3. If you learned to spend, you can master saving (ultimately, it's all about saving). However, before spending more money on reducing your debt and increasing your savings, educate yourself. Go to Myvesta.org, a non-profit consumer financial education organization. You will find "how to" books, such as "How to Eliminate Your Debt Like a Pro" along with many other self-help resources. Don't let someone else do for you what you can do for yourself. Working through your debt as a fascinating experience allows you to own your choices by changing your viewpoint.

"Creditors have better memories than debtors." - Benjamin Franklin

4. Myvesta may not suit all your needs, therefore add Alexa.com toolbar to research other similar sites.

5. If married, discuss credit card management with your spouse. Two issues undermine romance: money and...well, you know other one.

6. Don't take a consolidation loan whether personal or home equity unless you find this very last alternative. If you accept a loan, "shop...shop...shop 'till you drop" interest rate.

7. If behind on payments, call credit card companies NOW...today...this minute. Find right person for you to discuss your circumstance. If greeted with putdowns and parental tones, end conversation, wait awhile and try another person. When you must, request a supervisor. Be gracious, professional and persistent with a plan of action.

Most Americans carry 5 or more credit cards around. Take four of them and bury them in backyard. Keep one for emergencies. Diligent efforts now will guide you toward financial freedoms in future. Best wishes; if you act on this or similar recommendations, you will stand in a small crowd. Best wishes; if you act on this or similar recommendations, you will stand tall in a small crowd.

Essential to long-term financial success, and protecting your future, is paying yourself first. While this may seem easy to do, it happens to be last thing most people do, instead of first. Debts and other financial obligations, money for entertainment, and other spending always seem to take a higher priority. All I can say is, STOP! Think about it, if you aren't worth being paid first, then who is? Always put something away in your savings, and leave it alone. It doesn't matter if it's only $5 a week, just do it!

Snowball The Credit Cards

Last, but not least, is making extra payments, not just minimum payments, on your credit cards. You have probably already seen this many times, but it just can't be stressed enough. Paying just $10 extra a month on a credit card, above minimum required payment, can cut your repayment term in half, if not more! So, squeeze out that extra payment, however small, every month, and take advantage of compounding effect of snowballing your debt away. The Power of Financial Knowledge

Remember, you don't have to be a financial whiz to understand what's going on with your credit and debt. Just a few simple calculations, and an eye on future, will go a long way to help you succeed financially and keep your debt under control. Be safe, be smart, do math!

Article courtesy of: DebtSteps.com offers comprehensive reviews of your options for debt relief. From budgeting to bankruptcy, debt consolidation, and credit counseling. DebtSteps.com is where you can get the answers to your questions absolutely free.