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Whether your goal is to save up for your dream vacation or to dig yourself out of credit-card debt, handling your finances successfully is one of the keys to leading a happy life.

"When you are able to responsibly manage your money, it makes a statement that you are finally understanding yourself and your needs," says Suze Orman, certified financial planner and author of The Money Book for the Young, Fabulous & Broke (Riverhead Books, 2005). To help jump-start your savings, try these simple tips from your fellow Shape readers.

Stock the office fridge

"I keep food in both the fridge and freezer at work, and that helps me
avoid eating out at fast-food restaurants, which saves me money and
calories!"
--Elizabeth Sanders, 25, Fort Myers, Fla.

Stay focused

"I think of one big item I'm saving for, like a new TV, when I'm
spending too much. The reality check keeps me focused."
--Jessica Williams, 33, Charlotte, N.C.

Pay it like a bill

"I put the same amount of money in my savings account on the same date
every month, and this has allowed me to save over $3,000 in the past
year!"
--Shana Heilbrun, 27, Northville, Mich.

Play your cards right

"My husband and I buy as much as we can on a credit card that rewards us
for what we spend. We pay off the complete bill before it's due, so we
never pay any interest. That way we earn free money as our reward for
using the card."
--Johyne' Hill, 25, Sunnyvale, Calif.

I follow the '$1' rule when buying clothes. I never buy anything
unless I'm sure I'll wear it at least once for every dollar of the
price.
--Jessie Tannenbaum, 22, South Bend, Ind. (shown at bottom)

win $5,000

toward your financial freedom!

# posted by Medical Information : 3:51 AM