It's impossible to map out a route to your destination if you don't know where you're starting from.

The happiest moment of my life happens once a day.

Just because you can afford it doesn't mean you should buy it.

Credit card companies are jacking up interest rates, lowering credit limits, and closing accounts - and people who have made timely payments are not exempt. So even if you pay off your balance - and that's tough when interest rates are insanely high - there's a good chance your credit limit will be slashed, and that will hurt your FICO score.

Late payments also hurt your FICO score. And never, ever take out a cash advance on your credit card.

Even if you were to fall into extreme financial hardship and file for bankruptcy, you need to understand that your student loan debt will not be discharged in bankruptcy. It is the Velcro of all debts.

Make it a priority to have at least eight months of living costs set aside in a federally insured bank or credit union account.