Friday Finance Findings for January 14th

Another day, another dollar. That’s been the theme of the week. Just trying to stay focused and get stuff done and make a few bucks. It’s been almost exactly one year since becoming entirely self-employed, and it’s been an interesting journey. I did some things right, but did a lot of things wrong. That’s why 2011 is the year to really make things happen. I think I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t, what habits I need to break, and what I need to do in order to really move forward.

So, on that note let’s kick it off with a bunch of great links for the weekend. These are helpful reads that will kick your own productivity into gear and make 2011 a great year.

How to lose weight in 2011 – This was one of my “resolutions” this year as well, and as expected, it never goes quite as smoothly as you’d expect. But, progress is being made and even a few pounds lighter so far this year is better than nothing.

Stocks with 5% Dividend Yield – Dividend stocks are great if you’re investing for the long haul, which is why I spent much of the last year or two buying up dividend stocks while everybody was fleeing the markets. I’m up over 100% with a few picks, and they continue to churn out decent dividends on top of that. I’ll take it!

Quit Making Excuses and Start Making Opportunity – There are two kinds of people in this world. Those who do, and those who whine. It’s up to you. You can sit around whining about your luck, your situation, or your life and never get anywhere, or you can get to work and make something happen for yourself.

Seek Debt Assistance or Deal with Your Own Debt? – If you’re under a lot of debt it can be overwhelming. That’s when seeking the help from the outside can help. But it isn’t for everyone. Here’s how to decide what’s right for you.

10 Credit Card Rental Car Insurance Surprises – When you rent a car you’ll inevitably be asked whether or not you want to buy their rental insurance. So, should you? Here’s what you need to know.

Why Low Interest Rates Are A Good Thing – Are low interest rates good? Obviously, on a credit card or mortgage they are, but what about the low interest rate environment as a whole?

10 Creative Ways States and Cities are Plugging Leaks in Their Budgets – The whole world is in a bit of a cash crunch these days, but states and local municipalities are taking it really hard. Here are some very creative ways some locations are plugging the budgets in their leaks.

Credit Sesame: Free Credit Scores & Debt Management – There’s a new debt management tool out there called Credit Sesame. What is it and how does it work? Lazy Man has the answers.

The Top 15 Cheapest New Cars of 2011 – Looking to buy a car this year? Well, if saving money is your goal, here are 15 of the cheapest new cars of the year.

Other Links:

• 2011 RRSP Contribution Limits And 2011 RRSP Contribution Deadline
• Emerging Market Risks
• Ten Best Cities for Job Opportunities
• Case Study On Explosive Blog Growth & Creating a Full-Time Income
• A Resolution Worth Keeping: Get an Insurance Checkup Your life changes constantly. Your insurances needs change right along with them. Get an insurance review to make certain you’re covered with the proper insurance.
• Are You Responsible for Your Spouse’s Debt? — Things can be complicated in a marriage, and this includes finances in some cases. When debt enters the picture, there are often many questions that come with it. This article will help you answer some questions related to debt and marriage.
• Blogger Tax Deductions You Should Be Looking For Come Tax Time – As a blogger, there are a number of deductions you can be taking to make your taxable income lower.
• Taking Care of Your Battle Buddies Through Life Insurance – Don’t be a blue falcon by not purchasing life insurance to protect your family.

Related posts:

1. Friday Finance Findings for May 14th
2. Friday Finance Findings for January 28th
3. Friday Finance Findings for January 21st
4. Friday Finance Findings for June 24th
5. Friday Finance Findings for April 15th