SAVE WHAT YOU SPEND

Each week or month, take the total amount you spent on non-essentials (movies, clothes, eating out, etc.), match that amount and put it in a savings account. After several months, take the total and put it in a certificate of deposit or a low-cost mutual fund. You'd be amazed at how much money you spend on non-essentials—but also at how much you put away! -- Melanie Turner, Kingsport, Tenn.