Financials

After reading CNNMoney Money 101 and a handful of blogs including Free From Broke I decided it's time to start financial checklist.

1. Priorities. Needs versus Wants. It's hard for young people to control their compulsive shopping at times when they see something they like, but using the advice Robert Kiyosaki gave on an Oprah show to not buy it when you see it, but to go back in two weeks and if you still want it - buy it really works.

2. Save. "Out of sight, out of mind." A lot of talk of these online banks and online saving accounts, something to look into further. Meanwhile any savings account will do. Just save!

- Save to buy a home
- Save for wedding
- Save for retirement
- Save for grad school

3. Employer. What does my employer have to offer me? Look into health insurance plans to be covered and not be cheated for over-expensive medical bills. Look into 401 (k) s CNN's lesson 23 on 401 (k) s is really handy.

4. USE THE INTERNET. Need anything? Shop around and compare prices using the internet to save time and money.

5. Set goals. Be conscious of your incoming money, bills, checking accounts, savings, and future investments. Avoid debt, but if unavoidable pay attention to interest rates. Plan ahead, create self budgets and time lines.

I can't wait 'til I start working!