Messy Money Mistakes

DON'T APPLY FOR A CREDIT CARD YOU CAN'T PAY FOR

When I was at the store the other day, I was asked AGAIN if I wanted to apply for a charge card. I politely said, "No thank you." Then they informed me of how much money I could save if I applied...I gave in. However... I promptly paid off the credit card.  I've been down this road before.  Convenience now, does not equal comfort later.

DON'T NEGOTIATE YOUR FIRST SALARY

93% of women jump in at the first salary amount offered for new jobs. If you'll just stand your ground and ask, "Can they do any better?" It could net you about $2,000 more per year.

DON'T HIDE FROM BILLS YOU CAN'T PAY

Everyone wants to avoid pain, and sometimes you just don't know what you are going to do, because the debt seems so big. The worst thing you can do is to pretend it doesn't exist. Face the facts...call the company, and try to work out a payment plan, even if it's $10 a month.  If they don't accept your offer, send what you can send. It's better than nothing.

ACT YOUR "WAGE"!

Just because your girlfriends are running around spending spending spending...don't assume it's their own money. Maybe their parents are pitching in...and even if they are...Yours aren't...or shouldn't! Be responsible...Live within your means, and you'll save yourself a lot of stress later when your credit score stays up, while your girlfriends go spinning out of control and into bankruptcy later in life.
DON'T SUPPORT YOUR BROKE BOYFRIEND OR GIRLFRIEND

You might love them...but don't give your last penny to these people. When you do...you both end up broke and your basically telling them that it's okay to be irresponsible with money.  make no mistake.  IT'S NOT!  The only thing that will eventually happen, is that they will become dependent on you, and laziness will never leave the room. You can be compassionate about their financial situation...offer suggestions that might help them...like get a second job....go to college....set up payments...But don't become the scapegoat. It will take you both down.