Live debt-free

Getting into debt can be incredibly stressful. Constantly worrying about paying your debt while still having enough money to stay afloat can make you feel lost like you’re running in a never-ending maze. There are ways to stay out of debt, though. You can learn how to make a budget, how to avoid hidden fees, and even learn what rich people never buy to help you save a couple of bucks. You can also pick up these smart habits to help you live debt-free.

Set goals

Having a plan means having a purpose. “Americans that lead healthy financial lives more often than not have clear financial goals and are actively working towards them,” says Yoni Dayan, Chief Editor of Money Under 30; he adds that “if you have a good why to save, the how will come much more naturally.”

Wait to buy

If you have trouble with impulse spending, waiting a few days is a great habit. You may find a lower price or simply realize that you don’t need it after all. While this is particularly helpful when it comes to big-ticket items, like a new TV or even a new car, it can also apply to everyday buys that can add up over time.

Pay as you go

Surprise parties are great. Surprise bills are not. To avoid owing at the end of the month, Erica Gellerman, creator of The Worth Project, suggests treating your credit card like a debit card. “For example, if I swipe on lunch for $10 and gas for $40 I’ll use the credit card app on my phone that night to transfer $50 from my checking account,” she explains. “That way I’m not spending money that I don’t have.”

Use cash

Another thing to consider if you find yourself holding a hefty credit card bill when the 31st rolls around, is to start paying with cash. Udo explains that not only does this make sure you’re living within your means but “the physical action of handing over cash to someone else is a lot more difficult than swiping a card.”

Automate your savings

Remembering to set aside money each month is tough. Fortunately, Sophia Bera, CFP and founder of Gen Y Planning, has a sneaky solution. “Automate your savings and retirement contributions so you don’t have to think about it yet you’re consistently making progress on your goals.”

Find inexpensive alternatives

More free time often involves spending more money, from brunch to happy hour to window shopping (which turns into actual shopping). “Nothing is wrong with these activities, but when I was doing them out of habit, I realized that so much of my spending was on things that I didn’t really care that much about,” Gellerman says. Now she keeps a list of budget-friendly activities to swap out for her pricier pastimes, like inviting friends over or going on a hike.

Have a good attitude

As new age as it may sound, the law of attraction applies to money, too. The better your attitude is towards your finances, the better your finances will be. “Come at money from a place of enjoyment and abundance instead of fear or scarcity,” Taylor Simpson, founder of The Money Mindset Masterclass and the Abundant Life Experience, says.

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