Tips - Spending too much?

Here are the basics of the challenge:

Step 1: Figure out how much cash you need to cover a week's worth of gas, groceries, entertainment, dinner on the town, breakfast at McDonald's, books, music CDs, cosmetics, gifts -- the whole gamut of casual expenses.

Step 2: Be honest. Don't deliberately overestimate so that you're sure to have enough cash to get through the week.

Step 3: Set the anticipated amount aside and don't use debit or credit cards.

If you get through the week with the cash set aside, congratulations! If you need to make a trip to the ATM, it's OK. Review your purchases and see where you could have trimmed costs. This is about developing a mind-set where you seriously consider daily cash expenditures. It can lead to more money in your savings account and long-term financial plans that stay on track.