One way to show everyone you're moving up in the world is to cultivate a pulled-together appearance, maintain a fit body and have the confidence that comes from knowing you've got money socked away in the bank. Like all worthy goals, to look great, lose weight and save money, you've got to have a plan. Take sequential steps toward your goals and stick with your new habits to create these changes in your life. Then you'll be free to concentrate on new goals to make your life even richer.
Looking Great
Step 1
Take stock of your wardrobe and eliminate anything that either does not fit properly or that has stains, frayed edges or snags. Fill in any gaps with classic pieces that are well-made and flattering.
Step 2
Ask a friend whose hair you admire for the name of her stylist. Go to the stylist and get your hair cut in a manner that is up-to-date and flattering. Get color or highlights if you are beginning to get gray hair or if you want to add some pizazz.
Step 3
Purchase an over-the-counter teeth whitening kit and bleach your teeth. Use daily according to the package instructions until your smile sparkles.
Step 4
Get a manicure and pedicure -- whether you're a guy or a girl. Rid yourself of calluses, cuticles and unevenly cut nails with this procedure. If you are female, choose a color that flatters your skin tone and that will complement your wardrobe.
Step 5
Stand up straight, as good posture can contribute to an attractive appearance.
Losing Weight
Step 1
Keep a food diary. Record each morsel of food that you eat for one week. Calculate the average number of calories that you eat daily.
Step 2
Calculate how many calories you need to eat daily to maintain your current weight. Multiply your current weight by 11 if you're a man, or by 10 if you're a woman. Multiply the resulting number by 1.6 if you're a man who engages in light activity, and 1.5 if you're a woman with the same level of activity. If you are moderately active, multiply by 1.7 if you're a man and 1.6 if you're a woman.
Step 3
Subtract 500 from the number of calories required to maintain your weight at your current activity level. Eat this number of calories every day. Do not go under 1,200 calories, as low-caloric intake can slow your metabolism.
Step 4
Burn an additional 500 calories each day through increased activity. This results in a deficit of 1,000 calories per day, which will result in a weight loss of approximately 2 lbs. per week.
Saving Money
Step 1
Make a list of your essential expenses -- mortgage, electricity, insurance, car payments and other critical payments. Add the expenses up.
Step 2
Subtract your expenses from your income. This is your disposable income.
Step 3
Decide how much of your disposable income you want to save. Write a check to your savings account for that amount every month at the same time you pay your bills.
Tips and Warnings
- If you want to save money and have a little disposable income, consider renting out a room in your home, working an additional job on a part-time basis or reducing your essential expenses.
- Do not attempt to lose more than 2 lbs. a week, as this can pose health risks.
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