Small Changes, Big Results

So now that you’ve set your goals, how do you get to your desired destination? Learn how adjust your lifestyle over time in small, relatively painless ways to work toward your goals.

Pay yourself first: Paying yourself first means putting yourself and your family before any other demands on your money. Deposit a set amount each and every month into a savings account no matter what other financial obligations you have. It’s amazing how fast your money can add up! You can even start small and increase the amount as you go. The important thing is to start NOW.

Adjust your priorities, adjust your lifestyle: It’s not what you earn, it’s what you keep. Making small changes over time is easier than making a big change at once. Bring lunch from home, skip your daily expensive latté and make conscious decisions about every purchase. Understand wants vs. needs and make small sacrifices to achieve your goals.

Earn additional income: Consider taking on part-time work to get the extra income you need to start a savings program.

Avoid the credit trap: Nothing is more dangerous to your financial well being than debt. Be careful to avoid the pitfalls of “plastic money.” Pay your balance in full each month or, better yet, pay with cash.

Set a budget and stick to it: Download this handy household budget worksheet to get an idea of where your money is going each month. Where can you realign your resources? Where can you cut back? It’s easier to get a grasp of your financial situation when you know exactly where your money is going each month.

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