Many people find they are spending more than they bring in. It's difficult to increase your net worth in order to meet your financial goals, if you are constantly falling behind on income front.

Most causes of overspending can be resolved through use of a budget. By setting up an annual budget can help you prioritize and limit your expenses and in same time uncover ways to free up more money to use for savings and investments.

Above all, remember that arriving at a workable financial strategy is a negotiation process. It's very healthy to admit who you are when it comes to money! Too often people try to give up who they are and it backfires.

You need to know what you can't give up, as well as what you wouldn't mind giving up.

- Save 10% of your income. As a minimum put aside at least 10% of your monthly salary. You never know when you might need it. Place it somewhere with easy access, preferably earning interest – not under mattress!

- Search around for best deals. How often do you check out best deals available for insurance, mortgage, fuel, credit cards? I’ve just saved myself almost £200 on my car insurance renewal. Check out all brokers and online insurance companies for best quote. Use cost comparison sites such as www.kelkoo.com and www.dealtime.com. You can also save money by switching to a different energy supplier via sites such as www.uswitch.com.

- Talk to a Financial Advisor. While you can learn a certain amount from newspapers, magazines and Internet, it’s always worth discussing your financial requirements with a good IFA. Your bank may be a place to start – they may not be independent but will be able to advise you on your financial needs for your situation depending on age, family, income and future plans. The sooner you start better off you’ll be.

If you’d like some more information on getting your finances under control then contact me directly.

I work with individuals and small businesses wanting to grow. I provide the tools, techniques and strategies to help them improve their time management and planning skills to increase their productivity and effectiveness.