Why do we procrastinate about financial decisions when we know that putting them off hurts us in the long run? Why do we splurge today instead of saving for retirement? And when is the brain at its prime in terms of decision-making? Harvard economist David Laibson joins DailyFinance's Laura Rowley in New York's Central Park with his insights.
Researchers have found that people who create concrete mental pictures of their goals are more likely to save money for them. Here's the story of one woman who looked into her own crystal ball, got a clear vision of what she wanted, and implemented a financial strategy that allowed her to achieve it. DailyFinance's Laura Rowley shares the lessons learned along the way.
In the midst of a divorce, a mom of five faces a financial horror story: $40,000 in credit card debt, a huge mortgage payment and minimal college savings -- and she has no idea how to budget. DailyFinance's Laura Rowley offers a few ways she can begin her escape from the financial twilight zone.
The world of personal finance is a lot like Halloween: Filled with treats if you're good (and clever), but rife with tricks if you're not careful. Here's some advice that will keep your money tree from getting TPed, and help you bring home a pumpkin full of sweet rewards.
The early numbers are in, and they're impressive: Apple has sold more than 4 million iPhone 4S handsets during its first three days on the market. And buying a 4S could actually be a smart money move. Unlike past iPhones, the 4S isn't just another well-designed handset -- this one promises tangible productivity gains that could save some serious moola.
Dr. Roy Baumeister is a research psychologist who has studied the science of self-control for many years. He's also co-author of the new book Willpower. We asked him how you can boost your willpower when facing financial temptations and decisions. Here are his secrets.
The basic logic of saving for retirement is pretty straightforward: The more you sock away, the more you'll wind up with (all else being equal). But there are two other benefits to aggressive saving that many people overlook.
Labor Day has gained a multitude of meanings over the years, but for people who love to grill, it's a warning that the days of lighthearted cookouts are dwindling. So why waste it on the same old fare? For less money (and just a little more time) you can build the kind of cookout memories that will keep you warm through the long, cold winter.
According to Bankrate.com's latest Financial Security Index, consumers' feelings about their money and job situations reached a new level of despair for 2011 in early August, with the index hitting a low of 92.3, down from 95.6 the month before.
It's one thing to use Photoshop to make your waistline look slimmer in your snapshots. Many people also take a distorted view of their finances, fooling themselves about the health of their balance sheets. Here are some common self-deceptions.
According to a recent report, Americans are spending less, saving more, and paying off their credit cards. But while debt reduction is good news for America's wallets, is it bad news for the economy?
As the stock market continues to spook investors, many are fleeing to the safety of bank certificates. Here's why they're looking good now and how to pick the right one for you.
Far fewer U.S. families are saving money for emergencies and education than their Chinese counterparts, according to a University of Missouri study released Thursday.
If you still rely on Dunkin' Donuts for your budget buzz, you might be missing a better value. We conducted a taste test comparing the classic to coffee from McDonald's and Starbucks. Who delivers the best coffee for the price?
As the new school year approaches, families head to the shops for new supplies. But the back-to-school shopping season can be hard on the wallet. Follow these money-saving tips from moms across the country and you'll have plenty of cash left for apples for the teacher.