1) Don’t be afraid to educate yourself. Finances don’t have to be overly complex! Although many institutions develop products that confuse the consumer, whomever you work with should be able to explain things in a way you can understand. If you don’t understand what you are doing (or what they are asking you to do), you are probably doing the wrong thing! Work with someone who is willing to speak in your terms.

2) Educate your children. Speaking with children about money can have a profound impact on their financial decisions as they get older. Good habits and bad habits start early!

3) Find someone else to encourage you. Maybe you have a friend interested in making more financial progress, or a group of friends interested in learning more about financial topics. Together you can give each other ideas and help keep each other accountable. This is another reason to have a good financial coach!

4) A real eye-opening experience for most people is to track spending for just one day. Often, it is the little things that have a big impact! Keep in mind that even if you are not a “spender,” making progress means moving forward.

5) Make it automatic! If you have trouble being disciplined with money, make as much of it automatic as possible. This removes much of the discipline factor as you work those issues out.

6) Lastly, make sure you allow yourself some flexibility and fun. Most people continue doing things they enjoy. Whether that means seeing a goal accomplished, or planning for a certain amount to be spent freely, this can keep you headed in the right direction!