The only way to gain financial independence and live a debt free life is through effectively managing your money. Every Tuesday for the next 6 weeks we'll explore through 6 lessons in the self study course Manage your money that will give you a better methods of managing your money.

Here's a preview of what is to come:

Lesson 1: Getting Started.
This lesson focuses on individual and family values about money. It gives you some suggestions about ways to talk with your partner and family about money matters. You are asked to think about and develop some financial goals for the future. There are also suggestions and tools to help you start tracking your expenses.

Lesson 2: Where Does Your Money Go?
This lesson discusses cash flow, income, and expenses. We'll help you identify critical information about your income, what you owe (your credit use), and types of expenses (fixed, regular flexible, and occasional) thus giving you have a better picture of your current financial standing.

Lesson 3: Stop Spending Leaks.
This lesson will help you examine your spending habits to see if any problems exist. There are suggestions that will help you change your spending practices and habits.

Lesson 4: How Much Credit Can You Afford?
The focus in this lesson is on the pros and cons of using various types of consumer credit, wise credit management, and the importance of your credit history. There is a checklist to help you determine if you have some credit problems, and
worksheets help you compare some credit alternatives.

Lesson 5: Develop Your Budget.
Guidelines and worksheets for developing a written budget are the focus of this lesson. The guidelines and tools are intended to help you actually “plan” future use of income so you are in better control of day-to-day and longer-term finances.

Lesson 6: Your Net Worth and Financial Records.
The first part of this lesson focuses on your net worth and how you own property. The second part will help you collect and organize your important financial records.

For sure this 6 weeks personal finance series will definitely change your perspective about money and make you better at managing your money.