Video version here

As most bookworms will know, reading slumps are the worst. There are all these beautiful books on your shelf and you want to read them all, yet where is the motivation to pick it up off the shelf and actually start reading it?

Here are my top 10 tips to fighting the slump:

1. Find out why you're in a slump
Finding out the proper reason you're in a reading slump can do wonders when finding a further solution. So here is task one, what was the most recent book you read? If it was A Court of Mist and Fury or Obsidio then that's probably the reason, alas, it may also be a book that was so intense and you loved it and perhaps you're still feeling all the feels and can't move on.
OR if you think it's another reason, what are say... the most five recent books you've read and how long did it take you to read them? Sometimes we've read with such momentum and speed, your brain has finally decided to do some calculations and realised it was working real hard and just wants some down time.

2. Re-read a fave
In my experience, if I read something crazy amazing, I feel like the next book cops a lot of negative feelings as I subconsciously start to compare with the previous book, even if it had nothing to do with it. If I re-read something I've already read, I seem to have less expectations because I've already read it, you get me? Though you have to be a little careful with this one, if you start re-reading a book that's part of a series you might do the circle of life and re-read the rest and be at the beginning of another book slump. But if you get a good four or five books re-read because of it, is that really a bad thing?

3. Get in the zone
Grab your fave drink, put your phone in another room, and sit in a super comfy environment.

4. Start a new series that has a solid four of five books already released
Ok, ok, this is only for the super keen but you could do this without even realising. This might also take some trial and error but sometimes I'll start one book in a series or trilogy and find I really love it and immediately want to read book two and suddenly there's a domino effect and I'm now shipping myself with the love interests and own all the bookish merch I can find.
*Warning: may cause harm to bank account.

5. Read something from a different genre
I would specifically say contemporary since I'm a lover of fantasy and dystopian but sometimes you might have to put your thing down, flip it and reverse it. Go for something that is COMPLETELY different to what you usually read and you might find yourself immersed in a book you didn't think you'd ever like. In my own experience, I like to throw in contemporaries to avoid future slumps, it has worked better than I ever thought.

6. Do something different
Believe it or not my bookworms, but there are other hobbies we can find *gasp*. Watch a movie or TV show or seven (I am not held responsible for Netflix slumps), do a puzzle, clean your house, earn brownie points from your parents if you live at home. Just do something else for a while and then we can go back to reading.

7. Participate in a read-a-thon
If you didn't know there is an entire world dedicated just to books, yes we include our pets and food sometimes but it is solely based around books. Due to that, there is almost always a read-a-thon going on and it's a really great way to read a few books in a short amount of time. If there isn't one on during your slump, host your own!

8. Read reviews
If there's a few books you want to read but don't have the right amount of motivation to do so, look for fellow bloggers reviews. Goodreads is an option but not always the best, do some googling and find a 4 or 5 star rated one (remember to look for spoiler free!) and start reading. When someone else has read it and talks about all the great things the book has, it's a nice motivator to pick up said book and find out for yourself. Just beware of the crazy obsessed reviews, you don't want to suddenly have high expectations and be disappointed.

9. Do a buddy read
There is bound to be someone feeling the same way as you, or might just want some motivation to read a particular book. Find out on Instagram or Twitter if there's anyone else wanting to read a certain book you have in mind and suggest a buddy read. There's almost this 'have to read' feeling so that you can keep up with each other and it can be an easy motivator sometimes.

10. Just keep reading
To put it simply. If I find it difficult to get into a book I realise I might be putting it down after each chapter and picking it back up later on. Try and read a good chunk of the book and suddenly you're moving and you're getting somewhere and you want to keep going. So yeah, just read.


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WHERE YOU CAN FIND ME:



Contact: erenabennett@hotmail.com
Instagram: @erenareads & @erena_b
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Twitter: @erenareads
YouTube: Life of Erena or click here

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Here for you today are my last Goodness Me box deliveries. I have combined them as I received my January box very late into the month, a week later came the February box. Both months boxes were definitely better than the previous two - in my opinion.

I have tried various items in both boxes and will let you know what I think below.

Hello everyone, today I am here writing to you on my iPad! I had been thinking about getting one for a while now and decided to 'just do it' about a week ago. It's just the regular iPad mini but after using it I wish I had got the iPad 2 mini. Mainly because I have an iPhone 6 and it's brilliant and the the regular iPad is a step back in greatness (and speed). Nonetheless, I am loving it and am very happy with my purchase.

So in a previous post I had mentioned wanting to being more active on my blog and this post will mark three in the month of January - woohoo! I don't want to commit to a certain number of posts a month, I just want to try my best in being active. I'm thinking of doing smaller posts such as 'What I Eat in a Day' (with pictures of course) and perhaps a couple of other day to day activities or thoughts where I can fill in the gaps in between the 'bigger' posts.

Alright, let me get back on track.
In 2013, I started watching Zoella on YouTube and when it came round to her Christmas vlogs - Vlogmas - I absoloutely loved watching her open her different advent calendars. The two I was most interested in were the Benefit calendar and The Body Shop calendar and I could not find either of these two in stores at all. I soon let it go and lived my excitement through Zoella's vlogs.
When I was in Melbourne CBD at the end of November I decided to browse through the Benefit counter in the Myer store (fun fact: Myer Melbourne CBD has the biggest Benefit counter in the world). I came across the Benefit advent calendar!!! Excited was an understatement - though I had to think about it after I knew the price of it: $149.00 AUD. I had to quickly justify the purchase - I wanted one...? And I had never bought or even tried any of the Benefit products before, so I got it! I had to wait four days until I could open it (I guess I can open it whenever I want but let's be traditional here!)

Here's what I got...
*All pictures are from my Instagram taken on an iPhone 6.










Overall, I'm fairly happy with the products that I got. Though I really couldn't believe that they would put three hair ties and three stationary items in here as well. Maybe around three would have been more acceptable. If you're all about value then I wouldn't get this however, if you have never tried any Benefit products (or very little) and you want to then I would definitely consider getting this in the future. It has a really good range of products in here that I love using. I won't be purchasing this in the future as I obviously don't need to - and I'm keeping my eye out for The Body Shop Advent Calendar for December this year!

My favourites are: The Porefessional, Watt's Up Highlighter, Stay Don't Stray Eye Primer, High Beam Highlighter and the Stay Flawless 15 Hour Primer. I haven't opened up either of the mascaras as I want to finish my current ones, but I am really looking forward to the They're Real Mascara as I've many great things about this one.
I also haven't used all the products yet, but definitely will as time goes on.

Hopefully this has helped you if you've been tossing up whether or not to get this advent calendar.
See you next time!

xx


Instagram: erena_b
Twitter: erena_bee
Pinterest: erenabennett
Email: erenabennett@hotmail.com

Hello everyone.

I know it hasn't been too long since my last post, but that's okay since this post should have been published a month ago!
As you may or may not have seen in November, I purchased a subscription box with 'Goodness Me'.
The Goodness Me Box is a health food box for $25 a month (free shipping).
In my November box I received an array of goodies, some of which I would repurchase, some which I will not. However, I love being able to try these food items and finding new health foods to continue to purchase in the future.



Here is what I got in my December box:

1. Higher Living: Vitality & Ginger Kick
I always love a good tea. The ingredients in all of Higher Living's teas are natural and certified organic herbs. Great for you're feeling a bit sick, or whenever else you want it!
15-20 bag pack RRP$3.69

2. Henry Jones & Co: Fruit & Chia - Mango, Passionfruit & Chia Seeds
I haven't tried this yet as I have other jams in the fridge, but I'm looking forward to it! This would go well on toast, muesli, smoothies, oatmeal and on cheese boards - yum!
290g RRP $4.99

3. Mayver's: Original Super Spread
I wanted to buy this a while back but didn't because I have a bunch of peanut butters I still need to get through - so I still haven't opened it yet but hope to soon. It looks super yummy and made up of (only) chia, sesame, almond and 4 'super nuts'. There's no added oils, salts or sugars and would be delicious on pretty much anything.
375g RRP $7.99



4. Lupin Foods: Lupin Flake
I never heard of this before it arrived in my Goodness Me Box. "Lupins are the world's richest natural source of combined protein and dietary fibre" (as said on the packaging). It can be used in salads, dips, muesli and protein balls (I'm also sure it can be used in many other recipes). I haven't used it myself yet as I'm still unsure what to use it with!
480g RRP $8.00

5. Jomei's Fine Foods: Balsamic Vinegar
I'm not the biggest fan of balsamic vinegar, unless it's on bruschetta. However, I have already opened this and let others use it and they loved it. I may be willing to try it out on other foods, but never the usual foods people have it on (salads, meats, etc) - I thoroughly dislike the taste.
50ml RRP $5.20

6. Crio Bru: Brewed Cocoa
Made form 100% roasted cocoa beans and nothing else. It is to be brewed like coffee - it has instructions on the packet. I haven't tried this yet as I am trying to find an easier way of brewing it. I definitely look forward to it though.
71g RRP $4.00

7. Naked Paleo: Cacao Almond Paleo Bar
I didn't finish this and gave the rest to my boyfriend. It was okay, very paleo-y (duh!) which I'm not the biggest fan of. If you like paleo bars you'll definitely like it and I love the packaging, but I wouldn't repurchase it for myself.
65g RRP $4.50

So that concludes this months box. Quite a few things in here that I'm happy about! And some, not fussed. I'm glad I got to try them though.

Next months box (January) will be my last box as I will cancel my subscription - I still have plenty of food in my cupboards! I will be posting next months box as well so stayed for that.
If you want to join up, click here.

Hope everyone is having a lovely start to 2015!



Email: erenabennett@hotmail.com
Instagram: erena_b
Twitter: erena_bee
Pinterest: erenabennett

Hello everyone,

It seems I haven't posted in a long while - forgive me. December is always a busy month, yet I have no excuses because I definitely had time.
In 2015, I am going to try my best to stop spending so much time on my phone aimlessly browsing because I'm bored - there is always something better to do.




In 2014, I read a total of 40 books. That's 10 down from last year, though I did have a busier year - moving out of home with Beau and starting a new job (which also means finally quitting my old one!!) I'm hoping that this year I am able to read a little more - I have an aim of 50! But I don't want to be thinking of that number too much. If I'm bored at home then yes, read. However, I don't want it stop me doing other things that are important to me.




Enough of that, here is my list.

Over a month ago I came across 'Goodness Me' - a subscription box filled with healthy food goodies. I didn't join up straight away as I wanted to make sure that $25 per box was worth it.
I signed up for their emails so I could get some insight into the product. After waiting a couple of weeks and browsing through their Instagram (@goodnessmebox) I decided to go ahead with it only to find they had sold out of their November box!
A couple of weeks later in mid-late October they sent out an email announcing more boxes available so I went ahead with it! The hard part: waiting.

I have since received my first Goodness Me box (November 4th).

1. Sam Mills: Gluten Free Fettucine
100% corn pasta. Free from gluten, GMO, dairy, egg, soy and cholesterol. Low in GI and low in fat.
I received the full size of this product.
500g RRP $2.99

2. Higher Living: Green Tea Chai, Cocoa & Chilli and Licorice
100% natural and certified organic herbs are used. I love most tea, so this is a winner.
In this box I got two of each of the above flavours (6 in total).
15 or 20 pack RRP $3.69

3. Mama Bickie's: Grain-o-la
Made from wheat free oats, locally harvested nuts, natural maple syrup and organic coconut.
I got a single serving pot of 75grams. Would be great for a snack or breakfast when milk or yoghurt is added. This product has more sugar than I would usually go for, but I can imagine it'll be yum!
420g RRP $15.20 - very pricey!

4. Nakula: Organic Coconut Water
No added anything; one ingredient: organic coconut water.
I'm not actually a fan of coconut water. I'm yet to try the flavoured ones which I could possibly like. I would use it mixed in smoothies, just not by itself. What is pretty cool is that the company (Nakula) donates money - not sure how much - to provide drinking water for children in schools and orphanages in Asia for every one can that is sold.
I received a full size 330ml can.
330ml RRP $3.95

5. Luv Sum: Chocolate, Chia & Nut Naked Energy Shot
Contains chocolate, chia and assorted nuts which means it's going to be delicious!
I received one full size ball (42g) and I have already eaten it, loved it and would repurchase.
42g RRP $3.50

6. Bioglan: Camu Powder
The Camu Camu fruit contains a naturally high content of vitamin C, and is the highest known content than any other food. It has 23 times more vitamin C than a small orange!
Reduced to a powder, you can add a teaspoon to water, smoothies, juices, cooking, baking and desserts.
I received the full size 100g - score!
100g RRP $26.95

7. Norbu: Natural Sweetener
100% natural sweetener derived from monk fruit. 96% less calories than sugar, low GI, fructose free and GMO free.
I received 4 2g sachets.
200g canister RRP $7.99 or 40 sachet box 80g RRP $4.99

8. Ceres Organics: Chopped Tomatoes in Tomato Juice
I wasn't really fussed about this product. What's great though is the combisafe packaging it's in as it keeps the product fresh without using additives or preservatives. I will definitely use this product as it's something I know I will like.
I received a full size.
390g RRP $3.15

9. Bite Smart: Paprika Dusted Organic Cashews
Free from preservatives and artificial additives.
I have already tasted these and wasn't fussed. There isn't much of a flavour, so I think an added herb or spice would make them tastier otherwise they don't have much of a market for me.
I received a 35g pack.
35g RRP $3.50 - you can get bigger packets that don't cost too much more.

So that was all the products in my first Goodness Me box. I am pretty impressed with it, however I have read on other consumers Instagram's that this box was not as good as previous boxes.
I definitely want to get the next box, and then I will decide from then whether I want to keep going with this box.
It also comes with two recipes each using one of the ingredients from the box, which is a good idea for those unsure on what to do with their products.
I am really glad I came across this subscription box. It gives you a chance to try a bunch of different 'clean' foods without having to buy full size products and for a discounted price.

If you're interested in signing up or just want to have a little look then click here!
I hope you enjoyed this post and see you soon!


Instagram: erena_b
Pinterest: erenabennett

Recently I have picked up a whole bunch of new things: clothes, accessories, home wares and beauty products. I knew I wanted to treat myself but I also had a list. As predicted, I did not get everything on that list, but I'm working towards it.
Today I give you a haul. The first few things I haven't put together by store (oops).
*All prices are in Australian Dollars (AUD).



1. Gym Wear (Cotton On Body, Target)
The sports bra brought me into the store. It had a zip on it and I honestly just thought it looked cool. I realised I actually needed a new one - instantly justified! They had these in different colours, I picked it up in black for $19.95.
The sports shorts - or 'jogger' - is also from Cotton On Body. I already have two pairs in different colours and wanted another as I prefer them over leggings at the moment. I picked this one up on sale for $10.
The sports shirt, from Target, is a loose fitting top made from polyester and helps keep you dry while you sweat. I got this for $12.


2. Floppy Hat (Target)
In the back of my mind I have always wanted a black floppy sun hat but haven't really sought one out. While I was out shopping with my family, I came across this one for only $10 and it is exactly the one I always thought of (perhaps a little big though). When you wear it, it does do the whole floppy thing, which makes you look perfectly relaxed.


3. Chokers and Necklaces (eBay)
As you all may know, the 90's tattoo chokers are back in, I honestly remember wearing the whole set back in the day. I knew a lot of places were selling them, but just decided to hop onto eBay and I got the neck choker and bracelet set for $1.99.
I also wanted a necklace to wear with it and found a seller that had a whole range of different pendants on rubbery chains for $1 each. I would have preferred them to be a shorter chain, but I still like wearing them.
To purchase, log on to eBay and search 'Choker'.


4. Early Harvest Raspberry Body Lotion (The Body Shop)
This is one of the limited edition scents, along with a peach scent, so it was sitting out the front of the store. I always like to have a little look at their new scents and both of these were so divine-smelling that I was thinking for a good ten minutes wondering if I should treat myself. When I asked my mum what she thought, she said "Go on, treat yourself"; from the wise words of my mother, I bought the body lotion. I was thinking of getting the scrub, but then knew I wanted the smell to linger longer as it was super delicious. The body butter would probably have a longer lasting smell but I much prefer the lotions to the butters. I picked this up in store for $16.95.


5. Breakfast Scrub - Soap & Glory (Mecca Maxima)
This is probably one of my favourite things in this haul. I originally went into this store to look at makeup and then found they stocked Soap & Glory products which I've heard good things about it. I found myself drawn to the body scrubs as I had been wanting a new one and one of the staff members there recommended this one and I had a little read and smell and was sold. It literally smells 'breakfasty' in a sweet and delicious way. It has banana, almond and honey extracts in it but smells like maple syrup - which is one of my favourite things ever! This 300ml tub sells for $16.




6. Macaroon Nightie (Cotton On Body)
I don't need new pyjamas but couldn't resist when I saw this. It has six different macaroons pictured with their flavours written underneath them in both English and French and says on the top 'what flavour are you?' and then in French underneath it. Cute! This was on special for $10, and I couldn't find it on the website but could possibly still be in stores.



7. Swisse Rose Hip Oil Face Moisturiser (Priceline)
My skin is in the 'normal' category. Even though it gets a bit oily at times, if I use combination moisturiser my skin is too dry. It contains rose hip oil and they also have another one with argan oil in it - which I might try in the future. I picked up this up from Priceline for around $8 I think and I've already used it and so far finding it working really well with my skin.



8. Rimmel Lasting Finish 25 HR Foundation (Priceline)
I get emails from Rimmel so that was how I found out about there new foundation. I was looking for a new one as I'm not 100% loving the L'oreal True Match at the moment and had just finished my Bourjois (which is good, but wanted to try something new). The reason that made me go and get it was a little review from Gabriella Lindley (YouTube here). It's a full coverage foundation with SPF 20 and I got it in the shade 103 True Ivory, which is a little lighter that I usually go for but looked fine with against my skin. I got it on special for only $12 from Priceline and usually retails for around $18.


9. Maybelline Great Lash Mascara (Coles Supermarket)
I saw this mascara in Coles (supermarket) for only $7, so naturally I had to get it. I know my current mascara is running low so I decided it's justifiable. This is one of Maybelline's older products and one of the best! I love the green and pink packaging too. You can get this mascara in any store that sells make up - it will always be there!



10. Kikki K Goals Journal & Daily Note Pad (Kikki K)
I recently decided to attend a Kikki K Goals workshop. They have four different ones: Goals, Happiness, Organisation and DIY for $40 and I'm not sure with the others but with the Goals workshop we got to take home this Goals journal also worth $39.95 for free! I won't get into workshops but you can read about them here. During the workshop they go through the journal with you which really helps you understand it. The first part explains a 'SMART' goal and talks about core values. It gets to you to fill out bits and pieces to help you understand the importance of setting goals and how to follow them properly. The majority of the journal is tabbed by months. Each month includes four goals that ask you specific and motivating questions, your three top core values, a monthly planner and a page for notes. If you are struggling with your goals and keeping motivated I strongly recommend attending a workshop where you receive this journal for free. It's also quite fun to do!
I also picked up this daily note pad that has different sections for your day. It has: today's date, today's weather, to do list, top 3 priorities, my treat, don't forget, water intake and for tomorrow. Not only is it super cute, it's great for when you have a bunch of things you need and want to do and want to keep track of everything. I got this for $7.95 in store.



11. Lush Bubbleroon & Dry Shampoo (Lush)
This one is pretty straightforward. I don't buy from Lush all the time as I like to purchase it as a treat. The last bubble bar I purchased was the Yuzu and Cocoa bubbleroon so this time I got the Rose Jam
 bubbleroon. You can get a few baths out of these and they always smell so delicious. Where I live it's getting quite hot so whenever there is a colder night I make sure I have a bath. This one is $6.50 and always on sale.
I also purchased their Dry Shampoo which comes in a powder. I have already tried this out and it smells like lemon (yum!) and really leave white marks in your hair and if it does, you can easily brush it out. This was $13.50.
Also pictured is a sample of Rehab shampoo that the staff member let me have as I didn't want to commit to buying a bottle incase it did nothing for my hair.



12. Loose Patterned Pants (JayJays)
These pants are super comfy and flowy and a must! I've been wearing them when it's a bit hotter and still feel comfortable. Because they are patterned I wear them with a plain coloured shirt or a shirt that has a very simple picture on it. These pants are usually $29.95 but they have plenty of half price sales so I got these for $15.



13. Cushions (Target)
I have lived in my apartment for a few months now and had only one tiny cushion that came in a bed sheet pack, so I thought it was about time I purchased at least a couple. The first one I picked up is black and white and has 'Queen of the Couch' written on it with a crown and felt it was appropriate ($15). The second one is a dark purple cushion with ripples all down one side which feels super nice  as well ($10 sale).



14. Cropped Button Up Dotty Collared Shirt (Target)
This was in a sale section for $7!! I have already worn this shirt for work twice now and love it. I like that it's cropped so I don't have to tuck it in my skirt and it looks fine. I wear a black singlet underneath it as it is a sheer fabric.



15. Bread Knife (House)
I know this is really random and I wasn't going to include it, but then I used it and had to! There are different types of knives and colours to choose from, I chose a serrated knife in purple as you can use it for pretty much anything. They come with a cover as well (thank you) and work really well. Go get one for $12.99!



So this brings my shopping haul to an end. I hope you enjoyed it and if you have any questions about any of these products comment down below (you don't have to be a member to comment).
Also let me know what else you'd like to see me post. I am going to work out a plan for my blog so I can post more regularly, even if they aren't picture-filled posts!

Take care everyone!

Instagram: erena_b
Pinterest: erenabennett

Sorry for the lack of posts lately, I have been working a whole bunch, I went away and I just been kinda busy! Not to worry though, here I have a DIY post for you that is easy to follow, pretty and useful.

A lot of things that you purchase in packets don't always come with sealed freshness once you've opened it, usually you have to seal it best you can and hope for the best or just try and eat it for all your meals until it's gone. Or you could buy a few jars (or reuse old ones) and pretty them up to put your food in so it doesn't go stale - it also looks good!


What you'll need:

• Jars of all different sizes
• Lace/ribbon
• String or twine
• Craft luggage tags (different sizes)
• Scissors
• Black marker

As you may have noticed, I haven't published anything for a little while. I moved out of home almost a month ago and have zero internet; I'm currently at the library.
** Since originally writing this I have set up internet and am sitting in the comfort of my apartment.

So, I am here today to give you ideas and tips on how to save money realistically. Yes, realistically; the advice I will give you will still provide you with a flexible and enjoyable lifestyle.
I believe I'm a fairly good saver, but also a good spender (meaning I spend money wisely). I don't deprive myself from everything I want or live off bread and rice, so please read on...
*I am no financial adviser and just want to give you tips on what helps me.

1. INCOME
You need a job. We live in a time where money is important, so don't ask "How can I have things without working?" Don't be lazy. Having a job is beneficial in more than the 'having money' way. You sort of 'grow up'; you gain and earn respect, you learn different things and you meet new people and help yourself get out of your comfort zone. If you don't have much work experience, don't be fussy where you apply. You have to start somewhere and if it's at a fast food place, so be it.

2. BUDGET
Go get a cool looking note book and make it your budget/expenses book. I am serious when I say 'cool looking', you are more likely to stay motivated when you have nice stationary.
You will need to record your income and how often that comes in (weekly, fortnightly, monthly, etc), and your expenses within that time frame. It may be daunting at first to see your expenses all in one place, but you'll get used to it. If you have money leftover, try to include a savings deposit at least once a fortnight.

3. GROCERY SHOPPING
Don't throw away that 'junk mail'! When you receive supermarket catalogues once a week, pull them out and go through them. Get the 'Coles', 'Woolworths', 'ALDI' and 'IGA' brochures and find what's on special and what you need. When you write down your shopping list, note whether the item is on sale and where. If there is one of your staple items on special that has a decent shelf life, buy more of it; you were going to buy it anyway, you may as well get it cheaper.
Lastly, join up the free clubs (flybuys, everyday rewards, etc) every now and then you'll get select items cheaper or can save points up to use towards your next shop.

4. SCHOOL/WORK MEALS
Obviously it is convenient to buy your meals and you might tend to 'get over' your home made lunches and dinners. This might be because you think you don't have time to make anything or you're making the same meals and are beginning to find it unappealing. 1. Make your meals the night before; 2. Make something else. Here I have an opportunity for another blog post - Healthy & Easy school/work meals (stay tuned!) Have different lunches everyday and perhaps make something interesting about them so you aren't tempted to buy something from the cafeteria. In the morning we can all be a bit rushed, it's incredibly convenient to make your meals the night before so you can just grab and go in the morning; you do have time the night before.

5. BUYING THINGS YOU WANT
When following step number two (budget), perhaps consider a reasonable amount (depending on how high or low your income is) of spending money for the week. Either save up or it can be your 'treat' money for the week, keeping in mind that you only have that money for your little extras. If you don't have much money left over after your bills, etc. try your best to not buy those excess things and find new ways to keep yourself busy without spending money.

6. BEING SOCIAL
You can still be social and not spend any money at all. Yes, you may have to decline certain social outings from time to time, but you don't have to be a hermit. If you want to see a small amount of friends, invite them over and tell them to bring drinks and snacks; watch a movie, play video games or just have a nice catch up session. If you want to see more friends do a dinner night at someone's house where everyone brings a plate, if you are going to a bar where it's free to get it, eat before you go and perhaps only have one drink while you're are there and just drink water for the remainder of the time you are there.
When you do have a little bit more money to spend, sign up to emails from companies like 'Living Social' and 'Groupon' (Australia) and find a dinner deal voucher to use.
*If you would like me to give you more specific ideas on activities you can do, comment below and I'll do a post on it.