David S. Chang, Author at The Art of Thinking SMART

SMART Ways to Take Control of Your Debts

September 25, 2013
David S. Chang

When you are facing debts that seem to get bigger every day, it’s common to feel increasingly isolated, stressed, and unable to regain control of your finances. You might be surprised at just how many people are also dealing with debt; however, it’s become such a taboo subject that we rarely talk about money with […]

September 24, 2013
David S. Chang

By David S. Chang More teams have decided to participate in our competition. Here is the update thus far! I will update as I collect the information from the other teams. Team B.F. Changs – 328 pounds (loss of 14 pounds) Team Blair – 369 pounds (loss of 3.8 pounds) Team In The Lead – […]

September 23, 2013
David S. Chang

If you itemize your tax deductions on your tax return, you may be able to deduct certain miscellaneous expenses. Here’s what the IRS says: You can deduct most miscellaneous expenses only if they exceed two percent of your adjusted gross income. These include expenses such as:  Unreimbursed employee expenses.  Expenses related to […]

September 21, 2013
David S. Chang

BY SHARÍ ALEXANDER Thanks to the James Bond franchise, we’ve all daydreamed about what it might be like to be an international man or woman of mystery. The suits. The swagger. The sweet ride. Although you probably won’t be able to build your tradecraft chops at the CIA, entrepreneurs can pick up a few lessons from […]

September 19, 2013
David S. Chang

This past week we celebrated our mother’s 60th Birthday. My sister and her husband flew out to Hawaii to join us as well take their delayed honeymoon. During a nice dinner cruise the usual attendant came to take our group photo. Of course they sell it at rip-off prices but we still bought one! As […]

September 19, 2013
David S. Chang

In the financial industry, my goal is to see people reach their financial goals. This involves the discipline to stick to a long-term financial plan, a diversified portfolio and to pick solid investment products. But as simple as it sounds, there are quite a few things that can derail any plan. It is common for […]

September 16, 2013
David S. Chang

Warren Buffett is considered to be the world’s greatest investor. The annual meeting for his fund, Berkshire Hathaway, is dubbed the “Woodstock for Capitalists,” where many shareholders eagerly await the yearly pilgrimage. With almost 40,000 people in attendance this year, Buffett and partner Charlie Munger answered shareholder questions about investing, the economy and others for […]

September 14, 2013
David S. Chang

YONI FREEDHOFF What do you think it is? I’ll start by telling you what it’s not. It’s not willpower, determination or motivation. It’s not avoiding carbs or sugar or fats. And it’s not cooking, hitting the gym or sticking to your plan. No, the most important skill in weight management is learning how to pick yourself up, […]

September 9, 2013
David S. Chang

Most tax professionals are honest and will file accurate returns on a client’s behalf. However, some dishonest tax preparers will defraud their clients by skimming a portion of their refund or charging inflated fees for their services. Some will attract clients by promising refunds that are too high to be true. Be careful when hiring […]