Ok, so I am going through some big changes regarding taking care of myself as well as my wallet. After removing all my cosmetics and counting up how much it's worth I realized my cosmetics are worth (alot) more than I make in a month.

It's scary and it made me cry because I am really broke and am struggling to pay bills. I've been so broke that lately I haven't been going out at all because I couldn't afford $10 to pay my way.

I think I've been trying so hard to make my skin and hair look good because I've felt uncomfortable being fat. Now I'm losing weight and feel better about myself than any cosmetics ever made me feel and don't feel the need to use them as much.

I made a decision today that I will no longer buy products that I don't need. I'll stick to the basics and will try to switch to (some) pharmacy brands.

I have to do this in order to get my financial situation under control and keep it under control.

So I will use up what I have, return whatever I can, and from now on only buy one great product instead of 30 so-so ones.

What I need is mostly advice on how to get my life in order. Sticking to a diet is SO HARD when my financies are a big mess.

Please help. Oh and also, if you know of any great inexpensive beauty must haves, share!

Thanks in advance!

One thing that my partner and I do to keep our spending in order is we put our debit cards/ check books into a locked box that we put up. We take it down so that we can pay bills, and then back up it goes. We decided on a set amount for every payday for entertainment, food, etc. That we get in cash. That way, we know how much we have.

If you are anything like me, debit cards are the DEVIL!! I forget how much I have used it, or what I bought, it is amazing how much money I spend on $4 here and $3 there. Now, when I only have cash, I KNOW how much I have spent, because I don't have the money in my pocket anymore. And, I don't buy a lot of things, because I don't want to use my money!!

Try cash, it really shows you how much you spend. IMHO

I STILL use the envelope method!! And it is so easy and nice. We have put away a ton of money into savings using this method and it is what paid for my band. This is a great idea. Also, if i find deals, and end up saving money here and there, I put that money away and every few months use it for something just for me.

I like to keep it simple and have found the envelope system accomplishes that goal. The money really does add up over time and it forces you to NOT live beyond your means.

Pick your products too - like you might love expensive anti ageing moisturisers, in which case allow yourself one, but does it really matter what you cleanse with? Its on and off your face so quickly, I use a really cheap scrub every day in the shower. But I buy good eye cream becuase it makes a difference to me.

It sounds like you need give nothing up in the meantime though if you have so much to hand! Enjoy it while it all lasts and just vow not to buy any more.