You can improve your financial health by increasing your income, by cutting your expenses or doing a bit of both. This week is all about making the most out of the skills you already have and helping your neighbors do the same.

1.    Swap skills to save money: What skills do you have that you could trade for something you'd have to pay out of pocket for? Could you cook meals for a friend who could then babysit your kids? Could you paint your sister's home office in exchange for borrowing her car? Skills exchanges can unlock a lot of financial value and move you closer towards your goals.

2.    Organize a job search team: If you are unemployed or underemployed, ask 3-4 people to be on your job search team. They can help you prepare for interviews, edit your resume and ask around to find out about opportunities that you might not know about. Many jobs are never even advertised so tapping into your community can make a big difference in finding openings. And most importantly, your team can keep you motivated and on track with your job search on the days when you'd rather eat shards of glass than send out yet another resume.

3.    Take on additional work:  No one really wants to work more hours or take on a second job, especially given the time it would take away from family, hobbies or sleep. But for a short period of time it can actually be the boost you need reduce your financial stress. Ask for extra hours at work, or get a second job at the mall. (I know you're rolling your eyes right now, but I'm serious).