I've learned an encyclopedia version of life from Oprah Winfrey.

You must recognize, embrace, and be honest about what is real for you today and allow that understanding to inform the choices you make. Only then will you be able to build the future of your dreams.

Put your financial life on autopilot as a form of 'forced' saving.

When it comes to tackling your financial goals, whatever they might be, there's no time like the present.

Live below your means but within your needs.

Every portfolio benefits from bonds; they provide a cushion when the stock market hits a rough patch. But avoiding stocks completely could mean your investment won't grow any faster than the rate of inflation.

The last thing family and friends want is for you to spend money on them that you don't have or that you can't really spare.