1. “Financial freedom is freedom from fear.” — Robert Kiyosaki

Have you ever felt stuck financially? You’re afraid to open that credit card statement or check your ATM balance. Facing yourself and the reality of your financial situation is the first step to financial freedom. Writing out your worst debts and picking one to focus and tackle can help push you towards a plan of systematically chipping away at your total debt.

2. “Too many people spend money they earned..to buy things they don’t want..to impress people that they don’t like. — Will Rogers

The best thing to focus on when purchasing anything is – why am I buying this? If you dig past the initial “I like/need this” to “why do I like/need this?” it will help keep you from spending unnecessarily to keep up with the Joneses. Put your wallet away, and thank yourself for being present enough in that moment to realize you don’t really need that thing you’re eyeing.

3. “Money is something we choose to trade our life energy for.” — Vicki Robin, Your Money or Your Life

Are you ever at work and realize you’d much rather be at home with your family or off on that summer vacation? The day-to-day of trading work for money is how we afford to enjoy the important things in our lives. When you save money for a better future, where you’re not bogged down by debt, you’re able to choose to live the life you want.

4. A big part of financial freedom is having your heart and mind free from worry about the what-ifs of life” – Suze Orman

The “what-ifs” can be a major drain on your energy and weigh you down. What if I lose my job? What if someone in my family gets sick? What if there’s an earthquake or fire? Thinking about it all can be terrifying. Being able to put some money aside, bit by bit, for emergencies and feeling that financial freedom is what finally gives you peace of mind.

5. “Risk comes from not knowing what you’re doing.” – Warren Buffett

There’s a measure of risk in everything we do. We can’t prepare for everything. In terms of money and investing, you may be afraid because it’s too risky. But, taking time to better understand investing is what can, ultimately, give you the greatest returns.

6. Do the one thing you think you cannot do. Fail at it. Try again. Do better the second time. The only people who never tumble are those who never mount the high wire. This is your moment. Own it. –Oprah Winfrey

You will stumble. Life is not a straight line. Things come up and there are months you’ll be back in the red. The best thing to do is not be too hard on yourself, forgive your misstep, recalibrate and keep moving forward. Getting back on the horse after you’ve fallen is a big accomplishment and you’ll feel proud that you didn’t give up on your financial future.