Tuesday, April 15, 2014

So taxing!

It's tax time. And while most people agree that having good roads, health care, and social programs are important for the well-being of our society, it doesn't make the bottom line of income tax reports any more cheerful.

So while accountants put in countless hours to make sure you get the most out of your income, what hours are you putting in to make sure you get the most out of your income?

A friend of mine was recently brought to the realization that his current standard of living was completely self-imposed. In spite of earning an above-average living and maintaining a below-average debt ratio (meaning, he makes good money and doesn't have any house or car payments), he was still ending each month with nothing left in his bank account. And complaining loudly about it. And mourning the fact that his lifestyle was not more like mine (ha!). So we talked about it. And he realized he made more money than I did. Yet, I own a home and a couple of vehicles and have twice the number of children he does. We manage to eat and have clothes and enjoy some entertainment and manage all of our household and business expenses. So what is the real difference between us? CHOICE. That is all.

You can afford what you want to afford. You can live the way you want to live. You can make your income work for you to achieve the lifestyle you desire. So put in some time to decide what you really want to do, lay out a plan to achieve it, and exercise a little self-discipline. Make your money work for you.

And don't worry about the tax man - it can be a win-win if everyone is doing their part to responsibly manage money.