It is so easy to put certain things off. Things that do not demand our immediate attention. Things that do not need to be constantly monitored or watched or baby sat. Things like that extra load of laundry, the timely payment of the minor bills, the simple note of appreciation for a kindness extended in your direction, or our planning for the future.

Time passes so very quickly. Things we really meant to get to are yet left undone. Some of them are even postponed until it really is too late.

One of the saddest statements I have ever heard or read is the one that says, “The family would like to thank those who have so graciously given their sympathies, and would request a cash offering in lieu of flowers.”

How sad that yet another person has passed on and left it to someone else to struggle out their financial affairs.

The solutions are so simple, so easy, yet they do require one to take the time and initiative to set things in proper order.

There are three basic considerations in life that are so easy to plan and set in motion to secure our futures. They are (1) getting out of debt and staying debt free, (2) planning for retirement, and (3) securing your financial future.

(1) Getting Out Of Debt.
Of all three considerations, this one requires the most self discipline. Start by checking your credit and credit score (FICO). You can get free copies of your credit report from the three major credit reporting agencies at http://annualcreditreport.com.

Next, consider looking at where you want to be in the future, financially. A site that can help in this discovery is www.primericafna.com. Perhaps a debt consolidation loan can make a difference for your situation. If possible, get one that allows payments on the loan every two weeks to reduce the principle amount even faster.

(2) Plan for Retirement
One of the best options in planning for retirement is to consider investments. There are a number of regular and tax advantaged options that may be used to fund long term and short term savings goals. Consult your own financial advisor for details. What? You don’t have a “financial advisor”? You aren’t alone. A recent study showed that three fourths of all American families do not have a financial advisor. Ask people you trust for recommendations, or even refer back to the website I mentioned last. When you get the contact information for a personal financial advisor, give them a call and make an appointment to meet with them. You will probably find it an informative and enlightening experience.

(3) Securing Your Financial Future
This consideration goes hand in hand with #2. The best thought is to buy sufficient “term” insurance to cover your family’s needs if you were gone. Then, as in #2, invest in some funds that will produce a savings plan for your future.