saving money today for use in the future

Wealth In America: Four Tips For Increasing Your Wealth

Money may be the root of all evil, but it is necessary in today's world. After all, you need cash to pay for day-to-day expenses, as well as large expenses such as buying a home or purchasing a new vehicle. If you do not have enough money to live comfortably, you should take some steps to manage your wealth and improve your monetary outlook. Although it may seem difficult, even those on the smallest budgets can improve their financial standing.

So, how can you better your financial outlook? By following these four tips:

1. Eliminate Pointless Spending

Many people pay for things that they don't need or no longer use. Even if you do not think you are one of them, you should take the time to examine your outgoing expenses—especially those sneaky monthly subscriptions.

Chances are good that you are subscribed to video-on-demand service, musical service, cable, or a gym. If you barely use one of these services, take the time to cancel it. Although $8 or $10 may not seem like a lot of money, it adds up quickly. Over the course of 12 months, you could save $96 and $120 respectively.

Other places to look for extra costs include your cell phone plan, cable plan, and bank. It is probable that you are paying for things you don't use, such as unlimited text messaging. You may also be paying just to use your bank account. By eliminating these costs, you can increase your income without earning more money—and you can use that extra money to better your wealth.

2. Pay Down Your Debt

According to CNN, a staggering 1 in 3 Americans has debt. If you are one of those people, make sure you create a budget that allows you to pay off your debt. Whether you have credit card or a school loan, it is important that you make timely payments and get it paid off quickly—as this will increase your income (once paid) and will keep your credit in good standing.

3. Make More Dough

If you just can't make ends meet with your current income, try to make more money. You can ask for a raise, take on a second job, or sell miscellaneous items to supplement your income. No matter what you do, try to increase your income by 10 percent each month.

That extra 10 percent can be used to pay off debt, or put into savings—depending on your situation. You could also use that extra money to invest in stocks or increase your 401k.

4. Invest In Yourself

Finally, make sure you use any extra income you can afford to set aside to invest in yourself. If you do not want to watch your 401k fluctuate with the increasingly uncertain economy of today's world—or you do not have a traditional 401k due to being self-employed—invest in a self-directed IRA. This alternative investment opportunity offers much less risk, as you get to choose what exactly you invest your money in—be it farmers or toilet paper. You can also invest in real estate, offshore commodities, and even gold.

Investing in a self-directed IRA can be a bit tricky, so it is best to talk to a professional who offers self-directed IRA services. This professional can also help advise you about what to invest in and why.

These tips, along with a wealth management professional, can help you achieve your financial dreams. Although it may seem difficult, remember that you will be rewarded with financial freedom—or a new home or vehicle.