First, you have to start building up some money. You are never going to be good at investing, and making more money if you do not get in the habit of saving. Saving money makes you smarter with money, and gives you money to invest. So, put aside some of what you earn for yourself. This money will become the earner for you later. Very few people are successful at becoming wealthy that do not first learn how to save.

Second, control your expenditures. This goes hand in hand with stay out of debt, which is something most people recognize as a sound financial principle. The fact is that you have to live within your means if you want your fortune to grow. If you don't, the only thing that will grow is your debt.

Third, let money earn for you. The money you save can multiply if you know how to turn it into your servant. As you learn to let your money earn for you, rather than you always having to earn it, you will find the satisfaction that comes from a continual revenue stream that you get whether you work or not.

Fourth, protect your money from loss. Having insurance, listening to the right people, and educating yourself about the investments you make are all ways to help protect your money from loss. No matter how big of an estate you build, if you do not safeguard it, you can and likely will lose it.

Fifth, buy a home. Striving to own your own home is a worthy goal, and one that you should always work toward as it means a measure of security. However, do not spend more than 30% of your income on payments.

Sixth, save for retirement. If you want to be wealthy and happy you must plan for the future, and provide for your retirement and for your family after you pass. This means set aside money in retirement vehicles, set up your investments so you will have money coming in when you stop working, and get insurances that will help your family financially after you pass on.

Seventh, get smarter. You must work to improve your own powers and abilities so that you are wiser, more skilled, and more confident, and thus are a more able earner. The more you know, the better equipped you are to earn. The better earner you are, the better investor you are, and the more secure your employment, and means of providing for your family is.

Follow these seven principles and you will find wealth and happiness.