You know that movie with Nicolas Cage, where he's a wealthy jerk who wakes up one morning married to his college girlfriend and living a middle-class lifestyle ("The Family Man")? Wouldn't it be nice if we could all wake up tomorrow morning living a wealthy life?
So, we're not rich. So what? That doesn't mean we all can't fake it. There are ways to live a glamorous life without spending a fortune.
Smoke and mirrors: If you've ever been to a play, you know the value of setting the scene. One small table covered in a red-and-white check tablecloth, a bottle of wine and some music, and suddenly you're in Italy. It doesn't take much to do the same thing in your home. Spend a weekend trolling yard sales or thrift stores and $25 or less later you'll come home with a host of props to change the entire look of your home -- well, at least one room. You need only a few choice pieces to change the entire feeling. The impact of a gallon of paint should not be underestimated -- a new coat of color on your walls, in addition to a bold-colored tablecloth or curtain, oversized throw pillows, a dramatic throw rug and a $5 piece of artwork will make your living room brand new.
Small indulgences: The dollar store is a magical place. Think "spa" next time you're there and load up on nail polish, scented sachets, candles, bubble baths, soaps and lotions. Spend 10 bucks and walk out with 10 new spa goodies. Go home, dig out grandma's silver trays and bowls and use them. Display your finds in any unique containers that you have around the house. Roll up some face towels and fill a bowl with lemons you picked up 10 for a dollar at the farmers market. Top off a champagne glass with some cooled herbal tea and head to your deluxe bathroom spa. Be sure to make a "do not disturb" sign.
Mind game: You are what you think. Go to the bank and take out a brand-new, crisp $100 bill. Warning: This idea is really only for those with the most will power. Put that bill in your wallet, and something amazing happens. Suddenly you feel richer, you feel less depressed, and you feel empowered. You're not going to spend that hundred. You're just going to carry it around, knowing that if you wanted to buy something, you could because you have the money. It changes your mind-set from one of scarcity to one of abundance.
Just because you're not rich doesn't mean you're not living a rich life. In fact, if you look around, you'll find you have everything you need right now. What's the saying about wanting what you have? Maybe we should all give that a try for a while.
