The last fruit of the spirit is self-control, that’s pertains to every aspect in life. It is roughly estimated the average American waste about 22% of their income. That might seem like a small number, but in an example a net income of $30,000 - 22% of that is $6,600. Now, if that doesn’t get you, imagine this. Assuming, you waste that much for the next 35 years, that’s $231,000.

Now that’s really nothing compared to have some invested in a good employee-matching 401k/403b or in a high-yielding stock, you possibly could be a millionaire by the time you hit retirement (If starting at the age of 30 or younger). Remember what said about Rich Dad/Poor Dad, how Robert Kiyosaki explains that employees’ retirement plans are switching from company contribution to employee contribution. In other words, no more pensions – you have to fend for yourself.

In this present economy, no one can afford to waste their finances. By doing a few simple steps this can help you take control of finances and have more money to yourself:

1. Educate yourself – you have to learn why you are budgeting and it’s benefits.

2. Set up a savings account – any income that receive, make it a pattern to automatically put in 5% to 10%. Some banks have a system that does it for you. That’s recommended.

3. Have a budget sheet – you can create your own, but if you have Microsoft’s Excel, you can use their monthly budget sheet. You go to Microsoft’s website and type “budget sheet” in the search field.

4. Keep tabs – EVERY dollar that spend, keep track of it!!!

5. Check account regularly – you can use estatements to keep track or your account. Also anything that doesn’t look right, call your bank and investigate

6. Look at your utilities carefully – don’t just pay your utilities, look over every charge that’s on there and if you don’t understand – call the company and ask questions. They are supposed to have an answer for every detail.

7. Treat yourself – if you go under your budget, do something (not expensive) for yourself.

8. Explain to your family – make sure that every one is on board. Budgeting isn’t crazy. They may not appreciate now, but they will later.

9. Love to budget – have fun trying to save money like using coupons, rebates, etc.

10. Increase your capacity – Find ways to increase your income with the money you have saved.