Radio host and author Dave Ramsey says there are ways to make sure you are enjoying the money you make.
But there is one thing you must do first, he advises, and there are clever ways of doing it.
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The first thing you must do is get out of debt.
"First things first," reads a page on his website, Ramsey Solutions. "Decide you’re done with debt -- right now. That means no more swiping that credit card. And no more taking out personal loans for things you can’t pay cash for."
"Here's the good news in four simple words," it continued. "You. Can. Do. This."
Ramsey's first priority is to make a budget. This is at the top of the list because it's that important, the article explained.
"We recommend a zero-based budget because it’s the best way to give every dollar you make a job to do whether you’re giving it, saving it or spending it," wrote Ramsey Solutions. "Your budget will show you where you’re spending your money and -- just as important -- where to cut back so you can throw more money at your debt snowball."
The personal finance personality suggests starting a small business or getting a part-time job.
Then he has advice about cars -- namely, selling them.
"The average monthly payment for a new car is $667," according to Ramsey. "That’s just outrageous! Think about how much faster you could get out of debt if you replaced the new, shiny toy in your garage with a used car you paid for with cash. You could throw that $667 car payment at your debt snowball every month instead of out the window."
Ramsey also advises cutting up credit cards.
"Shred ’em. Burn ’em. Shoot ’em. You’ll never get out of debt until you stop making debt a way of life. The credit card industry will try to tell you that closing your credit card account is a bad idea," he wrote.
"Listen closely: They’re wrong," he continued. "No matter how many credit cards you have, all they do is keep you stuck in the cycle of debt. Get rid of every last one and never look back!"
Ramsey urges his readers to stop comparing themselves to how others appear to be living their lives.
"You know who wins at the comparison game?" the article asks. "No. One. Stop trying to keep up with the Joneses! Remember, you’re living like no one else now so later you can live and give like no one else."
"Think about it," Ramsey suggests. "In 20 years, you won’t have a financial worry in the world, while everyone else will still have car loans, mortgages and credit card bills."
In the article, Ramsey offers other advice on spending less and shopping smartly. He also suggests some creative approaches, such as selling unneeded items on Craigslist and finding someone trustworthy for accountability.
"There are a lot of things you can do to get out of debt fast," the article reads. "But without the right plan, it’s hard to make progress -- and even harder to keep yourself from going back into debt later."
"Listen: The road to debt freedom can be tough. But remember, your future is worth the work you put in today. You can do this!"
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