WIth all of the opportunities out there to blow money, it can be very easy to be irresponsible with your personal finances, especially when you are young. Rather that doing that, be financially responsible and avoid debt.
Managing your finances is essential to your success. Protect profits and invest capital. You can use your profits to build your foundation but make sure you manage your investments smartly. You should always have a standard set for what you plan to keep as profit, and what you will reallocate into capital.
Taking note of each and every expenditure is a great way to discover where your money tends to go. However, if you document it somewhere you are never going to look, it will do you no good. Rather than a notebook, try using a whiteboard that is set up in a room of the house that you spend a lot of time in. This way you will be confronted with it often, and the message will stay in your mind.
One way to get your finances in shape is to plan purchases and debt paydowns, far ahead of time. Having a solid plan is an effective motivational tool, as it helps you to keep a reward in sight, which is more satisfying than pointless spending.
Your two largest purchases are likely to be the house you live in and your car. The interest rates for both of these are large. Paying these expenses quickly can reduce the interest payments that you will incur.
Credit Cards
Instead of only using card that is about to be maxed out you can use two or so credit cards. The interest from multiple credit cards is typically lower than a single card that is maxed out. This should not hurt your credit score; you might even be able to increase it if you always pay your bills on time.
Older incandescent bulbs should be replaced with newer CFL bulbs, which are much more energy-efficient. These bulbs will save you money and save the environment at the same time. CFLs also last considerably longer than most older-styled light bulbs. The need to purchase fewer bulbs will save you money.
Credit cards are convenient and more secure than a debit card. If you can be approved for credit cards, use them for small daily purchases like food and gas. Earning rewards can get you cash back for the things you normally purchase.
Getting the advice of family members that have knowledge of financial issues or work in the finance industry might be more comfortable than getting advice from a stranger. If one does not know anyone they feel would be helpful in this field, look to more distant friends or relatives.
Don’t become so overwhelmed by debt that the mountain of unpaid bills grows higher by the month. Start with a budget plan. Use these tips to avoid any of your accounts going into collections.