Its a few days into the new year, and if youre like me, youre compiling your new years resolutionsyou know the promises and goals you make that dont make it beyond the month of February. And while I pledge to do all the usual stuffeat healthier, get more exercise, pay off some billsI also hope this will be the year I learn to become a savvy shopper.

Last year, I made a half-hearted attempt at becoming a coupon-clipper. I pulled coupons from the weekly mailer, scanned the Sunday paper, signed up for online coupons and even tried comparison grocery shopping. It was hard, to say the least. Who can keep track of where milks on sale this week or whos got the best buy on peanut butter?

I did make some progress. I now purchase groceries at three stores instead of just one. Yes, its far more work for me, but Ive found I can save money if I put forth a little effort. Hopefully, I can expound on my progress this year.

As a business owner, Im sure, saving money is always at the top of your agenda. You look for bargains, get multiple bids on projects and encourage your staff to find places to save. Yet you also know there are times when you need to learn something new, sharpen your skills or try a new way of doing thingsas I did with my grocery shopping habits.

Heres where Inside Self-Storage can help you out. For about another week, those looking to attend the Inside Self-Storage World Expo in Las Vegas, March 14-16, can save quite a few bucks if they register before the Jan. 14 deadline.

The early-bird discounts for the show can save you $150 off the standard Education Package, $300 on the Premium Package, which includes the Education Package plus a choice of two workshops, and up to 35 percent on individual add-on workshops.

So whats included in this great deal, you ask. The Education Package includes access to all 36 seminars in four education tracks, two days in the exhibit hall and all the peer-to-peer networking events, including the cocktail reception. Total price: $345 if you register by Jan. 14.

And heres another discount. Booking your room by Feb. 15 at the host hotel, the spectacular Paris Hotel and Resort, can save you even more.

While many of you may still cringe at the thought of spending money on travel, food, a hotel and show registration, it truly is worth it. Even if youve been in the industry for a dozen years or more, theres always something to learn.

So while youre pondering your goals for the new year, consider attending the Inside Self-Storage World Expo. Learn about new technology, network with other industry professionals, meet your vendors in person. Its far more fun than clipping coupons!

Details about the industrys largest conference and tradeshow can be found at www.insideselfstorageworldexpo.com. Registration can be completed online or by calling 800.230.2311.