Tip #1: Mind the Lights Switch your incandescent bulbs to compact fluorescent lamps that are qualified by the Energy Star program. You’ll save around $40 over the life of each bulb. Traditional incandescent lights are the least efficient type of household lighting, since 90 percent…

Habits — Bad Ones A habit is like an ancient decision — you replay the same behavior that originated from a conscious choice you made in the mists of the past. Now you are on autopilot, repeatedly acting out the same behavior with nary a…

Nutritionists recommend eating several servings of fruits and vegetables a day, but buying produce at the store can be expensive. Many people are also concerned about pesticides and genetic modification in mass-produced foods. “Growing your own produce can save a significant amount of money,” advises Holland, “and you’ll have control over what goes on your plants and in your body.” You may not have room in your yard for a full-blown garden, but most vegetables adapt well to containers or vertical growing.

However hard it may be to believe, “budget” is not a dirty word. A budget isn’t supposed to be a set of handcuffs to keep you from enjoying life. A properly designed budget actually helps you get more out of life by allowing you to control your money, rather than letting your money control you. Setting up a household budget isn’t complicated, but it will take some time and attention to detail.