Successful Money Management Skills

Make A Monthly Budget

One of the keys to successful money management is a monthly budget. Before you consider looking at your spending habits, you must know what you spend your money on.  Gather all of your bills and monthly expenses that you are aware of, but don't forget to include incidentals, such as gas and dry cleaning. These variable expenses should also be included in your monthly budget and can be labeled as miscellaneous or however you see fit.

Clarify Your Financial Goals

Looking towards the future is always much more exciting when you know where you want to be - whether it's only 2 months down the road or 5 years. Goal setting is an important process that can help you secure your financial future. Write down your financial goals and keep them in a place where you can see them frequently. Don't be shy when you do reach a goal, however small you might think it seems. Reward yourself for your achievement.

Start Saving For The Future

Even if it's only $10 a month, start putting that $10 aside in a savings account or money market account that can generate some interest for you. The act of saving money can be very rewarding - not to mention very smart. Savings  can be used as an emergency cushion, for retirement, or for something to reward yourself with when you complete a goal!

More help: Preparing a Budget