@FS: Hiding money from ourselves definitely seems like a good idea. The only problem is, neither method truly hides the money; the real question is whether you’d be more disciplined with smaller paychecks throughout the year and a larger lump sum or larger paychecks throughout the year and a smaller lump sum. Most advisers seem to favor the latter, although after thinking about it, I’m leaning more towards the former (especially since I’m not starving and desperately in need of cash).

@Mike: It’s not a bad idea, but for many people, it’s hard to have a sizable amount of money sitting around without spending it on something. Although, no matter what, you need to develop some discipline if you hope to manage your money properly.

Take the money and put it into a high yield savings account automatically. It’s the best of both worlds – you can’t touch it (easily) before it’s collected, and once a year you can do with it as you like just like a tax refund; only the interest is yours to keep and not the gov’t.
Mike´s last blog ..Mutual Fund Monday – Tips For Mutual Fund Investment.

People are weak, and you and I are no different.
Financial Samurai´s last blog ..Do “C” Students Deserve “A” Lifestyles?