How to Avoid Wasting Money

When you are trying to save money, every penny counts. That is why it can be extremely frustrating to learn that everyday actions and decisions can lead to a large amount of wasted money.

Fortunately, being aware of these pitfalls can help you avoid them in the future. After working hard for your money, it is important that you spend it as wisely as possible.

Gym membership

Many people sign up for a gym membership with perfectly good intentions. They have a desire to get in shape and lead a healthy lifestyle.

However, many gyms charge their customers a hefty initiation fee and monthly membership costs.

If you utilize the services at your gym on a daily basis, then the cost may be justified. However, most members do not attend as often as they would like.

Many people are motivated at the beginning of their membership, but that enthusiasm slowly declines as more time passes.

In order to save money, run outside whenever possible or invest in a workout DVD that can be utilized from the comfort of your own home. Yoga is also a great way to increase your heart rate without the need for expensive equipment.

Practice Safe Driving 

If you are a conscientious driver and obey all traffic laws, there is a good chance that you will not be pulled over for a costly offense.

Being a safe driver can save you money in a variety of different ways.

• First, you will not have to pay for expensive speeding tickets. 
• Second, your auto insurance rates will not increase. 

In fact, your insurance rates can even decrease if you have a positive driving history.

In order to save money on your vehicle, keep your eyes on the road and avoid any type of risky behavior. 

Expensive Cable Service

If you are currently paying for premium cable channels, consider canceling your subscription.

With so many channels included in the basic or expanded cable packages, there is plenty of available entertainment at a less expensive price.

Also, if you lead a busy life, there is a good chance that you do not have a lot of time to watch the programming options on the premium channels (or any channel)!

By dropping these deluxe features, you will be amazed at how quickly your monthly cable bill will shrink.

Bargain Shopping

If you are a bargain shopper, you are looking for the best deal possible. Although this saves you money at the time of purchase, it can actually cost you in the long run.

3 Most Popular Cars in Illinois

The Escape has been completely redesigned for 2013, and its new, distinct look is sure to turn heads.

Chevrolet Equinox 

The Equinox is Chevrolet’s compact crossover SUV that was redesigned in the year 2010 with new engines for improved fuel economy and a fresh exterior look.

With a plethora of cars on the market today, the options for owners are seemingly endless. Every state has its own unique three best selling cars.

With such a wide variety of inventory, it can be difficult to distinguish between different makes and models.

When a car becomes popular, it is typically safe to assume that it contains features that appeal to a wide variety of people.

Often times, these vehicles are safe, reliable, and affordable. The following list of the most popular cars in Illinois may be helpful for residents on the market for a new set of wheels.

Ford Fusion

Ford’s midsize family car is a solid choice in the competitive midsize-sedan segment. The Fusion has proven reliability and has earned good crash-test ratings.

An all-new version was released in fall 2012 and the interior and exterior were completely redesigned. Fuel economy is a major focus, so the V6 engine has been removed from the new lineup.

A trio of 4-cylinder engines is currently available; the smallest, a 1.6-liter, will get an estimated 26 mpg city/37 mpg highway.

Ford Escape

It makes sense that the Ford Escape is one of the most popular vehicles in Illinois.

There are several Ford manufacturing facilities throughout the Midwest, and Midwesterners are proud to support a local brand.

Illinois also has notoriously rough winters, making a small crossover with good ground clearance and all-wheel drive the perfect choice for snowy and icy conditions.


This vehicle offers a flexible interior to accommodate passengers and cargo with Multi-flex rear seating.

This allows the rear seat to be moved forward for more cargo capacity or moved back for more rear-seat legroom.

The Onstar advanced communication system comes standard on the Equinox.

OnStar provides in-vehicle safety, security, and communications services using wireless and GPS satellite technology.

For Illinois inhabitants who are not sure how to begin their car search, considering these three most popular vehicles may serve as a solid starting point.

The Fastest Growing Occupations In Illinois

Illinois residents looking for gainful employment should consider one of the top three fastest growing occupations in Illinois.

Jobs are scarce these days, and many live in constant fear of being laid off. 

If you are hoping to enter a field that will grow and have many opportunities, consider one of the top three fastest-growing occupations in Illinois. We break down what each one is and the average salary.

3. Healthcare Professionals and Technical Occupations – 24%

The field of healthcare professionals and technical occupations is huge – it includes any form of a medical job, from nursing to technicians to specialists to therapists, as well as trainers, counselors, surgeons, masseuses, and paramedics.

In this field, your salary is very much tied to what your job is, but the average income is $60,200. 

Physicians and dentists are among the top paid, with an average income of $100,000+, skilled nurses come in just over $50,000, and ambulatory healthcare services average around $37,000.

2. Computer and Mathematical Science Occupations – 28%

The second largest growth in Illinois is expected in the computer and mathematical science fields. 

These jobs include computer and information research occupations, computer and systems analysts, security analysts, software and system developers, web developers, actuaries, mathematicians, statisticians, and mathematical technicians.

The average income for these occupations is $76,270, and there is room for significant growth.

1. Healthcare Support Occupations – 29% increase

Healthcare Support Occupations encompasses a wide range of jobs, almost all of which are expected to see a large growth by 2018. 

They include nursing, psychiatric and home health aides, nursing, occupational therapy and physical therapy assistants and aides, massage therapists, pharmacy aides, and dental and medical assistants.

The average income for these fields is $25,550, though it depends on the specific job.