The best credit cards really didn't go hiding under a rock (even though it may appear that way at first glance). Hey, everyone knows the credit card industry is cluttered with unscrupulous predatory creditors. The humorous Capital One commercials are a prime example of how some credit card companies can make you feel. But the best credit cards are indeed out there and are ripe for the picking if you follow these four simple steps.

1. Repeat After Me -- "I Am Not Desperate."

Yes, you need a credit card, but you do not need a credit card right this very instant. Before you go all gung ho and apply for each and every credit card you come across, reign yourself in and make a conscious decision to set some standards for yourself and the credit cards you consider applying for.

By acknowledging that you will only apply for credit cards that meet certain standards, you will be taking the first step towards finding the best credit cards and avoiding the worst.

2. What's Acceptable?

Now that you know you need to set standards that any potential credit cards have to meet, it's time to define what those standards are.

First and foremost, if you have good credit an annual fee is ridiculous. Many of the best credit cards on the market don't require an annual fee. Yes, some "prestigious" cards require an annual fee. Don't fall for it. Smart consumers worry more about what their credit card can do for them than the name or color of the card.

Also make sure the terms of the credit card are in line with your needs. For many that means a low interest rate. For others, that may not be the case. If you pay your credit card balance in full each month, low interest rates probably don't matter to you but you should make sure you apply for a card that has benefits and perks you'll be able to use.

3. Apples to Apples

Once you have lined up a few different credit card choices, compare them to one another to determine which the best credit cards really are. This means comparing the actual interest rates (not the intro rates), the grace periods, the perks, etc.

4. One at a Time

Remember, there is something called too much of a good thing. Even if you find five different credit cards and you think all five are the best credit cards out there, it doesn't mean you should apply for all of them at once. There's really no reason to carry more than two or three of the best credit cards in your wallet.

And, of course, once you have the best credit cards make sure you do your part to keep them. The best credit cards can become the worst if you end up paying a default rate or incurring late fees and over-the-limit charges. Even the best credit cards make you pay penalties for irresponsible behavior.