Tag Archives: money

April 22, 2013 · 9:42 PM

Did You Know – 04/22/2013

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1. In 1893 an amendment was proposed to rename US to United States of Earth

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2. Ulan Bator, the capital of Mongolia, was once a movable city which changed location over 25 times.

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3. Chickens have the uncanny ability to keep their head stable while their body moves around.
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4. It is impossible to tickle yourself . The reason is The human brain anticipates unimportant sensations, such as your own touch.
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5. Happy people make more money.

Researchers followed more than 15,000 individuals from high school age in 1994 to their late twenties in 2008. After following the participants for 14 years, the study found a clear link between a satisfying childhood and a higher salary as adults. Some of the reasons the researchers believe that happier children go on to become more successful is due to their positive, outgoing attitude and their greater likelihood of getting hired, promoted and earning a higher degree.
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Mixing alcohol and diet soda can make you drunker.


Why? Turns out that sugar slows down the absorption of alcohol from the stomach to the bloodstream.
“In other words, it is not that diet soda accelerates intoxication. Rather, the sugar in regular soda slows down the rate of alcohol absorption,” explains Dennis Thombs, a professor at the University of North Texas Health Science Center in Fort Worth. He published a paper with similar findings.
“Alcohol, consumed with a diet mixer, results in higher (BrAC) Breath Alcohol Concentrations as compared to the same amount of alcohol consumed with a sugar-sweetened mixer,” says Cecile Marczinski, a cognitive psychologist who authored the new study.
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February 25, 2013 · 5:45 PM

The Forbidden History Of Terrible Taxes

I know I go off on a lot of different tangents, mostly on about the things I am passionate about. Food, being healthy, being rich and independent and having fun and riding motorbikes of course. When I heard this video, I had that need to share as I do. 

This 13 min video is certainly worth the watch. I for one hate the Tax system. I personally believe it is hard-earned money stolen by a group of people who have never done an honest days work in their life. We complain but do nothing I know, but I think the day will come when we will rebel against the amount of tax we pay and how it is wasted.

Where does our tax go and how much do we really pay is all explained in this video.  Topher’s explanation is in-depth and very informative.

Topher is talking about the Australian tax system but it is  the same for many welfare countries and is a direction that America is heading. Look out America like the Aussies you will be taxed out of existence and under the control of a non productive Government because you will get used to Government hand outs and wont know how to live any other way. 

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September 25, 2012 · 11:11 AM

Did You Know – 09/25/2012

1. Scientists say that an Earth day had around 20 hours a few million years ago and that a million years from now it will have 27 hours.

The tidal acceleration of the Moon slows the rotation rate of the Earth and increases the Earth-Moon distance. Friction effects—between the core and mantle and between the atmosphere and surface—can dissipate the Earth’s rotational energy. These combined effects are expected to increase the length of the day by more than 1.5 hours over the next 250 million years, and to increase the obliquity by about a half degree.

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2. Major League Baseball requires that all the umpires working in the league must wear black underwear at every game.

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3. Michael Jordan makes more money from Nike annually than all of the Nike factory workers in Malaysia combined.

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4. The old American sitcom television program Leave It To Beaver which originally aired from 1957-1963 is said to have been the very first TV program to show a toilet and even then they only got approved to show the top of the toilet tank, not the actual toilet bowl.

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5. It is true Windmills all over the world go counterclockwise but the ones in Ireland go clockwise. It is true and that’s a fact.

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6. The Forbidden City was the Chinese imperial palace from the Ming Dynasty to the end of the Qing Dynasty. It is located in the middle of Beijing, China, and now houses the Palace Museum. For almost 500 years, it served as the home of emperors and their households, as well as the ceremonial and political center of Chinese government. Built in 1406 to 1420, the complex consists of 980 buildings with 8,707 bays of rooms and covers 7,800,000 sq ft. The palace complex exemplifies traditional Chinese palatial architecture and has influenced cultural and architectural developments in East Asia and elsewhere.

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July 23, 2012 · 11:07 PM

Did You Know – 07/23/2012


Until the 19th century, solid blocks of tea were used as money in siberia.Tea bricks were made into beverages or eaten as food also.
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“Fortnight” is a contraction of ‘fourteen nights. In the USA ‘two weeks’ is more commonly used.
I for one get strange looks here, in the US, when I suggest we have lunch together every fortnight. As an Aussie this is common language to us.
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Tremendous erosion at the base of Niagara Falls (USA) undermines the shale cliffs and as a result the falls have receded approximately 7 miles over the last 10,000 years.
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M&M’s chocolate stands for the initials for its inventors Mars and Murrie
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Tennessee is bordered by 8 states: Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina and Virginia – more than any other in the US
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The ‘King Ranch’ in Texas is bigger than the state of Rhode Island. sprawls across 825000 acres of South Texas land.
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June 27, 2012 · 3:35 PM

Get The Best Money Advice

 

This is something that makes me a bit nervous. I have been to several financial advisers and most of the time come away with a gut instinct that it is not for me.

So when I found this advice it made sense and if you spend some time verifying the back ground of your advisor I think you can safely make a calculated decision.

Here is some sound advice when deciding to choose a financial advisor:

1. Always check their credentials. Make sure they have their CFP or CFA. These are hard-earned qualifications.

2. Go to FINRA.org and SEC.gov – check to see if any regulatory actions have been taken against the ‘Advisor’. See if they have registered with your state securities department (NASAA.org)

3. Do not commit to handing over any money. If there is some pressure from your advisor “Warning Bells”

4. Question Advisor recommendations – If they recommend an investment, ask if there is a penalty for getting your money back and how much that would be, if any. Penalties usually mean commission for your Planner.

5. Have your Advisor put in writing – a. Why this investment is suitable to you? b. Total Costs per year. c. Costs should be under 1% a year. d. If the advisor says it is not necessary to give you that information, that his word is ‘gold’, it is time to get up and leave.

6. Be Sure you understand every thing - The advisor is recommending . The best way to make sure you understand is to explain it to a friend. That way you are confident that you have complete understanding, especially when they ask you questions. If there is a question you cannot answer with confidence, go ask you advisor for an explanation.

7. Ask Yourself who is making money here? – How is the planner and issuer of the product making money and you coming out with a profit also.

8.  Ask your advisor if there are any other investments of better value. – Any certificates of deposit or money market accounts backed by the U.S. government are paying more than your bonds or cash are getting. Go to Depositaccounts.com or Bankrate.com to see if the advisor is giving you the correct information.

9. Is it too good to be true - The old saying “it probably is”. Be warned if you are asked to sign a document saying you have read all the hundred pages and you understood it all. Are you feeling pressured?  That in itself is a warning.

10. Appearance - Is the advisor dressed well. Does he have the air of financial success. Is he neat, methodical. My Dad would say does he have clean tidy shoes. I know it sounds picky but can be a give away to his work ethic for you as a client.

Is he well-known? Is he well liked? That is also a sign of a successful person

Some times we can do all this due diligence and still get it wrong  but it does cover your arse a little more than if you don’t do it.

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August 23, 2011 · 10:48 PM

Crucial Life Changing Decisions About You and Your Dollars

I know that when you are young and having fun, your responsibilities for the future seem so far away. Responsibilities really do not become part of your day-to-day thoughts or actions. In many ways that is a good thing because chances are you will be spending the most part of your life working, worrying and being responsible. I believe we all need our young and frivolous time. It’s good for our health gives us good memories.
When the time comes we need to consider some major decisions, about where and how we will spend our dollars for the future.

Here are some of them.

1. Do I take a job or do I get an education

When you leave school, the decision is to get a job and become a wage earner and avoid the years of study as a student ( of course not to mention the debt you will incur) to get a degree. Or you further our education with the expectation of a professional job with more income and of course it allows you to extend your knowledge and hopefully your intelligence. In my opinion, these days, a degree does not always guarantee you a job. I think the decision to go straight into the workforce actually gives you a taste of whether you enjoy your job or not. If after a year of earning a wage, it is not what you expect, you then can go into a study course and educate yourself in a field that you are passionate about or receive more satisfaction. Either way it is a decision you will have to make upon leaving school

2. Will I have a serious relationship

Almost everyone at some point in their life will commit to a serious relationship. This also has serious financial implications. Your partner may not share your attitude and behaviour towards money. You could become liable for debts he or she may incur. Be aware that there are money strings attached to a relationship. Another thing to consider is that your assets may be at risk if your relationship ends. You need to take care and protect yourself if you enter into a serious relationship.

3. Do I want children – or not

Children will have a big impact on your finances make no mistake. If you decide you do not want children or only one, you must discuss this with your partner very early in the relationship because he or she may have a different plan. It should be a decision pleasing to both of you and get your finances in place so that you are able to live on one income for some time. The cost of a child is thousands of dollars over its lifetime so you need to be prepared.

4. Should I prepare for my retirement and invest.

Of course this is a must. You need to go see a financial adviser (do your due diligence on finding one, as there are good and bad ones) so that he can steer you in the best direction. Everyone should join an additional saving scheme other than their work place retirement scheme, as young as possible.

5. Should I buy a house – or not

This is always an interesting question. If you talk to most financial experts they will tell you that your home is not really the best investment. I think at this economic times most people would agree with them.
It does not always mean you need to live in the property you buy. You can rent it out and the rent you receive may cover your rent elsewhere. This can protect you from future property booms. If house prices surge your property value should too. Maybe that is time to invest in another property using the value of your rented home as collateral.
One of the advantages of home ownership is that it forces savings over the years.

6. Should I insure

The golden rule is to insure what you cannot afford to lose. You obviously must insure your home or investment home as you cannot afford to lose such a big financial hit. Fire, flood, hurricane, anything like that. Always yes Always read the fine print. There are some insurance companies that promise the world but when it comes to paying out you may find they don’t cover things like flooding etc etc.
Consider this also you cannot afford to destroy someones BMW or Mercedes Benz so make sure your car has full insurance to cover such incidents.

7. Should I invest

You have your own investment property, home, or a super scheme then you are already an investor. If you have paid off your mortgage and have no bills get the advise of an independent financial advisor (Once again do your due diligence)

8. Should I have an emergency fund

Always expect the unexpected. An earthquake, illness, redundancy, divorce. Have a spare cash kitty at all times. The mortgage has to be paid, food has to be bought. You may be financially well off but if your cash is all tied up and not readily available for an emergency it may have a long-term impact. So keep some cash somewhere handy for that time that you need it. I know that it may not be the safest thing to do but keep some cash hidden, rather that in the bank because who knows what would happen if all the ATM’s malfunctioned. You may laugh but it could happen.

9. Should I start a business

Right now it is probably a risky business. On the other hand if you find a reason to start a business because of demand, well go for it. I still believe there would be opportunities out there to start a successful business. Be prepared to work long hours and take risks but in the end I am sure it would be rewarding. Countries were built on risky business and entrepeneurs and I think we need that inspiration once again to get our country back on its feet.

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August 6, 2011 · 8:49 PM

Ways To Save Money, Be happier, And More Time For Friends.

I am always looking for new ideas to save money and I enjoy sharing these with you. While I was in New Zealand I found this magazine called “GOOD – simple choices for a simple life”. It had some great ideas and it seems that we are now looking for a simple life with no worries and terrible debt. We can do it, we can make the sacrifices, we can also enjoy life at the same time. That is very important.
I have just finished an e-book called 1001 simple saving tips and suggestions and I hope to have it online by the end of August.
This is my second book (The other book is “Simply Fantastic – Living Better On Less)on a similar subject but this book just lists of the savings you can make without all the dialogue. Simple and easy way to learn what you can save on and keep on saving till you are out of “debt”. Getting everyone out of debt is my aim. As for the country we have to leave that to the politicians who are not making such a good job of it at the moment and that is why we have to take our own lives into our own hands.

Here are some saving suggestions that I believe beneficial to you.

Throw away your catalogues
Put a “No Junk Mail” on your letterbox. The challenge of constantly being bombarded with advertising can be very challenging for “Will Power”.

Spend Winter Nights Together

I know it’s not winter yet and everybody is sweating with the heat but here is a thought. Heating the whole house is very expensive. Shut the doors of rooms like the bathrooms, toilets, unused rooms, laundry and keep the warm in one area where the family can read, watch tv, play games together.

Try to reduce Waste

I know the present time is not like the “Big Depression” but it is not to say we can’t go there again and times are tough for many people now and I believe will get a little tougher. In the great depression households wasted nothing. Brown paper bags were kept for further use, fruit was preserved, toothpaste was put through the wringer to get out the last drop. Even rubber bands were put away for a purpose. Try thinking about what we are disposing of. Maybe we could use that little bit of honey left in the jar or sauce in the sauce bottle.

Everything can be used twice

Using something twice is an age-old practice. In the 40′s everything was used twice. Packing cases were painted and covered and used for side tables. I have seen some and they look great, you would never know. Powder puffs were used as shoe polishes. Cloth napkins washed and reused rather than disposable napkins which are loses the personal touch to a meal.

Don’t use shopping as recreation

Once upon a time recreation was playing cards, cricket or football in the back yard or swimming in the local pool or river or even fishing. It seems that today the recreation is going to the local mall having some “retail therapy”. Not a good idea. Almost a 100% of the time you will buy something and usually it is something that you really do not need. Try staying at home and fixing what is “Broke” instead of replacing it. Be creative, be inventive.

Use the fresh air cure

Today we are so busy doing what we do we forget the one thing that makes us feel good, keeps us in good health and more tranquil. “Fresh Air”. Take a few minutes each day just to walk outside and breathe that air, stand in that sun, feel that air around you. In the weekend have a dig around in the garden for an hour or two in the sun. Make time for your friends, have them around for coffee, it will make them relax also and have a joke or two. Keep the conversation light.
This therapy in itself will help keep away anxiety, trips to the doctor because of bad health, keeps you in touch with your friends, family, and yourself.

Choose quality

This has been proved to me over and over. Many times I have chosen an item for its price not quality and it has come back to bite me. If you need to buy an item for yourself or household choose quality not because it is cheaper. It could cost you more in the end. necessary items like pots and pans, it is better to pay that extra few dollars for better quality because you know you will get more years out of that product than the cheaper one and often made of healthier materials. The same goes for clothing. Buy classic styles that will last in fashion, not something that will be fashionable this week and probably you will not get as much wear out of it and in some cases not look as good.

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June 14, 2011 · 7:32 PM

Are You In Debt ?

If you are in debt then you are one of thousands, well actually millions. Just because you are one of millions, that are living on someone elses money, it’s not ok. You need to address this problem NOW, because trust me, the economy is not going to get better in the near future. If you want to protect what you have, start doing it now. Your salary is buying you a lot less than it did one year ago and the need to look after every cent you earn is now essential.

If you feel you are unable to take care of your debt problem on your own and cannot afford to pay a financial advisor then many Charities and church establishments offer free debt counseling. Counseling will help take some of the burden from you and look at things from a different perspective. Make use of the help, if you need them, use them. Once you get back on your feet, a donation would probably be very appreciated.

If you feel you can go it alone then here are some budget tips that will be helpful to you.

BUDGET TIPS

  • Draw up a realistic budget: To do this write down your income including wages, benefits and other income as well as ALL your expenses.
  • Ensure your expenditure includes: Insurances, holidays, house improvements and savings.
  • Stop using credit: Paying cash is a perfect way to know exactly what you are spending your money on.
  • Once you have drawn a budget, stick to it: Resist the temptation to buy now and pay later.
  • Plan for the future: Create a new savings account to save money for future expenses and allows your balance to increase.
  • Stock up on the essentials: Toilet paper, shampoo, soap, laundry products when they are marked down in price.
  • Shop close to closing time; Many shops and bakeries offer discounts for food in the hours before they close.
  • Buy Cheaper: If you shop at the farmers markets in the weekends you will pick up better quality and often cheaper fruit and vegetables and fresh-baked goodies.
  • Leave your wallet at home: Unless you are specifically going shopping try leaving the wallet at home.
  • Turn your air conditioner off: If your fuel is low turning the air conditioning will help reduce fuel consumption.
  • Refrain from buying that delicious cappuccino every day: Now this is a hard one for me. Cut it down to twice a week.
  • Empty the refrigerator: Before buying more food eat everything out of the fridge you will be surprised what you can make out of virtually nothing.

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April 27, 2011 · 9:03 AM

Your Retirement Options.

To prepare for retirement you can contribute to a 401K or a Roth 401K.

These funds are similar, but for Tax purposes they are very different.
For example if you invest in a 401K, the money that goes in to this fund is pre tax.
For example, your paycheck is $1000, you deposit $100 in your 401K. The amount you pay tax on is $900.
When you get to retirement age the money you withdraw is taxed on every cent.

With the Roth 401K you pay tax on the $1000 paycheck. You then deposit $100 in your Roth 401K.
When you get to retirement age you do not pay tax on any of your withdrawals. It is Tax free.

Because the future will be very different and taxes are likely to get much higher through the years, the Roth 401k may be the better option.

Source.

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April 12, 2011 · 10:45 AM

Overdraft Protection And More…

Love your money!

I was listening to the Gale King show this morning for the first time and Suzie Orman was a guest. Suzie was also promoting her new book ‘The Money Class‘

Her advice this morning was “Do not ever sign up for overdraft protection“. Her reason is that it is just another reason for the banks to charge you more fee’s. You may only be a few cents over but you will be charged for it. It also enables you, to disregard the responsibility of spending within your means.

Make sure you know about money and don’t use the excuse of financial ignorance. Know what that student loan, buying a car, buying a house is going to cost you right to the last cent.

Another subject that she spoke about was infidelity spending. The person that she was speaking to had a 12,000 dollar credit card debt that the spouse knew nothing about.
The next question Suzie asked, blew me away. She asked “Are you about 24 lbs overweight”. The reply was “yes”.
Suzie said that with her experience in the business she found that those that were in debt were often 1-2lbs overweight per thousand dollars in debt.

Suzie of course recommended that they come clean with the spouse, even though there was a fear of divorce as a result.

I thought this was interesting, wanted to share and of course Suzie always has great, sound information to give.

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