Getting into debt is easy-spend more than you make.  Staying out of debt requires more discipline and thought.  If you are in debt and trying to get out, or you are debt free and want to stay that way, perhaps instead of the same facts that you know so well, you could use some fresh insight into finances by some inspired writers who have famous sayings about money.  Seeing things from their perspective might deepen your commitment to your financial journey.

“If One Wants to get out of Debt and Stay of out of Debt He Should Act His Wage”-Unknown Author
The first rule of getting out of and staying out of debt is to live within your means.  Problems come when we act (and spend) like we make more money that we actually do. 

“Interest Works Night and Day, in Fair Weather and in Foul.  It Gnaws at a Man’s Substance with Invisible Teeth”- Henry Ward Beecher
Pay off high interest loans as quickly as possible.  Making only the minimum monthly payment will get you nowhere.

“If You Would be Wealthy, Save as Well as Getting”- Benjamin Franklin
Since we never know when an emergency might happen, it’s important to plan for one.  Have 3 months worth of expenses saved.  Start building your emergency fund and add to it monthly.

“We Didn’t Actually Over Spend our Budget.  The Allocation Simply Fell Short of our Expenditures”-Keith Davis
Whether you use a simple pencil and paper or a complex computer software system, you must set some sort of budget and stick to it. It’s the best way to stay out of debt.

“Beware of Little Expenses-A Small Leak will Sink a Great Ship”-Benjamin Franklin 
Tracking expenses is one of the disciplines needed to get and stay out of debt.  A $5 coffee here, a $4 magazine there can really add up with nothing much to show for it.  Pay attention to where your money is going and stop the leaks. 

“He Looks the Whole World in the Face, For He Owes Not Any Man”- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
If your goal is to become debt free, or to remain debt free, there is sage wisdom available to help you achieve your dream.  Take the time to make a budget, track your spending and be honest about what you make and can afford.  Before you know it you too will not owe any man (or woman!).