The only way to save and invest is to spend less than you earn. Some spending is impulsive—it feels good in the moment but in the long-term clogs your financial arteries. Every time you find yourself considering a purchase, ask yourself if it’s more important than securing your long-term fiscal health. 

Just like cholesterol, there are important differences between “good” debt and “bad” debt. Good debt carries a lower interest rate or tax deductibility and can actually increase your net worth. High-interest debt is bad debt. It reduces your net worth and should be paid off ASAP. This includes credit card debt, payday loans, and car loans.

A “rainy day” fund is your insurance policy against unexpected bills like medical care, damage to your property, pet costs, or unplanned travel. Financial advisors recommend keeping at least six months of living expenses saved and liquid – such as in a savings account. Less than that adds to your stress levels and can negatively impact your overall well-being.

The way to save for retirement is the same way to build muscle – a little bit every week. Put aside money for retirement starting as soon as possible and add contributions regularly – whether through an employer-sponsored plan or your own IRA. No matter where you are in life, read our retirements tips for every generation.  

With a budget, you’ll always know how much you have to spend—and not spend. And, as with a diet, if you indulge in one expenditure, you’ll know you need to cut back on another. Leveraging your online banking tools to easily track your regular expenses is an excellent way to create and stick with good financial health habits.

Make a plan to regularly review your savings and check your progress. Watching your savings grow will inspire and motivate you to stick with your plan and will help you address problem areas quickly and effectively. Understanding your budget will help you achieve your financial fitness goals.

By law, you have the right to a free copy of your credit report. It’s like your physical, except you don’t need a doctor. If there are any inaccuracies in the report, challenge them. That will improve your credit score and reduce your cost of borrowing. Recently, the Federal Trade Commission allowed access to free weekly credit reports permanently.

One surefire way to improve your physical health is to cut down on unnecessary snacks and treats. To improve your fiscal health, avoid empty calories. Making meals and brewing coffee at home vs. dining out is a quick way to start saving. You can be more strategic about using coupons, waiting to shop during sales, and frequenting bargain-priced outlets. Any belt-tightening is better than none, and you’ll notice the difference in your account balances.

Just as increasing the weight or the number of reps in your lifting routine increases your power at the gym, you can power up your financial fitness by automating your savings. Even if you set aside only a few dollars of each direct-deposit paycheck to be transferred to your savings or IRA or CD account, allocating that money before you ever see it is a solid way to build momentum toward your savings goals.

The adage “if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is” takes on new meaning with all the financial scams out there these days. Just as it takes time to get into shape, it takes time to build savings and reduce debt. Take the long view.