With two teenagers at home, for years it seemed like the best we could do was to keep up with our bills month to month and put a little away in their college funds. But since we developed a spending plan, we've eliminated some unnecessary expenditures and redirected some of our savings into investments. That's allowed us to double the amount we're putting away for the kids, start saving for our retirement - and we're taking a real vacation this summer for the first time in years. Believe it - planning pays off!

Your financial destiny is in your hands. The way you spend your money today determines how much money you will have in the future. Only you can determine how much money you will spend and how much you will save. So remember, if you want to save money, save money! The key to successfully managing your money is to plan carefully and then follow your plan. It takes foresight, discipline and practice to manage your money wisely. You must learn to say no to spending when it doesn't fit in with your financial goals and objectives. Successful money management starts with setting realistic, measurable and achievable goals. Having objectives will help you make wise spending decisions and stay on track for what's important to you and your family. After you set objectives, calculate your living expenses, and estimate your income. Subtracting your expenses from your income will help you develop a spending plan to cover your expenses and have money to save or invest. Keep in mind that you may need to rework your spending plan as changes occur in your income, expenses and lifestyle. Perhaps you have a new baby, or your aging mother is coming to live in your house. These situations will change your spending plan and make it necessary to redesign your budget until it works for you and your family.

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