For a lot of us, times feel tough. The economy, life status changes, personal obligations, unexpected issues and other challenges have caused a lot of us a bit of chaos and cost us even more money.

In spite of, and because of all of that has gone on in life, life still goes on and most be lived with healthy doses of rest and relaxation. We need to know how to make the most of what we have and take time to be revived to handle what we have and be made ready for things to get better. I like to call that living life bigger on a budget.

So how do you do it? How do you live life bigger on a budget? I’m glad you asked.

Try out these helpful tips:

• Vacation during the off-season. Things are always less expensive during the “down time” of travel and lodging.
• Shop during the off-season. Items are always less expensive when they aren’t in season. Buy now. Wear later.
• Buy in bulk with others. Share with family or friends from what each has purchased so that each has what each needs for less.
• Pay up. When times are more plenteous pay extra on bills and other expenses.
• Plan group trips to surrounding outlet malls. It can be fun and you can be frugal at the same time.
• Know the deal. Utilize Groupons, coupons, discounts, happy hour specials, “kids eat free days” and BOGO deals.
• Share what you have. Use seasons of financial revitalization to share meals with family members, co-workers and friends. You’d be surprised. A big pot of spaghetti and garlic bread can go a long way.
• Eat out to take home. When dining out, only eat meals that guarantee leftovers for the next day.
• Take lunch and make it tasty. One way to be the lunchtime meals out monster is to make sure what you bring from home is delish!
• Find out what’s free. Take advantage of free concerts, festivals, seminars and workshops.
• Polish it up. Get a matching drug store brand of your favorite salon polish to use as a touch-up in between visits for your manicure and pedicure.
• Ask for help. Don’t wait too late to ask for help.
• Learn to say NO. If you can’t afford it, don’t want it, or don’t need it just say NO.
• Volunteer. Giving back is the best way to take your mind off of what you don’t have to help someone who has less.

@AngelaMMoore316