Another life I imagine might be some sort of a financial planner. Clearly I like to play with numbers, and review personal finance books (e.g., illustrating compound interest and the cost of current gratification, or explaining stocks and bonds). While I'd like further education, I already have some competence with finance, following this advice:
- Simplify by donating or selling unneeded items.
- Maintain a used car as long as possible (e.g., by minimizing driving).
- Have no debt--in fact, through budgeting save an emergency fund for one year's expenses.
- Save and research for major purchases (including SIFF and travel).
- Pay bills online automatically.
- Almost always pay the full balance on credit cards selected for their features.
- Regularly review three free credit reports.
- Contribute to an (Roth or traditional) IRA.
- Use savings to defer income in order to start a business.
- Research and purchase auto, dental, disability, liability, life, medical, renter's, and vision insurance, combining when possible.
- Have an estate plan.
- Set up a 401(k) and fully fund it.
- Periodically review asset allocation.
- Have written goals and milestones for net worth and retirement.
[Corrected wording.]
