The Money Tree

The problem with today's society is that most people aren't educated financially. They live for today by buying what they can't afford and end up drowning in financial debt. We should be taught to save from a very young age and we should always have more saved than we spend. It takes discipline when it comes to money and sacrifice is a norm. Better to do without something you can't afford, or that will dip into your savings.

Gambling is a money drainer for most. It is something that could actually ruin you financially, especially if you are addicted and need to get a daily fill of some gambling itch. Lady Luck is not on your side, and the only Big One you'll hit is working at the Golden Arches in your Golden Years!

Money works by saving 10% of your weekly earnings and investing 5%. Ideally, this would happen from your first paycheck to beyond your retirement. Mortgage or rent should be 25-35% of your earning. Utilities about 10-15%. Food about 15-20%. Cash on hand 5-10%. Entertainment 10%. Lets call this a basic formula with variables. Perhaps you spend less and save more or vice-versa. The main idea is to follow the money and crack down your spending habits. This will help you develop a budget.

With a budget you start to plant the seeds. The trick is not to pick the fruit until it is ready to be harvested. That usually means retirement. It is never too early to plan for your retirement. Educate yourself in any way when it comes to wealth. Learn and discipline yourself on saving money.

Need more tips on saving money? Here's a hundred little steps that might help. Find extra money working overtime, finding a part time job, selling some of 'your stuff', doing services for cash, etc., and any opportunity that can earn income.

Money doesn't grow on trees, it grows from hard work, education and discipline. If you are in debt and aren't saving, then there is a problem. The problem needs to be fixed before the ship has sunk. Even Martha Stewart can teach you a thing or two. There are even the No Brainer tips we overlook or forget. You can never get enough tips on saving.

I don't have cable and gave up my home phone. On the other hand my internet fee has increased. I use to commute 135 miles a week to work, now I only commute a total of 35. I took a pay cut, but get more overtime. I moved from a $650 a month rent plus up to $100 in utilities, to $520 a month rent that includes utilities. I have built food reserves, and sometimes go weeks without shopping for everything accept perishables and vegetables.

Teach your children well.