From the category archives:

Life Planning

Considering Jonah

by Alex on January 13, 2012

in Life Planning,Self Improvement

Have you ever thought about how Jonah relates to your finances? If not, you should.

For those who didn’t go to Sunday school as a kid, Jonah was one of God’s prophets. He came from a rich family and was a big deal prophet of God. [click to continue…]

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Even with all the advice here at Personal Finance By The Book, you still managed to overspend this holiday season.

It’s not that surprising; one-in-three Americans put their holiday on credit cards. Many more used loans, credit lines, and same-as-cash deals to pay for the big day. And with presents, eating out, travel, and increased utilities (your mother-in-law needs to take shorter showers) you’ve found yourself up to your eyeballs in bills. [click to continue…]

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How Has The Economy Changed You?

October 31, 2011

A recent article in Money Magazine provided some interesting statistics.  A group of people was asked how they felt the economy would impact their lives.  From questions about children to retirement and family life, the results were interesting to read. 53% of Americans aren’t sure their kids will be better off than they are. How [...]

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Retirement Redefined: 5 Simple Tips You Hadn’t Considered

July 11, 2011

The traditional view of retirement — working for the same company your entire career and then retiring to draw a lifetime pension — is a thing of the past. Yes, some government workers continue to retire with paid pension plans, but as states and municipalities continue to fight for survival, these pension plans will also [...]

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A Long Term, High Yield Investment. Guaranteed!

July 8, 2011

Tell me if you have heard this one, “Hey buddy. Have I got a deal for you! This is a zero risk investment which will pay huge dividends. Guaranteed!” Sleazy and cheesy, huh? But don’t walk away just yet. There really IS such an investment …one that will pay dividends forever! In fact, forever is [...]

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How to Have a Good Retirement When Things Are Looking Bad

May 16, 2011

For many Americans, the prospect of a dream retirement is fading.  However, those very factors which produce so much gloom can actually make retirement better.  Hold that thought as we first examine the bad news about retirement.

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Has the American Dream Become a Nightmare?

May 13, 2011

A reader recently shared these thoughts with me, “My husband and I are from the ‘great depression era’, which always meant if at all possible, don’t go in debt.  For the past 10 to 15 years we have watched people as they lived ‘the American Dream’. To us it was watching them as they lived [...]

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My Answer to Reader: Do the Math and Leave Your 401(k) Alone

May 9, 2011

A reader recently wrote the following comment on my post 4 Reasons You Should Not Use Your 401k to Pay Off Your Credit Card so I have pasted both the comment and my answer, hoping that you readers will help scrutinize my logic and point out any flaws you may notice.  Obviously, I made some [...]

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Spring Cleaning Your Finances

April 18, 2011

I don’t know about you, but my cleaning alter ego kicks in every once in a while. There just comes a point where I can’t stand the mess of papers on my desk, drawers, laptop bag, bookshelf, nightstand, you name it. Usually I’ll get on a roll and knock out a room or two in [...]

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10 Free Online Personal Finance Tools

April 13, 2011

Are you trying to get a better handle on your finances? Would you like to establish a solid financial plan for your future? Whether you want to budget your money or invest it, there are a variety of online tools that can help you, and many of them are free. Compiled here is a list [...]

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How To Handle Identity Theft When It’s Family

April 11, 2011

The following story about identity theft among family members is true, but the names have been changed to keep both parties anonymous. Jack was a good friend of mine and always took care of his finances well.  The last thing on his mind was the possibility of having his identity stolen.  In fact, he wouldn’t [...]

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Reader Asks About Selling Home to Pay Off Debt

February 21, 2011

Readers sometimes ask for my advice, as in today’s post.  Although the advice I give might be worth what they paid for it, I strive to do my best.   Following is a copy of an actual email (without names), along with my response.  I would love to hear your thoughts on whether this family should [...]

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