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Do the math -

Don't ever make assumptions that you can afford something. This can often lead to unpleasant surprises. Work it out first.

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Plan your career -

As you earn more, your financial options will increase. If you have a solid idea of what you can afford now, and what you will be able to afford in the future, life will roll along smoother.

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Don't impulse buy -

There will always be sales, and there will always be temptations. Resist spending more than is necessary.

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Prepare in advance -

Know yourself. If you are the type to order a takeout because you are too tired to cook after work, make a ton of food during the weekend to last all week.

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Don't shop for fun -

Shopping malls have become a form of activity! It's great for the shop owners, but not so great for your bank account. Find another fun activity that doesn't involve spending money.

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Beware of small expenditure -

People usually don't get into massive debt through one transaction, it is many small ones that eventually add up.

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Invest your money -

Don't invest all of it, and don't take huge risks. But if you can find a way to invest sensibly, this is a far wiser move than buying things that you don't need.

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Carry cash -

The advantage of carrying cash is that you are in total control of what you spend. When it's gone, it's gone.

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Save money -

If you really want something, save for it! Resist the "instant gratification and subsequent debt" society that we have become.

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Don't lend to friends -

This may sound unkind, but it's actually often a good way to save yourself from friendship issues as well. If your friend is genuinely in dire need, offer them food and shelter.

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Live in a smaller place -

If you are wasting a huge amount of your income on rent, consider downsizing. This will enable you to save a lot of money.

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Talk to your partner -

In order to maintain a healthy and functional relationship, honesty is of huge importance. This applies to everything, including financial concerns.

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Don't go overdrawn -

Occasionally, mistakes happen. But unless you have an interest-free overdraft, it is a serious error to allow yourself to become overdrawn.

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Pay bills on time -

Budgeting for bills, and ensuring that they are paid on time, will put your mind at ease. It will also improve your credit rating.

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Bulk buy -

Rather than wasting gas on multiple trips, try and consolidate all your shopping into one day. This will also allow you more time to do interesting things!

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Do it yourself -

If you pay other people to dye your hair, paint your nails, etc., consider doing it at home for a fraction of the cost.

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Don't upgrade your phone -

SIM-only phone packages are infinitely cheaper than paying for a new phone every time a new model is released.

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Stop smoking and drinking -

Not only are they very expensive habits, they are also perilous to your health and could cost you more in health expenses later.

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Change expensive habits -

If you like eating out, find cheaper places. If you pay a lot for a gym membership, exercise at home or in the park. Simple changes can make a big difference.

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Go to the library -

Instead of wasting money on buying books and movies, join a library and get access to all of these things without paying anything!

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Remember what money used to mean to you -

When you were a child, any money you had felt like a lot. Think about that the next time you are tempted to waste money on a takeaway coffee.

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Don't buy clothes you don't need - There is no point buying something that will keep its tags on in your closet for months on end. Wear everything you buy, and buy less!

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Spend less on gifts -

Some people go into debt just to buy gifts! This is seriously unnecessary. Try making gifts, or at least getting cheaper options. It's the thought that counts, after all. 

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Manage your subscriptions -

If you are spending money on services that you don't utilize sufficiently, consider canceling them. You can always resume your membership later.

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Do your own cleaning -

Some people waste a lot of money on hiring cleaners, because they say they are too tired to clean themselves. Find those couple of hours per week, and do it yourself. At least it's good exercise!

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Get a side income -

Whether it's selling unwanted things online, doing a bit of teaching, or anything else you can think of, a side income is always useful.

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Utilize coupons and discounts -

Some expenditure is mandatory. But that doesn't mean that you need to pay full price. Always try and take advantage of the best deals you can find.

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Be grateful for what you have -

Remember that money isn't everything, and it can't buy happiness. Enjoy your life as much as you can, and always be grateful.

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Buy from thrift stores -

Not only is it better for the environment to reuse as much as possible, it will also save you a lot of money.

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Get a job that pays more -

Easier said than done, but eventually you can get there if you have enough determination and drive. Believe in yourself!

Click here to find out what TV and films get wrong about these common jobs!

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