CLARKONOMICS: The latest figures show that spending in June was not good. The economic stimulus payments did not work as hoped. When you look at the rate of inflation, spending actually went down.

So now is the time for surgery on your spending. The reality is that 80% of us could make nips and tucks in our budget. For example, buying store or generic brands can increase purchasing power by 20% or 40%.

You also need to monitor your needs vs. your wants. Nobody holds a gun to your head and forces you to buy Starbucks!

What can you do in your life? Can your cable or satellite bill be trimmed? Clark was recently making a deposit at a stock brokerage. The woman who took his money wanted to know what to do about her expensive phone bill. The answer is simple: Ask for the tariff rate from your monopoly phone company.