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Budget Your Way to Financial Independence

For the book The Millionaire Next Door, researchers asked the question, 'Do you know how much your family spends each year for food, clothing and shelter?' Almost two thirds (62.4 percent) of the millionaires said 'yes.' Only about 35% of non-millionaires said they did, even though they are high-income earners.

The millionaires also budgeted very carefully for savings and most save 20% or more of their gross income. Few save less than 15%. 'Why save so much,' you ask? Quite simply, for emergencies, opportunities and to provide future income.

Following is a Budget Worksheet to help you get started. Keep track of your monthly spending and try to account for every dollar. On a daily basis, record each expenditure and what it was used for. This should give you a clearer picture of where your money goes and where you can make changes in your spending habits. Make sure you account for every expenditure, and don't overlook small or routine expenses. Use a pencil or make copies so changes can be made as needed, and review often.

Click here for Spending Record

Your present financial situation is the sum total of every past 'money' decision. Nobody can change their past, but anyone can start today to change their future.


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Copyright © 2010 Life Letter. All rights reserved. For informational purposes only and is based on the perspectives and opinions of the owners and writers only. The information provided is not intended to provide specific financial advice.. Readers are advised to seek professional advice before making any financial decision based on any of the ideas presented in this article. This copyright information presented online is not to be copied, or clipped or republished for any reason. The publisher does not guarantee the accuracy and will not be held liable in any way for any error, or omission, or any financial decision.

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This publication and website are intended for Ontario residents only and the information contained is subject to change without notice. Mutual Funds are offered and regulated through Global Maxfin Investments Inc. (GMII). Insurance products (including Segregated Funds) and Income Tax Planning is provided under the name of Ausim Mobeen. GMII does not supervise these activities and will not be accountable, responsible or liable for such activities. This publication contains opinions of the writer and may not reflect opinions of GMII. The information contained herein was obtained from sources believed to reliable, but no representation, or warranty, express or implied, is made by the writer or GMII or any other person as to its accuracy, completeness or correctness. This publication is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities. The securities discussed in this publication may not be eligible for sale in some jurisdictions. If you are not a Canadian resident, this report should not have been delivered to you. This publication is not meant to provide legal or account advice. As each situation is different you should consult your own professional advisors for advice based on your specific circumstances.