Staying Motivated

• Communicate your goals- Write them down, and post them where you will see them every day. Tell friends and family, and ask for their support.
• Bring the family into it- Encourage one another, and embrace a collaborative outlook on your finances.
• Exercise control- Become your own biggest fan, and praise yourself for staying focused. Ignore urges to give up or "just take one day off."
• Reward yourself- Once you meet a goal, congratulate yourself. Just be frugal, so that you continue to build wealth, not spend more.

Making it a Habit to Save Everyday

• Program your thermostat to reduce the energy used to cool and heat your home when everyone is away.
• Explore college savings plans early, to ensure your child's future education is one less financial worry.
• Visit your local library for resources about money management and career growth.
• Consolidate high-interest debt into one low payment, with a home equity loan.
• Save money at the wheel by inflating tires to avoid wasted fuel, excessive tread wear and safety issues.
• Use Online Banking to save time, stamps and gas.
• Place jars throughout your home to stash loose change from your purse, wallet or pockets.
• Rent movies for free at your local library.
• Visit annualcreditreport.com to review your free credit report annually.
• Shred all mail, especially your financial and credit card statements.
• Reduce paperwork and increase organization by signing up for eStatements, Online Bill Pay and Direct Deposit.

Teach Your Kids to Save

• Show your kids how to shop for quality and value.
• Educate yourself in order to become a financial role model.
• Explain the personal benefits of donating.
• Take them with you to see branch transactions.
• Turn clipping and using coupons into a fun game.
• Give an allowance, and set aside savings.
• Include kids in household budgeting.
• Teach them to use credit cards responsibly.
• Encourage kids to earn money by doing chores.
• Set goals, like saving for a bike.
• Bring them to the Credit Union to open up their very own savings account and watch their money grow!