It’s scary to live in the uncertain, but we do it everyday. It’s during economic times like these that we come closer to realizing we’re all susceptible and the worst can happen any day. So, what should we do? Always plan ahead and the worst won't hurt so bad.

Life has risks. It can harbor in dark alleys or be in plain site. It could happen today, next week or next year – you just never know when you’ll be affected. As a single-mom and sole bread winner, I’ve had no other option than to be frugal and cost-conscious with my finances. I’ve also had to help many families prepare for their future financial needs and protection. So, here are some helpful ways we can all prepare our homes and families. They’re a mixture of my personal financial habits, as well as tips I’ve researched.

1. Build a savings and cut down on expenses
1. Set a savings goal that’s realistic for your family, then deduct the same amount from every paycheck. Remember to pay yourself first.
2. Collect the loose change in your pocket at the end of the day. Put it in a jar. When the jar is full, take it to the automatic counter at the bank and deposit it.
3. Reduce your expenses in as many ways as you can, it all adds up: Save money on gas by carpooling or taking the bus. Eat-out less often by cooking more at home. This can be a trickle effect, since leftovers are great for brown bag lunches to school or work - you’ve just hit two birds with one stone. How smart is that?
4. Divide your expenses into two categories - the Essentials vs Luxuries. For example, electricity is an essential while cable TV is a luxury. It’s difficult but tough times call for tough measures.
5. Pay with cash! If you use your credit/debit card, you’re too tempted to buy now and pay later. Statistically using a card caused families to spend 34% more. Give cash a try and see how much more conscious you’ll be about your spending habits.
2. Shop smarter.
1. Research the local sale items at your food store and make a shopping list of the essentials. Stick to the list, to minimize impulse buying. Buy the less expensive generic brand if one is offered.
2. Always monitor the food total at the check out line. A checker is susceptible to human error, like running an item through too many times or putting in the wrong produce item code, increasing the cost per pound.  
3. Shop for the best insurance rate (ok, this one is near and dear to my heart). Combine your auto and home policies to get multi-policy discounts. If you currently have a low deductible consider bumping it to the next level saving you up to 30 percent on your policy. If you’ve put the motorcycle, watercraft, or RV away for the winter, consider lowering your coverage.
4. Shop the clearance rack for clothes and stick to a classic style for work. It never goes away and is acceptable in all business environments. It’s also easier to accessorize, mix and match when you’re working with solid colors.
5. Shop at thrift stores. You’ll be amazed at what you find at such great prices. Especially for kids who outgrow their shoes and clothes each year. Should also be your first stop for sports gear.
   

3. Get the family involved. Preparing for the worst is a collaborative effort. Family members need each other’s support to get through the tough times. So, get everyone on the same page about tightening expenses.
1. Unplug unused appliances around the house
2. Turn off the lights when a room is not in use
3. Take quick showers and don’t let the water run for long periods of time
4. Consider a family talk plan that has less minutes and is less expensive
5. Teens can also earn their own extra income by babysitting, shoveling snow, mowing lawns, having a paper route or giving private band/orchestra lessons to middle or high school students