Have you ever logged into your online banking feeling like it was a game of Russian roulette because you were too afraid to check out the balance? Yeah, you and me both. It’s time we took control of our cash and got our acts together with our ATMs. Try out the following tips and see if we can get those negative balances back to green.

Tip #1 - Hide your credit card.

The worst thing for you to do is to keep charging your credit cards and going further and further into debt. Keep your credit cards at home instead. That way you won’t go beyond your spending limits with a debit card or the cash in your wallet.

Tip #2 - Get creative with your social calendar.

Host a potluck dinner or a late night movie night courtesy of Netflix (or your friend’s Netflix account) instead of going out on the town and racking up those charges on your fancy cocktails.

Tip #3 - Disconnect those online accounts from your banking information.

The “1-click” purchase button is so tempting when it comes to those online shopping urges. Take off the saved account information. This will give you more time to think about the purchase instead of immediately regretting getting that Hello Kitty popcorn maker on Amazon.

Tip #4 - Keep checking your accounts.

Too often do we swipe a card without really knowing how much money we have. Stay on top of your finances and review your accounts regularly.

Tip #5 - Handle bills first, then the rest.

Your main spending priority needs to be your bills. Don’t fall behind on payments. Forget the extra coffee on your way into work so you can keep the hot water running at your place.