Learn to change your habits

By starting to think about it, you've already made a step in the right direction. You've found your indulgence? Calculated what an hour of work is really worth? Looked over the questions you should ask yourself before making a purchase and learned your rights as a consumer?

Now that you've made the decision to buy more wisely, you'll gradually start changing your living and shopping habits. Learning to live more simply is not only a lifestyle decision, but also a mindset. Learn to go for long-term gratification, for example.

How do you see life?

Opting to live more simply is also deciding to see life differently. It's time to lower your expectations of what life and happiness are all about. Does having the car model of the year, 3 plasma televisions and stainless steel appliances really make you happier? Doesn't happiness reside more in family relationships, love, friendship, and personal accomplishment at work or leisure activities?

Are we taking for granted the fact that we breathe clean air, have clean water to drink, free health care, access to education for all, an abundant food supply and freedom of speech to that point? These are things some people would be ready to die for.

We're not talking about stopping spending altogether as much as being a better consumer. Learn to need less. And if you can change your way of life now, you'll be even better off if times get harder financially.