Real Life Q&A with Camy Tang

June 2005

Q: I never seem to have enough money. How can I get my parents to raise my allowance?

A: I'll let you in on a secret: It doesn't get any better as you get older, and especially not when you get a job.

All sarcasm aside, I'll give a few thoughts and a few tips. Don’t skip the thoughts and go straight to the tips, okay?

What are you spending your money on? No, I'm not trying to be your mother. But can you list what you bought the past week? Try writing it down (discreetly, of course--don't look like a geek) or find some way to keep track of your purchases. You might surprise yourself. ("What? Four ice creams this week? No wonder my jeans are tight.") Oops, I sneaked a tip into my thought.

Focus and prioritize. What would you REALLY want to buy? Set a goal, keep it in mind. Think of that sunset-pink blouse or those faux-fur mules before you throw down a couple bucks on some semi-cute earrings. Earrings or blouse? Ear infection or show-stopping shoes? You get the picture. Darn, there's another tip in the middle of my thought.

Little things add up. Two bucks for earrings, three for Starbucks, two for parking . . . That's why you focus on a purchase goal. It might keep you from throwing away random dollars, and then you'll suddenly have enough for that lavender sequined skirt!

Be wary if you're trying to keep up with your friends' bottomless purses. Don't give in to whining or pleading or even joking.

"Oh, but those earrings look so cute on you!" Think: that lavender sequined skirt will look CUTER.

"Oh, come on, don't you want matching hair barrettes with the rest of us?" No, I'd rather stand out with my faboo lavender sequined skirt!

Pray. The "asprin" of your spiritual life, the "magic answer" to everything. I'm not trying to be facetious, it's true. God really does care about how you handle your money. Remember the parable about the talents and the stewards? I certainly wouldn't give you a six-figure job if you can't handle your measly allowance. So when you're tempted, pray for strength and wisdom. He'll give it to you in a heartbeat, because He really wants you to make good decisions about what you have.

And if you realize that your spending has become a real problem, talk to someone about it. There's no shame in it--you're showing how strong you are because you're admitting your problem and are willing to do something about it. Only cowards keep problems to themselves, because they don't want to confess they have one.

Let's be serious--overspending is a very bad thing. The novel "Confessions of a Shopaholic" makes it seem funny and cute, and hey, everyone relates to overspending. But it's not honoring God. Stop and think about Him before blowing your cash.

As for your allowance . . . Why not ask your parents? Politely, of course. Give at least three rock-solid reasons why you deserve an increase. Or bargain for more money in exchange for more chores around the house. Offer a probational period of one month so they can see you really mean it.

And if they refuse, well, honor them as God would want you to. Think about a part-time job, or even small jobs around the neighborhood. Brainstorm what you could do, and pray about it. If He wants you to have more money, He'll make a way.

What's in YOUR wallet?