Living in a down economy is not the same as it used to be in a thriving economy. If you still remember the days when you could afford anything you wanted, adjusting to the new situation might take you some time. If you discover that you cannot afford to live the same life anymore because of lack of funds, you might need to learn to live a new life with limited money. First, look at your expenses and see where you could trim down a little bit. I am sure that you spend money on things you do not really have to spend your money on. I am sure that you are going to look at expenses you do not really need to have.