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In the consumer society where well-being is often measured by the amount of material possessions it might be difficult to save money instead of spending them. The fleeing gratification of obtaining something you want seems to be more appealing than putting your money in that saving account for future use. However, in order to prepare yourself to some possible future hardships you need to think ahead and be ready.

1. Know the difference between "need" and "want".

This is the most important skill you need to develop if you want to save money. There are things which are essential to good living and there are things which are not. Having a roof over your head is essential but having a 6 bedroom house for one person is not. Having clothes is essential but having five Prada outfits is not. There is nothing wrong with getting yourself a big house and brand name clothing if you can afford it but if your expenses are bigger then your take-in money you need to learn the difference between needs and desires.

2. Create a budget and stick to it.

After you learn the above mentioned difference you are ready to make a budget. You should budget all "needs" but not "wants". Your budget should include all expenses: daily, weekly, monthly and yearly. For example, taxes for the house are paid once a year but they need to be included in your budget. If you are paid monthly you need to divide your taxes by 12 and add this number to your monthly budget. The same goes to veterinary doctor who cares for your dog, your medical co-pays for yearly check-ups, etc. Those yearly expenses are easily forgotten but can ruin your budget. Evaluate your expenses and be realistic. Don't forget to allocate some money to go into saving account even if it is just 10 dollars a month (but if you have credit card debt it should be paid first).

3. Consolidate and pay your credit card debt.

Your budget should include some amount to be paid towards your credit card debt. Try to consolidate your debt by opening a card with O% interest and don't use that card for new purchases. Pay it off and avoid getting in credit card debt again. If you can't open another card than pay the one with the highest interest first; then pay the next one and so on. You will need to pay more than just a minimum payment. After your debt is paid off treat credit cards as an "emergency fund". On the other hand, if you can control you spending and pay your credit card bill in full every month, credit cards can provide means to

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