Successful money management is a process. Take the first step.
This quick quiz will help you find your starting point.
Clearing out the clutter will make organizing your records a lot easier.
Set yourself up for success; start by appointing a CFO.
Knowing where you are today can help you determine the best path toward helping you meet your financial priorities.
Good credit is valuable. If your credit reports contain an error, taking the time to have it corrected can really pay off.
As you start on the path of sound money management, determine how much money you have to work with.
Determining your net worth sounds harder than it really is. Having your credit reports and financial statements in-hand makes the job easy.
It's time to ask yourself if your debt is too much debt.
Identifying needs and wants can keep you focused on what matters most.
Don't just set goals, set SMART goals.
Now it is time to develop those priorities into specific goals.
Paying off debt is a short-term financial goal most consumers share.
Emergency savings can make the difference between a financial setback and a financial disaster.
Saving for retirement is a non-negotiable financial goal.
Make a commitment to stay on track.
Now that you know what you are working for, it is time to get to work!
Find out where the money is going.
Identify your fixed expenses.
Periodic expenses come due whether you're ready or not.
Create your spending plan.
Small changes can add up to big savings.
Saving money on groceries is one of the fastest and easiest ways to improve to your bottom line.
Spread the wealth by sharing one of your money saving tips.
Know where you want to be? This is how you will get there.
Give yourself some peace of mind by making sure your family is on firm financial footing.
Commit to making informed borrowing decisions.
Remember that you don't have to go it alone; assemble a financial team to help.
To stay motivated, acknowledge the benefits you will experience as a result of your efforts.
You are ready and able to move forward. Are you willing?
Congratulations! You have given a great deal of thought to your financial situation, your spending habits, and the change process. You now have the knowledge necessary to make positive decisions that will ensure a successful financial future.
For more on this topic, read Dr. Robert Duvall's post on moving forward.
For more useful tools and resources to help on your journey toward financial wellness, visit the Financial Education section on MoneyManagement.org.