As the saying goes, "Money doesn't grow on trees."

As an administrative assistant for a specialty finance company, I know a few tricks that may make it easier to take control of your money. These steps involve breaking some bad habits and replacing them with good ones.

1. Keep A Log Book Of All Your Expenditures

Get your hands on a notebook. Keep a diary of all money that goes in, and all money that goes out. The habit that you must learn is an awareness of your money. It is not an invisible thing, it's something you control.

BAD HABIT: Not paying attention to your cash.
GOOD HABIT: Being aware of where your money goes.

2. Start saving a small portion of your income

Even if you are entirely broke, you can still save a few pennies every week in a jar. The purpose of this step is acquire a GOOD HABIT, NOT extra cash.

BAD HABIT: Spending until you are broke.
GOOD HABIT: Learning to keep a reserve of resources.

3. Stop Spending Your Credit

Instead of going to a restaurant on your credit card, try staying home and fixing a meal instead. A $20 dollar meal at a restaurant, using a credit card, REALLY costs $38 dollars. You're paying interest, don't forget, so break that bad habit.

BAD HABIT: Instant gratification
GOOD HABIT: Treat yourself for important events, NOT for typical events.

If you take a few of these tips to heart, you may learn to control your spending habits wisely. One of the only reasons I work in finance is because I myself have AWFUL spending habits.

Learn more about this author, Aster C. Lilly.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

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