When most people think “make a budget,” they don’t relate budgeting with being happy. But if you are living in debt (which is not very happy), then making a budget is your ticket onto the happy train. When you know where you are going, you can control how you get there! Start by writing down exactly how much money you have coming in each month and the sources of your income streams. List all your bills, starting with those that carry late payment fees or debts that come with high inter- est rates. Make another list of your monthly needs. Brainstorm low-cost ways to meet your financial obligations and needs: making your lunch instead of buying it, taking a thermos of coffee to work with you and forgoing your usual cup at the local coffee house, carpooling instead of driving solo. Write the due dates of all bills on your calendar. Live frugally, but feel empowered as little by little you watch your debt begin to shrink and your savings begin to grow.