1. Start Saving Money Now, and Continue to Save Money Forever. One of my major problems before I discovered the world of personal finance is that I would pay everyone, but I would never pay myself. I had no problem sending the cable, car insurance and energy bills each month, but I always forgot to pay myself, i.e. save. Now I’ve opened a high-interest savings account, and plan on saving even more as my income continues to grow.

2. Stop and Think About Prospective Purchases for at Least 30 Seconds. I’m an impulse buyer, I always have been. This might be the “typical male shopper” shining through, but when I see something I want, I typically convince myself that I can afford to purchase it. This is especially easy when buying gifts for those I love. I’ve taken to thinking about purchases before I make them in the stores, or if online, I like to leave the website I am about to buy from and do some research to confirm the utility of the product or search for a better deal.

3. Make and Stick to a Budget. This is difficult enough for myself and the fiancee now, with no children and relatively little worries beyond our lovable dog. However, I anticipate budgeting will become even more complicated and necessary as our family grows, which is why I’ve taken such a strong liking to the You Need A Budget system.

4. Max-Out Your Retirement Plans Annually.

5. You Own Banks, Not The Other Way Around.

6. Carpool More.

7. Dryclean Less.

8. Purchase Quality Blankets.

9. Volunteer More Often.

10. Never Pay Retail Price.

11. Prepare for Roadblocks.

12. Live on Less Than You Earn.

This list has been severely abridged. To read the full list and full descriptions, view the original post at it’s source:

12 Things I Don’t Want to Regret Once I Retire… (WideBread)