It is important to understand the fact that money management is an art and not science
. Lessons on how to survive during a financial debacle could be very important and the modern youth lack in these basic skills and discipline. Here are certain tips that will make you stay happy despite the recession and odd times. Savings: It is important to save 5 to 10 percent of your earnings apart from paying the utility bills. Devise a budget and stick according to that. You must know where to spend and how to spend to avoid the unnecessary expenses. Budget Plan: It is important to set your own financial goals. Identify the short term and long term goals and prepare a budget plan accordingly. Do not borrow money: It is highly recommended not to buy goods on credit. This will unnecessarily encourage you to be on the debtors list. There exists no term or thing like good debt in the long term. Set up emergency funds: Try to create an emergency fund apart from your savings to meet the emergency requirements. Immediate requirements and emergency problems can be met with this fund. Stop using credit cards: Do not use the credit cards beyond your limit. They prove to be the primary reason for the mounting debts. You can maximize the benefits offered by the credit cards but do not over spend with it. The credit card that you use must have potential benefits. Hence, compare the various cards that will offer the best usage. Compare their interest rates and other hidden charges. Never use your credit cards to have cash withdrawals as the companies might charge unprecedented interest rates. Do not be over ambitious which could lead to financial debacles.