* Bump up your take--home pay---- spiff up your resume, find a good job fast, explore telecommuting, or start a home--based business * Get your personal finances in tip--top shape ---- create a budget, pay down debt, save on insurance, and protect your retirement funds * Develop recession--proof habits ---- use coupons and rebates, extend the life of your wardrobe, utilize community resources, travel on a budget, and save on utilities and fuel expenses * Decorate on a dime and entertain on a shoestring ---- plan parties, celebrate the holidays, and give gifts without losing your shirt * Bounce back from bad financial situations ---- improve bad credit scores, and negotiate with creditors or the IRS Open the book and find: *125 tips for making changes in your life that allow you to continue to live well * Ways to stand out on paper and in an interview when looking for a job * Tips on managing debt ---- from working with credit counselors and consolidating your debts to boosting your income * Smart solutions for weathering financial emergencies, from bankruptcy to foreclosure