If you read my Fierce Finances post, you already know that Fierce Divas never spend beyond their means.  They don't overspend to make themselves or others happy, because they understand that happiness is not dependent upon our external circumstances. 

Fierce Divas especially don't overspend to keep up with the Diva Next Door, because they don't have a need to keep up appearances.  Remember, Divas, appearances are illusions.  Despite her 3-carat diamond ring and perfectly landscaped yard, the Diva Next Door isn't happy.  If she was, she wouldn't be flirting with your husband or posting unflattering pictures of you on Facebook!

Next time you think you need  "retail therapy"  to lift your mood, or show up the Diva Next Door, think again.  Here's a little Buddhism 101 for you:  The law of impermanence states that all phenomena are subject to constant change.  Whatever exists is changeable in an instant, from physical substance to our emotions.  What does that mean to you?  All of the "stuff" that you love to buy and that you think will make you happy is impermanent.   The heel on one of the Manolos you threw on your credit card could break by lunch time.  Your hot new 4G phone will fall out of your purse, never to be seen again.  Your Lucky Brand jeans will get a bleach stain in the wash.   If you are depending on "stuff" to make you happy, what will happen to your happiness when your "stuff" breaks, dies, or  gets stolen?

Now that you understand how impermanent – and insignificant –  "stuff" is,  below are some practical tips to help you save money:  

• Pay cash.  For EVERYTHING.  Yes, cash – the actual currency printed by the US Treasury Department.  Put your credit card away.  Even if you pay off your balance every month, you will spend less if you buy things with cash.
• Stop buying books. Go to the library.  It costs NOTHING. If you read one novel a month, you just saved $240.00 this year.
• Tired of paying a small fortune for cable TV?  Once again, go to the library! I can almost guarantee they have your favorite cable series on video.  Will you have to wait a few months to see it?  Probably.  But remember, Divas, we could all use a lesson in learning to delay gratification.   Annual savings:  $360.00
• Need a fashion fix? Instead of hitting the mall, plan a clothing swap with friends.  It's free, and you can make it into a fun Diva's night out.  If you're a "serial shopper,"  your annual savings is $1,500.00 if not more.
• There is no bigger money waster than bottled water.  Filtered tap water is fine.  Buy a reusable bottle and refill.  If you buy a bottle a day, your annual savings is $365.00.
• See if you can skip the blow-out at the salon.  Some stylists insist on drying your hair to make sure the cut falls properly. But if this is at their request, cut a deal with them.   Otherwise, save the $20 – $40 and go home with a wet head.  Annual savings:  $240.00
• Skip the expensive gym membership.   Stream fitness or yoga videos off YouTube. There are thousands of them! Annual savings:  $900.00
• Put your talent to work and make gifts instead of buying them.  Do you sew?  Buy some inexpensive velvet material and make pretty winter scarves for your fellow Divas.   Frame a photograph you have taken.   Knit something, or bead bracelets for teacher gifts.  At Christmas time alone, you can save upwards of $1,500.00 by making your gifts.
• I'm not sure when society shifted to the mindset that we have to host our children's birthday parties at "party places," but it's simply not necessary.   Invite your child's friends over after school for cupcakes and then send them in the back yard to play.  You just saved $300.00 – $500.00 per child per year. 
• No one NEEDS a manicure or pedicure, especially if you have credit card debt.  Pay down your debt an extra $80.00 a month/$960.00 per year by skipping the nail salon.

 If you have spent your entire life trying to find happiness in a shopping  mall, a spending freeze may be a shock to your system.   Start slowly, Divas, and do your best.  Remember,  diamonds may be a best friend to the Diva Next Door,  but balanced finances (and meditation of course!) are the best friends to a Fierce Diva. 

Namaste, Divas!    

©2012 Ilene Evans 

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