The old cliché, about keeping up with appearances seems ludicrous. Who would be insecure enough to want what someone else has, or try keeping pace with someone else’s lifestyle.What is sad is that more people get themselves into financial hot water by coveting their neighbours’ designer wardrobes or flat screen TV. It is not just the clothes, they have  to get a new cell phone, new kitchen appliances and do home renovations. People have this idea that if they surround themselves with shiny new flashy things, that’s success. But it’s not!Personal-finance advice tends to focus on the smart ways you can manage your money: Cut back spending! Pay up your debt! However, in order to take those steps and quit keeping pace with those around you, you need to find ways to cope on the back end. Here are some tips to smack you back to the real world.Don’t just believe what you seeYou are less prone to get stuck in that cycle of covetous consumerism once you know the truth beneath someone’s high –buying facade. Don’t be deceived by big spenders; you don’t know where they’re getting the money from. They might be spending money from a bank loan, or something. By learning more about people and what they are sacrificing, will make you realise how much we are trapped in this illusion.Learn to be honestPeople can take the truth and will respect you a lot more if you are straightforward. Instead, of emptying your pockets on fancy dinners for a date, you can offer a homemade one. Not only will it save you from spending lots of cash, but it will give you the privacy and intimacy needed for such an occasion.Remember that no one may notice While you are spending your hard-earned cash to change your wardrobe so often, you will be shocked to learn that, few people even notice the difference. We are all so concerned with our own lives and families, work and whatever we are doing, most people do not judge what you do. Ignore your fearsThe other concern is when we alter our financial way of life that people will judge or criticise us. People tend to worry that friends will be insulted or will think they are cheap. It’s like going to a wedding and thinking you have to buy an expensive present or the bride won’t like you.