Tara Struyk's blog

How to Do Less — and Why You Should

If getting things done is so important, why does doing nothing feel so good? Discover how to do less — and become happier and more productive.

What Is Your Time Worth?

If a top hedge fund manager takes out his garbage, you could say that it cost him more than $100,000. What is your time worth?

How to Be a More Positive Person

Life will always have frustrations and disappointments. But if you follow these suggestions, it'll be easier to approach any setback with positivity and joy.

Weird Job Interview Questions (and How to Answer Them)

Need to measure a building? Escape from a blender? Give an opinion on garden gnomes? Learn how to answer these and other odd interview questions.

Trading Work for Never-Ending Weekends: How to Retire Early

Those coveted post-work years can be sweet, but don’t kid yourself — it’ll take a lot of hard work to get there.

In Two-Income Households, Can Making More Put Us Further Behind?

Women's move into the workforce was all about choice. So why do so many parents now feel like they don't have the option to stay at home?

Relationships and Money: Two Sides of the Same Coin

The way we deal with money in relationships is often a sign of how we deal with other things in life. But if you're aware of potential problems, you can change.

Why You Shouldn't Eat at Chain Restaurants

The portions are big, and the food is reliably the same...but is it worth it to eat at chain restaurants? One writer says no.

What Is Your Net Worth?

Unlike the external indicators of wealth we all tend to recognize, net worth is a true indicator of where you stand financially. Find out yours.

A Beginner's Guide to Homemade Bread

Don't be intimidated by homemade bread! Making your own delicious, frugal, and fresh loaves can be simple if you know where to start.

15 Frugal Ways to Battle Boredom

The next time you're listless, grumpy, or just plain bored, follow these suggestions to spend your time, rather than spending money.

What to Do When You Want to Quit Your Job

Whether you've landed a new job or your current one is awful, follow these steps to ensure that when you leave, you're covered financially and emotionally.

What Easter Island Can Teach Us About Money

What do the iconic stone statues and barren landscape of Easter Island have to do with modern financial planning? As it turns out, quite a lot.

A 94-Year-Old's Take on Making Good Decisions

At 94, my grandmother is as independent, effervescent, and opinionated as ever, and she has some good (and surprising) advice about making decisions.

4 Self-Discipline Tricks I Learned From the Marathon

Don't worry if you're not a runner — these lessons can help you achieve your goals no matter what you're trying to do.

Are You Frugal or Cheap?

Saving money is great — but sometimes, it can be taken too far. Are you crossing the line from savvy frugality into miserly cheapness?

6 Simple Tips to Keep Your Car Running Longer

How often your car breaks down and how much repairs cost are largely within your control. Learn how to care for your car right, so it keeps running.

Deep Discounts on Schedule: The Best Days to Shop

Whether you're picking up groceries or planning a big-ticket purchase like a TV or airfare, discover which days of the week provide the best prices.

Creating a Memorable Christmas

Money isn't what makes a memorable Christmas. Follow these suggestions to help enjoy the holiday, not the stuff associated with it.

4 Tips for Living Spontaneously on the Cheap

It might seem like spontaneity is the enemy of frugality, but there are some simple ways to fit the fun of spontaneity into your frugal life.