FINANCIAL FREEDOM

Author: A Bohart

Rising consumerism and easy access to credit has given rise to overspending, even by an average income earner. The result has been an increasing number of people caught in a growing debt burden. The problem is worsened simply because most people care very little about managing their finances, or about proper personal finance management. The fact is, you'd get more benefits if you take your personal financial management seriously. Here are some ideas which could help you

Wisely Use Credit Cards

Credit cards are the most popular method of getting credit. They are easier to secure, and easier to make use of - just select an item, carry it to the cashier and swipe your card. Not needing to carry cash around encourages many people to simply swipe their cards on the ever-present credit card terminals, not realizing or not caring that everything ultimately goes on their tab. Please remember that the more you swipe your card, the more debt you are building up.

Proper financial management means taking precautions so one can minimize credit card debts. For one, use your credit card only when there is no other alternative. Two, spend on your credit card only the amount of money you have to spend. Bear in mind, the credit card company will start charging penalties if you are not able to settle your dues on time - which will only add to your debts and will worsen your problem.

When applying for a credit card, shop around first. Look for the company that charges the most favorable interest rate. Keep in mind that paying a low interest rate means saving some money for other expenses.

Consider Debit Cards

Another approach is to avail of debit - not credit - cards. The advantage here is that your spending is limited by the amount you have in your account. As such, debit cards have inbuilt protection against overspending and the ensuing loss of financial control.

Go with Secured Personal Loans

Personal loans are another source of finance. Personal loans will make you financially stronger and more secure - if you use the loan constructively, that is. If you are taking out a personal loan just so you can spend some more money you don't have, taking out a personal loan is just going to speed up your financial decline.

If you decide on this approach, your priority should be minimizing loan costs as much as possible. As such, you should avail of personal loans that charge the most favorable rates of interest so you can save up on interest charges that will only add to your indebtedness.

When taking out a personal loan, opt for the secured personal loan - that which puts up any of your properties as collateral. With a secured or collateralized loan, lenders will be more willing to lower their interest rates and offer you a more favorable payment schedule.

Save First

To have more financial control, you need to exchange your habit of expenditure for a habit of saving. If you save enough money, you won't need to take out a loan or a credit card for sudden and unexpected expenses. You can just use your own savings and as such, you're not going to have to pay interest.

Wise financial management encompasses spending only on what's necessary and what's within budget. Never borrow money so you can spend more. This will never work and you will be just digging your financial grave when you do this.

About the Author:
Allen is a life-long writer and reader who writes on a number of subjects including personal finances and Internet marketing.