Financial Freewheeler
There's a wonderful saying you may profit from (and actually, we mean that in every sense of the word): "You wouldn't worry so much what others thought of you, if you knew how seldom they did."
Put this to good use. The next time a friend asks you to do something that's above your means, kindly decline. To ensure no hard feelings, offer an option that's in your price range. Or just be blunt, and explain that you're trying to stick to a firm budget. Perhaps a silver lining of the recession is that most people can now relate to money woes.
Ironically, while you may think you're getting away with something by spending as you wish and pooh-poohing planning, you'll only pay – with compounded headaches – later. Budgeting will make your life easier, not harder, as will learning how best to get out of debt . Knowing your credit score is imperative, as that number will broadcast to everyone from lenders to landlords the financial risk you present. You might even consider going for (non-) broke with a Money Makeover.
Don't worry, be happy? Learn what that really feels like by taking your money matters more into your own hands!