Start the New Year right

Today is January 10th, 10 days into the New Year. How is your resolution to be better with your money coming along? Given up yet? Blown right thru that budget that you started? I’ve heard that it takes at least 21 times of doing something for it to become a habit. But managing your money is so much more difficult than just working out or reading more. Managing your money is more than just cutting back on your Starbucks purchases. Taking control of your money involves a complete 180 in the way you think.

Here are four tips to help you stay on track:
1) Self Discipline: You have got to learn to take control and responsibility for your actions. No one is going to manage your money for you; you have to make smarter choices.

2) Grand Plan: You have to learn to keep your eye on the prize, focus on the bigger picture. Learning to say no to another drink or another meal out is crucial. It won’t be easy but it must be done. When you feel stressed or pressured, just imagine yourself in control of your finances: you’ve got a nice savings account, virtually no debt, a strong source of income and more money to enjoy life with.

3) Don’t give up: No matter what, you can’t give up. The beauty of it is that there’s always tomorrow. If you spend a bit more today, just spend a bit less tomorrow. When in doubt, refer to tip #2.

4) No Plan “B”: We’re young, we’ve got years to keep working out and we’ve got plenty of time to read more books. Unfortunately, we don’t have a lot of time before we do serious damage to our finances. I’ve seen too many friends and family get themselves into a whole that will take years to get out of. On the other hand; friends and family that made smart choices are enjoying life to the fullest.

You can do it, by changing the way you think and act, be smart and diligent. You can achieve financial freedom.