Will 2009 Mean Change For You?

Barack Obama promises much-needed change for 2009 (by the way, Michelle is both intelligent and fashionable - what a great example). Will you be making changes this year? Here are a few suggestions from the Financial Fashionista:

Finances:

1. Tally up your outstanding bills. If you don't know the bottom line, you'll never find a way to get rid of them.

2. Review your assets. Be aware of what you own, what needs maintenance, where you can earn more money and what tasks are a waste of time.

3. Get ready to file your taxes. Think January rather than April so you can use your tax refund to go on summer vacation.

Fashion:

1. Review your closet. If you haven't worn it in over a year, it doesn't fit or you just don't like it, donate it to charity so you can focus on what works. Remember, one woman's trash is another woman's treasure.

2. Hit after holiday sales. Practically speaking, winter clothes cost the most - especially sweaters and boots. After the holidays you can score these items for up to 90 percent off and store them for next year. For the kids, buy one size larger.

3. Update your look. Do you have the same style for the past decade? Dare to be different! Take small steps. Add a bold color or new style to your wardrobe and you'll see how easy it is to get updated.

Family and Friends:

1. Leave negativity behind. If you force yourself to deal with negative friends or relatives, don't. Stop fighting and get on with life. If they want to join you, they'll hop aboard your anti-negativity train. If not, you've lost nothing but stresss.

2. Embrace the people around you. Sometimes our "loved ones" aren't who we expect them to be. It doesn't matter. Embrace the people who are there for you and put them first.

3. Be open to new experiences. If you don't have "room" for new friends, you're shutting out the possibility of growth and love. Take time to get to know people - it only takes a few minutes and the rewards are great.

Happy 2009 - here's to a prosperous, fashionable and positive year!