Ben Stein has a book called How to Ruin Your Finances. To be honest, Im not sure an entire book is needed on the subjectthere are some fairly quick and easy ways to accomplish the task. (Before continuing, let me be clear that I do not actually recommend such activitiesThis is a reductio absurdum argument, meant to spur an opposing realization.)

#1: Buy everything, yes, everything

You never know when a neighbor may come over to use your dish towels, so make sure they are Ralph Lauren, less than six months old, and all the same color. While youre at it, buy things that you dont need now, but may need in the future, such as eleven new sweaters, a top-of-the-line treadmill, and some bestselling novels (just in case you ever read the 38 already on your bookshelf).

#2: Charge all purchases

That way you can itemize all your spending, which is sort of like budgeting. When the bill comes each month, be consistentpay only the minimum. If theres anything left at the end of the month, see #1.

#3: Dont be concerned about retirement

Thats what Social Security is for! Our country is run by intelligent economists, and theyll make certain theres enough for you in 25 years.

#4: Buy a $4 million home, with 1% down, and a 30-year mortgage

Then, spend your entire working life paying it off. Dont worry if you havent invested in anything elseyou can sell the home when you reach 65, rapidly adjust your lifestyle to match your new one-bedroom condo, and live off the difference.

#5: Start being frugal tomorrow

Please, finish your $7 mocha latte and go about your day. After all, this article was obviously written for the other guy!

2005 Matthew S. Clement, All rights reserved