Money can’t buy happiness. Or so they say. But who among us hasn’t thought about how much better (and happier!) life would be with a more cash flow? We could buy that boat, invest in that education fund for little Susie, pay off that mortgage, start up that business, pick out that engagement ring…the list goes on and on.

But the reality is, for most of us, our bankbooks cause more stress than happiness, right? We fret over our credit reports, sweat when the end of the month bills arrive, and grow sleepless when we think about what will happen when little Susie needs braces or decides she wants to go to a private school. These are the financial woes that make us want to pull our hair out!

Statistics say that a majority of divorces are due to financial stress. It also causes health issues, can lead to addiction, and can transform you into an overall grump. Who needs that? How can you turn the stress around, even if you can’t improve your cash flow situation?

A Today Show article offered some great advice on how to beat the stress—offering tips from relaxation techniques (bubble baths and yoga topped the list), to talking your problems out with a good, trustworthy friend. It also discussed the importance of evaluating your financial situation in an honest manner and creating a “plan of attack.” Check out the article for more specifics.

I particularly like what she has to say about the fact that even though there are a lot of factors you can’t change about your financial situation (the cost of gas, the stock market fluctuations, etc.), there are plenty of things you CAN take charge of. It’s that pro-active attitude that can help turn stress into success. (Cheesy, but true!)