1. Realize Financial Independence Can be Achieved! There is a difference between a wish and a plan. Many people spend time worrying and wondering about their financial future. Yet only about 5% of Americans reach financial independence even though we are the richest people on the planet. So, is it time for you to KNOW and BECOME financially independent? If so, then it's also time to THINK, PLAN & ACT your way to financial independence.

2. FOCUS on Being Financially Independent.

Invest $1,000 - ? annually in your own skills training in order to double your income.

Shift your ideas about money. If you believe that money is bad or rich people are greedy it's time for a change. Financial abundance is joyful, fulfilling and fun.

Make substantial changes in your spending habits. Cut your expenses by 25-40%. Cutting expenses is a step in FREEDOM! When you cut expenses you: move toward your dreams; aren't chained to a "bad" job or relationship; fund your ideas and plans of being financially independent.

Ken & I have experienced two major periods where we drastically cut expenses. Reducing our savings/investments wasn't an option. Both of these experiences have the end result of greater opportunity, fun, fulfillment and joy! The first time we cut expenses was when our son was accepted to a private mid & high school. The tuition was steep. We paid for it all ourselves without accumulating debt. Second, Ken was laid off and decided to develop his own business. We cut expenses so he could launch a now successful business.

Here are just a few of the things that you can do:

* Keep your cars. Make sure you keep vehicles looking & driving like new. Friends who ride with us comment that our cars must be about 3-4 years old. Our cars are now 13 & 15 years old. That's the kind of care we give our vehicles. (Have you read the Millionaire Next Door? Some of your least ostentatious neighbors are wealthy and living their dreams!)
* Highlight or color your hair at home. Highlighting or coloring your hair at home can save about $140 a month or $1740 annually. Home color is about $10/month or $120/year.
* Teach your children the difference between filling an empty heart through things and nourishing WHO they are through their own creativity and contribution. Children/teens are becoming increasingly isolated by "things" given to them from their parents i.e.: a TV or computer in their room; a cell phone or text messaging especially with unlimited use; a car; or designer clothing. Cut expenses and spend more time nurturing your children/teens involvement, relationships, creativity, and the joy of being who they are!
* Eat out only 1-2 times per week. Eating meals at home is great for connecting with your family, is higher in nutrition and saves money!
* Stop the Starbucks. I was spending $3.84 X 5 days a week on my Venti Decaf Mocha. That was $921 a year. Also that beverage has 480 calories! So, I'm saving 115,200 calories a year!
* Muffle the Mouse. We now have 24/7 access to shopping. It can be fun and expensive. Either place a budget for online spending or avoid surfing the online stores.

Your turn. What can you do starting TODAY to cut your expenses by 25-40%? Write it down now.