10 Tough Ways to Boost Your Bottom Line

5. Only buy used. New is nice, but there are very few items that you need to purchase new. Learn to buy everything you want used or don't buy it at all. eBay (EBAY Quote), Craigslist, second-hand shops, flea markets and garage sales will be your new shopping grounds. This should reduce your spending by 50% or more and with a bit of work and a good eye, you'll be the only one to know you didn't pay retail prices.

6. Buy one, donate three. You know that you have too much stuff and your closets and other storage areas prove it. If you really want to purchase something, vow to donate, sell or get rid of three items for every one that you buy. If you want that new shirt, those new shoes or a new book, you have to give up three of each to get it.

No, it's not easy giving things you have up, but this will ensure that you only buy things that you really want and avoid gathering that 80% of junk that most people buy but no longer use.

7. Make Christmas a no-spend holiday. Decide that you are opting out of the commercialism of Christmas or whatever winter holiday you celebrate and turn it into a no-spend holiday. Instead, go back to the roots of what the holiday is supposed to mean. It will not be easy and friends and family may not understand, but not only will you save a bundle of money, you'll have a less stress while getting a lot more meaning out of the holidays.