I was fortunate to connect with Donna Freedman and preview her new book, Your Playbook For Tough Times: Living Large On Small Change, For The Short Term Or The Long Haul. And whether you are at “rock bottom” with your finances or if you are planning for early retirement (or anything in between), this book will help you make smarter financial decisions!

Unless you’re in a financial position where you no longer need to learn or grow to secure financial freedom – stay tuned! And even if you are rich, you probably know someone who could use a few plays from Donna’s book!

Donna’s been writing about personal finance for years! Check out her excellent blog Surviving and Thriving at www.donnafreedman.com. What I appreciate most about Donna’s new book is its’ authenticity. Donna isn’t preaching to people about what they should do from a pedestal. She gets tough times because she’s been there. Donna knows what “the struggle is real” means and her book shows you how to take control. She’ll help you to “win” at money, even if you feel that all you’ve ever done is lose.

Donna doesn’t sugar coat things though. She tells you about the work it takes to beat tough financial times. But she gives you clear direction and actionable steps to reduce debt, decrease spending, save money, and even grow your wealth.

And no matter where you are in your financial journey, this book provides ideas you may not have considered. It may also help you learn new strategies to use yourself or to share with others. It’s a playbook that covers topics for the rookies to those in the major leagues.

Here are some top plays I took from Donna’s book. These are broad take-aways from chapters that include very specific ideas you can use. I think you’ll see why the book will appeal to so many!

• If something is important, you need a plan. Having a financial plan will help everything else in life that is important too!
• Never pay full price because even small savings can make a big difference over time.
• Work with others, seek help when you need it, and always learn. And remember to give back when you can.
• Put first things first by taking care of yourself.
• For most people, there are endless ways to make extra money.
• Your definition of happiness doesn’t have to include doing things that cost money.
• You are the role model for your children, so show them how to be responsible with money.

The personal finance continuum is broad and anyone can benefit from the suggestions and information Donna shares. Donna offers readers practical advice on topics including shopping, insurance, renting, employment, side jobs, entertainment, children and more! And you’ll probably make up the cost of the book with one or two simple plays Donna makes in her Playbook!

Just remember that it takes action to take control and make smart financial decisions. Follow Donna’s lead to learn what you can do to survive and thrive in tough times…or anytime! If you are interested in purchasing her book, check out the links on Donna’s website!