[Stacey Daprile – Ambassador]

I agree – the little things really add up, and it is hard to find the right balance. I find that this is when having that set budget comes in handy. While it might feel like deprivation, if I only have x amount of money set aside for the little things – I pick and choose much more carefully.

I agree – it is hard!

[Cara Reynolds – SUM180 Community Manager]

I think Stacey’s got the right idea: having a set budget so you don’t spend what you can’t afford. One more idea that might help stretch your dining/entertainment budget – rewards programs. Depending on the program, sometimes the reward is a free meal at a specific restaurant or sometimes it’s points that can be redeemed in a number of ways (your choice). The reward program might come with your credit card, or it may be specific to a restaurant network, or be something as simple as a free cup of coffee for every 10 purchases. Personally, I never met a rewards program I didn’t like – I’ve even signed up for rewards at my hair stylist.