Are you operating at a profit or at a loss? If you have gross income of $5000 and expenses of $3500 (including deductions), you have a net profit of $1500. However, if you earn $5000 and spend $6500, you have a net loss of (-$1500). This is called operating in the RED which is where so many of Americans are. This is the beginning of financial bankruptcy but also emotionally and physically as well. Therefore, you must create a shift by reducing your expenses and increasing your income.