Tara Struyk's picture
Staff Writer

Tara Struyk

 I'm a freelance blogger, writer and editor who discovered finance just early enough to avoid getting into major money trouble. Now I'm seeking the path toward financial freedom - and writing about it as I go.  

Latest articles by Tara Struyk

Why Canada’s TFSA Is Totally Awesome

If you live in Canada, you should definitely make a Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA) part of your retirement savings plan. Here's why.

How to Get Rid of Your Old Electronics

These four responsible ways to dispose of old electronics will keep them the out of landfills and may even put a little more money in your pocket.

Buying Your First Home: What to Do and When to Do It

Buying your first home can be incredibly rewarding — and incredibly stressful. Keep your head on straight (and even enjoy the process!) with this guide.

You Shouldn’t Buy a Home If…

Home ownership isn’t for everyone. And even if it’s right for you, it might not be right for you right now. Read this to help figure out if you're ready.

Canada and U.S. Retirement Showdown: Which Offers More for Retirees?

In the spirit of friendly cross-border competition, Canada and the U.S. face-off on retirement. Which country offers the best deal for retirees?

20 Great Body Weight Exercises (and Why You Should Do Them)

Body weight exercises seem simple, but they can be very challenging. Best of all? You don't need expensive fitness equipment to do them.

Why You Pay More at the Grocery Store (and How to Stop)

Grocer tricks and bad habits lead you to pay more than you need to for groceries. Learn how to break free and save more on your food.

How to Save Money by Going (Mostly) Meatless

By making a few clever substitutions, you can save money going (mostly) meatless — and make food that tastes so good, you won't even miss the meat.

4 Tips for Making Resolutions Stick in the New Year

Almost everybody makes New Year's resolutions, and almost nobody keeps them for more than a few weeks. But resolutions can work — here's how.

7 Great Investments for First-Timers

If you're new to investing and unsure of where to start, don't fret! Check out these investments that are great for newbies.

7 Inexpensive Lifestyle Habits That Can Add Years to Your Life

These seven simple changes can add decades to your life — and many of them don't cost a penny. How's that for a return on investment?

In a Rut? 6 Tips for Getting Out

Whether it's emotional or physical, whether it has to do with work, relationships, or personal goals, being in a rut sucks. Here's how to help yourself get out.

Honesty Really Is the Best Policy, Especially at Work

When you listen to the news, it can sometimes feel like dishonesty is the only sure way to get ahead. Discover why telling the truth really counts.

Why You Should Do Things You're Bad At

Competence is comfortable — but maybe it shouldn't be. Doing things you're bad at has some serious mental, physical, and emotional benefits.

7 Steps to Improving Your Critical Thinking

With all the information we're faced with every day, it can be hard to know what's what. These seven steps will help you get closer to the truth.

Your Money Problems: Why They're All Your Fault

Yeah, it sounds harsh. But accepting responsibility for your bad behavior might be the first step to improving your relationship with your finances.

8 Fancy Ways to Use Leftover Food

Throwing away food is like throwing away money. These recipes will help you stop wasting both — and make your leftover food taste totally new.

How to Be Frugal (Without Becoming a Hermit)

Being frugal doesn't mean being stuck at home alone reading library books and watching free TV. Discover how to save money — and get out of your house.

Do You Really Want to Be Rich?

Many people dream of being rich, but few of us are willing to take the steps to get there — or we take the wrong ones. Here's a better plan.

The Straight Talk on Working From Home

Working from home has its perks, but it's definitely not for everyone. Learn the truth, and then decide if you REALLY want to work from home.