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How to Optimize Your Finances

There's a lot of financial advice for people who are struggling. Budgeting and personal finance tends to focus on helping people pay off their debt, build emergency savings, and stop living paycheck-to-paycheck.But what if you're already in a strong financial position, and you want to optimize even further? You're debt-free, you have savings, you're maxing out your 401k. What budgeting advice do you need to hear?
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20 Articles in: How to Optimize Your Finances
Financial Advice if You're NOT Struggling
You're debt-free, you're maxing out your retirement accounts, and you have a strong savings cushion. How can you optimize your money?
How to Manage Money Without a Formal Budget
Follow these four "financial best practices" to keep your saving and spending habits on-track -- even without an official budget.
Four Clever Ways to Budget. (Which One Fits You Best?)
Budgeting isn't a one-size-fits-all activity. You can pick from a variety of budgeting strategies, depending on your financial personality and style.
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Go Ahead ... Enjoy That Daily Latte
Budgeting doesn't need to be a story of struggle and sacrifice. It's totally fine -- in fact, its preferable -- to allow yourself small indulgences.
Should You Put Long-Term Savings in the Market or Real Estate?
Where should you park your long-term savings? There are many factors that play into that decision, but in this article, we'll focus on just one of these many variables: the tax implications.
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3 Items You Shouldn't Skimp On
There's a difference between being frugal (searching for good value) and being cheap (potentially risking your health). Don't cut corners on important expenses like maintaining your car, house and health.
The Important Spending Question You’re Not Asking Yourself
Before you make any type of spending decision -- ask yourself this critical question.
Watch Out! 8 Financial Landmines that can Derail Your Budget
Watch out! These eight landmines -- ranging from unrealistic expectations to not understanding your non-monthly bills -- can derail the most carefully-planned budget.
5 money habits that are costing you too much
5 Bad Money Habits You Need to Quit ASAP
If you're struggling with your finances or are having a hard time sticking to your budget, these 5 money habits may be to blame. Here's how to lose them.
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Want to Grow Wealthy? You'll Need to Know This First
Do you want to grow wealthy? If so, you'll need to start by learning the core definition of 'wealth.' It might not be what you think!
Don't Stress! How to Fall in Love with Your Budget
Do you associate budgets with strict deprivation? Do you think budgeting sounds miserable? Fortunately, you may be surprised. If you alter your mindset, just a tad, you'll begin to view budgeting as a fun and interesting way to help you reach your goals -- whether that's a vacation to Aruba or a debt-free life.
Three Classic Pieces of Financial Wisdom
Financial stewardship is about understanding, at a very deep and fundamental level, what type of relationship we should have with our money.
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Two Unusual Ways to Claim Social Security
Claiming Social Security isn't always straightforward. There are two strategies that are sometimes used: File and Suspend and File and Restrict. Learn more about both tactics here.
Do I Need a Financial Advisor?
Could you get greater benefit from an advisor than the cost of their fee?The answer is a firm "maybe," depending on your knowledge and comfort with finances.
12 smart money habits to help you manage money better
12 Amazing Money Habits You Shouldn't Skip
Need some help on improving your financial habits? This list of 12 will help you start saving and budgeting in no time so you can take your money farther.
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5 Financial Mistakes You Need to Correct ASAP
Are you shooting yourself in the foot when it comes to your money? Here are 5 financial mistakes you need to correct ASAP before they cost you.
5 finance fundamental principles to follow for success
5 Finance Fundamentals to Act on for Success
Wondering how to start managing your money? These 5 financial fundamental principles will guide you toward success in all aspects of your money.
10 fantastic financial habits to develop
10 Fantastic Financial Habits to Help You Succeed
These 10 fantastic financial habits will get your money in great shape in no time. Start working on developing them today to reap rewards for years.
The ultimate guide to kickstart your financial life
How to Kickstart Your Financial Life the Right Way
Have you just entered the "real world" of working, managing money, and trying to figure out the balance? This guide will help you kickstart your financial life.
How to earn more money on the side of your day job
14 Creative Ways to Earn Money on the Side
To win the money game, you need to focus on both sides of the "earn more, spend less" equation. Here's a list of 14 ways to earn more money on the side.
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