Work smarter for bigger paycheck

If you’ve ever looked at your paycheck and wished the amount you were depositing into your bank account were higher, you aren’t alone. After all, higher balances translate into more freedom and opportunity and a greater sense of security.

Here are some effective ways for increasing your wealth and quality of life.

• Stop watching the clock: If all you ever do is focus on how much you get paid per hour, you’ll be working long hours for the rest of your life. Take a lesson from Tim Ferriss’ “The 4-Hour Workweek” and start thinking about how you can get paid for results instead of time. You’ll be motivated to work smarter, not longer.

• Don’t shy away from self-promotion: Whether you’re advertising your skills or a business, you need to feel comfortable doing it. Promotion can sometimes feel pushy, but it’s a crucial part of business — especially if you’re trying to establish a customer base. Use social me- dia, local advertising and other marketing methods to get your name out there.

• Monetize your talents: If you dream of earning $1 billion, start with your talents. If you have a valuable skill, you could create a business around your talents. Whether you’re a skilled programmer with a vision for launching a development company or a fashionista ready to create your own product line, use your interests, passions and abilities to make money.