Kentin Waits's blog

6 Attitudes That Breed Financial Failure

Can changing our minds about money change our fortunes? Yup. Here are six ideas about finances that you might want to ditch.

Frugality: Are You Still in the Closet?

Are you open about your frugal lifestyle? If you've been keeping it hidden, maybe it's time to celebrate your thrifty ways. Here's why.

Is It Time to Starve Your 401(k)?

We're told again and again that feeding a 401(k) guarantees a sturdy retirement. But is that really your best savings option?

City Shopping: Finding Your New Frugal Home

Considering a move? Make sure you consider these frugal factors when choosing where you're going to live.

Deal Killers: 5 Phrases to Avoid When Negotiating

Negotiating can sometimes be stressful, and that stress can make buyers and sellers say dumb things. Learn to score better deals by avoiding these phrases.

Simple-Living Lessons I Learned From "Hoarders"

TV shows like "Hoarders" are hot right now. But beyond the voyeurism, what lessons can we learn from them about our own relationships with stuff?

In Praise of Complainers: Why Complaining Is Good

Slow Service? Cold soup? Learn the ins and outs of constructive complaining and how it can help improve things for all consumers.

Guide to Better Style: The Curated Closet

Closet a mess? Wardrobe uninspiring? Take a look at how to transform the chaos into a collection that reflects your personal style.

How to Avoid New Carry-on Luggage Charges

New fees for carry-on luggage have started creeping up on consumers. Discover how to pack defensively and avoid these extra charges.

4 Quirky Ways to Spend Less and Kick-Start Saving

Learning to spend less and save more doesn't isn't intimidating when you follow these enjoyable, unconventional strategies.

5 Reasons Why I Don’t Clip Coupons

Many people consider clipping coupons to be one of the major tenets of frugal living. But all that time spent searching and snipping might not be worth it.

What I Wish I Had Known When I Started Living Frugally

It's always easier to know what to do in hindsight. But whether you're a frugal newbie or old pro, these are great reminders.

10 Great Uses for Old Ties

Thrift stores (and maybe even your very own closet) tend to be filled with used ties. Give them new life with one of these easy DIY projects.

Everyday Noise: The Ignored Pollution?

When it comes to downsizing and decluttering, don't just think about the things you see — also think about what you hear.

7 Frugal Myths Debunked

What are the myths about frugality and what does it really mean to be a frugal guru? Debunk the most common myths about frugal living.

Toxic Laundry: What’s in Your Dryer Sheets and Fabric Softener?

There's more to fabric softeners than springtime freshness and fluffy teddy bears — your product might have some nasty chemicals hiding inside.

The Tyranny of Stuff

"Stuff" can be helpful items, prized possessions, or needless objects that clutter not just our homes, but also our lives. Here's a vote for simplicity.

Going Green: How to Live a (Nearly) Cash-Only Life

Whether you have a problem with credit-card debt or just want a new way to budget, it might be time to go for the green.

5 Key Characteristics of the Entrepreneurial Mind

What's it take -- other than hard work and determination -- to make it as an entrepreneur?

How to Retire During a Recession

As the economy remains shaky, retirement can seem oh-so-unattainable. But there are ways to make it work — and even make your retirement enjoyable.