundreds of dollars, use these tips to take care of yourself and save money.
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back to school
According to collegedata.com, the conservative price for a public university education last year was roughly $27,940 (in-state), while the conservative cost of attending a private university rose to over $57,570. After facing the news of expected tuition price increases yet again this year, students and parents will be looking even harder for ways to save on other college-related expenses they can control.

One of the next biggest expenses for college students is computer equipment. Today’s college students can’t get far without a desktop, laptop, or tablet to help them study, complete assignments, and conduct research. In response, many big-name brands, recognizing both the overwhelming tuition burden and market opportunity, have once again laid out a plethora of their best deals and discounts for the 2023 school year. Here is a summary of the best of them.
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europe on a budget
I got back from a life-changing a 2-week adventure across Spain and Portugal a couple of months ago.

I explored Madrid, where my love of traveling first hit me. I met up with my friend who is teaching abroad in Nerja and ended my trip in the oh-so-charming Lisbon.

It was perfect and exactly what I needed. I was working all the time for months prior, so this vacation was my much needed break and a restart button on my life and debt repayment goals.

Whenever I tell people about traveling though, most people instantly ask me, “But isn’t traveling expensive?” Yes, it is. It just doesn’t have to be as expensive as you think. I managed to travel abroad for 2 weeks and spend just under $1,000.

Here’s how I did it.
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